A brief history:
The name is said to derive from the Turkish word for a wooded mountain. It replaced the word 'Haemus', which derived from Greek mythology.
Bounded by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas to the west, the Aegean Sea to the south and the Black Sea to the east, the Balkans are first cited in 14th century Papal and Ottoman correspondence.
The term was used by the 18th century English travellers. And in 1808 the concept of Balkan holidays and visits alongside the Iberian and Italic peninsulas was promoted by the famous German geographer inspired by the concept of Balkan travel, August Zeune.
After forming part of the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires, the area recenly experienced a turbulent few centuries. The Balkans now settled down into a fascinating collection of countries, each with its own unique identity.
What countries are in the Balkans?
Albania; Bulgaria; Bosnia-Herzogovina; Kosovo; Macedonia and Montenegro are wholly within the borders of this mysterious area while Croatia; Serbia and mainland Greece have large tracts of land falling within it.
It even includes the Italian port of Trieste, while 5% of Turkey claimed to be the Balkan These countries are ideal areas to consider for Balkan holidays, especially in the Summer. In Kosovo alone, temperatures can soar 38c! So Kosovo holidays may be right down your alley if you wish to catch some sun!
There is more history in these lands than anywhere else in Europe, Illyrians, Celts, Romans, Greeks, Ottomans and other invaders swept through and settled across the centuries, each leaving their distinctive marks in various ways. From the pristine Roman amphitheatre of Pula in Istria to the Alpine mountains of Albania to the French boulevards of Montenegro, the Balkans enthrall and amaze.
Browse and book from our range of Balkan holidays & tours today. You can explore the Peninsula's rich history or enjoy a relaxing break in a gorgeous scenic country, the choice is yours. We have various Balkan tours, Balkan holidays & packages to browse and consider: from holidays in Bosnia to holidays in Croatia, from Kosovo holidays to Balkan tours, you name it! So with the variety of countries to choose from, visit the Balkans today!
We know Balkan Travel and we will take you there.