What Foods Should You Try in Balkan Tours?

Embarking on a journey through the Balkans is not only a cultural and visual experience,
but also a rich culinary adventure.
Influenced by Mediterranean, Ottoman, and Slavic traditions,
Balkan cuisine offers bold flavors, hearty meals, and unforgettable tastes.
Here are the must-try foods you should experience during your Balkan tours.

Ćevapi (Grilled Minced Meat Rolls)

Ćevapi are one of the most iconic Balkan dishes.
These small grilled minced meat rolls are served with lepinja flatbread,
chopped onions, and ajvar.

• Where to try: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro
• Best pairing: Local beer or rakija

Ajvar (Roasted Red Pepper Spread)

Ajvar is a smoky, slightly sweet spread made from roasted red peppers and eggplant.
It perfectly complements grilled meats, bread, and cheese.

• Where to try: North Macedonia
• Tip: Homemade ajvar from local markets tastes best

Burek (Savory Phyllo Pastry)

Burek is a flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.
It is a popular breakfast and street food throughout the Balkans.

• Where to try: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia
• Best served with: Yogurt or ayran

Sarma (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)

Sarma is a comforting dish made of cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice,
slow-cooked in a flavorful sauce.

• Where to try: Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania
• Season: Especially popular in winter

Pljeskavica (Balkan Burger)

Pljeskavica is often called the Balkan hamburger.
It’s a juicy grilled meat patty served with flatbread, onions, ajvar, and kajmak.

• Where to try: Serbia, Montenegro
• Best experience: Local grill restaurants

Šopska Salad

A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and grated white cheese,
Šopska salad is a staple across the Balkans.

• Where to try: Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Serbia

Baklava and Balkan Desserts

Baklava and other syrup-based desserts reflect the Ottoman influence on Balkan cuisine.
Rich, sweet, and aromatic, they are enjoyed throughout the region.

• Where to try: Albania, Greece, Turkey
• Best pairing: Turkish coffee

Local Wines and Spirits

The Balkans offer excellent wines and traditional spirits such as rakija.
Each country has its own unique varieties and flavors.

• Rakija: Serbia, Bulgaria, North Macedonia
• Vranac wine: Montenegro
• Macedonian wines: Tikveš region

Experience Balkan Cuisine with Ajdinis Travel

From traditional street food to regional specialties,
Ajdinis Travel offers expertly curated Balkan tours
that allow you to taste the authentic flavors of the region.

Book your Balkan tour and discover the true taste of the Balkans.