Budapest → Zadar / 12-19 September 2027 Budapest → Zadar / 12-19 Sept 2027

8
days
6
countries
60
cars
30
motorbikes
180+
people
1600
kilometers
8
days
6
countries
60
cars
30
motorbikes
180+
people
1600
kilometers

Join us on a journey across the heart of the Balkans to the Adriatic Coast.

The VI. Balkan Rally is our most ambitious route yet. We’ll take you across one of Europe’s last truly wild frontiers. Starting in Hungary, the route crosses into Romania before diving deep into Serbia, continuing through Kosovo and Montenegro, then into Bosnia and Herzegovina, before reaching Croatia’s Adriatic coast. Every border reveals a new landscape, a different culture and a fresh perspective.

This is the Balkans at their most authentic: remote mountain roads, forgotten villages, dramatic river canyons, vibrant cities, timeless traditions and genuine hospitality. Raw, diverse and full of contrasts, it’s a region where every day feels like stepping into a different world.

VI. Balkan Rally

12-19 September 2027
Budapest → Zadar

The VI. Balkan Rally route winds through six countries, taking in rugged mountain passes, historic towns and the Adriatic coast, and offering an unforgettable journey. Each stage offers a different landscape, culture and experience, making this our most diverse adventure yet.

Prologue

12 September 2027 // Sunday
Budapest → Szeged

The Rally begins with a gentle introduction, leaving Budapest behind as the route avoids the motorway in favour of the quiet backroads of the Great Hungarian Plain (Alföld). Endless horizons, fertile farmland and traditional villages set the tone for the week ahead.

The day ends in Szeged, Hungary's City of Sunshine, where its elegant architecture and the banks of the Tisza River provide the perfect setting before the convoy crosses its first international border the following morning.

Leg 1

13 September 2027 // Monday
Szeged → Belgrade

The first international stage leaves Hungary behind as the Rally crosses into Romania with a stop in the historic Timișoara before entering Serbia, following quiet backroads through the fertile plains of the Banat region. Wide-open landscapes gradually give way to lively towns and the unmistakable energy of the Balkans.

The day finishes in Belgrade, one of Europe's oldest and most vibrant capitals. Standing proudly above the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, the city combines centuries of history with a legendary nightlife, making it the perfect place to experience the spirit of Serbia before the mountains begin.

Leg 2

14 September 2027 // Tuesday
Belgrade → Kopaonik

Leaving the energy of Belgrade behind, the Rally heads deep into the rolling hills of Šumadija before the roads begin to climb towards Serbia's largest mountain range. Quiet backroads, dense forests and flowing bends gradually replace the plains, revealing a wilder side of the country.

The day ends high in Kopaonik National Park, where fresh mountain air, endless pine forests and spectacular alpine roads mark the Rally's first true mountain stage and the beginning of an entirely new chapter of the journey.

Leg 3

15 September 2027 // Wednesday
Kopaonik → Pristina

The day begins high above the treeline with a visit to Pančić's Peak before descending the winding roads of Kopaonik towards southern Serbia. Leaving the mountains behind, the Rally crosses into Kosovo, where another new culture, language and atmosphere await.

The stage finishes in Pristina, one of Europe's youngest and most dynamic capitals. Modern, energetic and still largely undiscovered, it offers a refreshing contrast to the mountain landscapes and another authentic glimpse into the ever-changing character of the Balkans.

Leg 4

16 September 2027 // Thursday
Pristina → Kolasin

From the vibrant streets of Pristina, the Rally heads west into the hidden heart of Kosovo, weaving through the cobbled streets of Prizren, the lively old town of Gjakova and the rugged mountain landscapes surrounding Peja. Winding backroads, traditional stone villages and ever-changing scenery make this one of the most picturesque stages of the journey.

Crossing into Montenegro, the route follows quiet mountain roads through Rožaje and Berane before reaching Kolašin. Surrounded by the peaks of the Bjelasica range, Bianca Resort & Spa welcomes the convoy back to one of the Rally's favourite stops, where the legendary parking lot gatherings inevitably continue long after sunset.

Leg 5

17 September 2027 // Friday
Kolasin → Mostar

Leaving Kolašin behind, the Rally heads west through the rugged mountains of Montenegro, following a series of spectacular canyon roads before crossing into Bosnia and Herzegovina. Quiet backroads, dramatic limestone landscapes and hidden valleys make this one of the most scenic stages of the week.

The route continues through the historic town of Trebinje before arriving in Mostar, where the iconic UNESCO-listed Old Bridge spans the emerald waters of the Neretva River. Rich in history and unmistakable Balkan character, the city provides a fitting backdrop for another memorable Rally evening.

Award Ceremony

18 September 2027 // Saturday
Mostar → Zadar

One last adventure awaits as the Rally winds through the rugged landscapes of Herzegovina before crossing into Croatia. Flowing roads, sweeping views and hidden villages accompany the journey across the dramatic Dalmatian hinterland before the Adriatic finally comes back into sight.

Instead of finishing in the busy city centre, the Rally concludes at a luxury seaside resort near Zadar, where the convoy can slow down, cool off and celebrate an unforgettable week on some of the Balkans' finest roads.

Schedule 2027

Day
Start
Finish

Prologue

12 Sept, Sunday
Budapest → Szeged
Szeged

Leg 1

13 Sept, Monday
Szeged → Belgrade
Belgrade

Leg 2

14 Sept, Tuesday
Belgrade → Kopaonik
Kopaonik

Leg 3

15 Sept, Wednesday
Kopaonik → Pristina
Pristina

Leg 4

16 Sept, Thursday
Pristina → Kolasin
Kolasin

Leg 5

17 Sept, Friday
Kolasin → Mostar
Mostar

Award Ceremony

18 Sept, Saturday
Mostar → Zadar
Zadar

Rally package

€2,490 / person, until 20.09.2026
€2,890 / person, until 31.12.2026
  • Race entry fee
  • Accommodation for 7 nights in four- or five-star luxury hotels with double occupancy
  • Opening Ceremony
  • Regional, gourmet delicacies with half-board food arrangement
(lunches are self-catered)
  • Rally kit and itinerary
  • Commemorative poster
  • Secure overnight parking
  • Recovery for non-operational vehicles, with towing to the next rally accommodation, and transportation for participants
  • Luggage hold for motorcyclists
  • Premium merchandize

All prices are per person, based on double occupancy for rooms. For those seeking solo accommodations, explore our add-ons.

Contact us to learn more about the special discounts for returning participants!

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Add-ons

Single room surcharge

Enjoy your own room throughout the Rally.

€1,000

Vehicle rental

Our rental fleet lets you join the Balkan Rally without owning a vintage car. Just pick your ride and hit the road. Contact us for a personalized offer!

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Vehicles

All cars and motorcycles designed before 1997, were produced in limited quantities, have special features, or were created by famous designers. Historical facts may also confirm their legendary status.
All cars and motorcycles designed before 1997, were produced in limited quantities, have special features, or were created by famous designers. Historical facts may also confirm their legendary status.
All cars and motorcycles designed before 1997, were produced in limited quantities, have special features, or were created by famous designers. Historical facts may also confirm their legendary status.
Vehicles that do not fit into the vintage enthusiast category but show something special or new to the jury. The jury will reward the creativity of each applicant with this license.
Vehicles that do not fit into the vintage enthusiast category but show something special or new to the jury. The jury will reward the creativity of each applicant with this license.
Such vehicles, mostly motorcycles, that, although designed later than 1997, follow the traditional design and the classic aesthetics. E.g. Triumph Speed Twin, Yamaha XSR series, etc.
Such vehicles, mostly motorcycles, that, although designed later than 1997, follow the traditional design and the classic aesthetics. E.g. Triumph Speed Twin, Yamaha XSR series, etc.
Such vehicles, mostly motorcycles, that, although designed later than 1997, follow the traditional design and the classic aesthetics. E.g. Triumph Speed Twin, Yamaha XSR series, etc.
There are many almost new vehicles that, in their construction and attitude, represent such technology that we can assume they will be preserved for the future.
There are many almost new vehicles that, in their construction and attitude, represent such technology that we can assume they will be preserved for the future.
A literal wingman, car owners with vehicles that do not fit into any of the categories but want to experience the atmosphere of a veteran race. They can only compete for the Fair Play and Perfect Gear prizes.
A literal wingman, car owners with vehicles that do not fit into any of the categories but want to experience the atmosphere of a veteran race. They can only compete for the Fair Play and Perfect Gear prizes.
A literal wingman, car owners with vehicles that do not fit into any of the categories but want to experience the atmosphere of a veteran race. They can only compete for the Fair Play and Perfect Gear prizes.

Race categories

While the emphasis of this race lies much more on finishing than on actual performance, the team achieving the best time will ultimately claim victory of the Balkan Rally. Along the route, there are hidden checkpoints that bring a variety of special tasks to earn additional points. The overall score is determined by three crucial factors: adherence to the recommended route, precision in arrival time achieved through solving the included logical challenges, and successful photo captures of checkpoints using a Fuji Instax camera. Any deviations from these criteria will result in point deductions, but these can be offset by successfully completing the bonus photo challenges.

Perfect Gear Award

The award is given to the competitor who fully embodies the spirit of the Balkan Rally from head to toe - whether it’s a flawlessly shining vehicle or attire that perfectly matches the era of their car.

Winner of the Balkan Rally

The winner will be the driver or team who crosses the finish line with the highest score. This will require strong navigational skills, sticking to arrival times, and completing photo challenges.

Fair Play Award

At the gala evening, the award is presented to the competitor nominated and chosen by fellow participants, recognizing the most helpful and considerate racer.

2027

Race Entry

Feel free to reach out for personalized arrangements or alternative vehicle and passenger combinations; we’re here to assist you in creating the ideal experience.


Testimonials and Press

Gallery

Accommodation

12 Sept // Sunday // Prologue
Szeged

Hunguest Hotel Forrás
****

Located in the green belt of Szeged, on the banks of the Tisza River, the 199-room Hunguest Hotel Szeged awaits us. This modern, four-star hotel is directly connected to the Sunshine Aquapolis water park, making it the perfect place to recharge and unwind after a long day of rallying.

13 Sept // Monday // Leg 1
Belgrade

Metropol Palace
*****

Our abode for the night will be the luxurious Metropol Palace, originally built in 1956 but has
since been completely renovated and modernised while still preserving its rich history and time-
less charm. After a delicious dinner, we’ll have the chance to either relax in the spa that is open until late or dive headfirst into Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife.

14 Sept // Tuesday // Leg 2
Kopaonik

Hotel Grand Kopaonik
****

The day’s finale will await at the impressive altitude of 1650 meters above sea level, nestled on the Kopaonik plateau, the crown jewel of the country, boasting the most breathtaking national park and a modern ski resort. Our 5-star luxury hotel for the night will ease you back to tranquility, and after the adventurous drives of the first two days, you will be able to en- joy a breath of fresh air, embracing the serenity that surrounds you.

15 Sept // Wednesday // Leg 3
Pristina

Swiss Diamond Hotel
****

Our stay in Pristina is at the elegant Swiss Diamond Hotel, a five-star property located in the heart of Kosovo's vibrant capital. Combining refined comfort with an exceptional central location, it offers the perfect opportunity to experience the city's lively atmosphere while enjoying first-class hospitality. After another unforgettable day on the road, the hotel's luxurious surroundings provide an ideal place to relax and prepare for the adventures still to come.

16 Sept // Thursday // Leg 4
Kolašin

Bianca Resort & Spa
****

Set at 980 meters above sea level in the town of Kolašin, the Bianca Resort & Spa is surrounded by magnificent pine forests and offers breathtaking views of Mount Bjelasica. This exclusive retreat combines the comfort of a world-class hotel with the cozy atmosphere of a mountain chalet, creating a true home away from home. The resort’s spa area features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, Finnish sauna, steam bath, and relaxation room; perfect for the team to recharge after a long day.

17 Sept // Friday // Leg 5
Mostar

City Hotel & Karting Hotel

On this evening, we take over several hotels in the picturesque city of Mostar, allowing everyone to spend the night surrounded by its unique atmosphere. City Hotel Mostar offers modern comfort and a central location close to the city's main attractions, while Karting Hotel provides a relaxed setting and welcoming hospitality - perfect for recharging after a long day on the rally.

18 Sept // Saturday // Award Ceremony
Zadar

Hotel Falkensteiner
*****

One of the most impressive accommodations on the Balkan Rally, this hotel - located at one of the peninsula’s tips - entices guests not only with its breathtaking seaside views but also with its exclusive 5-star services. The hotel’s 6,000-square-meter Acquapura SPA wellness area is a true oasis, offering everything from Turkish baths to saunas to help you recharge.

Our Partners

FAQ

This race, best described as having a “gran turismo” atmosphere, is open to vehicles that meet the internationally recognized 30+ year criterion based on either their manufacturing or design year. Alternatively, vehicles that are considered “special” for any reason may also qualify. The Balkan Rally expert jury grants entry approval in five different categories. If your vehicle is not from before 1997 but you believe it has a unique aspect that makes it worthy of the Balkan Rally, send us a few photos and a short description. The jury will review it within a few days.

No problem! Our partners offer a variety of cars and motorcycles for rent that comply with the rally’s regulations. Contact us for details, and we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle.

Not at all! While having a co-driver makes the journey more comfortable, every year there are participants who complete the rally solo. Our basic package includes accommodation in double rooms, meaning you’ll share a room with another competitor. If you prefer to have your own room, you can opt for a single-room upgrade.

Each night, we stay at different 4- or 5-star hotels along the route. Car entrants share a room with their teammates, while motorcyclists will be paired with another participant who shares similar interests. If you’d like a private room, check out our additional service options.

Our basic package runs from the opening weekend to the closing ceremony, after which you’ll say goodbye and drive home at your own pace. It includes 7 nights of half-board accommodation (breakfast and dinner) in four- or five-star luxury hotels during the rally, as well as the rally entry fee, a rally package and route guide, a commemorative plaque, secure overnight parking, luggage transport for motorcyclists, and premium gifts.

We’re happy to assist in getting your vehicle to the starting location on time. Based on your car or motorcycle’s specifications and your departure location, we will provide a custom transport offer.

If you are not an EU citizen, please check with your country’s embassy website to determine if you require a visa for entry.

EU citizens may travel visa-free to all countries visited during the tour (Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia). A valid passport or national identity card is required for border crossings. A driving licence is not considered a valid travel document and therefore cannot be used to cross international borders.

Throughout the journey, we drive through five countries: starting in Hungary, crossing Romania into Serbia, then continuing through Kosovo and Montenegro to Bosnia and Herzegovina, before finishing in Croatia.

Most of the route consists of paved roads, but there will be some sections with dusty or gravel roads and moderately challenging terrain.

Pack in at least two bags. Large suitcases will be transported in the support vehicles. Bring a backpack for essentials such as extra layers, water, a camera, and anything else you want to keep with you.

Our accommodations offer buffet-style dinners and hearty breakfasts. When planning the menus, we strive to showcase traditional culinary specialties from each region. Lunch should be arranged individually during the journey, and we will provide recommendations on the daily maps.

The entry package includes recovery for non-operational vehicles, meaning towing to the next rally accommodation and transportation for participants. If the vehicle is beyond repair, we will help arrange transport home for both the vehicle and its occupants, but the cost will be the participant’s responsibility.

All participants must have valid travel insurance for the countries covered during the rally. Contact us, and we’ll be happy to help you find the best option for you.