The Balkans with Kids: A 10-Day Family Itinerary

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The Balkans are a fantastic family destination: short distances, warm summers, safe old towns without cars, waterfalls you can swim in and food that children actually like. This 10-day itinerary keeps driving days short and mixes history with beaches and play time.

Days 1–2: Sarajevo

Start in Sarajevo. Walk through the old bazaar of Baščaršija, feed the pigeons by the Sebilj fountain and try ćevapi, which most kids love. Ride the cable car up Mount Trebević for views over the city and a look at the old Olympic bobsleigh track. Older children find the Tunnel of Hope museum fascinating, and a good guide tells the story in a way that suits their age.

Day 3: Konjic and Mostar

Drive south along the turquoise Neretva river, with a stop at the old bridge in Konjic. In Mostar, watch the famous divers jump from the Old Bridge and let the kids explore the cobbled lanes of the bazaar. Spend the night in Mostar.

Day 4: Blagaj and the Kravica Waterfalls

Visit the Dervish house at the spring of the Buna river in Blagaj, where the water comes straight out of a cliff, then spend the afternoon at the Kravica Waterfalls. In summer, children can swim in the lake below the falls.

Days 5–7: Dubrovnik

Cross into Croatia and settle in Dubrovnik for three nights. Walk the city walls early in the morning before the heat, take the cable car to Mount Srđ, and spend an afternoon on the beach or on a short boat trip to the island of Lokrum.

Days 8–9: The Bay of Kotor

Continue to Montenegro. Take a small boat from Perast to the island church of Our Lady of the Rocks, wander the walled town of Kotor and, with older kids, climb part of the way up to the fortress for the view. Relax on the beaches of the Budva riviera.

Day 10: Departure

Fly home from Dubrovnik or Tivat, or extend the trip further south to Albania and Lake Ohrid.

Tips for travelling the Balkans with kids

• Keep drives short: no more than two or three hours a day, with breaks.
• Travel in June or September for warm weather without the peak summer heat and crowds.
• Stay central: hotels in or next to the old towns mean short walks and easy naps.
• Food is easy: burek, ćevapi, pizza, grilled fish and ice cream are everywhere.
• Bring swimwear even for inland days, for Kravica and the rivers.

Make it easy with a private driver-guide

With children, a private, tailor-made trip takes most of the stress away: one vehicle for the whole trip, space for luggage, stops whenever you need them and a guide who adapts the stories for kids. Families who prefer a ready-made route can start from our 7-Day UNESCO Balkan Tour and add extra days.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Balkans safe for families?

Yes. The region is safe and welcoming, and children are warmly received in restaurants and hotels.

What is the best age to travel the Balkans with kids?

Any age works, but children from about six upwards get the most out of the history, the boat trips and the swimming.

Can you arrange family rooms and child seats?

Tell us the ages of your children when you enquire, and we will plan rooms and transport to suit your family.

Day trips from Sarajevo: Mostar and Herzegovina Tour (from €90) · Medieval Bosnia: Travnik and Jajce Tour (from €85)

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