Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Sofia, Bulgaria

The Balkan Peninsula, or the Balkans, are a geographic area in Southern Europe, composed of countries with geographical and historical ties. The countries that make up the Balkans are generally noted to be Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Turkey, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, and Slovenia.

Albania is located in Southeastern Europe, next to the Adriatic and Ionian seas, and share borders with Greece, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. Initially settled by Greek colonies, Albania became independent in 1912. As a developing country, it is an official candidate for European Union membership. My time here took me through Tirana, Shkodër, Theth, Berat, Vlorë, Borsh, and Gjirokaster.

Borsh is a small seaside village on the West coast of Southern Albania. Known for its olive oil production, it has become more prominent for tourism due to its pristine beach, the largest in the Ionian sea. The town will only become more prominent as tourist-related businesses start to invest in local infrastructure. The Lab dialect of Albanian is typically spoken by locals in the area.

Gjirokaster is a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the South of Albania. It's name in Medieval Greek translates to 'Silver Castle'. The city's record dates it back to 1336, when it was part of the Byzantine Empire. It is the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, the former communist leader. Above the city sits Gjirokaster Fortress and its old town has been recognized for its intact Ottoman influences.

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the South of Albania. Due to its existence across many times and civilizations, the city comprises many unique styles of architecture and influences. Its origins date back to the 7th century BC. it is often called the 'Town of a Thousand Windows' with notable landmarks such as Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge, and St. Michael's Church.

Theth is a small village in Northern Albania, located two hours from the large city of Shkodër. Home to the Theth National Park, Theth itself is classified as a protected historical center. A few of the main attractions of Theth that can't be missed include the Blue Eye of Theth, the Grunas Waterfall, and the Catholic Church of Theth.

Shkodër, regarded as the traditional capital of Northern Albania, is the 5th largest city of the country. It was created as the Capital of the Illyrian kingdom under the name Skodra. The history of Shkodër is storied, with origins in the Bronze Age coupled with Roman, Serbian, and Ottoman influences. Notable sights to see include Rozafa/Shkodër Castle and the Ebu Bekër Mosque.

Athens is one of the world's oldest cities and is the capital city of Greece. As a historical center for the arts, learning, and philosophy and current economic center in the Aegean, it is considered a Beta-status Global city. It is also known for its natural treasures and artefacts from the Classical Era. These includes the Acropolis, the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Hephaistos.

Tirana is the capital city of Albania, founded in 1614, and has been inhabited since the Iron Age. It was part of the Roman Empire, and subsequent Byzantine Empire, and is today considered a Gamma World city. The city is fast growing and displays both traditional and modern influences. Notable landmarks include the Pyramid of Tirana, Archaea Tower, Bunk'Art Museum, and the Namazgah Mosque.

Kotor is known for its fortified city walls, nestled in a river canyon below limestone cliffs. This city in Montenegro has become a popular destination in recent years and is worth the trip! Be sure to head on over this way to check out Kotor sights like Forts Škaljari, Trojica, Gorazda, and Šanik, San Giovanni Castle, and Church of Our Lady of Remedy and St. Nicholas Church, just to name a few.

The picturesque town of Budva in Montenegro sits on the Adriatic Sea and is around 2,500 years old. Its high city walls and orange rooftops make it a welcome sight for travelers looking for an old town feel. Make your way to Budva and check out places like the Citadela Fortress, Sveti Nikola Island, Jaz Battery, Fort Mogren and Pizana and Mogren Beaches!

Sofia in Bulgaria possesses a treasure trove of churches, cultural monuments, and even ruins of the ancient Roman city of Serdica. Take a weekend break to check out places like Vitosha Blvd, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sofia Church, Church of Sveti Sedmochislenitsi, The Largo, Sofia History Museum, and St. Kyriaki Cathedral Church (among other places).

Mostar is quietly becoming a more popular destination in the Balkan Peninsula. Perhaps what is most striking is the iconic Stari Most bridge. Book a day tour and you can also see other landmarks like the Millennium Cross on Hum Hill, the Dervish Monastery at Blagaj Tekke, the village of Pocitelj, and the Kravica waterfalls.

Dubrovnik is quickly becoming one of the best summer destinations in all of Europe. This walled city with orange-shingled rooftops may be recognizable from TV shows but here you can also go kayaking around the walls at Kolorina, go hiking on Srd Hill, swim at Poporela, go shopping on Stradun St., and hang out with new friends on the Jesuit Staircase.