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For most of us, fall is the perfect time of year. The heat of the summer has started to dissipate, the warm and sunny days offer a great chance to spend time outside, and the foliage is starting to put on its annual display.
For travelers, many of us know that fall is a great time to take a trip when the summer crowds have thinned out and the late-season deals have set in.
To add to your likely ever-growing list of ideal places to visit in the fall, let’s look at the underrated region of Europe commonly referred to as The Balkans.
If you consider yourself an avid traveler, yet you are not familiar with The Balkans, don't feel too bad; the region is both underrated and a bit vague to define.
Some consider the countries that comprise The Balkans to be defined by cultural and historical terms, and others think of it more geographically.
While there is no denying that the border lines that have been drawn up might cause controversy for some, there is also no denying that The Balkans is a fantastic place to visit, full of warm and friendly people, stunning scenery, and fantastic food.
Usually falling under the Balkan definition, we have the countries of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia.
So, with all these countries to explore, when is the best time to plan that trip? Luckily, we have the answer right here, and in case you have not already guessed, it's definitely the fall.
@ka.tea.ah Posting travel guides for these countries soon! 🫶 #travelbucketlist #balkanstravel #travelbucketlist2023 #europetraveldestinations #backpackingeurope #europeansummer #europedestinations ♬ original sound – Katia | Backpacking Tips ✈️
Here Are 6 Reasons Why Fall Is The Best Time To Visit The Balkans:
Perfect Weather
In September, temperatures drop to a comfortable high seventies, and although the days do start to get shorter, it’s not by much. October is still nice, and swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Albanian Riviera is enjoyably late into the month.
Montenegro’s Bay Of Kotor is also enjoyable this time of year and very swimmable, as is most of Croatia's Coast. The key to visiting at this time is bringing layers because once the sun dips, a chill will set in.
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@angelaliggs Slovenia in the fall season
♬ original sound – Angela – hiking & travel🌲🥾✨
Stunning Scenery
The Balkans are full of forests and national parks, and the fall is the time of year to experience the explosion of colors all around the region.
The foggy mist and crisp air that starts to set in at this time make for some perfect weather for exploring the ancient ruins and mythical regions such as Albania’s Gjirokaster or Romania's Transylvania.
@romanianshots Autumn in Romania🍂🧡🇷🇴 🎥: IG bokehm0n #autumn #romania #tiktokromania ♬ Home – Edith Whiskers
Fewer Crowds
As they become more and more popular, the countries in this region are seeing massive crowds of visitors, most of whom come in the summer.
Albania and Bulgaria each boast stunning seaside destinations, and both of which are seeing a growing number of crowds in the summer.
A trip in the fall means you can still enjoy this region, just with a fraction of the other people vying for space.
Lower Prices
One of the golden rules of traveling is that the busier the season, the higher the prices, and The Balkans are no exception.
While the countries of the region remain very much a budget destination even in the heights of summer, the fall does bring a dip in prices across the board.
Also if you plan to explore the region by flying, flight prices are lower, saving you more money to spend at the fantastic restaurants.
@elitevacays Would you travel here?🇧🇬 Click the link in our bio! #cheaptravelhacks #budgettraveltok #beautifulworld #bulgaria🇧🇬 ♬ bunyi asal – DarkNIGHT
Trendy Destinations
The Balkans are more or less a trending destination in itself, and certain locations such as Sarajevo, Montenegro, and Albania have seen their popularity skyrocket in recent years.
With the increase in attention by tourists from all around the world, the time to visit this region is sooner rather than later, while it’s still authentic and not too touristy.
@saltinourhair The Perfect Destination for Fall🤩 #europe #albania #gjirokaster #traveleurope #travelblog #tiktoktravel #travelalbania ♬ Benny and Chiquitita – reymifasol
Festivals
September is a big month for cultural activities in the region, with the increasingly popular Sarajevo film festival taking place, followed by the harvest festivals reaching into October and November.
Serbia’s Belgrade Jazz Festival is a favorite at this time of year, and make sure to check the local calendars as each year there are more and more events popping up.
@ofsketches #bulgaria #sofia #festivalseason #september #autumn #fall #rivers #urbanexploring #urbandecay #festive ♬ River – Bishop Briggs
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
Dylan
Sunday 3rd of September 2023
Underrated? By Americans, maybe. Be aware the the Balkans are not one place. I encountered snowing BiH in October.
Mickelle
Saturday 2nd of September 2023
You barely mention visiting Macedonia: Cheapest food, cheapest hotels, restaurants and gas. Many tourist attractions available as nowehere else in the Balkans. Check for yourself.
Dylan
Sunday 3rd of September 2023
@Mickelle, North Macedonia? I agree it is a great place.