Turkish travelers set their winter holiday route to the Balkans

With winter holidays approaching, coupled with the stress of visa procedures, Turkish travelers are looking for smart, stress-free alternatives for an international getaway. Countries like Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia stand out as top options for Turkish travelers looking to explore new destinations without the hassle of visas. These countries offer visa-free entry, making them a perfect solution for those looking for a budget-friendly international holiday just a short flight away.

"Visa-free access is a real game-changer," says a Hotels.com spokesperson . The Balkans offer an accessible, affordable, and culturally rich alternative. For example, searches for Belgrade, one of the most popular visa-free destinations among Turkish travelers, have seen a 30% (**) increase.

Recent search data shows that interest in Balkan destinations among Turkish travelers has increased by 125%(*) compared to the previous week. Some of the most popular destinations are listed below:

• Belgrade, Serbia Belgrade is one of Europe's liveliest capitals, offering a unique blend of history, culture and nightlife.
  1. Moxy Belgrade 9.4 – Moxy Belgrade boasts an excellent location, just a 15-minute walk from Knez Mihailova Street. Guests can work out in the 24-hour fitness center or dine at Restaurant Park. Additional amenities include a stylish bar/lounge and a relaxing garden area.
  2. Courtyard Marriott Belgrade City Center 9.4 – Courtyard Marriott Belgrade offers a stylish getaway in the heart of the city. Guests can take advantage of convenient dry cleaning and laundry services, stay in shape in the fitness center, or take care of business. A charming garden and attentive staff enhance the experience, while major attractions like Republic Square are just steps away.
• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (95% Increase***)

Sarajevo is a city where East meets West, where Ottoman heritage blends with Austro-Hungarian elegance.

1. Hotel Sana 9.6 – Hotel Sana offers the ideal setting to make the most of your stay in Sarajevo. The property features a comfortable cafeteria and a bar/lounge area for evening drinks. Guests can unwind with light snacks and drinks after a day exploring the culturally rich city.
2. Hotel Baškuća 9,8 – Hotel Baškuća Sarajevo is ideally located just a 3-minute walk from the Sebilj Fountain. This 4-star property features a garden, a terrace and a restaurant. Guests can benefit from facilities such as a 24-hour front desk and concierge services.

• Skopje, North Macedonia (135% Increase***)

Skopje is a city of contrasts, where ancient history meets bold modernity. The capital is renowned for its eclectic architecture, from Ottoman-era stone bridges and Byzantine churches to magnificent neoclassical facades and intriguing sculptures.

1. Limak Skopje Luxury Hotel 9.2 – At Limak Skopje Luxury Hotel, guests can enjoy a range of luxurious amenities, including trying their luck at the on-site casino or savoring gourmet cuisine at the hotel restaurant. Guests seeking pure relaxation can pamper themselves with deep-tissue massages, body wraps, and aromatherapy treatments at the spa.

Travelers can enjoy stunning hotels, authentic cuisine, and breathtaking scenery without breaking the bank or dealing with complicated visa procedures.

Whether it's nature, culture, or cuisine, the Balkans offer a unique experience for travelers looking to make the most of their November Türkiye vacation. Additionally, through Hotels.com's program, travelers who stay ten nights receive a reward night to use toward future travel.

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* Calls made between 30.07.25 and 27.10.25 in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia are valid for stays between 08.11.25 and 16.11.25. Calls made between 30.07.25 and 27.10.25 are valid for stays between 17.11.25 and 25.11.25.

** Searches made by Turkish travelers on Hotels.com between July 30, 25 and October 27, 25 for stays booked between November 8, 25 and November 16, 25, and searches made between July 30, 24 and October 27, 24 for stays booked between November 8, 24 and November 16, 24.

*** Searches made by Turkish travelers on Hotels.com between July 30, 25, and October 27, 25, for stays between November 8, 25, and November 16, 25, and for stays between November 17, 25, and November 25, 25.