The Balkans is a beautiful and culturally rich region, often referred to as the heart of Europe. It’s no wonder people from all over the world flock there every year. If you are planning a photography-heavy trip to the region soon, here’s what you need to know. The Balkans is home to many amazing natural landscapes, as well as fascinating cities with ancient architecture and unique traditions. There are also numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites scattered throughout the region.
Understand the photographic opportunities in the Balkans
One of the most appealing aspects of the Balkans for photographers is the abundant natural landscapes. This region is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Antalya in Turkey and the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia. The Balkan Peninsula is made up of a vast variety of landscapes. In Turkey, you’ll find the Mediterranean climate and mountains.
In Southern Europe, you’ll find the hills and plains of Greece, along with the Southeastern European Alps and the Dinaric Mountains. If you are traveling to Greece, be sure to visit the island of Crete for its stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. The island is home to the world-famous Diving Cretan Canyon, one of the most beautiful gorges in the world. If you are traveling to Croatia, visit the Plitvice Lakes, which are home to unique flora and fauna as well as ancient architecture.
You can also visit the historic city of Dubrovnik, which is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you are traveling to Bulgaria, be sure to visit the megalithic sites of the Stonehenge-like Rila and the stones of the Thracian Gates. You can also explore the mountains, plains, and canyons of the Rhodope Mountains.
Research your route and destinations before you go
Before you head out on your trip, be sure to research the route you are going to take. You’ll want to make sure that it is passable, as many roads are either closed or in bad condition. Also, try to plan your route so that you arrive at your final destination on a weekend when things are less busy.
This will allow you to have a little more flexibility in regard to where you stay. When you are researching your route, be sure to pay attention to the photo opportunities that are along the way. You don’t want to drive hundreds of miles for the sole purpose of photographing a view out of the window.
If you take the time to visit the nearby cities, museums, parks, and monuments on your route, you will get to experience the region in a more authentic way.
Pack a backpack for your trip
Although some locations in the Balkans are quite close together, there are also many different regions. This can make it tricky when it comes to packing. Pack a durable backpack that can accommodate all your gear and clothes. You may want to consider putting all your essentials in one backpack and then using an extra bag to carry your camera gear.
You’ll want to make sure that your camera bag is capable of withstanding the weight and rigors of a long trip. If you are bringing a DSLR camera, make sure that it can take a variety of lenses. You’ll want to use a telephoto lens for landscape shots and a wide-angle lens for taking cityscape photos.
Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses
During your trip, make sure to stop every once in a while, even if it’s just for a few minutes. You’ll be surprised at how much you can learn and gain when you take the time to stop, look around, and smell the roses. For example, while traveling through Bulgaria, be sure to visit the Plovdiv City Museum.
It is home to many artifacts, including a Thracian Gates, which is among the largest stone gates in the world. In Croatia, you are sure to discover some great food when you stop and eat at a local restaurant. You can try local specialties such as cevapcici, a type of cured sausage.
Be aware of dangerous situations while traveling
During your trip to the Balkans, you’ll want to be aware of the danger that exists in the parts of the world you are visiting.
Here are some of the dangerous situations you may encounter in the region.
- Croatia – The mountains, plains, and canyons of the Rhodope Mountains offer plenty of opportunities for mountain climbing. While many people visit the region to explore the ancient sites, there have been a few deaths in recent years due to people who are not skilled at this activity. You should wear the appropriate gear when exploring the mountains.
- Bulgaria – The ancient city of Rila is one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans. It is home to the world-famous Rila Monastery, which is among the most well-known religious buildings in the world. People have gone missing while exploring the ancient ruins. You should be cautious when exploring ancient cities.
Bottom line
The Balkans is a beautiful and culturally rich region, often referred to as the heart of Europe. If you are planning a photography-heavy trip to the region soon, here’s what you need to know. The Balkan Peninsula is made up of a vast variety of landscapes. In Turkey, you’ll find the Mediterranean climate and mountains.
In Southern Europe, you’ll find the hills and plains of Greece, along with the Southeastern European Alps and the Dinaric Mountains. If you are traveling to Greece, be sure to visit the island of Crete for its stunning landscapes and ancient ruins. The island is home to the world-famous Diving Cretan Canyon, one of the most beautiful gorges in the world.
If you are traveling to Croatia, visit the Plitvice Lakes, which are home to unique flora and fauna as well as ancient architecture. You can also visit the historic city of Dubrovnik, which is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you are traveling to Bulgaria, be sure to visit the megalithic sites of the Stonehenge-like Rila and the stones of the Thracian Gates. You can also explore the mountains, plains, and canyons of the Rhodope Mountains.
