Traveling through the Balkans, especially off-the-beaten-path areas like the Trans Dinarica cycling route offers a wild and unparalleled bike tour experience. While these Balkan countries might seem daunting for solo travelers, the locals, in our experience, are incredibly welcoming and always ready to assist. Even if they don’t speak your language. To give you a glimpse of what awaits, we’ve prepared some essential tips for those eager to ride this beautiful journey.

If you come across a shepherd with a herd of sheep or cows, stop and, at least with a facial expression, ask if you can continue, showing respect for their animals and way of life.

1. Languages

In most of the countries along the Trans Dinarica cycle route, the primary languages are of Slavic origin (the exceptions are Albania and Kosovo). Knowing Croatian allows you to communicate in Slovenia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Macedonia. However, it is important to note that Macedonian is slightly different from the other ex-Yugoslavian languages.

Some useful words:

Hvala = Thank you
Dobar dan = Hello / Good day
Doviđenja = Goodbye
Molim = Please
Oprostite = Sorry / Excuse me
Voda = Water
Pivo = Beer
Vino = Wine
Hrana = Food

The good thing about traveling to the Western Balkans is that almost all young people speak English, especially in the cities. In more remote villages, gestures might be your best friend, but modern tools like Google Translate can bridge any communication gaps.

2. Currencies

Money is quite varied in the area. Slovenia and Croatia use euros because they are in the European Union (EU). Montenegro and Kosovo are not members of EU, but you can still use euros there. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, you will need to provide convertible marks (many times it is also possible to pay with euros (1 EUR is 1.95 KM), in Serbia Serbian dinars, in Macedonia Macedonian denar, and in Albania Albanian lek. For those planning long-distance bike trails in Europe or participating in self-guided bike tours, it’s essential to be aware of these currency differences while cycling through the region.

Don’t count on being able to pay with credit cards everywhere (especially not in bars, restaurants, or small hotels/accommodations). When withdrawing cash, stick to ATMs of verified banks and avoid ‘tourist ATMs’ like Euronet (bad exchange rates, high fees, high pre-set withdrawal amounts.) In general, it is recommended that you choose to charge in local currency at ATMs, which means that the conversion will be done by the bank that issued your card.

3. Meeting farmers, shepherds

As you explore Balkan travel routes, you may come across a shepherd with a herd of sheep or cows, stop and if necessary, get off your bike and, at least with a facial expression, ask if you can continue. Bicycles are not as big as cars, and not as loud as motorcycles, but still: let the locals know that you respect their animals, their work, and their way of life.

In the end, this kindness may lead you to an interesting conversation, coffee, rakija, or maybe even an unplanned overnight stay. If shepherd dogs are guarding the herd, do not try to pet them – these are not pets, but guardians (also from wolves and bears). This rule applies when traveling in any part of the world, but such interactions will be slightly more common in the Western Balkans.

As you travel through the Balkans, you’ll encounter friendly locals known for their warm hospitality. These interactions often lead to engaging conversations, and sometimes spontaneous invitations for a meal or even an overnight stay.

4. Bicycle services, parts

Do not expect specialized shops for bicycles and sports equipment, except in larger cities (Sarajevo, Podgorica, Split, …). That’s why it’s important to always have the essential cycling gear and basic tools like an air pump, set for patching tires, spare tubes, and at least one tire – with you on your bike. People in the Western Balkans are masters of improvisation but don’t expect a perfect match for your gravel bike. Good thing: we included several bike shops as POIs in the navigation pack.

5. Theft

While theft isn’t a major concern on the Trans Dinarica cycling trail, the advice to take care of your belongings is the same as anywhere else in the world. The good thing about bicycles is that you can always put them in a garage, stairwell, or woodshed overnight. Lock the bikes and take the bags with you to the room. You know the saying: Opportunity makes a thief.

6. Alcohol

In some Muslim-majority Balkan regions, you won’t get alcohol in restaurants. Don’t be surprised if you must drink yogurt or Coca-Cola with your burek (by the way, the ‘Yugoslav Coca-Cola’ is called Cockta – it’s caffeine-free but tastes great).

Cycling the Trans Dinarica, you’ll discover the rich flavors of traditional Balkan cuisine, with hearty meals like burek, fresh grilled meats, and local cheeses.

7. Wild camping

The Trans Dinarica bike trail spans diverse territories, each with its own camping regulations on wild camping, so we won’t speculate on what is right and what is not. In short: we know that wild camping is strictly prohibited in Slovenia and Croatia, while the rules are somewhat ‘softer’ further south. The Trans Dinarica also crosses several national parks, so make sure you spend overnight in accordance with local rules – and the rules of caring for nature.

But we will note two things:

#1

The prices for overnight stays/camps are moderate, sometimes even ridiculously cheap (in the southern part) on most of the Trans Dinarica.

#2

If you are already thinking of spreading the sleeping bag somewhere in the bush, try to find the owner and ask him first. Maybe he will allow you (or maybe he won’t), maybe he will even invite you to his house to stay warm.

Regulations on wild camping vary along the Trans Dinarica bike route, so it’s best to ask local landowners for permission before setting up camp.

8. Garbage

Certainly, the blackest stain along the Trans Dinarica cycling route is litter. Some people simply have not yet accepted that this is not right and that it is ugly and inappropriate for Mother Nature. This should not surprise a traveler, and even less should it be the reason that we litter ourselves! As responsible cyclists and adventurers exploring the beauty of the Balkan trails, it is our duty to keep the path clean and leave no trace behind. If we catch you throwing away a piece of chocolate paper into nature, we’ll puncture your tires with our own hands.

By following these tips, you’ll enjoy a smooth and enriching experience traveling the Balkans on Trans Dinarica. No matter which country you choose to cycle through, the hospitality and rugged beauty of the Balkans will surely leave an impression. For now, that wraps up our tips for navigating the Trans Dinarica bike tour. We will be happy if you contact us with additional questions so that we can complete this article.