Yugoslavia Travel Guide

Until the 1990s, the Eastern Bloc was completely off the beaten trail for most tourists. Since that time, the countries that comprised the former Yugoslavia have developed a thriving tourist trade. Visitors from all over the world are attracted by beautiful countryside, stunning beaches and islands, the area’s incredibly rich and diverse history and some of the best nightlife in Europe. Now split into seven separate nation states, the former Yugoslavia is an incredibly diverse and vibrant corner of Europe that guarantees any visitor an unforgettable experience.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

The area worst affected by the Yugoslav wars that accompanied the country’s break-up, Bosnia and Herzegovina has since rebuilt itself and restored its status as one of Europe’s most diverse and historically important areas. Amongst the many beautiful mosques and churches of the capital Sarajevo, you’ll find the bridge on which Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in the event which sparked the First World War. Must See: Mostar Bridge Bombed during the war and rebuilt since, this towering iconic structure will be a hit with extreme sports enthusiasts, due to the local custom of diving from the bridge into the river, almost 80ft below. Croatia holidays With a long coastline situated on the Adriatic Sea, Croatia boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Europe. Coastal towns like Split and Dubrovnik also have well-preserved Roman town centers and amphitheatres, making them some of the most picturesque tourist destinations on the continent. They also possess a growing reputation as some of Europe’s best party and nightlife destinations during the summer. Inland, a great many lakes and mountains further add to the country’s natural beauty. Must See: Croatian Islands Over a thousand Croatian islands can be found dotted across the Adriatic Sea. From the stunning scenery and serenity of Cres to the vibrant party island of Hvar, which features a nightclub in a medieval castle and a harbor filled with some of the best yachts money can buy, there really is an island to suit every taste.

Kosovo holidays

Kosovo only declared its independence from Serbia in 1999 and has still yet to be recognized by much of the international community. Nevertheless, it is a diverse and fascinating area that provides tourists with a glimpse at a number of different cultures, alongside the unusual sight of UN peacekeepers at work. Must See: Brod This beautiful village is situated in the mountains and features buildings made almost entirely from mountain rocks. It offers adventurous travelers the unique prospect of trekking with locals through the stunning local area on horseback.

Macedonia holidays

Macedonia features some of the most unspoiled countryside in Europe, will the diverse blend of cultures amongst its inhabitants gives tourists a real taste for the history and heritage of the Balkans. Despite ever-increasing tourism, Macedonia is still amongst the least visited countries in Europe and this aesthetically stunning country has much to offer tourists looking for something a little bit different. Must See: Ohrid This beautiful lakeside town has been designated as an UNESCO World Heritage site, and if you visit it you will quickly realize why. Besides its outstanding natural beauty, the town is packed with incredibly well-preserved architecture, from ancient churches to fortifications ringing the town that date back to the 3rd century BC. Montenegro holidays Following the Adriatic coastline down from Croatia brings you to Montenegro, another country of stunning beaches and ancient architecture. It’s experiencing a real boom in tourism in recent years and it’s easy to see why, with its many seaside resorts remaining some of the most stunning in all of Europe. Must See: The fortifications at Kotor Stretching high up into the mountains above the seaside town of Kotor, these fortifications will provide you with an unbelievable view across the picturesque town and out to the glistening sea.

Serbia holidays

The Serbian capital Belgrade was also the capital of the old Yugoslavia, and as such it is the biggest city in the region, with the most impressive array of modern shopping, restaurant and nightlife options. The city itself boasts an almost bizarre combination of old and new ideas, whilst beyond the capital there are a great many towns, cities and even ski resorts with a wealth of attractions for tourists. Must See: Golubac Castle This stunning, sprawling medieval fortress lies on the banks of the Danube River. Surrounded by stunning countryside, with a wealth of activities such as fishing, hunting and sailing available nearby, this picturesque location offers the perfect alternative to the bustle of Belgrade.

Slovenia holidays

The stunning mountains and forests of the Slovenian countryside contrast beautifully with the wildly diverse architecture of the capital Ljubljana, where a beautifully preserved medieval town centre is offset by monolithic communist buildings, many of which have been converted into hotels and youth hostels. The city has become a favored place for artists from all across Europe. Ljubljana’s chilled out, artistic vibe is complimented by its welcoming character and near total lack of petty crime. Must See: Lake Bled This stunning lake is surrounded by mountains, atop one of which sits a beautiful medieval church. In the lake’s centre is an island with a church upon it. The combination of natural and man-made beauty at Lake Bled is truly breathtaking.