West Balkan motorcycle Tour – Day by day tour itinerary

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, we highly recommend this amazing motorcycle tour through the beautiful Balkan countries: Croatia, Bosnia, Montenegro, and Albania! The great news is that you don’t need a motorcycle-guided tour—just a great route, and you’re all set. This area is incredibly safe for riders, with friendly locals, low crime rates, and, most importantly, winding roads that will take your breath away and stunning landscapes at every turn.

We’ve put together an easy-to-follow route for you, complete with daily checkpoints. You just need to find accommodations along the way, and the best part is you don’t have to book everything in advance! It’s wise to secure a place in tourist hotspots like Dubrovnik or Split during the busy season, but in less crowded areas, you can usually find a cozy spot to stay just a few days ahead.

Every day of this journey promises new adventures in the captivating West Balkan region. Get ready to soak up gorgeous views, from towering mountains to peaceful lakes, and discover fascinating UNESCO World Heritage sites that share the area’s rich history. Along your travels, you’ll meet welcoming locals, savor delicious traditional dishes that will delight your taste buds, and create lasting memories in this incredible part of the world.

Book your motorcycle, and get a FREE digital map specifically designed for the West Balkan moto tour.

Day 1: Split – NP Krka – Zadar (approx. 160 km)

Embark on your motorcycle adventure from Split, riding north along the captivating coastal roads. Enjoy magnificent views of the Adriatic as you make your way towards Šibenik. Stop for lunch in a charming stone town nestled in the Krka River canyon, a romantic setting of narrow cobbled streets, ancient archways, and hidden stairways. After lunch, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Krka National Park, where cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes await. Arrive in Zadar in the late afternoon, settle into your accommodation, and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Day 2: Zadar – Velebit – NP Plitvice (approx. 180 km)

Depart from Zadar and experience the thrill of riding one of Europe’s most scenic coastal roads. This exhilarating route hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, dramatic cliffs, and a multitude of curves. After this unforgettable coastal ride, venture inland and ascend into the Velebit mountain range. Your destination is Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its interconnected lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant forests. Spend the night in the heart of this pristine wilderness, enjoying a traditional dinner in a cozy mountain setting.  

Day 3: NP Plitvice – Sarajevo (approx. 300 km)

Today’s journey takes you through the untouched natural beauty of the Dinaric Alps. Ride through verdant valleys, alongside sparkling rivers and mountain streams, as you make your way towards Sarajevo. This historic city, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a fascinating melting pot of cultures and traditions. Explore its vibrant streets, sample delicious Bosnian cuisine, and discover the rich heritage of this captivating city.  

Day 4: REST DAY SARAJEVO

Take a break from riding and delve deeper into the cultural tapestry of Sarajevo. Wander through the bustling Baščaršija street, filled with traditional shops and local restaurants. Savor the city’s famous Ćevapi (grilled minced meat) and explore the numerous museums that tell the story of Sarajevo’s complex past. For those seeking more adventure, venture into the surrounding hills or visit a hidden mountain village.

Day 5: Sarajevo – Mostar – Jablanica – Sarajevo (300 km)

Embark on a loop ride through central Bosnia, starting with a visit to a breathtaking Dervish monastery perched in a spectacular location. Continue to Mostar, a historic city renowned for its iconic stone bridge. After exploring Mostar’s charming streets, head to Jablanica, a town nestled in a picturesque valley. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Bosnian countryside before returning to Sarajevo for another night.  

Day 6: Sarajevo – Trsa – Žabljak (approx. 200 km)

Cross the border into Montenegro and experience the thrill of riding through the dramatic landscapes of Durmitor National Park. Navigate the narrow mountain roads that wind through this pristine wilderness, enjoying breathtaking views at every turn. Descend into the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe, and arrive in Žabljak, a charming mountain town. Savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 7: Žabljak – Kolašin – Podgorica – Theth – Shkodër (approx. 250 km)

From Žabljak, your route leads to the mountain resort town of Kolašin, with the road winding alongside the breathtaking Tara River Canyon. Continue through the stunning Morača River Canyon, approaching Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica. Venture towards the Albanian border and into the mountainous Theth National Park. After immersing yourself in the park’s pristine beauty, head to Shkodër, a historic city in Albania, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 8: Shkodër – Budva – Kotor (approx. 140 km)

Depart from Shkodër and journey towards the Montenegrin coast. Ride along the scenic Adriatic coastline, passing by the picturesque island village of Sveti Stefan and the vibrant coastal town of Budva. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at a traditional restaurant before reaching Kotor, a historic city nestled in a breathtaking bay.

Day 9: Kotor – NP Lovćen – Dubrovnik (approx. 100 km)

Ascend the winding roads of Lovćen National Park, savoring the thrill of each curve and the panoramic views that unfold before you. Reach the summit and be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Adriatic Sea and its coastline. Continue your journey to Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” and prepare to be enchanted by its medieval walls, marble streets, and captivating charm.

Day 10: REST DAY DUBROVNIK

Spend a day exploring the treasures of Dubrovnik. Wander through its historic streets, marvel at its impressive fortifications, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city. Take a boat trip to the nearby island of Lokrum or ascend Mount Srđ for panoramic views. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Dalmatian meal in one of the city’s many charming restaurants.

Day 11: Dubrovnik – Island Hvar (approx. 180 km)

Depart from Dubrovnik and embark on a scenic ride along the Dalmatian Coast. Stop for lunch in the heart of the Neretva Valley, a fertile delta known for its unique landscapes and agricultural traditions. Continue your journey along the breathtaking Makarska Riviera, where dramatic mountains meet the turquoise sea. Take a short ferry ride to the island of Hvar, known for its idyllic beaches, lavender fields, and charming villages. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.  

Day 12: Island Hvar – Split (approx. 100 km)

Spend your final day exploring the hidden gems of Hvar Island. Discover picturesque inland villages, relax on secluded pebble beaches, and savor authentic local cuisine at a hidden restaurant. Enjoy a leisurely ride, soaking up the island’s beauty before taking a ferry back to Split, where your unforgettable motorcycle adventure concludes.