The Balkans Region is one of the most beautiful places in the world, filled with history dating back thousands of years,\u00a0unspoiled land and idyllic villages.<\/p>\n
Greece and Croatia are some of the most popular destinations that make up the Balkans Region, but other destinations, including North Macedonia, Bosnia and Slovenia, are cheaper. If you\u2019re looking for budget friendly destinations off the beaten path, here are five destinations to visit in the Balkans region.<\/p>\n
Struga & Ohrid, North Macedonia\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Visitors traveling to North Macedonia slowly are increasing, but the area remains a hidden gem among tourists. More people are exploring North Macedonia because it\u2019s north of Greece.<\/p>\n Located in the southwestern region of North Macedonia,\u00a0Struga is a beautiful city with mountains and its gem of Lake Ohrid. There\u2019s a lot to explore in Struga that will cater to travelers who like outdoor adventures or want to explore the region\u2019s rich history and culture.<\/p>\n Ohrid is 20 minutes from Struga, and its lake alone makes it worth visiting. Ohrid has a lot of ancient monuments to explore.<\/p>\n Varna, Bulgaria<\/strong><\/p>\n Another gem in The Balkans region is Bulgaria. Located just east of North Macedonia, Bulgaria is one of Europe\u2019s cheapest countries to visit. Varna has entertainment, festivals, bustling nightlife, art, culture and the beautiful Sunny Beach.<\/p>\n Some of the top attractions in Varna are the beautiful Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, the Sea Garden, the Varna Archaeological Museum and the Stone Forest. Historians believe the area where the rocks stand date back thousands of years. It\u2019s an otherworldly experience.<\/p>\n Varna has lively and unique festivals, including the International Sofia Film Fest, showcasing Europe\u2019s newest film trends worldwide. There\u2019s a \u201cNight of Literature\u201d, celebrating art caf\u00e9s, bookstores, schools, the International Pop Musical Festival \u201cDiscovery\u201d and so much more.<\/p>\n With its location on the Black Sea coast, Varna is a beach town, with Sunny Beach being the most popular for its sand dunes, water sports and nightlife.<\/p>\n Berat,\u00a0Albania<\/strong><\/p>\n Situated along the Osum River in Central Albania, Berat is the romantic town known as the \u201ccity of a thousand windows\u201d for its distinctive architecture and scenery. Berat has a different vibe from its underrated and stunning Riviera, but has just as much charm.<\/p>\n Culture and history lovers will appreciate that Berat is home to the Berat Castle, which is one of two UNESCO-listed historic centers in Albania. Another highlight in Berat is inside the castle. The Onufri Iconographic Museum holds more than 200 pieces of artwork, icons and liturgical items.<\/p>\n Berat is one of the best-preserved Ottoman cities in the region, and you can see that at the castle, along the cobbled streets and the traditional homes.<\/p>\n The city also is filled with a lively caf\u00e9 scene, wineries and outdoor adventures. Berat is worth visiting during your vacation in Albania.<\/p>\n