Often Confused, Never Replicated
Due to their similar names, the Baltic and the Balkans are pretty easy to mix up. However, the two areas, representing the north and south of Europe, couldn't be more different! Let's explore some of the best vacation spots both regions have to offer.
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1. Tallinn
Estonia is the northernmost Baltic country, so there's no better place to start than its beautiful capital: Tallinn. Tallinn's Old Town dates back to the early 13th century and is filled with cobblestoned streets, medieval walls, and spooky underground tunnels. Above ground, there are plenty of art and history museums.
2. Saaremaa
Sunny Saaremaa is Estonia's largest island. Sure to delight those looking to get away from the city, Saaremaa has gorgeous cliffs and juniper cliffs to explore. This island was isolated while Estonia was under Soviet occupation and is still a hidden gem for foreigners.
3. Tartu
The second largest city in Estonia is a bustling college town filled with bookstores, theaters, and festivals. Tartu is a city whose cultural clout is on the rise. In 2015 it was recognized as an International City of Literature, and in 2024, it was named the European Capital of Culture.
4. Riga
Let's move onto our next Baltic country, Latvia! Like Tallinn, Latvia's capital of Riga is a medieval city with a rich history and stunning architecture. As Riga is a popular tourist destination, you'll enjoy a milder climate and smaller crowds if you go during shoulder season.
5. Sigulda
If it's castles that you're after, there are few better places than Sigulda. There are no fewer than four castles dating between the Middle Ages and the 19th century. Halfway between two of those castles is Gutman's cave, the water of which is believed to increase your lifespan.
6. Cēsis
Yet another medieval town (are you seeing a theme here?) with castles and charming painted timber. Cēsis was the site of siege by Ivan the Terrible and lived to tell the tale. Here, you can experience a traditional Latvian sauna—they're different from Finnish saunas—as well as some of the best bread you will ever eat.
7. Vilnius
Onto the capital of our final Baltic country, Lithuania! Vilnius is known for its gorgeous Baroque architecture and a walkable city center. Don't miss out on the unofficial micronation of Užupis, a bohemian neighborhood with its own consitition!
8. Trakai
There are a lot of castles on this, but none so stunning as Trakai Island Castle. Located on an island in the middle of the lake, Trakai was an important seat for the Grand Dukes of Lithuania. Trakai is also home to a unique community: the Karaim, a Turkic-speaking Jewish group of descendants from a Crimean family.
9. Klaipėda
If you want to "take the waters" on your vacation like a Jane Austen protagonist, you should definitely check out Klaipėda. This bustling port town has a charming blend of grizzled fishermen and cute Germanic architecture. An excellent way to explore is by tracking down all 40 sculptures hidden throughout the city.
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10. Särkisalo
There are only three Baltic countries and we didn't want to play favorites. So, while Särkisalo is Finnish, it is located in the Baltic Sea, which must count for something. Särkisalo is a charming series of drivable islands filled with cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint cottages.
Now that we've covered the Baltic, let's take a sharp turn south and explore some of the best destinations the Balkans have to offer!
1. Lake Bled
Definitions of the Balkans vary by geography and language, so, we're going to (mainly) stick with countries that were part of Yugoslavia. Let's start in the north with Lake Bled, Slovenia. Lake Bled is stunningly beautiful with a mild climate and warm waters that are perfect for a rejuvenating swim.
2. Hvar
Croatia went from forgotten to a major tourist destination about a decade ago. Hvar, billed as a "new Ibiza" is likely part of the reason for Croatia's newfound popularity. Even if you don't party, this former hotspot for the rich and famous has sunny beaches and hidden coves to explore.
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3. Sarajevo
Most people only know the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina from history classes and newsreels, which is a shame as there's so much more to see. While Sarajevo has its share of military cemeteries and bomb-damaged buildings, it also has cute canals and pastel buildings. The people in Sarajevo are some of the friendliest in the world.
4. Novi Sad
There's nothing sad about this Serbian town an hour north of Belgrade. Novi Sad is an underrated Balkan gem filled with historic architecture and sunny squares that are perfect for people watching. Make sure you visit Petrovaradin Fortress, the Gibraltar of the Danube!
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5. Kotor
Montenegro is sadly overlooked as a tourist destination; but hopefully that changes for cruise ships sailing past Kotor. Like many medieval cities, Kotor has strong fortifications surrounding a maze-like old town. Inside those fortifications, you'll find delicious seafood and street cats so friendly you'll want to take them home.
6. Prizren
While there is tension at Kosovo's northern border, major tourist areas, such as Prizren are safe and welcoming to travelers. While Prizren may not be the official capital of Kosovo—that's Pristina—it's called the cultural capital thanks to its long history, gorgeous mosques, and many festivals. If you like documentaries, swing by in October for the open-air Dokufest.
7. Berat
We hope you like walking if you plan on visiting Albania's city of a thousand windows. This stunning Ottoman city descends from a cliffside into the Osum River. Berat is worth a visit from Tirana for the pictures along.
8. Naxos
Don't take a trip to Greece without venturing off the mainland! Naxos is a fantastic alternative to more crowded islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. Whether you want to windsurf, scuba dive, or just enjoy the sun (and great food), Naxos has something for everyone.
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9. Ohrid
If you want a destination off the beaten path, but not too far, you should check out Ohrid in North Macedonia. Ohrid has been inhabited since antiquity, and you can really feel the millennia of history it's endured. The Old Bazaar is your one-stop-shop for handicrafts, while Ohrid's Fortress will provide you with the best views of the city.
10. Plovdiv
Plovdiv, Bulgaria may not be the first city you think of when you think of the Balkans, but it should definitely be on your radar. One of Europe's best-kept secrets, Plovdis is actually the oldest continually-inhabited city in Europe, so there's no shortage of heritage and culture to experience. Because it isn't overly touristy, Plovdiv is comparatively cheap and less crowded than other cities of the same size.
