It’s a question I’ve heard a thousand times over my two decades guiding people through this incredible corner of Europe. Is it Eastern Europe? Is it safe? The truth is, “The Balkans” is less a simple spot on a map and more a complex, beautiful tapestry of history, culture, and geography. Let’s unravel it.
So, What Exactly is “The Balkans”? (Quick Answer First)
TL;DR: The Balkans, or the Balkan Peninsula, is a geographic region in Southeastern Europe. Its name comes from the Balkan Mountains in Bulgaria. The region is broadly defined by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas to the west and the Black Sea to the east. It’s a crossroads of empires and some of the most stunning landscapes on the continent.
Think of it as the rugged, passionate heart of Southern Europe. Professionals in geopolitics recognize the Balkans as a historical shatterbelt where empires clashed. But for travelers, and for brands like Balkland that specialize in this region, it represents authenticity. Unlike the polished tourist hubs of Western Europe, the Balkans offer a rawer, more profound travel experience. It’s a place that gets under your skin.
A Map of the Balkan Peninsula: Visualizing the Region
The Balkan Peninsula, highlighting the countries generally included in the region for travel and political discourse in 2025.
The Complete List of Balkan Countries (2025 Update)
This is where things get tricky, and honestly, a bit political. The definition can be geographic, cultural, or historical. For clarity, industry experts—and how we at Balkland plan our Balkan tour packages from the USA—break it down into two groups.
| Country & Status | Why It’s Included | Best For (USA Travelers) |
| ⛰️ Countries Fully in the Balkans | Their entire landmass lies within the traditional Balkan Peninsula. | Deep cultural immersion. |
| Albania | Heart of the Balkans; unique language and coastline. | Adventurous travelers, pristine beaches. |
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | A blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history. | History buffs, incredible resilience. |
| Bulgaria | Home to the Balkan Mountains that name the region. | Ancient history, Black Sea coast. |
| Kosovo | The peninsula’s newest country, with vibrant energy. | Seeing a nation in rebirth. |
| Montenegro | Dramatic mountains meeting the Adriatic Sea. | Stunning coastal scenery (Bay of Kotor). |
| North Macedonia | A crossroads of cultures and ancient history. | Lakeside relaxation, Alexander the Great’s legacy. |
| 🌊 Countries Partially in the Balkans | A significant part of their territory or history is Balkan. | Easier access, familiar tourist infrastructure. |
| Croatia | Long Adriatic coastline is geographically Balkan. | Island hopping, coastal cities (Dubrovnik). |
| Greece | The southern tip is the cradle of Balkan history. | Ancient ruins, island beauty. |
| Serbia | Its southern half is on the peninsula; historically central. | Vibrant city life (Belgrade), river cruises. |
| Slovenia | A portion lies on the peninsula, a bridge to Central Europe. | Alpine scenery, outdoor activities. |
| Turkey | East Thrace (including Istanbul) is in Europe/Balkans. | The ultimate blend of East and West. |
“Over the past 20 years, I’ve seen the Balkans transform…”
When I first started exploring this region back in the early 2000s, the landscape was completely different. The scars from the conflicts of the 90s were still fresh. Infrastructure was… challenging. I remember a bus trip in Albania that took 8 hours to cover 100 miles. You don’t forget things like that.
The biggest mistake I made early in my career was seeing the region as a monolith. It took me years to realize you don’t ‘go to the Balkans.’ You go to Croatia. You go to Bosnia. You go to Serbia. Each has a fiercely independent soul.
Today, what I see is a region that has kept its soul but built modern, welcoming infrastructure. The change is astonishing. While most experts in European travel point you to the same crowded spots in France or Italy, my experience has taught me this: the most memorable Balkan tours happen here. You’re not just a tourist; you’re an explorer, witnessing history in real-time. It’s a complexity that bigger tour companies just don’t get. They sell packages; specialists like Balkland help you understand the place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Greece considered a Balkan country?
Yes, absolutely. Geographically, its mainland is the southernmost tip of the Balkan Peninsula. Historically and culturally, Greece’s influence on the entire region is profound. While its modern identity is often more aligned with the “Mediterranean,” it’s a foundational Balkan nation.
What is the best Balkan country for a first-timer from the USA?
For a gentle introduction, Croatia is an excellent choice. It has a fantastic tourist infrastructure, English is widely spoken in coastal areas, and the blend of Roman history, Venetian architecture, and stunning islands is hard to beat. For those wanting something a bit more off-the-beaten-path but still accessible, Slovenia is a hidden gem. Exploring with a well-planned Balkan tour can make the experience even smoother.
Is it safe to travel to the Balkans in 2025?
Yes, it’s very safe. This is a common misconception rooted in 30-year-old news. Crime rates in most of the Balkans are lower than in many major US and Western European cities. Standard travel precautions apply, of course, but the region is known for its incredible hospitality. Local people are generally warm and welcoming to Americans.
