belgrade travel advice

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Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ('White City') is by no means a 'pretty' capital, but its gritty exuberance makes it one of Europe's most happening cities. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its chaotic past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces, and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics and socialist modernist monoliths. This is where the Sava and Danube Rivers kiss, an old-world culture that at once evokes time-capsuled communist-era Yugoslavia and new-world, EU-contending cradle of cool.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Belgrade Fortress

Some 115 battles have been fought over imposing, impressive Belgrade Fortress (aka Kalemegdan); the citadel was destroyed more than 40 times throughout…

Museum of Yugoslavia

This must-visit museum houses an invaluable collection of more than 200,000 artefacts representing the fascinating, tumultuous history of Yugoslavia…

Looming over Belgrade and topped with the tallest tower in the Balkans (204.5m), Mt Avala is a city landmark that makes for a pleasant break from the…

Museum of Contemporary Art

One of Belgrade's top cultural sights, this recently renovated museum is a treasure trove of 20th-century art from the ex-Yugoslav cultural space. The…

Marshal Tito's Mausoleum

A visit to Tito's mausoleum is obligatory. The big man rests in an aptly gigantic tomb in peaceful surrounds. Also on display are thousands of elaborate…

National Museum

Lack of funding for renovations kept Serbia's National Museum mostly shuttered for 15 years, but its much ballyhooed 2018 reopening has been a great…

Nikola Tesla Museum

Meet the man on the 100RSD note at one of Belgrade's best museums, where you can release your inner nerd with some wondrously sci-fi-ish interactive…

Zepter Museum

This impressive collection of works by contemporary Serbian artists became Serbia’s first private museum in 2010, but remains somewhat hidden even though…

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The Ultimate Guide to Belgrade

Belgrade is the lively and historic capital city of Serbia. It’s fast becoming an alternative destination to visit in Europe, particularly as the surrounding countries of the Balkans become ever popular with travelers seeking out a more untouched side of the continent.

There is good reason for this increasing popularity too, as from the ashes of conflict in the 1990’s, from NATO bombings in Belgrade and war across the region, the city has recovered, it’s grown and it has a lot to offer visitors adventurous enough to give it a chance.

There are some great Belgrade tourist attractions, from visiting the domineering towers of Kalemegdan Fortress to learning more about not only the history of Serbia but the history of the former Yugoslavia that is so entwined with the region.

Explore the surprisingly sandy beaches of the lake, visit an ornate Serbian Orthodox Church and then soak up the vibrant nightlife in the evenings.

To inspire you to visit the city, here’s our ultimate guide to Belgrade.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Belgrade  

Belgrade is beautifully sited on the confluence of the Danube and the Sava Rivers in the north of Serbia. Being the former capital of Yugoslavia, the city still retains its transport links to the surrounding Balkan countries and it’s easy to travel here from the rest of the region.

The main Belgrade train station is a new construction and is found on the outskirts of the city as the old and outdated central station was recently closed. The upgrades have allowed for a much more efficient railway system connecting Belgrade to cities domestically and internationally.

From here you can travel by train to Budapest, Ljubljana, Sofia, Zagreb, Vienna and more, and it’s even possible to connect onto the wider European rail network to reach more distant cities such as Paris or London.

The bus network is equally as extensive and long-distance routes connect Belgrade to many major European capitals, particularly in the Balkans and Eastern Europe, as well as domestically to towns and other cities across Serbia.

If you need to fly into Belgrade, then the Nikola Tesla International Airport has extensive flight schedules across Europe to almost all of the continent’s capital cities, while flights with Middle Eastern airlines allow you to connect to much of the rest of the world too.

How to get around Belgrade

Belgrade is a large city with over a million inhabitants and there are many suburbs and districts to navigate.

The city operates a network of trolleybuses, trams, and public buses that cover much of Belgrade, but you must remember to buy a ticket at the booth before boarding and then validate the ticket on the transport.

You can buy one day or three-day BusPlus Cards which allows you unlimited travel and which are a great choice for tourists on a short break.

Taxis are plentiful, but be careful when using them and ensure that they turn on the meter to calculate the appropriate fare. Compared to western European capitals, taxis in Belgrade are very much good value.

What to expect in Belgrade

Belgrade is an intriguing and interesting city to visit, but for those not accustomed to the Cyrillic alphabet, it can be a struggle to get around but not impossible. Most signage is in Cyrillic, as this is the official script of the Serbian language, which is closely related to neighboring languages such as Croatian and Bosnian.

If you can, try and learn the alphabet beforehand or even while you are visiting. It might look daunting at first, but a lot of characters are very similar to the Latin alphabet and once you’ve picked it up it will allow you to understand a lot more of what’s going on in the city.

English speakers can be hard to come by in the city but it is slowly becoming a popular second language to learn, especially for the younger generation.

The local currency is the Serbian Dinar. You will find plenty of ATMs in the city, and most will accept foreign cards. If exchanging money make sure you shop around for the best rates in the city center.

The aftermath of the wars that followed the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990’s still has far-reaching implications across Serbia, particularly when it comes to the question of Kosovo, so be careful if talking about political or sensitive events to locals.

The best time to visit Belgrade

As a city break destination, Belgrade can be visited all year round, however, at different times of the year you will find completely different atmospheres in the city.

Most of the best Belgrade must see sights can be visited year round, particularly museums and similar attractions, but if you want to enjoy the summer festivals and the lively lakeside scenes, then you have to visit in the hotter months of the year.

Winter can be bitterly cold, but this time of year is also a chance to enjoy cozy indoor restaurants and bars while in January you can enjoy the delights of an Orthodox Christmas.

Things to do in Belgrade  

Mihailova street.

Knez Mihaailova – or Mikhailov Street, in English – is the main thoroughfare in the city center. This is really the heart of Belgrade and it’s one of the oldest and most historic streets in the city, but surprisingly, also one of the most modern.

This is where you can come to shop and to find great restaurants while the great number of bars here makes a trip to Mikhailov Street one of the best things to do in Belgrade at night.

Avala Tower

The Avala Tower is the tallest tower in not only Belgrade but across much of the Balkans, and it offers visitors unparalleled views over the surrounding area.

It’s found on a hill on the outskirts of the city, and the current tower is actually a reconstruction of the original that was destroyed by NATO during the Balkan conflicts.

It’s a great place to spend the day, as the newly opened tourism center here offers many great activities.

Ada Ciganlija

Ada Ciganlija is a reclaimed island on the River Sava that offers locals and visitors a huge recreation area to enjoy.

There are beaches, bars, and swimming areas and in summer it’s one of the best areas to visit in Belgrade.

Places to visit in Belgrade

Nikola tesla museum.

One of Belgrade’s most famous past citizens was Nikola Tesla, and in the city you can visit the Nikola Tesla Museum that’s dedicated to his life and to his science.

Belgrade Fortress

Belgrade Fortress – also known as Kalemegdan Fortress – is a great historical area in the city that has long held dominion over the area.

Walk the walls and the ramparts before strolling through the adjacent Kalemegdan Park.

Josip Broz Tito Mausoleum

The Josip Broz Tito Mausoleum is the final resting place of the Yugolsvan dictator Broz Tito. It’s an eery place, but for anyone with an interest in communism it’s a must visit to see the legacy of Josip Broz himself.

Sava Temple  

The Sava Temple, or the Church of Saint Sava, is a prominent Orthodox Church in the capital. It’s an enormous place of worship and the grand scale of the church has to really be seen to be believed.

National Assembly

The National Assembly is Serbia’s main seat of government, where decisions are debated and action is taken.

It’s an incredibly elegant building and one that was formerly the seat of Yugoslavian power, before Serbian.

National Museum of Serbia

The National Museum of Serbia is the best place in Belgrade to visit to learn more about the country’s long and at times divisive history.

The museum itself is over 150 years old and today it charts the long history of a region that has frequently been conflicted and troubled.

What to eat in Belgrade  

Serbian cuisine is very much a product of the multicultural influences of Serbian history and you can find similar dishes as you would across the Balkans and Turkey.

A lot of the food is meat heavy, with bread on the side, while in terms of drinks you can always be sure to be offered a glass of local, alcoholic Rakia to wash the meal down with.

A Burek is a long piece of pastry that’s filled with innumerable different ingredients. This is one of the most popular snacks in the Balkans and you will find this anywhere in Belgrade.

The best bakeries are the small, local affairs, and you can buy a a great burek for just a few cents. You can get meat, veg and cheese fillings, or a combination of all three.

Goulash is ubiquitous across Eastern Europe, and in Serbia, it’s a firm favorite too. This hearty stew is the perfect remedy for a cold day and accompanied with a hunk of bread and a shot of Rakia it will keep you warm through the coldest of winters.

Cevapi is a simple dish of that consists of mincemeat that’s been skewered and grilled over hot coals.

It’s essentially a kebab, but with local spices and flavorings and served up with a piece of flatbread and some onions to garnish, it becomes a great delicacy.

Where to stay in Belgrade

Belgrade has an ever-growing selection of quality accommodation, from budget hostels to upmarket international chains. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Belgrade.

Hostel Home Sweet Home – This budget hostel is one of the best in Belgrade, and it offers guests the chance to enjoy a homely atmosphere and friendly company while staying in the city.

Hilton Belgrade – The Hilton is an uncompromising option for those looking for high standards during their stay in Belgrade. This modern, plush hotel is found in the center of the city and offers everything you might need.

Hyatt Regency Belgrade – The Hyatt Regency is a world-renowned hotel chain that never fails to deliver on quality. Although it’s expensive – especially by Belgrade standards – it’s the only choice in the city for those looking for the best quality and service.

Tours to do in Belgrade

Walking Tour

One of the best ways to experience Belgrade is on foot. Much of the city center is very much walkable, and there are some excellent strolls to be had along the river.

Take a walking tour to learn more about the city’s unique history while you enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. There are even tip-based walking tours, which can be one of the best free things to do in Belgrade.

Communist Tour

The city is still inseparable from the legacy of its communist past, and one of the best Belgrade things to do is to take one of the many dedicated tours of the important socialist sights, including all those linked to the dictator himself, Josep Broz.

Underground Tour

If you tire of Belgrade sightseeing above ground, then why not shake things up and head underground instead?

It’s one of the weird things to do in Belgrade, but the city has a huge network of underground tunnels that date back through the centuries and many tour companies now offer trips into this surreal subterranean world.

Day trips from Belgrade

Timisoara is located just two hours away from Belgrade in western Romania, and a cross-border excursion makes for a great day trip.

This is one of the largest and liveliest cities in Romania and you can spend the day comparing cultures and exploring the unique history.

Novi Sad is a Serbian city found an hour to the north of Belgrade on the banks of the Danube. This is the nation’s second city, and it’s an interesting contrast to the capital.

Here you can find old fortresses to explore , and in summer, some great stretches of beach along the river.

Nis is Serbia’s third largest city and the center of life in the south of the country. Nis is one of the most historic cities in Europe and can trace its roots far back to ancient Greek and Roman times.

Spend the day exploring museums and archeological sites on a day trip from Belgrade.

Recommend budget tours in Belgrade

• Northern Serbia, Sremski Karlovci, and Novi Sad Full-Day Tour from Belgrade
• Full-Day Eastern Serbia Monasteries and Resava Cave Tour from Belgrade
• Belgrade Big Tour: Top Attractions and Belgrade Neighborhoods
• Belgrade Sightseeing Half-Day Trip Old and New Belgrade
• Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci Day Trip from Belgrade
• Private Tour to “Little Europe”: A Day Trip to Northern Serbia and Novi Sad
• Private Day Trip To Budapest From Belgrade
• Belgrade Center Walking Tour
• Off the Beaten Track: Belgrade Street Art Experience
• Belgrade Underground and Fortresess Dungeons Walking Tour
• BEERgrade Pub Crawl Tour

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Ada Ciganlija and Ada Bridge

Belgrade street names, church of st marko, church of st sava, drinking and nightlife, the ethnographical museum and gallery of frescoes, kalemegdan fortress, konak of princess ljubica, the museum of yugoslav history, nikola tesla museum, the orthodox cathedral and museum, parliament building, trg republike and around.

The city sits at a strategic point on the junction of the Danube and Sava rivers – something that has proved a source of weakness as well as strength over the ages: Belgrade has been captured as many as sixty times by Celts, Romans, Huns, Avars and more. The onslaught continued right through the twentieth century, when the city suffered heavy shelling during World War II and in 1999 withstood 78 days of NATO airstrikes.

All that considered, contemporary Belgrade is pretty picturesque. The mingling and merging of styles can be off-putting, particularly when a row of beautiful older frontages is interrupted by a postwar interloper, but the grand nineteenth-century buildings and delicate Art Nouveau facades still stand alongside the Yugoslav experimentation, eloquent witnesses of the city’s time under the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires.

The city’s most attention-grabbing attraction is the Kalemegdan Fortress . Just outside the park boundary is the Old City, whose dense lattice of streets conceals Belgrade’s most interesting sights. South of here is Belgrade’s central square, Trg Republike , and the old bohemian quarter of Skadarlija, beyond which lie several more sights worth seeing, including one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches. For a spot of rest and recuperation, head west across the Sava to the verdant suburb of Zemun , in New Belgrade, or further south towards the island of Ada Ciganlija , Belgrade’s own miniature beach resort.

Top image Zemun © DeStefano/Shutterstock

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10 Reasons You’ll Love Visiting This Little-Known European Capital

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Before I looked into exploring eastern Europe a little more thoroughly, I would have been hard-pressed to pinpoint Belgrade — or Serbia, for that matter — on the map. Serbia is a landlocked country bordering probably most of the Slavic countries and some others, many of which came together under the former Yugoslavia (Land of the Slavs): There are Croatia and Bosnia Herzegovina in the west, Hungary to the north, Romania, and Bulgaria toward the east, and North Macedonia due south. Plus, Kosovo, which is not recognized as an independent state by Serbia. The capital, Belgrade, lies to the central north of the country.

Though land-locked and relatively far from the sea for a European country, Belgrade sits on the confluence of the river Sava and the Danube , allowing it to sparkle in a hilly, green landscape. That said, Belgrade is not often visited by overseas travelers coming to Europe, and even many of the Danube River cruises do not reach this far east.

So, what you have is a capital city devoid of tourist crowds, yet filled with a history that stretches between Roman times to very recent unrest fighting for independence, and an eminently liveable city, filled with cafes and restaurants, great shops, and welcoming and friendly people. What more does one need for a great city break?

Here are my reasons why you should visit and give Belgrade a chance to shine.

1. The Belgrade Fortress

This was my first stop when exploring Belgrade. Because of the strategic location of the Kalemegdan Fortress on a land spit reaching into the large confluence of the Sava River and the Danube, this spot has always been the favored spot for fortifications. First, the Romans built one here, then over the following centuries, the fort kept being destroyed and rebuilt by Romans, Serbs, Turks, and Austrians. You name it, they built a fort here. Wandering around the huge complex surrounded by a large park and stunning views gives you a great first impression of Belgrade and its history.

2. Stari Grad: The Old Town

Just on the doorstep of the fortress lies Stari Grad, the “Old Town.” It’s not an obvious old town center like in most European cities, where a usually round medieval core was often surrounded by sturdy city walls, and inside was a huddle of old, crooked buildings alongside cobbled lanes. Here it is a real mix of buildings in a relatively modern shopping area along and off to the sides of the lovely, pedestrianized Knez Mihailova Street. While on the main drag, you could nearly be anywhere, but dive into the little side streets, and you’ll find small, typical cafes and restaurants and older shops.

Head further east toward the other side of this neighborhood half encircled by the Danube, and you find lovely residential streets, making you look up and choose a potential apartment for yourself.

3. The Bohemian Skadarlija

Part of Stari Grad is the eclectic Skadarlija street, probably the most fun street in Belgrade. Not grand, or stunning, instead it is full of bohemian vibes, street art, cute little, colorful houses, and plenty of restaurants and cafes inviting you to stop. This is the place for lunch, or dinner, because all the restaurants are incredibly affordable and serve up vast portions of meat-heavy local cuisine.

My husband and I tried Dva Jelena , sat outside in the sunshine and watched the world go by. We ate cevapcici, skewers of minced meat; a pork ‘braid’ with sauerkraut, and ox-cheeks with mashed potatoes, plus a sample of local beer and wine, and ended up barely able to walk, but paying a fraction of what lunch would cost in any other European city.

4. The Electrifying Nikola Tesla Museum

Nikola Tesla is probably Belgrade’s, and Serbia’s, most famous son. The name is in everybody’s mind because of the electric car company and its co-founder Elon Musk, but few know anything about the name’s owner, Nikola Tesla. The small museum in Belgrade is crammed full of his history and his many inventions, and it quite literally sends out sparks when during the tour some of his electrical inventions are fired up. It is truly interesting, and while a tour is obligatory, it won’t take up too much of your time.

5. Walking To Zemun

Spending an afternoon or morning walking along the Danube, looking at its many houseboats, and stopping for coffee along the way is a must when in Belgrade. But this outing is even better if you start in the suburb of Zemun some 7 miles from Belgrade center. The best way is to only walk in one direction and take a bus or taxi to Zemun and then walk back.

But do allow some time to be spent in the small town itself. Zemun used to be a border town between the Ottoman and Australian empires and is too cute for words. The bustling town is filled with small and brightly colored houses and it has a great tower with even greater views and a plethora of restaurants along the riverbank of the Danube.

6. Superb Inexpensive Meals

I know I keep going on about food, but this took me completely by surprise in Belgrade. To be honest, my preconceptions of Serbian or Slavic food were all kebabs and cevapcici (which is true, and they are yummy), but the number of superb fine-dining restaurants which, for us as visitors, were ridiculously cheap, is impressive.

Try Magellan , for example — so good we went twice. Located in the somewhat Soviet-style new Belgrade across the Sava, this nautical-themed restaurant serves incredible, non-cevapcici food. Then there is Salon 1906 , which is located in a building that will take your breath away. I believe it was an old bank, and the ceilings, décor, and double staircase are unbelievable. Not quite that cheap, but still cheap compared to a similar setting and menu anywhere else in Europe; this is one for a special occasion.

7. The Markets

I have mentioned before that Belgrade is a liveable city rather than a touristy one, and that is also reflected in the city’s markets. Locals shop for fresh food here, and it is fun to be in the middle of that and to see the local produce and other goodies for sale. My favorites are the vast market called Kalenic, which is like a market city, and not far from the St. Sava Temple (see below), and the rather lovely Zeleni Venac. Zeleni Venac is near the city center and is marked by an assortment of strange red-and-white roofs.

8. Numerous Cafes

I had not known that Belgrade has a distinct coffee culture, and, as far as I know, it doesn’t. It just seems that the people of Belgrade have a thing for trendy coffee shops, large and small, cute and industrial chic, but all serving decent coffee and always some great cake and other dishes.

I found so many but simply did not have the time to constantly stop for coffee, so my husband and I agreed to forgo the hotel breakfast and instead eat out for breakfast every morning, and then add a few extra coffee stops during the day. Try, for example, the Kafeterija , or Coffee, Tea, and Sympathy with a balcony looking out across Park Terazijska terasa.

9. St. Sava Temple

This is Belgrade’s Sagrada Familia. Well, not quite, but this vast temple, or Orthodox church, is not only the largest Orthodox Church in use, but construction has been ongoing on and off since 1935. Nearly finished though, it is as vast on the outside as it is extravagantly decorated and gilded inside. It is an incredible building that is well worth taking time out to see.

10. Metropol Palace

There are plenty of hyper-modern hotels in Belgrade, and equally some historic places, but for me, the Metropol Palace is very much a part of the city’s Yugoslav and Serbian history. And, looking at the guest list ranging from political names such as Leonid Brezhnev and Che Guevara to film greats like Brigitte Bardot, Elizabeth Taylor, and Kirk Douglas to astronauts Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong, and so many more, you feel in quite illustrious surroundings.

What really brings the pride of the Belgrade people home to me is the special in-house chocolate cake service you get in the rooftop restaurant. The coffee and cake are served on the blue-and-white china that was first used in the 1950s when the hotel was opened and holds a pride of place in the glass vitrines in reception, showcasing some of the hotel’s history. Oh, and the views are great from the rooftop terrace, too.

Pro Tip: Language

Language can be a bit of a problem, as tourism is not widespread, nor is the English language. You will get by in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes, but asking a stranger on the street for directions can be problematic. Make sure you get some roaming credits for your phone to use maps and translation services, and take the business card of your hotel with you to show to people should you need guidance.

For more on Europe , explore these articles:

• 6 Beautiful European Capital Cities To Visit Along The Danube
• 6 Amazing Lesser-Known Attractions To Visit In Europe
• 8 Hidden Gem Destinations In Europe To Add To Your Travel Bucket List

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

The Daily Packers

The genuine belgrade travel guide – 2 days.

• March 2, 2022
• Capital , City , Serbia

Belgrade Travel Guide Introduction

Belgrade is the capital and biggest city of Serbia with nearly 1.7 million inhabitants. It is located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers and the crossroads of the Pannonian Plain and the Balkan Peninsula.

It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and the World as well as one of the most important prehistoric cultures of Europe. Its history dates back the 6 th millennium BC and goes through Celts, Roman, Slavs, Byzantine, Frankish, Bulgarian, Ottoman, Habsburg before becoming the capital of Yugoslavia and then Serbia.

It is the best place to enter Serbia with its international airport and has lots of nice sites to visit. A minimum of 2-days is mandatory if you want to get most of the city.

We visited Belgrade 2 or 3 times and often take a few days there on our way to Zlatibor, Tina’s hometown.

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Getting there.

To get to Belgrade, the easiest is to use its international airport. From there you can just take a bus for around 3€.

Moving Around

Moving around Belgrade is super easy. The city has an extended network of city buses, Trolley buses and trams. Once in the city center, you can easily walk everywhere.

When to Visit

Belgrade can be visited all year round. But the best time is of course May/June or September. At this time the weather is great, not to hot, not to cold and you are out of the peak tourism season.

Where to Stay

• (€): Natalie’s Studio
• (€€): Belgrade Center Apartment II
• (€€€): Prezident Palace Belgrade

What to Eat

There are lots of Serbian food that you can try. Most of it won’t have a plant-based diet option unless you cook it yourselves:

• Serma: Stuffed cabbage leaves. Ingredients can be minced meat, rice or bulgur, various herbs, seasonings, red pepper, paprika, ground sumac, or tomato sauce.
• Borek: round pie filled with either cheese, potatoes, meats…
• Rakija: the local spirit. The most common versions are made from plums (šljivovica), William’s pear (viljamovka), quinces (dunjevača), apricots (kajsijevača), apples (jabukovača), grapes (lozovača/komovica).
• Punjena Paprika: made of peppers, stuffed with a mix of meat and rice in tomato sauce, the ingredients consisting of green or red capsicums, eggs, spices, salt, tomato, minced meat and rice.
• Kajmak: creamy dairy food similar to clotted cream
• Zlatiborska pršuta: traditional Serbian smoked ham hailing from the mountainous region of Zlatibor
• Čvarci: pork rinds or cracklings made by thermally extracting fat from the lard. The lard is then cut into blocks and fried in its own fat until it melts away and tough and crispy pork rind remain in the pot.
• Komplet lepinja: flatbread (lepinja) that is cut in half, coated in thick cream (kajmak), and topped with an egg
• Turkish coffee

Things to do in Belgrade

• Belgrade Fortress

The Fortress is located on a ridge next to the crossing of the Sava and Danube rivers. The history of the fortress is old and deep. From a roman well to medieval gates. It is the most iconic and visit landmark of Belgrade, and it is totally free.

There are lots of things to see in its wall, and you shouldn’t miss the Military Museum and the Ružica Church located within.

The second most visited spot of Belgrade. Skadarlija is an old, cobbled street and used to be part of the bohemian culture in the 1800s/1900s. At that time Serbian singers, musicians, writers and poets lived, worked and performed here.

Now the street is famous for its restaurant terraces, and it is a must to stop for a meal there. It is the best place to try some local food at night.

The picture dates back 2016!

• Kneza Mihaila

This beautiful car free street is the “champ Elizee” of Belgrade. There, you will find lots of buildings and mansions built during the late 1870s with many shops on the ground floor.

• Republic square

At the end of the Kneza Mihaila is the republic square. The main square of Belgrade where you can find the National Theatre and National Museum. As well as more than 20 lines of Trolleybuses.

• Holy Archangel Michael Orthodox Church

This NeoClassical cathedral was built in 1830 and holds the relics of the 14th-century king and saint Stefan Uroš V as well as the tombs of national heroes like Vuk Karadžić, who reformed the Serbian language in the 1800s.

• Church of Saint Nicholas

This beautiful little church is located in a big cemetery near the old city. It was raised in 1893 and is devoted to summer celebration of St. Nicholas Feast

St. Mark Orthodox Church

With its Neo-Byzantine design, it is one of the largest churches in Serbia and is still not finish (inside). Its structure was finished in 1930 but had some delay due to all the wars.

• Sava Promenade

A great place is Belgrade to take a walk along the Sava and see where its join the Danube. It also has lots of street arts.

• Avala Tower

This communication tower is the tallest building in the Balkan. Located south of the city, it is a really nice things to see. It offers an incredible 135m high view.

The tower was built in 1965 but razed during the NATO bombing of Belgrade in 1999. The 4-year reconstruction was finished in 2010

• Monument to the Unknown Hero

Next to the Avala tower, you can also find the the Monument to the Unknown Hero, a World War I memorial located atop Mount Avala. The memorial was built in 1934-1938 on the place where an unknown Serbian World War I soldier was buried.

More Things to do in Zlatibor

More Things to do in Belgrade

Ada ciganlija.

This river island has artificially been turned into a peninsula and is the perfect location to stroll with nature and to chill on its river bank in a beach-like environment.

Saint Sava Temple

Also called Church of Saint Sava. It is the largest Orthodox Church in the Balkan region, and the second largest in the world. It is dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church and an important figure in medieval Serbia.

Gardoš Tower

Located a bit outskirt of the old city, this Austro-Hungarian’s tower stands on the right bank of the Danube and was built in 1896 to celebrate 1,000 years of Hungarian settlement on the Pannonian Plain.

Konak kneginje Ljubice

Also known as the Residence of Princess Ljubica, it is one of the remaining building from the first reign of Prince Miloš Obrenović and dates back the 1830s, It was supposed to be a lavish seat for the Serbian court.

Museum of Yugoslavia

A big part of the Serbian history is actually the Yugoslavia history. This museum is the place to learn about it and was set atop of the mausoleum of former authoritarian President Josip Broz Tito.

National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia

A nice building to see on your way around. It used to be the Yugoslavia’s Parliament, and following that state’s breakup, the Parliament of Serbia and Montenegro.

Nikola Tesla Museum

This museum presents the life and work Nikola Tesla, a great physicist, inventor, electrical engineer and Serbian national hero. He is best known for his contributions to the design of the modern alternating current electricity supply system.

Zemunski Kej

Another nice place to take a walk on the Danube. You can walk all the way from Gardos tower until the old city center.

2-day Itinerary in Belgrade

• Military Museum
• Ružica Church
• Mark Orthodox Church

Kao mačka oko vruće kaše : Like the cat around the hot meal. (English equivalent: Beating around the bush)

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Discovering Belgrade: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Serbia’s Cultural Hub

• Europe , Serbia

Table of Contents

Welcome to Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia! Our journey to this fascinating city began with a road trip from Greece, passing through the stunning landscapes of the Balkans. As we arrived in Belgrade, we were struck by its unique charm, a blend of history, culture, and lively energy. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Belgrade has something to offer. Join us on a journey to explore the best of Belgrade, from its ancient fortresses and museums to its buzzing nightlife and delicious cuisine.

General Information

• The currency of Serbia is the Serbian Dinar. To keep up to date on currency exchange rate changes visit XE Currency Converter .
• Belgrade is the capital and largest city of Serbia .
• It has a population of about 1.2 million inhabitants.
• The first historical reference to Belgrade dates back to the 3rd century BC. It has been an important city throughout history due to its strategic location where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.
• It has one airport, Nikola Tesla Airport. For available flights and prices see here .
• You can travel there with your ID if you are European. More information for the necessary travel documents, depending on your nationality and your desired destination can be found here .
• The official language used is Serbian. However, many people also speak English.
• If you’re travelling to Belgrade and want to stay connected while on the go, buying a surf roam for international and cheap internet is a great option. With a surf roam , you can easily access the internet from your phone or other device without worrying about expensive roaming fees or unreliable Wi-Fi connections.
• Transportation

Transfer from/to the airport

Belgrade has one airport, Nikola Tesla Airport, located approximately 18 km west of the city center. Below we will list all the indicative modes of transport from the airport to Belgrade city.

Taxi: The average journey time to/from Belgrade city center is approximately 25 minutes in favourable driving conditions. The price list for these routes is predetermined and depends on your destination in the city.

For reservations and prices see here .

Bus: The A1 Minibus Line connects the airport with the city center and runs every 30 minutes, with the first bus departing at 4:00 am and the last bus departing at 12:00 am. Tickets can be purchased online, at the airport or inside the bus. The route to the city center takes about 30-40 minutes.

The number 72 bus also operates between the airport and the city center. The bus stop is located at the departures terminal and the journey takes about 40-50 minutes. Public transport tickets can be purchased at kiosks throughout the city.

Private transfer: If you prefer a more comfortable and stress-free journey from the airport to the city center, you can book a private transfer. There are many companies offering this service, with prices depending on the type of vehicle and the destination.

Train: Belgrade airport does not have a direct train connection with the city center. However, you can take a bus to the nearest train station, Batajnica station, and then take a train to the city center. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

Transportation within the city

Belgrade has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro line. The system is run by the company GSP Beograd.

Bus: Buses are the most common mode of transportation in Belgrade, with more than 200 bus lines operating throughout the city. They run from around 5:00 am to midnight, after which night buses take over. The buses are equipped with air conditioning and are usually quite clean. You can buy tickets at newsstands or kiosks, or from the driver directly, but it is recommended to buy a reloadable Bus Plus card, which can be topped up with credit and used on all forms of public transport.

Tram: Trams are another popular mode of transport in Belgrade, with 12 lines operating in the city. They run from around 4:30 am to midnight. The trams are usually quite crowded during peak hours, but they offer a convenient way to get around the city. Tickets can be bought at newsstands or kiosks, or from the driver directly, but again, it is recommended to use a Bus Plus card.

Trolleybus: Trolleybuses are similar to buses, but they are powered by overhead electric cables. There are currently 9 trolleybus lines operating in Belgrade. They run from around 5:00 am to midnight, and tickets can be bought at newsstands or kiosks, or from the driver directly.

Bicycle: Belgrade is not as bike-friendly as some other European cities, but cycling is still an option. There are several bike rental shops throughout the city, and the most well-known rental app is Nextbike. The first 30 minutes are free, and after that, the prices are reasonable. There are also several bike lanes in the city, but they are not always well-maintained.

Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Belgrade, but it is recommended to use licensed taxis to avoid scams. Licensed taxis have a roof sign with a blue background and a white number, and they also have a taximeter. It is also possible to use ride-hailing apps like Car:Go and Beotaxi, which are popular in Belgrade.

Rooms for Belgrade can be found here .

What to do in Belgrade

Visit kalemegdan fortress.

Kalemegdan Fortress is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Belgrade. Located on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, the fortress dates back to the 2nd century AD and has been the site of numerous battles throughout history. Today, it’s a peaceful park that offers stunning views of the city and the rivers below.

Visitors can explore the fortress walls, towers, and gates, as well as the numerous museums and monuments within the park. The Military Museum and the Museum of Natural History are both located within the fortress, and there are also several art galleries and exhibitions on display.

The park itself is a great place to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are plenty of walking paths, benches, and open spaces where you can enjoy a picnic or simply soak up the sun.

Kalemegdan Fortress is also the site of the annual Belgrade Summer Festival, which takes place every July and August. The festival features music, theater, dance, and other cultural events, and is a great way to experience the local arts scene.

Explore Skadarlija

Skadarlija is a bohemian neighborhood located in the heart of Belgrade. It is known for its cobblestone streets, traditional restaurants, and lively atmosphere. Exploring Skadarlija is a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy some delicious Serbian food.

One of the main attractions of Skadarlija is Skadarlija Street, which is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops. Here, you can try some traditional Serbian dishes, such as cevapi (grilled meat), pljeskavica (Serbian-style hamburger), and kajmak (creamy cheese). While we stayed in Belgrade we visited the area twice for dinner and the local restaurants also had live music with traditional songs.

Another must-see in Skadarlija is the Bohemian Quarter, which is a maze of narrow streets and alleys filled with colorful buildings and street art. This area is home to many artists, musicians, and performers, and you can often catch live music or theater performances. Finally, don’t forget to visit the Skadarlija Market, which is a bustling outdoor market that sells fresh produce, flowers, and other goods. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere and grab some snacks for a picnic in the nearby Kalemegdan Park.

Visit St. Sava Temple

Visiting St. Sava Temple is a must-do when in Belgrade. It is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, and it is dedicated to Saint Sava, who is considered the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The temple was built on the site where the Ottoman Turks burned the remains of St. Sava in 1594.

The construction of the temple started in 1935, but it was interrupted during World War II and the communist era. The work resumed in the 1980s, and the temple was finally completed and consecrated in 2004. The temple’s main dome is 70 meters high, and the interior is decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes.

Visitors are welcome to enter the temple, and there are no admission fees. It is a peaceful and serene place where you can take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle and enjoy beautiful architecture and religious art. The interior of the temple is really impressive and you will definitely like it. Finally, there are also gift shops inside the temple where you can buy souvenirs and religious items.

Walk along the Danube River

Walking along the Danube River is a great way to explore Belgrade and enjoy the beautiful views of the city. The riverfront stretches for several kilometers and offers many opportunities for sightseeing, jogging, cycling, and relaxing.

One of the most popular areas to walk along the river is the Belgrade Waterfront, a newly developed district that offers modern buildings, restaurants, cafes, and parks. You can also visit the famous Belgrade Fortress, which is located on a hill overlooking the Danube River and offers stunning views of the city and the river. Another popular place to walk along the river is Ada Ciganlija, a popular recreational area that features a lake, a beach, and many sports facilities. It is a great place to relax, swim, play beach volleyball, or rent a bike and explore the area.

If you are interested in architecture, you can also visit the Old Town, where you can see the beautiful buildings from the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian periods. Many of them are located near the river, such as Republic Square, Kalemegdan Park, and Branko’s Bridge. Walking along the Danube River is also a great opportunity to experience the local culture and meet the friendly people of Belgrade. You can stop at one of the many cafes or restaurants along the way and enjoy the local cuisine, or simply relax and enjoy the views of the river and the city.

You can read more about our trip to the Balkans, here .

Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum

The Nikola Tesla Museum in Belgrade is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology. (Stratos: as an electrical engineer I definitely had to go!!). The museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Serbian-American inventor and electrical engineer, Nikola Tesla. It is located in the neighborhood of Vracar, near St. Sava Temple.

The museum houses a collection of Tesla’s personal belongings, including his urn, books, notes, and other documents. There are also many interactive exhibits and demonstrations that allow visitors to learn about Tesla’s inventions and experiments with electricity. You can see models of Tesla’s most famous inventions, including the Tesla coil and the alternating current (AC) motor. The museum also has a research library, which contains more than 160,000 documents related to Tesla’s life and work. The museum’s staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and they are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Take a boat tour

taking a boat tour is a great way to see Belgrade from a different perspective and explore the Danube and Sava Rivers. There are many tour companies offering boat tours of Belgrade, ranging from short sightseeing trips to longer cruises with meals and entertainment. You can also rent a private boat if you prefer a more personalized experience. Some popular sights along the river include the Kalemegdan Fortress, the Belgrade Fair, the Pancevo Bridge, and Ada Ciganlija Island.

Check out the available activities and tours here .

Visit the National Museum of Serbia

visiting the National Museum of Serbia is a great way to learn about the history, art, and culture of the country. The museum has a vast collection of more than 400,000 objects, including ancient artifacts, medieval art, and modern paintings. Some of the most famous exhibits include the Roman Mosaic, the collection of Serbian medieval art, and the works of famous Serbian painters such as Paja Jovanović and Nadežda Petrović. The building itself is also an impressive work of art, with its elegant Neo-Renaissance facade and grand staircase. The National Museum of Serbia is located in the heart of Belgrade, near the Republic Square.

Enjoy nightlife in Belgrade

Belgrade is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular areas to explore include Skadarlija, Strahinjića Bana (known as “Silicon Valley”), and the Savamala district.

Skadarlija is a bohemian neighborhood with cobblestone streets, traditional restaurants, and live music. It’s a great place to start your night with a meal and drinks before heading out to other areas.

Strahinjića Bana is a pedestrian street lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it has a lively atmosphere. The Savamala district is a former industrial area that has been revitalized in recent years. It’s now home to many art galleries, bars, and clubs, and it’s known for its alternative and underground scene.

There are also many clubs and bars along the Sava River, where you can enjoy drinks and music with a beautiful view. Some popular venues include Freestyler, Brankow, and Lasta.

Best places to eat in Belgrade

Šaran: Located in the bohemian Skadarlija district, Šaran is known for its traditional Serbian cuisine, especially fish dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and a summer garden, perfect for a relaxing meal.

Tri Šešira: A traditional Serbian restaurant located in the bohemian Skadarlija district of Belgrade. The restaurant has a cozy and rustic atmosphere, with traditional decor and live music in the evenings. They serve a variety of Serbian dishes, including grilled meats, stews, and seafood, as well as vegetarian options. Their signature dish is the “kajmak”, a type of creamy dairy spread that is popular in the Balkans. Tri Šešira is a great place to experience Serbian cuisine in a traditional setting.

Ambar: A popular restaurant in Belgrade that offers traditional Balkan cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is located in the trendy Beton Hala area, overlooking the Sava River, and features a sleek and contemporary interior design. Ambar is known for its diverse menu of Balkan small plates, which are perfect for sharing and trying a variety of different dishes. Some of the standout dishes at Ambar include the cevapi, a type of grilled meat sausage, the sarma, stuffed cabbage rolls, and the ajvar, a roasted red pepper spread. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and creative cocktails. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Cantina de Frida : A popular Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Belgrade’s Dorćol neighborhood. The restaurant has a colorful and vibrant decor that gives off a lively and energetic atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of classic Mexican dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas, as well as more unique options like cactus salad and churro waffles. Cantina de Frida also has a great selection of tequilas and margaritas, making it a great spot for drinks and a fun night out.

Manufaktura: A restaurant in Belgrade known for its traditional Serbian cuisine. It is located in the heart of the city and offers a cozy and rustic atmosphere. Some of their popular dishes include cevapi, sarma, and roasted lamb. They also have a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Manufaktura is a great place to experience the rich flavors of Serbian cuisine in a warm and welcoming setting.

When to go to Belgrade

The best time to visit a city depends on individual preferences and what you would like to experience.

In Belgrade, the summer months are generally warm and pleasant, with lots of outdoor events and festivals. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. Spring and autumn are also great times to visit, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. You can also enjoy the colorful foliage and cultural events during this time. Winter can be cold and snowy, but there are still plenty of indoor attractions to visit and winter festivals to enjoy.

Useful Sites & Apps

In the last few years we have been travelling we have singled out some applications, which we use before every trip or during it. We have chosen them over others for their validity, ease of use and variety in the options they have to offer. We describe below in detail what these are together with their characteristics.

Booking.com

Booking.com is a popular online booking platform for accommodations worldwide. With a vast selection of hotels, apartments, villas, and more, Booking.com offers travellers the convenience of finding and booking their ideal stay in just a few clicks. The site’s user-friendly interface and extensive filtering options make it easy to narrow down search results based on specific preferences such as price, location, amenities, and more. As a result, Booking.com has become a go-to destination for travellers looking for hassle-free booking options. With competitive pricing and a loyalty program that rewards repeat bookings, Booking.com is a top choice for travellers seeking great deals and a seamless booking experience. Find available rooms for Belgrade here .

Welcome Pickups

One of the best, most trustworthy, and most convenient 5-star airport taxi companies for your airport transfer based on user reviews across various platforms such as Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot. Welcome Pickups offers a great experience and safety to its travelers. Local English-speaking drivers, flat, pre-paid fee, flight monitoring for delays, 24/7 Customer support + free cancellation. Check your options  here .

With over one million properties all around the world, and always increasing, ideal for a low budget stay even in expensive areas. Furthermore, because you stay in people’s villas, houses or flats you are made to feel more at home by the host of each destination and the homely surroundings.

Hotels.com is a leading provider of hotel accommodation worldwide, offering booking services through its own network of localised websites. Once you reach 10 nights, you’ll have a free night which you can apply at checkout. You can earn multiple free nights by continuing to book with Hotels.com, though. The platform gives travellers one of the widest selections of accommodation on the net, including both independent and major chain hotels as well as self-catering in over hundreds of thousands properties worldwide. The company offers a one-stop shopping source for hotel pricing, amenities and availability. Find the best deals  here .

TripAdvisor

Tripadvisor helps hundreds of millions of people each month become better travellers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travellers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travellers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants and discover great places nearby. Find available offers and book your accommodation  here .

Omio is a leading travel platform that helps you easily plan and book your trips. With a comprehensive network of trains, buses, and flights across Europe and beyond, Omio allows you to compare and choose the best travel options for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or an extended vacation, Omio’s user-friendly interface and competitive prices make it easy to create unforgettable travel experiences. Check available routes  here .

Skyscanner is a leading global travel search engine, helping millions of travellers find the best flights, hotels and car rentals. With a user-friendly interface and powerful search technology, Skyscanner makes it easy to compare prices and options across hundreds of travel providers, giving you the best deals for your trip. From budget to luxury, domestic to international, Skyscanner has everything you need to plan your next adventure. So whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, start your journey with Skyscanner and discover the world like never before. Available flights and prices can be found  here .

GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is an online marketplace for booking travel activities and experiences. With a wide variety of tours, activities, and attractions available in destinations around the world, GetYourGuide makes it easy to find and book unique experiences for your next trip. From city sightseeing tours and food and wine tastings to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, GetYourGuide has something for every type of traveller. With a user-friendly website and mobile app, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, GetYourGuide is a top choice for travellers seeking memorable and authentic experiences. Book your activities  here .

Discover Cars

DiscoverCars.com offers a hassle-free car rental booking experience, with a wide range of rental car options available worldwide. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates, 24/7 customer support, and flexible cancellation policies. With no hidden fees and a user-friendly interface, booking your rental car has never been easier. Choose from a variety of car rental options, including economy, luxury, and family-friendly vehicles, and enjoy the freedom of the open road on your next adventure. Book with DiscoverCars.com today and start exploring the world on your own terms!

Hotel Tonight

Here you will find last minute discounts on vacancies from hotels. This is an amazingly simple app and it doesn’t take long to book a room.You may search in each town for sights and maps. Furthermore, you can check the reviews and photos of other travellers in order to be sure about the reliability of each hotel. It also has a 24/7 customer service. If you’re stuck somewhere and you need a room desperately, this is the perfect app for you.

City Maps 2Go

Maps for travelling, hiking, mountain cycling and many other activities. A necessary app for every adventure, activity or touring abroad. You may only download one map per country, whereas it was possible to download two in the past. For an additional map you need to pay. Alternatively, as soon as you have looked at the information on a map you can delete it and then download a new one. 

You can mark all the places of interest on the map you have downloaded. Whether they are sights, shops, or restaurants you can use the directions guide to get there. The great advantage to this app is that you don’t need to have internet connection although it might get stuck a few times. Nevertheless, it is quite a reliable and useful app.

EXTRA TIP:  When you mark most points of interest before your trip, you can see approximately in which area you will need to book a room. To be as close as possible to all points of interest.

iVisa.com is an online platform that helps travellers obtain electronic visas, eVisas, and other travel documents quickly and easily. With an extensive database of travel requirements for over 200 countries and a user-friendly application process, iVisa.com makes it simple for travellers to apply for and obtain the necessary documents for their trips. Whether you’re planning a vacation, business trip, or other travel experience, iVisa.com can help you navigate the complexities of travel documentation with ease. More information for the necessary travel documents, depending on your nationality and destination can be found  here .

Designed for digital nomads, remote workers and frequent travellers. Unlike other international travel insurance, it has global coverage for a monthly fee. The company offers some different insurance packages like nomad insurance, remote health etc. Find which package suits you best here .

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Belgrade travel guide

Belgrade tourism | belgrade guide, you're going to love belgrade.

Belgrade is the capital of Serbia and has a population of 1.8 million. It is situated where the River Sava meets the Danube and has a long history, dating back to 400 BC. The city is home to a fascinating variety of architectural styles and has become a hub for travel in southeast Europe.

The city lies at the borders between European and Turkish influences, and this has created an intriguing blend of cultures. It has a wonderful joie de vivre and a vibrant cafe culture.

Belgrade has a compact city center, which is easily explored on foot. Many city center streets are pedestrianized, making the area comfortable to get around. Knez Mihailova Street is crowded with people enjoying the many cafes and stores, while Republic Square is a popular meeting place. The cobbled street of Skadarlija is a great place for pavement cafes and live music, with colorful murals adorning building walls.

2. Ada Ciganlija

Ada Ciganlija is an island on the Sava River right in the city center. The island has an artificial lake with a long gravel beach, and is a great place for swimming in the summer. There are lots of bars and restaurants and a huge range of watersports to enjoy, making the island a great place to relax and unwind.

3. Visit a Splav

Splavs are large barges on the Danube and Sava rivers, which operate as nightclubs. They typically do not charge entry fees, so you can club hop along the banks of the rivers with ease.

5. Belgrade Fortress

Belgrade Fortress was once the most important city fortification, at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. It is now an urban park, with cafes, museums, and an observatory, and is an excellent place for a stroll.

What to do in Belgrade

1. barokna kapija: the best views of zagreb.

Visit the focal point of medieval Belgrade with a trip to the old fortress of Barokna Kapija. There are two levels, the lower and upper "grad". The Upper Town functions as a kind of park, with tennis courts, basketball courts, and the Zagreb Observatory. The Lower Town features several notable attractions besides the imposing ramparts including the Belgrade Planetarium, and the Orthodox churches of Sveta Petka and Ruica. After exploring the old grounds, relax in one of the parks overlooking the Danube river below for great views of modern Belgrade.

2. Skadarlija: Experience Authentic Croatian Culture

What Greenwich Village is to New York City, Skadarlija is to the Serbian capital of Belgrade. This Bohemian neighborhood was once the home to rising poets and writers in the mid-20th century and remains a popular alternative gathering point today. Everyone from Queen Elizabeth II to Alfred Hitchcock has taken the time to visit this urban area on their way through Belgrade. This vintage street is ripe with local artisan shops, restaurants, bakeries, and art galleries.

3. Hram Svetog Save: A Tribute to a Serbian Saint

Take a break from all of the historic pit-stops in Belgrade for a breath of Modern architecture at the St. Sava Temple. One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, the structure was initially started in the 1930's before being largely abandoned at the start of World War II. The church began reconstruction again in the 1980s and is still being renovated today. Since most of the upper structure is under construction, visitors can instead visit the underground crypt with beautiful icons and paintings on display. The St. Sava Temple is free to enter and receives thousands of religious worshipers and visitors a year.

4. Ada Ciganlija: Escape the Summer Heat

If you're visiting Belgrade in the summer, you'll definitely want to cool off and take a dip in the Sava River at Ada Ciganlija. Over the years, the island has been converted into a recreational outdoor park featuring beaches and sports facilities for visitors. Almost 300,000 people flock to Ada Ciganlija on the weekend to partake in fishing activities, picnics, or BBQ parties. Located right in the center of Belgrade, Ada Ciganlija is very popular due to the island's calm and green surroundings. The natural landscape has been optimized even further to include an artificial alpine ski slope, snowboarding slope, and rock climbing wall for true adventure seekers.

5. Tito's Mausoleum: Discover Former Yugoslavia

Tito's Mausoleum, otherwise known as the House of Flowers, pays tribute to the last President of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Marshal Josip Broz Tito. The Mausoleum gets its name from the flowers that once surrounded the President's grave up until the dissolution of Yugoslavia into independent states. Today, those flowers have been INSERT IGNOREd by white stones surrounding Tito's impressive tomb. Attached to the complex is the Museum of Yugoslavia which helps visitors to understand the nuanced cultural history and identity of this formerly-united Balkans region.

Activities & attractions in Belgrade

Other activities

When to visit Belgrade

Winter in Belgrade can be cold and wet, while summer temperatures can be too hot for some. The spring months of April, May, and June are pleasant, with temperatures around 72 degrees Fahrenheit and little humidity or rain. September has similar conditions.

Popular Neighborhoods in Belgrade

Stari Grad - this is the Old Town area of Belgrade and contains some of its most historic buildings. It runs from the Belgrade Fortress to Republic Square. It is the smallest of Belgrade's districts but also the most densely populated.

Novi Beograd - this is a newer part of the city on the banks of the Sava River. It has become the central business district and is famous for the nightclub barges on the river, like Kota 70 and Coco Bar.

Vracar - this is another central district and contains the most expensive real estate in the city. It is home to Saint Sava Temple and offers great views from its lofty position on top of the Vracar Plateau. The National Library of Serbia and the bohemian quarter of Cubura can also be found here.

Best car rental deals in Belgrade

5 Adults, 3 Bags

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4 Adults, 2 Bags

The Cost of Living in Belgrade

Shopping streets.

Import taxes can make shopping for international goods expensive in Belgrade. The main shopping areas are to be found on Terazije square and Knez Mihailova Street, where you can buy mainstream European fashion brands. More upscale designer shopping is to be found at Kralja Petra street in the Dorcol district. The city's three big shopping malls are at Delta City, Usce Shopping Center, and Stadion Shopping Center, with a huge range of stores selling clothing and household goods.

Update April 12, 2024

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Serbia Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, serbia - level 2: exercise increased caution.

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Country Summary: Violence associated with organized crime and high-profile sporting events in Serbia is common.

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3 days in Belgrade: What to do in Belgrade, Serbia

August 5, 2018 by Karen Turner Leave a Comment

When I found an affordable flight to Belgrade, Serbia, I wasn’t sure whether to take it. However, after reading about the multitude of things to in Belgrade as well as the lively atmosphere of the city, I was in.

I stayed longer than three days in Belgrade while enjoying my time lazing at the many cafes of Belgrade prior to having fantastic craft beer at the  many  cafes around the city.  If you’re doing a trip around the Balkans, I’d say to savor Belgrade for a bit longer as it struck me immediately as the kind of city that I could call home.  Keep reading for a Belgrade itinerary, including the best things to do in Belgrade.

• 0.1 Included in this guide to Belgrade
• 0.2 Why visit Belgrade
• 0.3 Where to stay in Belgrade
• 0.4 Getting to/from Belgrade
• 1 When is the best time to visit Belgrade?
• 2.1.1 Breakfast
• 2.1.2 Coffee
• 2.1.3 Kalemegdan
• 2.1.4 Lunch at Manufactura
• 2.1.5 Knez Mihajlova
• 2.1.6 Cara Lazara for boutique shopping and cake
• 2.1.7.1 Kafanas 
• 2.1.8 Savamala
• 2.1.9 Branko’s bridge
• 2.1.10 Splavovi
• 2.2.1 National Museum
• 2.2.2 New Belgrade
• 2.3.1 Burek
• 2.3.2 Stroll down Kralja Milana
• 2.3.3 Nikola Tesla Museum
• 2.3.4 Lunch at Hummus Bar …and drinks somewhere unique.
• 2.3.5 Revisit history in London
• 2.3.6 Cathedral of Saint Sava
• 2.3.7 Craft Beer & Dinner
• 2.4 Have you been to Belgrade?

Included in this guide to Belgrade

Why visit belgrade, where to stay in belgrade.

• When is the best time to visit Belgrade
• What to do in Belgrade: 3 day Belgrade itinerary
• Day 1: One day in Belgrade classic Belgrade itinerary
• Day 2: Museums and New Belgrade
• Day 3: Other parts of Belgrade

Unlike some cities in the Balkans, Belgrade is a mishmash of different architectural styles and cultures.  Although many people visit Belgrade for the lively atmosphere, they rarely stop to enjoy the rich cafe culture and the fantastic Serbian food that you’ll find here.  Belgrade is really just a small taste of what Serbia has to offer, so don’t underestimate your time here. You’ll want to stay here–and live here. 

There’s a wide disparity in terms of Serbian salaries and salaries in Western Europe, so I recommend not telling  every Serbian that you meet how cheap Serbia is like some foreigners I met.  That said, you’ll find a number of reasonable accommodation options in Belgrade. Summer is peak season, so book ahead as the backpacker accommodation fills up.

For around 20-40 euros per night, you should be able to rent an apartment in the city center although nicer hotels in the 4* range can cost 40-70 euros per night. (The most famous hotel is Hotel Moscow , which is stunning piece of architecture.)

I traveled to Serbia solo . As another hostel was booked up after I returned from Subotica , I booked a room at Balkan Soul , a popular hostel very close to the city center. 

Check hotel and hostel prices in Belgrade now!

Getting to/from Belgrade

I was impressed with the bus infrastructure on Serbia, which was very advanced and on time.  The bus station is a short walk (15 minutes) from the city center.  If you purchase your bus tickets to your next destination a few days ahead, you should be fine.  I ended up booking a bus to Novi Sad (another city in Serbia) on the spot as soon as I got to the bus station.

Serbia also has trains that go to some cities as well as neighboring countries although they weren’t recommended by most Serbians that I met and the train that I took was delayed by three hours.

As I flew in and out of Belgrade, I flew out of Nikola Tesla, which not too far outside of the city center (30 minutes).  I took the A1 bus one way and ended up sharing a taxi with a Serbian who was also waiting for the airport for the same cost as the bus. At the time that I took the bus, it cost 300 RSD and I was able to obtain this cash at the airport.

When is the best time to visit Belgrade?

I visited Belgrade in February, which was a great time to visit as the crowds were minimal and it was still warm enough on many days to wear a light jacket.  I didn’t experience any snow. I heard that fall was one of the prettiest seasons to visit Serbia in general as the leaves on the trees are changing and when taking day trips from Belgrade , you can experience the magic of the turning leaves in the many forests nearby.

I heard from the many friendly locals that I shared a beer with that it’s best to avoid peak season, which is summer to get more of the typical experience.  Belgrade has been exploding in terms of tourism and the Exit Festival (mid July) brings thousands of foreigners to Belgrade.  If you’re planning your visit in summer, book your accommodation ahead.

What to do in Belgrade: A three day Belgrade itinerary

Although many travelers pass through only spending one day in Belgrade, this strikes me as too little as Belgrade is a modern metropolis with more than enough to keep you occupied.  In the sake of time, the first day of the itinerary should be enough to whet your appetite for this diverse Serbian city.

One day in Belgrade: Classic Belgrade

Start off this day properly with some burek.  This popular Balkan breakfast differs slightly in each Balkan country and I have to admit, I loved the greasy/delicious burek that I started off most of my mornings with.  It also motivated me to walk enough to burn it off. 😉

But, first coffee! Serbians  love coffee and I don’t think a visit to Belgrade is complete without visiting one of the amazing coffee shops in Belgrade .  Although breakfast is a great excuse to start with coffee, I must say that my caffeine addiction was happily indulged by some of the best coffee that I’ve ever had in Belgrade. 

Even if you’re lactose-intolerance, you won’t have any difficulty finding great lattes at boutique coffee shops. Click for my guide to coffee shops in Belgrade.

If you visit Belgrade, you  must visit the fortress that is the reason why Belgrade has its name.  Many people don’t realize that the name for Belgrade is derived from the word “white city.”  The reason was Belgrade’s fierce fortress that you can still see today.

Belgrade’s fortress is the oldest part of Belgrade, dating back to the 279 B.C.  For many years, people lived strictly within the walls, however it’s changed hands many times with Belgrade’s history.  From the top of its walls, you can view the Roman ruins below.  The fortress has been rebuilt several times with the most recent additions dating back to the mid 1700s, however you  truly feel the history here.

The fortress itself is within a park that is free to visit, so feel free to take in the stunning views or simply hang out like many locals were. Within the walls of the fortress, you’ll find several attractions, including a well, bunker, and dungeons below. (You can take a guided tour to learn more about the history.)

Lunch at Manufactura

This Serbian restaurant which sources all their food from local farms and grandmothers outside of Belgrade.  I think that it’s a great place to get an introduction to Serbian food as their menu, in English, explains the different specialities from different regions.  Although I had great Serbian food at smaller restaurants, it was the most recommended restaurants to me by Serbians that I met. Make a reservation for dinner.

Knez Mihajlova

Knez Mihajlova  is one of the most grand streets of Belgrade.  Here, you’ll find stunning Serbian buildings that make you want to slow down. Just off of Knez Mihajlova, which has many lovely cafes to step into, you’ll find the National Bank of Serbia, my favorite building in Belgrade. Consider turning off to see one of the adorable shopping streets of Belgrade with independent shops!

Cara Lazara for boutique shopping and cake

Be sure to stroll along Cara Lazara, one of my favorite street in Belgrade.  This street is full of adorable boutiques and coffee shops that you’ll want to step into.  In particular, I loved Apropo , a bookshop with friendly cats, tea, and translated Serbian books. 

For a coffee, step into Koffein 2 prior to heading to Manadrina for the best cakes in Belgrade. I also liked browsing in  Dechkotzar , a store producing Belgrade souvenirs.  After this, cut back towards Knez Mihjalova and towards Skadarlija.

Skardarlija is one of the neighborhoods of Belgrade famous for its bohemian history. From Republic Square, you’ll wind down this hilly street with cobblestones that will instantly transport you back in time. For many years, it was most famous for its kafanas, which attracted Serbia’s most famous writers with the promise of rakija (the national beverage).

One of the most famous inhabitants of the street was Dura Jakšić whose house has been preserved.  It is said that he challenged to stop drinking for a brief period…however the location of his residence, his love for rakija, and his friends did little to help him stay sober.  You can see his statue in front of his house. 

Be sure to note the factory, which used to be used for beer production and is now used for various clubs/bars.  (I ended up visiting a great craft beer bar here!) 

Around this point, I encourage you to search out dinner. There’s lots of quick places to get a pizza or another bite to eat in this area although I’d encourage you to take a nap if you intend to stay out late.  If you’re a meat eater, I encourage you to try  Pljeskavica .  This Serbian specialty is made with beef and onions…and it’s pretty hearty! 

Branko’s bridge

If you’re crossing the river, you’re going to cross Branko’s bridge. This bridge has a pedestrian crossing, which allows you cross to reach the splavovi. The view is really nice around sunset if you’re here earlier.

Belgrade’s nightlife is famous and to experience the the best of it, you need to go to the river experience the splavovi, the river barge clubs.  Although the nightlife in Belgrade used to be more centralized, the main nightlife in Belgrade, which mostly starts late (think 11pm onwards ), has shifted as residents in the city centre have complained about noise. 

If you’re visiting Belgrade alone, consider taking a nightlife/beer tour , which is a great way to meet people and go out in Belgrade.

Dress up and be prepared to dance the night away. Klub 20/44 was recommended for indie music although I recommend checking online to see the music offerings for the night that you’re going.  If you’re visiting Belgrade in off season, save this for a weekend night.

New Belgrade & History

Good morning (or afternoon) if you went out all night.  Today is meant to be an easier going day to help you recover.  First, start off with a greasy burek and a large coffee.  After that, head towards Republic Square, one of the main thoroughfares of the Belgrade to visit the National Museum.

National Museum

I really wanted to visit the National Museum when I was in Belgrade, however renovations have been going on for  years . Every Serbian I know kept telling me that it should be open and I should go, however it wasn’t open in time. I task you to visit in my place.

The National Museum focuses on Serbian history and art. It showcases the best work of Serbian painters, artifacts from various points in Serbian history, medieval manuscripts (including one recognized by UNESCO) and numerous masterpieces work by Dutch, Italian, French painters. It is widely considered one of the best things to do in Belgrade and the building is stunning!

New Belgrade

Afterwards, take a bus towards New Belgrade.  In theory, you  could walk, but the locals said it’s better just to take the bus.  New Belgrade represented a new place for Yugoslavia create a city without the obligations of history that fit with the vision of socialist ideals. Unlike Belgrade, which is a mishmosh of different styles, you’ll find a more modern feeling to New Belgrade, which is full of communist architecture. 

At least give it a shot. Be sure to admire the  Blokovi , enormous housing projects intended to house thousands of residents in one carefully planned building.  If you’re looking for off the beaten path Belgrade, come here.  There are free walking tours of New Belgrade with a local guide if you check with your hotel or hostel.

At minimum, visit for the food and the cafes, which many of the locals that I met recommended as authentic.  One of the best things to do: find a lovely cafe by the river and order fresh fish.  Fresh caught fish with a view of the river is a speciality here.

Take in stunning views of Belgrade from the top of Gardos park prior to heading down for a drink at one of the cozy cafes. Staro Burence  came highly recommended to me for its atmosphere and live music.

Stroll down  Kralja Milana

London is a neighborhood of Belgrade with a lot to offer. One of its most well known streets if Kralja Milana, which has many shops and cafes.

Nikola Tesla Museum

Honor Serbia’s most famous scientist by visiting the museum dedicated to his innovative innovation and his life.  Tesla’s work is incredible and it’s crazy to think what happened if we had implemented his most brilliant ideas…

Lunch at Hummus Bar …and drinks somewhere unique.

Be sure to have some cash on you to visit Hummus Bar . This vegan-friendly spot has incredible falafel and other specialties. I was really impressed by their sandwiches, which are affordable and delicious. 

Cathedral of Saint Sava

The Cathedral of Saint Sava  is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and you can admire it from quite a distance away.  Although it’s fairly new, it’s an impressive building although be warned: you must be dressed appropriately to enter and renovations were still ongoing when I visited in February. It’s still worth a peek! Afterwards, consider catching a bus back to centre!

Craft Beer & Dinner

On your way back to centre, stop off at Samo Pivo!, a local craft beer bar.  They have a selection of some local favorites.  Afterwards head to  Mikan Restaurant , one of the cafes back towards center, for traditional Serbian barbeque food. 

Things that I forgot to include, but are worth mentioning if you prefer to skip some of the things mentioned here : Exploring the hipster Dorcol area, which has lots of cute boutiques and cafes.  The Jewish History Museum has a great overview of the history of Judaism in Serbia. The Bajrakli Mosque is one of the most historic mosques in Belgrade dating back to the 1600s although it’s still in use!

Have you been to Belgrade?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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Belgrade Travel Guide

“A Journey into the Heart of Serbia”

Unearth the hidden gems of Belgrade with our comprehensive travel guide, covering history, accommodation, must-visit places, shopping, culinary delights, and nightlife.

Introduction

Dive into the rich history and culture of belgrade.

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a city with a tumultuous history and a unique blend of cultures. With its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and vibrant nightlife, Belgrade offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. In this Belgrade travel guide, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions and explore the city’s highlights.

History and Characteristics of Belgrade

Belgrade’s history dates back to the 3rd century BC, and it has been at the crossroads of various civilizations since then. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers has made it a highly sought-after prize throughout history, causing it to change hands many times. From Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman rule to the Kingdom of Serbia and the former Yugoslavia, Belgrade’s rich history is evident in its diverse architecture, culture, and traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to travel?

The best time to visit Belgrade is from April to June and from September to October when the weather is pleasant and not too crowded.

How many days should I spend?

We recommend spending at least 3-4 days in Belgrade to fully experience its rich history, attractions, and vibrant atmosphere.

What is the best way to travel around?

Belgrade’s public transportation system includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Taxis are also affordable, and walking or biking is an excellent way to explore the city.

Prince Mihailo Monument

Accommodation in Belgrade

Finding the perfect place to stay in Belgrade is an essential part of your travel experience. The city offers a wide range of accommodation options, catering to various budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and mid-range properties to budget hostels and holiday rentals, you’re sure to find the perfect home away from home in this vibrant city.

Luxury Lodgings: Indulge in the Finer Things

• Square Nine Hotel : Located in the heart of Belgrade, this elegant hotel offers luxurious rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a top-notch spa.
• Metropol Palace Belgrade : A landmark hotel with a rich history, the Metropol Palace features a fusion of contemporary design and classic elegance.

Mid-Range Marvels: Comfort and Style without Breaking the Bank

• Zepter Hotel : This modern hotel in the city center offers well-appointed rooms and an on-site restaurant, perfect for business and leisure travelers alike.
• Hotel Moskva : A historic hotel with a prime location, Hotel Moskva offers comfortable accommodations, excellent service, and a legendary café.

Budget Bliss: Affordable Stays for the Budget-Conscious Traveler

• Hostel Bongo : Located in the heart of Belgrade, this lively hostel offers a mix of private rooms and dormitories, making it a great choice for budget travelers.
• Hostel Iris : Conveniently set in Belgrade, Hostel Iris provides air-conditioned rooms, a shared lounge, free WiFi and a bar.

Holiday Rentals: Unwind in Your Own Belgrade Haven

• Apartments Feel Belgrade : These modernly furnished apartments in the centre of the city are perfect for travellers looking for a home-like experience.
• Twin Center Apartments : Stay in the heart of Belgrade in these fully-equipped apartments that offer comfort, privacy, and convenience.

Regardless of your budget or travel style, Belgrade has accommodation options that will suit your needs. Take the time to explore the different areas and types of lodgings available to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in this enchanting city.

Search your stay using the interactive map below or visit booking.com

Things to do in Belgrade

With its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful landscapes, Belgrade offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a food lover, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city. Dive into guided explorations, outdoor adventures, and more as you make the most of your time in Belgrade.

Guided Explorations: Discover Belgrade’s Rich Heritage

• Belgrade Private City Tour : Discover Belgrade’s top sights on a 4-hour private tour, offering insight into its rich history and architecture.
• Belgrade Big Tour : Experience the best of Belgrade on the ‘Big Tour’ with an expert guide and small group. Explore Old Town, New Belgrade and key sights.

Outdoor Adventures: Connect with Nature in and around Belgrade

• Best E-Bike Tour in Belgrade : Elevate your Belgrade exploration with an electric bike tour in a small group. Effortlessly pedal through the city to uncover its highlights.
• Belgrade Sunset Cruise : Experience a 1.5-hour Danube and Sava River cruise, viewing Belgrade’s landmarks with guided commentary.

Belgrade’s diverse array of activities ensures that you’ll never run out of things to do during your stay. By experiencing the city’s historical sites, outdoor wonders, and cultural offerings, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what makes Belgrade such a unique and captivating destination.

Shopping in Belgrade

Shopping in Belgrade is a delight for travelers, with a wide variety of shopping experiences to choose from. Whether you’re in search of luxury brands, unique local finds, or vintage treasures, Belgrade’s shopping scene offers something for every taste and budget. Explore chic boutiques, lively markets, and modern malls as you indulge your inner shopaholic.

Chic Boutiques: Indulge in Luxury Shopping

• Knez Mihailova Street: This bustling pedestrian street is lined with high-end boutiques, offering the perfect opportunity for some retail therapy.
• Delta City Mall : Home to numerous international brands, this modern shopping mall offers a wide variety of luxury shopping options.

Vintage Treasures: Discover Unique Finds at Belgrade’s Flea Markets

• Bajloni Market: Browse through a mix of antiques, vintage clothing, and local produce at this vibrant market in the Dorćol neighborhood.
• Kalenić Market: One of the largest open-air markets in Belgrade, Kalenić offers a lively atmosphere and a treasure trove of unique finds.

From high-end shopping to unique flea market finds, Belgrade’s shopping scene caters to all preferences and budgets. As you explore the city’s diverse retail offerings, you’ll not only satisfy your shopping cravings but also uncover hidden gems that make for unforgettable souvenirs and memories.

JaneDoe Concept Store in Belgrade

Where to eat in Belgrade

Savor the flavors of belgrade.

Belgrade’s culinary scene is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. From fine dining establishments serving gourmet delights to cozy eateries offering authentic Serbian fare, Belgrade’s gastronomic offerings cater to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Embark on a culinary adventure as you discover the city’s delicious flavors and dining experiences.

Fine Dining: Indulge in Gourmet Delights

• Ambar Restaurant : This trendy restaurant on the banks of the Sava River offers an innovative twist on traditional Serbian cuisine.
• Madera Restaurant : Located near the Kalemegdan Fortress, Madera serves up delectable dishes in an elegant setting.

Local Gems: Experience Authentic Serbian Fare

• Manufakturan Restaurant : Sample traditional Serbian dishes in a cozy, rustic setting at this popular eatery in the city centre.
• Dva Jelena Restaurant : Enjoy hearty Serbian fare in this iconic restaurant, which has been a Belgrade institution for over a century.

The culinary scene in Belgrade is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. With a wide variety of dining options to suit every palate and budget, a trip to Belgrade is incomplete without sampling the delicious local cuisine and exploring the city’s dynamic food culture.

Restoran Ciribu Ciriba in Belgrade

Nightlife in Belgrade

Embrace belgrade’s vibrant evening scene.

Belgrade is renowned for its lively nightlife, which offers something for everyone, regardless of your taste in music or preferred ambiance. From pulsating nightclubs and live music venues to cozy pubs and stylish cocktail bars, the city’s evening scene is as diverse as it is vibrant. Experience the energy and excitement of Belgrade’s nightlife as you dance the night away or unwind with a drink in hand.

Dance the Night Away: Clubs to Keep You Moving

• Freestyler Night Club :  One of Belgrade’s most famous clubs, Freestyler is known for its energetic atmosphere and fantastic music.
• Klub 20/44 : This eclectic club on a boat offers a unique nightlife experience, with a diverse lineup of events and performances.

Cozy Corners: Unwind with a Drink in Hand

• The Black Turtle Pub : This popular pub offers a wide range of craft beers, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Bar Central : This stylish cocktail bar in the city center is the perfect spot for a relaxing evening with friends.

Belgrade’s nightlife scene is truly one of a kind, offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy. As you explore the city’s clubs, bars, and live music venues, you’ll not only have a fantastic time but also gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s unique culture and spirit.

Freestyle Night Club in Belgrade

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Belgrade: Creativity in the Serbian capital

By Ginanne Brownell Mitic

I fell in love with Belgrade long before I fell for the Serbian man who would become my husband, the two loves blurred and intertwined. On the night before our wedding, the lobby bar of the Square Nine hotel (pictured below) was bathed in a marmalade lamplight, as if time were suspended. I still recall the bear hugs of my arriving friends, coats slapped, hands warmed with foam-clouded hot chocolates; the glorious mayhem that followed. Later that evening, at the Tri Sešira, a 19th-century tavern in bohemian Skadarlija, wooden boards descended as if from the air, piled high with mountain cheeses , kajmak (the love child of butter and clotted cream) and processional meats with dense cuts of pork and lamb. The home-cooked scents wrapped themselves around us, as did a ragtag of gypsy musicians, ever more raucous, on beaten-up accordions and guitars.

The Serbian capital isn’t a showstopper; it didn’t grab me by the heartstrings the first time I arrived here as a reporter 15 years ago. But over years of returning, the things that failed to charm me before – things I simply couldn’t understand – now make me wonder how I ever lived without them. The Brutalist Yugoslav architecture of New Belgrade that welcomes me on the way from the airport ; the unexpected Museum of African Art in the opulent Senjak neighbourhood. The grandeur of Zemun, a section of the city that was once Austro-Hungarian; the wit and artistry of the giant street murals depicting football heroes (pictured below) .

The tranquil forested river island of Ada Ciganlija; and Skadarlija, an area where I always get happily lost browsing, the quirky artisan items in the windows undiscovered treasures that feel all mine. For if Belgrade is a complicated puzzle, it is one that is proudly Serbian, and created by hand. It is perhaps this maverick maker’s spirit that charms me most – and which is defiantly transforming the landscape today. For a new movement of home-grown craftsmen, artists, chefs and designers is making sense of Belgrade’s different pieces, reclaiming their national identity and raising up their city afresh.

(Pictured above Zadarska street)

Now walking the balance-defying cobbled streets surrounding the place where I got married is a journey of exploration in which an unassuming staircase or graffitied alley might lead me – as through the back of the wardrobe – into new, idiosyncratic worlds. Near the Art Nouveau home of 20th-century mathematician and inventor Mihailo Petrovi´c. Alas – one of the coffee- and peppermint-coloured buildings in Kosanˇci´cev Venac, a neighbourhood originally settled by the Celts and Romans – I find the basement store Makadam. Inside are bourbon-stained interiors, with photography prints, rings by anthropologist and designer Ana Srdic, bubble-gum-pink coffee-table books on street artists, hand-carved lights, wooden pull toys, and pillowcases embroidered with the floral motifs of medieval monasteries. It’s a showcase of contemporary talent as varied as the architecture .

(Pictured above: Fab Living concept-store entrance in an apartment building in Old Belgrade)

Makadam founder Milena Radenkovi´c opened her concept store on the street where she grew up. Her passion for the makers of her country was reignited in 2011, when she returned to Belgrade after studying economics in London and Milan . She went on a two-month road trip across the country in search of its forgotten craftsmen, sourcing kilim fabrics to repurpose as pillowcases and commissioning clutches of her design from bulrushes cultivated and hand-braided in the northern Vojvodina region. While consolidating a new era of Serbian cool, Makadam also helped to preserve dying traditions, raising the visibility of the country’s lost arts and crafts. ‘Most artisans are very old and think they don’t need to adapt to the 21st century,’ Radenkovi´c tells me in Makadam’s adjacent bistro. ‘But now the whole luxury business model is so focused on artisan production. And we do that so well in Serbia.’ Polished-concrete walls and photos of Radenkovi´c’s icons, from The Night Porter-era Charlotte Rampling to Lemmy from Motörhead, encircle a bar with traditional red-cushioned wooden stools that serves Serbian wines and various concoctions of rakija, a 40-per-cent-proof Balkan fruit brandy. On weekend nights, the artists, musicians and students from the nearby arts university who congregate here spill out into the streets under the same light of my memories.

The energy is raw, palpable.

This neighbourhood has become Belgrade’s answer to Montmartre, a spry enclave of galleries, boutiques and food joints. Around the corner is experimental vegetarian restaurant Mandala, which serves sustainably farmed plant-based food in a white-columned space – a pioneer in a country where meat is the cornerstone of every meal. On the main thoroughfare of Kneza Sime Markovi´c a, which ends at the fortress originally settled in 279  bc at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, is another concept shop helping to define Belgrade’s new identity. Fashion designer Ana Ljubinkovi´c, ABO and Remake are a three-strong collective of clothing and homeware brands with a common aesthetic: ABO makes hand-sewn shoes, while Remake sells repurposed vintage porcelain, as well as newly designed tableware with rebellious phrases and etchings recalling local street art.

The owners of Remake, former costume designer Jovana Božovi´c and Slovenian-born artist Antea Arizanovi´c , believe that the city has finally regained the confidence it once lost. ‘People who live here travel a lot, and when they come back from other cities they say, “Why can’t we do that in Belgrade?’” says Božovi´c . ‘But it has a really good vibe.’ Arizanovi´c moved here to work in what she considers the most inspiring place in the Balkans. ‘Before, people had good ideas but they never tried to implement them,’ she said. ‘But now they have found the courage.’ While the inhabitants of some of Europe’s great cultural hubs flounder in political cynicism, hanging on to the coat-tails of their erstwhile glory days, the people I meet today seem future-facing and fresh with optimism. ‘Belgrade is a renaissance city,’ says performance artist Marta Jovanovi´c , who works between here, New York , Rome and Paris . ‘Not the Renaissance of Florence, but in terms of having the force to reinvent itself over and over again despite its turbulent history.’

(Pictured above: court building)

I first came to Belgrade in 2004, five years after NATO bombed it into uneasy submission during the Kosovo War over the persecution of ethnic Albanians in the southern breakaway region. For those not well versed in the nuances and intricacies of Balkan politics, it was perhaps understandable that many felt the blame should fall solidly on the Serbs. But I had already been covering the region’s post-conflict recovery – and continued to do so for another half a dozen years – and quickly came to see that, in the wars that followed the dissolution of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, no side was blameless. On that first visit, Belgrade felt exhausted and discouraged: a huge banner of Slobodan Miloševi´c , who was by then on trial in The Hague, hung over the party headquarters near the banal main pedestrian shopping street.

Belgradians have grown tired of this recent narrative as the only historical reference to their city. They point out that it has also survived Roman and Ottoman occupation, and the bombardment by the Nazis of buildings including the original National Library of Serbia, whose remaining foundations have been left in ruins as a memorial.

What has so often been forgotten is Belgrade’s rich artistic and cultural history – a source of inspiration and pride that many young locals have only had access to in recent years. In September this year a comprehensive retrospective of the work of endurance-performance artist Marina Abramovi´c – her first solo show in her home city in more than 40 years – opened at the Museum of Contemporary Art (pictured above) , a modernist space in leafy, tranquil New Belgrade that was shuttered for a decade for repairs. It was Abramovi´c and her fellow Serbian performance artists who put Belgrade on the contemporary-art map in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Today, she is as much a national legend as Nikola Tesla – a museum dedicated to the electrical inventor, who later moved to the USA, is housed in a Twenties villa in residential Vraˇcar. The National Museum also locked its doors for 15 years, only reopening last year, which meant that an entire generation of Serbs missed out on more than 400,000 works by Titian, Canaletto, Matisse, Renoir and Chagall. And yet it was perhaps that cultural black hole that spurred on Belgrade’s creatives to found independent projects such as KC Grad, a non-commercial space in the Savamala district that runs art exhibitions, concerts and lectures, and Performance Hub, a school and art platform founded by Abramovi´c’s cultural heir Marta Jovanovi´c.

(pictured above: Genex Tower in New Belgrade)

Belgrade has its fashion names, too. While London -based Roksanda Ilinˇci´c is its best-known export, a number of acclaimed local designers have joined forces in an esprit de corps of Serbian style in the incongruously grungy Belgrade Design District, set in an abandoned outdoor shopping mall near Terazije Square. Aleksandra Lali´c has won numerous Serbian fashion awards for her dramatic structured dresses, suits and coats verging on art. The Belgrade look is as eclectic as its home city, she tells me in the store below her busy workshop, with a common thread of vibrant tactile fabrics and architectural cuts: ‘We use colour and patterns much more than northern European countries.’ More romantic is the atelier of Silk for Breakfast, in a second-floor apartment in the Dor´c ol district (pictured below) where clients lie around on a boudoir-like double bed. The made-to-order billowy silk kimonos, smoking jackets, trousers and dresses are produced entirely in Serbia, and the quality of craftsmanship is bolstered by the closeness of Belgrade’s community. ‘Things are easier to make from idea to realisation here – all of our brands collaborate,’ says Darija Stojkovi´c , one of the owners. ‘So it’s easy to find a workshop that is going to make this or that. And if you want something else, they will go out of their way to find it for you.’

Laura Fowler , CN Traveller

Laura Fowler

Charlie Hobbs

Olivia Morelli

Neighbourhood craftsmen, artists, cobblers and bakers all feel part of the same close-knit family. Not far from here is Dokolica, an upbeat café favoured by Belgrade’s intelligentsia. A rundown 50-year-old shoe-repair shop sits next to more indie hangouts such as Homa Bistrot and Od Usta do Usta. But Iris New Balkan Cuisine is my most thrilling foodie discovery yet, in a non-descript apartment building near the rapidly changing Savamala district, where the controversial Belgrade Waterfront development will open next year, housing the Balkans’ biggest shopping centre. The intimate restaurant, which opens three days a week, deconstructs traditional dishes such as sarma (minced pork rolled in cabbage). Fresh, organic ingredients are found all across Serbia and every family takes pride in their doma´c i homemade secret recipes for jams, rakija and ajvar (red-pepper relish), all of which they make and preserve every year. Belgrade has smart restaurants – Salon 5, Bistro Mali Pijac and Langouste – but it’s the day-to-day private kitchens that keep their standards high (can they really beat the family recipe?). After years of socialism and sanctions, Serbians won’t waste their money on the over-styled and over-hyped. And that is the very charm of Belgrade itself: unglossy, imperfect. But honest, self-made and full of heart.

Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld’s Square Nine (pictured above) is not the only boutique hotel in town any more, but it’s still an institution. Its modernist leather chairs have been worn in over the years by actors, artists and politicians; old-fashioned globes and spherical lights add an international feel, while a sense of place is provided by historical black-and-white photographs (pictured below) .

Savamala B&B, in the landmark turn-of-the-century Export Bank warehouse, is an authentic experience with period furniture, artworks and bank-till lights in 11 design-savvy and cosy rooms. On the nearby Waterfront, the St Regis and W Hotel are set to open by 2022. And Saint Ten has recently earned a reputation as one of the city’s smartest hotels; it’s within walking distance of both the Church of Saint Sava, a wedding cake-like structure dedicated to the founder of the Serbian Orthodox church, and the Nikola Tesla Museum.

Insider tips: Walking Belgrade Private Tours offer curated experiences and itineraries that immerse you in Belgrade culture, history, gastro, art and architecture, lifestyle and design. Website: belgradewalking.com Price: Prices starting at £60 for two people.

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Scroll down to see more images of things to do in Belgrade...

Monument of Gratitude to France

Aero Club building

St Mark’s Church

Square Nine

Icarus sculpture on the former airforce headquarters building

Passport-photo shop

Sava Centar congress centre

Perfume shop on Kralja Petra

The restaurant at Square Nine hotel

Kalemegdan park & Belgrade Fortress

The ancient citadel is the core of Belgrade and a unique open-air museum of Roman, Serbian, Turkish and Austrian heritage

Downtown Belgrade

Feel the pulse of the city walking through the narrow streets of Downtown Belgrade, packed with cafes and taverns, museums, galleries, craft shops and luxury boutiques.

St. Sava Temple

This impressive church adorned with white marble is the largest orthodox church in the world.

Zemun Old Town

Belgrade has a twin town - literally. Across the Danube from Belgrade lies the beautiful Zemun town, for centuries rival, now part of Belgrade.

Clubbing in the party capital

The vibrant nightlife, positive beautiful young people and the variety of choice granted Belgrade the reputation of the party capital of South-Eastern Europe.

Ada Ciganlija Beaches

Ada Ciganlija island and the Sava lake are home to some of the best river beaches in Europe.

Discover Belgrade with our FREE Self-Guided Tours

Serbian food & drink guide, drinking water and toilets in belgrade – map, advertise here, blog & news.

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Serbia Travel Advice: 21 Things to Know Before Visiting Serbia

Since Belgrade is a pretty easy bus ride from Sofia , we are lucky to get to spend a fair amount of time exploring Serbia. We recently added it up, and between the two of us, we’ve spent about two months traveling, backpacking, and road tripping around the country.

While Serbia is a “typical Balkan country” in a lot of ways and you should check out our general Balkan tips before you go, there are also some unique aspects to traveling here that you should be aware of to make your trip go as smoothly and safely as possible. So here are twenty-one Serbia travel tips we think you should know before you visit Serbia.

Wifi & Internet

In general, Serbia has pretty excellent Wi-Fi. Between the two of us, we’ve used the Wi-FI in Belgrade, Novi Sad, Kragujevac, Novi Pazar, Nis, and Zajecar and in all instances, the Wi-Fi has been pretty fast and reliable. Most cafés will have Wi-Fi and you can occasionally find free Wi-Fi in hot spots in the park.

Serbian Sim Cards

We recommend buying a SIM card if you have an unlocked phone as it will make your life much easier. We wrote a guide to purchasing a SIM card in Serbia if you want a detailed account. We paid 300 dinars (roughly $3 USD) for a one-week prepaid package with 4 gigs of data and 1000 minutes at VIP. We found cell service across the country to be excellent (of course it’s better in big cities).

Read:  How to Get a Serbian Sim Card

Taxi drivers in the Balkans have a bad reputation and it’s not entirely undeserved. We got scammed by taxi drivers so much that we even wrote a guide to avoiding fake taxis in Sofia .

Personally, I try not to take unregistered taxi rides unless I have to. If you or someone else calls a taxi from a company on your behalf to pick you up, the ride will be registered in the system, greatly reducing the chances that your taxi driver will try any funny business with you. When we arrived at the Belgrade bus station and didn’t have working SIM cards yet, we ignored the pushy drivers who approached us as we got off the bus and walked to the nearest hotel and asked them to call a taxi for us. They were happy to oblige.

Once we got SIM cards, we relied on CarGo in order to get us around Belgrade. The app has similar functionality to Uber which is great because it means that you don’t have to deal with cash ever when going by taxi – your data is stored in your account and it is debited automatically. I also like that instead of rewarding a giant multinational conglomerate with questionable ethical practices, you are supporting a local Serbian start-up.

Beware of Loud Birds

Every day around dusk, the birds of Belgrade go crazy, squawking up a storm. While it sounds like it’s the oncoming apocalypse or the start to a Hitchcockian nightmare, it isn’t.  It’s just them jostling for position in their trees.

Kosovo…Don’t Talk About It

Even young Serbs have strong opinions about Kosovo’s quest for recognition, their current leadership, and what happened between the two countries over the past few decades. In fact, avoid referring to Kosovo as a “country” at all while in Serbia.

While it’s perfectly fine to listen to them explain the situation from their point of view, there’s no reason to bring up your own opinions on the topic if they differ from that of your host or guide. You might also see memorials or pictures of people killed in bombings done by Kosovo political activists. In our opinion, it’s better to be polite and show respect to these innocent Serbians who lost their lives at leave it at that.

Traveling Between Serbia and Kosovo

There’s a lot of confusion on the internet about the correct way to travel between Serbia and Kosovo. In fact, when  I tried to make the journey, Google Maps even had the rules programmed in wrong! It’s actually really simple:

• If you want to visit Serbia and then go to Kosovo, that is fine.
• If you want to go to Kosovo and then to Serbia, you must enter Kosovo via Serbia.

Essentially, if you enter Kosovo from Macedonia or Montenegro, and then try to cross into Serbia, Serbia will consider you to have entered their country illegally since they do not recognize Kosovo independence legally. Practically, they are aware that they don’t control these borders, but that is not the issue here.

If you cross into Serbia and then go on to Kosovo, you will have the correct entry stamp in your passport for Serbia, and they will treat you as if you have been in Serbia the entire time. If you try to board a bus in Kosovo headed to Serbia, the bus driver will check that you have a Serbian entry stamp before allowing you to board.

When trying to plan the bus route for Visegrad in Bosnia to Pristina, Google Maps did not have the routes through Serbia showing, and instead, it tried to direct me to go back to Montenegro. This would have added a full day on my trip! If you’re trying to take a bus to Kosovo and want to go through Serbia, you will need to rely on locals and the bus companies directly for assistance until Google fixes this glitch.

Smoking in Restaurants & Bars

One thing that will feel very retro for many visitors from the rest of Europe or North America, is that Serbia still allows smoking inside of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. These places can get pretty smokey, and during the day this can feel extra stuffy when sunlight is streaming through the windows amplifying the smell.

If smoking bothers you, we suggest visiting during warm months when you can sit outside or finding restaurants that have non-smoking sections that aren’t next to the smoking section.

The official language of Serbia is Serbian, a southern Slavic language. If you’ve been to Bulgaria, you’ll probably notice a lot of similarities with Bulgarian, since they come from the same branch of the Slavic language family tree.  Linguist dispute whether Serbian is truly distinct from Croatian, or if there’s just one Serbo-Croatian language with varying regional dialects.

I will stay out of that debate, but as a foreigner who doesn’t speak more than five hundred words of any Slavic language, I did not notice a difference traveling between Bosnia, Serbia, Kosovo, and Croatia.

In Serbia, you’ll find the English language accessibility to be about the same as in other Balkan countries. In large cities and tourist centers, English is common. In Belgrade, your server or tour guide will likely speak perfect English, and it’s common to be handed an English menu without even asking.

Tourist signs all over the city are also written in Serbian and English, making navigating between landmarks simple. In addition, young people (under forty) typically studied English in school, and they will usually be able to communicate easily. Older Serbs, who studied Russian in school, will be less likely to speak English unless they work in tourism or the service industry.

In the villages and smaller towns, both spoken and written English is less common. In these situations, you will want to have Google translate or another translation app installed on your phone and a data plan on your cell phone so that you can use it.

The Cyrillic Alphabet

One thing that I love being able to do whenever I’m in Serbia is reading Cyrillic. In situations where there’s no English available, at least I can read what’s in front of me. (This usually entails finding the shopska salad and margarita pizza options on a menu).

While Serbia uses latin letters often, I find it’s actually easier for me to correctly pronounce Serbian words when reading Cyrillic, rather than the Latin letters with the diacritical marks that turn all the tsz sounds into the letter c . You can easily travel Serbia without knowing the Cyrillic alphabet, but I think it makes your trip easier. Luckily, we’ve created a handy PDF explaining the Serbian Cyrillic alphabet and its pronunciations that you can print out or keep on your phone. You can download it via the form below!

Going to a pharmacy ( Apteka ) in Serbia is an easy process. However, some medications typically available in the European Union aren’t stocked here. Since Serbia is not in the EU, prescription and medication rules here are different. We found that most of what we wanted was available easily, but some things were not. For example, they did not have the specific brand of OTC antihistamine that we were looking for (though available in the EU), but we were able to get an alternative.

Contact lenses are available without a prescription, making this a great place to stock up on contacts if you know what your prescription should be. Overall, we found pharmacies here to be friendly and well priced, with rules slightly differing from the EU that made some items easier to get and other items harder. If there’s any medication that you have that is crucial, bring enough with you just in case.

Driving in Serbia

First the basics: you drive on the right side of the road like the rest of continental Europe and North America.

Driving in Serbia is surprisingly pleasant! The country has invested a lot in maintaining its roads, making driving on the highway a smooth experience. Because the country doesn’t have as many mountains as most of its neighbors, you’ll experience fewer small mountain roads and better highway visibility.

There are a few things to watch out for, though. Traffic in Belgrade can be a nightmare, and the gas (petrol) prices are steep!

Read:  13 Things to Know Before Driving in Serbia

Renting a Car

Renting a car in Serbia is easy, but there were a few surprises, including giant deposits (over two thousand Euros!) and the automatic cars being twice as expensive to rent as manuals. Combine that with high gas prices, and you might find it’s more expensive to drive a rental than to book a day tour if there’s less than two of you.

Of course, if you want to drive to places completely off-the-beaten-path, then a rental car is clutch. Just know that if you don’t know how to use one (a clutch, that is), then you’re going to pay a lot more than in other countries.

Money in Serbia

Serbian money is called dinars. You can get it at ATM, which is what we do since we get the best exchange rates. One hundred Serbian dinar is about 0.96 USD and 0.85 Euros. I just used the rule of thumb that one hundred dinar was about a dollar, but obviously, if your home currency isn’t USD then it’s not quite so easy.

You’ll need cash when traveling outside of the cities since many businesses will not take credit cards. However, in the cities, most places took credit cards with the exception of public transport,  pekaras, and museums. You’ll also want cash to tip since you can’t add tipping onto your card. To use your debit or credit for taxis, download the Car.Go app discussed above.

For my most recent trip to Serbia, I spent two weeks based in Belgrade. I used about $200 USD in cash and everything else was on my debit or credit cards.

Tipping in Serbia

Like Bulgaria, Serbia doesn’t have a tipping culture but there are norms. In restaurants, it’s common to tip ten to fifteen percent. You won’t be able to leave a tip on your credit card at most places, so try to have small bills with you for these circumstances. If necessary, the restaurant will be able to give you change so you can leave a tip. In taxis (if paying with cash and not an app) just round up to the next hundred. Do the same at bars and cafes.

Long-Distance Buses in Belgrade

The main bus station in Belgrade, BAC, is a large complex spread out over several areas. Always arrive at least forty-five minutes before your bus is scheduled to depart to leave yourself time to check in at the ticket window (even if you’ve purchased tickets ahead of time) and find your bus’s platform. Note that you’ll need to purchase an additional bus platform ticket for 180 RSD (about $1.80) to be allowed to enter your buses platform. This price is in addition to your bus ticket price. For this fee, you may only pay in cash.

There is an ATM in the bus station, but you’ll feel a bit silly getting out such a small sum in cash before you depart. I know we did! Worse, if you don’t show up with enough time to get the platform ticket (and cash if necessary) you’ll be in danger of missing your bus altogether.

Safety in Serbia

After two months of travel all over Serbia, we haven’t run into any safety issues that would make Serbia more difficult to travel than the rest of Europe. Like all places in Europe, there’s a low-level risk for terrorism from political agitators.

Read:  Is Serbia safe? Thoughts on Travel Safe and Solo Female Travel in Serbia

The US State Department advises visitors to “exercise normal precautions.” (Check here to see if this alert level has changed). Be smart about your bags, alcohol consumption, general night safety, etc. But you should feel just as safe in Serbia as the rest of the continent. If you are an American, you can enroll in the STEP program (the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ) to keep the US government aware of your travel plans in case of an emergency. I personally use this program when in places a bit more chaotic than Serbia, but better safe than sorry, especially if this is your first trip to a Balkan country .

One thing you’ll always want to have in case of an emergency or theft while traveling is up-to-date travel insurance . We use and recommend   World Nomads . 

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Serbia Travel Visas

Serbia is not part of the EU or the Schengen Zone. However, many people can visit Serbia without needing to obtain a travel visa. Americans, Canadians, Mexicans, and most Europeans can visit Serbia for ninety days visa-free. Many more countries can visit Serbia for thirty days visa free, while citizens of Hong Kong can visit for fourteen days without a visa. People from Africa (with the exception of Tunisia) and a few other countries throughout the world will need to apply for a tourist visa ahead of time.

Check with Serbia directly for the most up-to-date information.

Remember that Serbia is not part of any visa scheme, either with the EU or with other Balkan nations, so if you can visit Serbia visa-free, this will not give you permission to visit any other Balkan or European country. However, if you have a valid visa to visit the Schengen Zone (or a few other places), Serbia will give you visa-free entry and it will not count against your time in the Schengen Zone.

One of the most important Balkan tips we repeat over and over is about travel visas. When traveling the Balkans, remember that the only countries which are part of the Schengen are Slovenia and Greece. For travel to the other ten Balkan countries , you will need to check the rules individually.

Tourist Registration

One thing I see on a lot of Serbia travel forums is questions about registering. Here’s the technical rule as laid out by Serbia’s official tourism board :

Serbian organisations and individuals providing accommodation to foreigners against payment, as well as locals hosting visiting foreigners, must register the foreigner’s stay with the local police station within 24 hours of the commencement of the accommodation arrangement, or of the foreign visitor’s arrival. A foreigner not using official accommodation nor staying with a private individual must register his or her stay and change of address with the local police station within 24 hours of arriving at the place of residency or of the change of address. A place of residency is where a foreigner intends to stay for more than 24 hours.

Beyond the paperwork, you also pay a fee equivalent to four Euros. What does this mean for people who rent through AirBnB like I did on my most recent trip? I think technically the renter is supposed to register you. But I actually have no idea. And not once did any Serbian official ask me about it, nor did our AirBnB host mention it.

So for the anxiety-ridden rule followers out there, know this exists. I’m sure you’ll go to a lot of trouble to make sure you’re registered. For the rest of you, it’s up to you if you want to ask your hosts about it. The only time I would personally worry about this is if I travel to Serbia in the future and fall under the category of not using official accommodations or staying with a private individual. But I don’t even know how I would do that.

Electrical Outlets

Serbia uses the same electrical outlets common across Europe and 220V. Remember that in North America, our outlets are 110V, so be careful about what you plug in here. I use a converter since my main electronics (laptop, camera charger, phone charger) can all handle 220V.

Many appliances like hair dryers would blow if you plug them into just an outlet converter. If you absolutely need to bring an appliance from North America that only takes 110V, you will need a voltage converter. These are pricier than just an outlet converter since they actually change the amount of voltage coming out of the outlet and flowing into your appliance.

BONUS: Where to Stay in Belgrade

We know one of the most intimidating parts of planning your trip is figuring out where to stay – so here are some tips for where to stay in Belgrade, the main port of call for most Serbia trips!

Budget:  If you want a cozy feeling hostel,  Hostel Home Sweet Home  in the Savamala neighborhood of Belgrade is a fantastic choice. Its central location close to Knez Mihailova Street and other Belgrade must-sees makes staying here ultra-convenient. It’s sunny and open, with options for dorm rooms as well as affordable single and double rooms for travelers who want a little more privacy without paying a fortune. It’s one of the best-rated options in town, so we recommend you  check out availability and book in advance here .

Another popular choice is  Balkan Soul Hostel , located in Stari Grad and a convenient walk from all the hot spots like Kalemegdan Park, Belgrade Fortress, and the splavovi on the Sava River. Every bed has its own charging area and lights, which are essential to me when picking a hostel. It has a social atmosphere and friendly staff who can make your stay in Belgrade even more charming.  Check out availability and reviews here .

Mid-Range:  There are so many great options in this price-range — Belgrade really excels at providing great value when it comes to accommodations in this price tier. One fun option is a floating hotel on the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers,  San Art Floating Hostel & Apartments . While it’s located in Novi Beograd and therefore a little out of the action, I love the floating deck where you can have sunset drinks, and I like the that the décor is a little bit nostalgic, with details like rotary phones and old radios.  You can check it out here .

If you want a more traditional accommodation option, we recommend the affordable four-star  Zepter Hotel on Terazije, one of our favorite streets in all of Belgrade. It has all the amenities you’d expect from a 4-star hotel, like a gym room, in-room coffee machine, and a fantastic daily breakfast. Rooms sell out often, so  check out availability and book in advance .

Luxury:  We’d be remiss if we didn’t suggest the classic luxury option in Belgrade, Hotel Moskva – one of our favorite buildings in the city and a classic haunt of famous politicians, musicians, actors, and other celebrities who pass through Belgrade. It’s also surprisingly affordable for its caliber! With a renowned spa, delicious restaurant (don’t miss the moskva schnit cake – we love it!), and beautifully designed rooms, it’s one of our favorite places in Belgrade and the location is unbeatable. However, it’s almost always sold out, so be sure to  check availability and book well in advance  and hope you get lucky!

If you want a more modern take on luxury, in a beautiful boutique hotel that is classy to the nines, we recommend  Boutique Garni Hotel Townhouse 27.  This hotel is beautifully designed in rich colors, with key details like fresh flowers in the rooms and a gorgeously-presented breakfast. The staff is helpful and courteous and you’ll love the location just off Knez Mihailova in Stari Grad.  Check out availability here.

Have you traveled through Serbia or are you planning an upcoming trip? Leave your best Serbia travel tips and any questions you have for your trip below!

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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27 comments.

its overall wonderful reading you blog.

I am traveling through Eastern Europe coming FEB 2019

I would like to know any information regarding taking a train from SOFIA to SERBIA & SERBIA to BUDAPEST?

if possible give me the bus/train station name,(e.g where i should get down and take the connection train/bus)

Look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you Dheepan! Unfortunately, in winter the train schedules run quite differently and it is really inconvenient to take the train as it requires multiple connections (they are better in summer). Instead, I recommend you to take a bus. From Sofia to Serbia (Belgrade) we have a post about it here: https://sofiaadventures.com/sofia-to-belgrade-bus/ that has full details better there I can write down in a comment.

Basically, You leave from Serdika Station in Sofia (NOT the Central Bus Station, but they are very close – about 100 meters walking distance) and then you arrive just outside the Central Bus Station in Belgrade. There is one direct bus a day. You can also take Matpu to Nis, and then take the Nis Express to Belgrade (two buses).

From Belgrade to Budapest I recommend taking a Flixbus (flixbus.com) – there are two a day leaving Belgrade, one in the morning and one at night. They go from Belgrade Central Bus Station to Budapest Népliget.

Hi Stephanie and Allison, I thoroughly enjoyed your blog on Serbia. Thank you very much. In fact I’m planning on going there for 3 months in 2020. First I’m wondering if 3 months is going to be enough to see Serbia and Montenegro.? Second should I base myself in 1 location like Belgrad or Novi Sad and take day trips or should I stay in 2 or 3 different locations while exploring? I was born in Novi Becej 60 years ago and left the country 50 years ago therefor have no idea what would be the best option in having a base. If you can suggest the best location/s to stay in while exploring I would be very grateful. Sue

Wow! You’re going on a trip of a lifetime!

If I were planning a trip with 3 months for Serbia and Montenegro, I would want a base for a few weeks at a time and then do a couple of shorter overnights. For example, you could base yourself in Belgrade but then do a few nights in Novi Sad and Subotica before moving on. I’m super jealous, sounds like you’re going to have an amazing time!

I would not skip going to Kosovo. You can cover most of the sites in Kosovo in a week! Definitely check out our post on the best cities and towns in Serbia. Three months is more than enough to do complete justice to Serbia and Montenegro!

Im a Srilankan passport holder . And i have US multiple visa. Can i use US visa as a supporting documat to enter serbia

This is what Serbia states as its official policy:

At its meeting of 30 October 2014, the Government of the Republic of Serbia adopted the Decision on visa free entry to the Republic of Serbia for holders of foreign passports having a valid Schengen, UK and other Member States’ visa, or visa of the United States of America, and for holders of foreign passports having residence permit in the countries of the Schengen area, EU or the United States of America, which was published in the “Official Gazette of RS”, No. 119 of 31 October 2014 and which will enter into force on 8 November 2014.

By this decision, the above-mentioned categories of foreign nationals may, without prior visa application, enter, transit or stay in the Republic of Serbia up to 90 days during a six-month period, but not exceeding the expiring date of the said visas or residence permits.

My advice would be to print this out and have a hard copy with you in case the border officer isn’t aware. You can find it on their website here.

I’ll like to visit but don’t know how to go about it am a Nigerian looking to spend less anyway

The first place to start would be to get a travel visa to Serbia. Are you based in Nigeria or somewhere else?

Do u know anyway to have a private transfer from Blegrade airport to Kraljevo? And then return back to the airport 10 days later?

Thank you and I appreciate your comment.

You’re welcome!

Thank you and I appreciate with you.

Hi I am planning to visit Serbia on visa free due to USA visa from turkey and from Serbia to Bosnia with Pakistani passport .what do I need during my travel .and can I travel more than one balagan countries in one attempt.

Hi Adnan, double check that both of these countries accept a USA visa as valid entry and contact the MFA of Serbia or Bosnia with any questions. Note that for many of the countries, the USA visa must be multi-entry and not expired. We are not visa experts so we cannot advise any further, sorry.

Hi there… I am going to visit Serbia this month actually, and your articles are very very helpful! While I want to know more about CarGo the app. What kind of card can be used? Master card or visa card or both? Thaaaaanks so much

Hi Mich, I’ve used my Mastercard but Visa should work as well!

I would like to go Serbia due to job purpose Is it possible? What should I do to go Serbia How to go Serbia How many amount should arrange if I would live over there 15 days? Where should I stay cheap n best in Serbia Kindly reply me please Regards PRADIP Kumar Sharma 7015144228

Hi Pradip, sorry, we don’t know this kind of information as we focus on travel. I recommend getting in touch with local Serbian companies to see if they are hiring in a specialty area you have, because it’s quite difficult to just move without a job offer.

Hi Allison, Thank you for this wonderful write up. Am planning to do a one month cycling in Serbia. Can I tent anywhere on the side of the road, or are there any restrictions? Also, are there any good GPS maps available exclusively for cyclists or is it ok just to follow Google maps, what you say from your experience. Am a solo traveller. Thanks again, Dennis

Hi Dennis – sorry, but I have no idea about the camping rules or any cycling resources – I haven’t experienced either! Good luck on your trip, sounds like a great journey!

Hi, thanks for the wonderful writeup and tips. Very much useful. Im heading over to Serbia next week and was thinking to visit Kosovo from there. Me and my wife have valid UK visas, but do not have a Schengen visa. We are having Indian passport. Can we enter Kosovo with UK visa ?

According to Wikipedia, only valid multi-entry Schengen visas will allow you to enter Kosovo with a Kosovo Visa. However, visa policies for Kosovo may not be reported accurately (it happens in this part of the world). I would suggest you reach out to the Kosovo Ministry of Foreign Affairs for confirmation. Note that Serbia will not consider you to be leaving Serbia, so you only need to worry about if Kosovo will let you in.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Kosovo

Hi, thanks for the information about your trip in Serbia. Just want to asked if is there any possible problem with me about my travel going to Serbia. I will visit my boyfriend there and it’s my first time also to go in Serbia. I’m an au pair currently in Denmark and I have a visa good for two years and I have a residence permit in Denmark also. Thanks for your answer!

Hi Maria! If you have a valid Schengen residency permit, it should be fine. From the MFA website:

“At its meeting of 30 October 2014, the Government of the Republic of Serbia adopted the Decision on visa free entry to the Republic of Serbia for holders of foreign passports having a valid Schengen, UK and other Member States’ visa, or visa of the United States of America, and for holders of foreign passports having residence permit in the countries of the Schengen area, EU or the United States of America”

Thank you for sharing your story, you wrote interesting facts about Serbia. It was important for me in what language I can communicate in Serbia.

Glad you found it helpful!

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Serbia travel guide: Everything you need to know

Hospitality, history, untouched landscapes and fantastic-value meet in this eastern european gem, article bookmarked.

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Buzzing cities, elegant architecture, a mind-bendingly varied history and some truly astonishing landscapes make Serbia one of the most compelling countries in Eastern Europe. It’s exuberant, hospitable (bring a big appetite) and crammed with cultural and culinary legacies from Ottoman and Habsburg times.

It’s also one of the most affordable places to visit: some of the prices, particularly food, drink and transport, will make you do a double take. Its national parks – encompassing river canyons, mountains, lakes, caves and forests – show off Serbia’s untamed nature and beauty.

Travel restrictions and entry requirements

Serbia no longer has any Covid entry requirements, including proof of vaccination or negative Covid test. Masks aren’t mandatory, although some parts of the population are still wearing them.

Best time to go

The months from spring to autumn are the best times, as winter can be cold and snowy (unless you want to go skiing in Serbia’s main ski resort of Kopaonik). Serbia has a busy schedule of festivals from May to September, especially in the capital, Belgrade, as well as the Exit Festival in Novi Sad in early July. Niš’s Nišville Jazz Festival takes place in August, as does the Belgrade Beer Festival and the riotous Guča Trumpet Festival. The Belgrade Book Fair in October is one of the biggest and oldest in the region. Christmas is also a popular time to come, especially Orthodox Christmas which is on 7 January (with the main festivities on 6 January).

Top regions and cities

Serbia’s capital hums with activity and is constantly on the move. With more and more of Stari Grad (Old Town) becoming pedestrianised, it’s a pleasure to wander its café-filled thoroughfares using the main artery, Knez Mihailova, as your starting point. Check out the fabulous art at the National Museum of Serbia in Republic Square before ambling along to Kalemegdan, the enormous and historic park that overlooks the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. You’ll see the riversides teeming with floating restaurants and clubs, while wide waterside paths invite lazy strolls and bike rides. Cross the Sava to the old Habsburg suburb of Zemun and wonderful views from its Gardoš Tower. Back in Stari Grad, you’ll be faced with the dizzying choices of places to eat and drink in the tree-lined streets of Dorćol. Further south in Vračar, you can’t miss the round white neo-Byzantine domes of Sveti Sava temple, whose fantastically glittering interior is finally nearly finished after more than a century in the making.

• Belgrade city guide: Where to stay and what to do in Serbia’s capital

There’s a wonderfully relaxed pace of life in Novi Sad, the European Capital of Culture for 2022 and the largest city in northern Serbia’s multicultural Vojvodina region. Its pedestrianised centre is filled with handsome Habsburg architecture harbouring café terraces, with more bars and restaurants tucked away in little alleyways and minuscule squares. Start off among the pastel-coloured townhouses of Zmaj Jovina and along to Dunavska where you’ll soon come to the Museum of Vojvodina – an excellent place to bone up on the history of the region. Cross the Danube to reach the massive 18 th -century Petrovaradin Fortress (where the Exit Festival takes place) and the Novi Sad City Museum within. When the weather warms up, follow the wide footpath along the Danube to reach the city’s beach at Štrand.

• Novi Sad guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Serbia’s second city

The southern Serbian birthplace of Constantine the Great has some fascinating things to see, including the imposing Niš Fortress built by the Turks in the 18 th century. It’s now part of a collection of sights in the main city park that features an amphitheatre for summertime events, the 16 th -century Bali-Beg Mosque, a zoo and a 15 th -century Turkish hammam that’s now a café. Join the evening korso (the Serbian version of the Italian passeggiata – a leisurely evening stroll) along pedestrianised Obrenovića and the Ottoman-style cafés and restaurants of Kopitareva. For a more sobering look at Serbian history, there’s the infamous Skull Tower, erected by the Turks in 1809, which is studded with the skulls of Serbs who died defying Ottoman rule.

Western Serbia

The region of western Serbia is packed with sights, including the mountains of Zlatibor, the Gostilje waterfall and the marvellous subterranean world of Stopića cave. You’ll find a few delightful oddities too: the open-air museum of Sirogojno reconstructed to look like a 19 th -century village, the feat of Austrian engineering that is the Šargan Eight heritage railway winding through the Mokra Gora mountain and the eccentric Drvengrad village created by the film director Emir Kusturica. The most spectacular sight, though, is the dramatic karst landscape of Tara National Park, which includes the Drina River that forms a natural border with Bosnia. It’s one of the most sublime places to hike and cycle along its 200km of trails. Hire a kayak and get a close-up look at the House on the Drina, a wooden fishing lodge perched on a rock in the middle of the river.

Fruška Gora National Park

Just south of Novi Sad is Fruška Gora, whose thickly forested mountains shelter 16 monasteries dating from the 15 th to the 18 th centuries, hiking and cycling trails and, in the foothills, vineyards producing top-class wines. Keep an eye out for wildlife including eagles, deer and lynx. It’s easy to visit from Novi Sad and the nearby town of Sremski Karlovci, the latter an enchanting place of baroque and neoclassical architecture.

Best under-the-radar destinations

You’re barely a dozen kilometres from the Hungarian border at Subotica, so it won’t come as a surprise to see this northern Serbian city decked out in bilingual signs. In fact, it was part of Hungary longer than it’s been in Serbia. It’s not just the liberal use of paprika in its restaurants that gives this city its spice. Subotica is a riot of colourful art nouveau/secessionist architecture, from its city hall (whose clocktower you can climb) to the wonderfully over-the-top Raichle Palace, now a modern art gallery. There’s more art nouveau loveliness in the neighbouring spa resort at Lake Palić, a 10km bus ride or cycle away.

At the point where the flatlands of Vojvodina’s Banat region get close to the Romanian border and the Carpathian mountains, the welcome sight of the Vršac hills come into view, with the attractive city of Vršac at its base. Some of Serbia’s best wine comes from the vineyards that cover the slopes above Vršac, and the city’s streets of 18 th -century classical and neo-gothic architecture make it a pleasure to explore. Go hiking in the Vršac hills and look out for the 14 th -century defensive tower from where you can get sweeping countryside views.

The Romans were among the first people to make use of Sokobanja’s thermal springs, and they’ve been enjoyed ever since. The hammam built by the Turks in the 17 th century is still in use today within this attractive spa resort an hour north of Niš. Surrounded by forested peaks and bisected by the Moravica River (which offers several river beaches to cool off in), Sokobanja is also in prime hiking and mountain biking territory. One of the trails leads to the ruins of Sokograd, a medieval fortress that offers impressive mountain vistas.

Best things to do

Explore uvac nature reserve.

The crazily serpentine Uvac River has the sort of twists and turns that can be best appreciated from one of several viewpoints above. Here you can see the steep forested slopes rising above vivid turquoise waters, while griffon vultures fly above. While you’re there, add a boat trip or a kayak journey along the river to your list of must-do activities.

Go to Djerdap National Park

Serbia’s largest national park hugs the right bank of the Danube and has several of the country’s most extraordinary sights. Nicknamed the Iron Gates, the Djerdap Gorge – actually a series of four gorges and three ravines – turns up on itineraries of river cruises and really is quite jaw dropping. At its head is the medieval Golubac Fortress, the sort of castle that belongs in a fairy tale. Soon you’ll come across one of Serbia’s most important historical sights: the Mesolithic and Neolithic Lepenski Vir archaeological site, which dates back to at least 7000BC.

Visit the monasteries

Serbia’s medieval monasteries are a fundamental part of the country’s heritage and history. One of the most visited is the 12 th -century Studenica Monastery in central Serbia, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site and is in the suitably peaceful setting of the Golija-Studenica biosphere reserve. It’s about an hour from one of Serbia’s prettiest monasteries, Žiča, which, like most of the others, is built in lavish neo-Byzantine style.

Follow the wine routes

Serbia makes superb wine that regularly wins international awards, but isn’t particularly well known outside its borders. Luckily there are official wine routes where you can visit vineyards for tastings, including around Subotica, Fruška Gora, Vršac and the Tuscan-like countryside outside Belgrade. In eastern Serbia where the borders of Romania and Bulgaria meet is Negotin; here, delectable Prokupac red wines are made in absurdly picturesque village stone cellars called pimnice .

Getting around

Serbia’s public transport is very affordable. While the Serbian Railways network is relatively limited, there’s a new high-speed train that connects Belgrade to Novi Sad in only 30 minutes. There are frequent buses around the country, although you might want to hire a car if you’re exploring beyond the major cities.

How to get there

The quickest way to get to Serbia is to fly to Belgrade, although flights can be very expensive unless booked far in advance. Other airports in Niš and Kraljevo are used for internal and regional flights. Getting there by train takes at least two days: take the Eurostar to Paris, change for the Munich train to Zagreb. Unfortunately, the Zagreb-Belgrade train is currently suspended and is replaced by a bus service.

Money-saving tip

If you arrive in Belgrade airport and need a taxi, order one from the official tourist information desk in the baggage claim area. You will pay a set price and avoid the touts outside the terminal charging more.

What’s the weather like?

Serbia has a typically Continental climate – long, hot summers and cold, snowy winters. It can get very hot in the summer and regularly is in the 30Cs.

What time zone is it in?

What currency do i need.

Serbian dinar.

What language is spoken?

Serbian is spoken, and many people in tourism and the hospitality business speak English.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Serbia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Serbia’s embassy in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Serbia.

Passport validity requirements

If you are visiting Serbia, your passport should be valid for at least 90 days after your planned date of departure from Serbia.

Registration

You must register with the local police where you’re staying within 24 hours of your arrival in Serbia. If you’re staying in a hotel, check-in staff will register you automatically. If you do not register, you could get a fine, and face arrest and a court appearance.

Visa requirements

British nationals do not need a visa to visit Serbia for up to 90 days. For further information on entry and exit requirements, contact the Serbian embassy in the UK .

If you want to extend your stay in Serbia, you must apply for temporary residence status. You must do this at the police station where you’re registered at least 30 days before the 90-day period expires. For more information visit the website of the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

When entering Serbia, make sure border guards stamp your passport. Temporary residents should have an exit-entry visa as well as a residence stamp. If you try to leave Serbia without an entry stamp or exit-entry visa, you may face charges of illegal immigration, a heavy fine and a prison sentence.

You should only enter Serbia through recognised border crossings. Serbian borders remain open for entry and exit, subject to any entry requirements currently in place in neighbouring countries.

Travelling between Serbia and Kosovo

The authorities in Serbia do not consider the designated crossing points with Kosovo to be official international border crossing points.

It is possible to travel from Serbia to Kosovo, and back again.

You cannot travel from Kosovo to Serbia without a Serbian entry stamp from Belgrade, Niš or Kraljevo airports, or one of Serbia’s other border crossings with:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• North Macedonia

You are likely to be refused entry without a valid Serbian entry stamp. You should take a route through a third country.

Border guards have denied foreign nationals entry to Serbia if they have Republic of Kosovo stamps in their passports. We are also aware of isolated incidents where Serbian authorities have cancelled Kosovo stamps in passports of foreign nationals.

Tensions between Serbia and Kosovo can cause difficulties at border crossings with Kosovo.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Serbia guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Serbia . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

You must declare items of value if you are temporarily bringing them to Serbia to avoid customs charges – for example, jewellery, cameras and computing equipment.

Taking money into Serbia

If you are carrying more than 10,000 euros (or an equal amount in other currencies), you must:

• complete a declaration form at customs on arrival in Serbia – a customs officer will certify this by signing or stamping the form
• keep a copy of the certified form while you are in Serbia
• show the certified form when you leave Serbia
• show a receipt if you are carrying Serbian dinars bought from a foreign bank

Customs officers may seize your money if you do not follow these rules.

You should exchange any unwanted dinars before you leave Serbia. British banks do not normally exchange dinars. Do not use street dealers. Only change money through banks or official exchange offices.

It is not possible to exchange Scottish and Northern Irish banknotes in Serbia.

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Latest update

Exercise normal safety precautions in Serbia.

Serbia (PDF 323.82 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies, advice levels.

• Protests and rallies are common. Avoid crowds and demonstrations as they may turn violent. Foreign nationals have been detained after attending protests. Demonstrations might disrupt transport. Monitor local media for information.
• The area of Southern Serbia bordering Kosovo has unexploded landmines. Only use well-known roads and paths.
• Violent attacks sometimes occur near nightclubs. Targeted bomb attacks and gun violence can occur. Many Serbians own guns. Be alert to suspicious behaviour and avoid trouble spots.
• Earth tremors and flooding can occur. Bushfires happen in summer. Snow and ice can be a danger in winter. Monitor the media for updates.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Air pollution can be high in some cities in Serbia, including Belgrade. If you have a breathing condition, talk to your doctor before you travel.
• Medical facilities are below Australian standards. You may need to be evacuated if you become seriously ill or injured. Make sure your insurance covers this.

Full travel advice: Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties are severe.
• It's illegal to photograph military and police personnel and equipment.
• Serbia recognises dual nationality. You may have to complete outstanding military service obligations as a dual citizen. Check with an  embassy or consulate of Serbia .
• Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely accepted. Avoid public displays of affection.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Serbia for the latest details.
• You don't need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days in a 6-month period. This applies from the date of the first entry. You'll need a visa for other situations.
• Full details of Serbia's entry requirements are on  the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website  and can change without notice. Monitor local media and follow  the Republic of Serbia - Citizen Services website  (in Serbian) for updates.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian Embassy  in Belgrade.
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the embassy’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, demonstrations and protests.

Protests are common in Belgrade and other towns and cities across Serbia. They're usually peaceful but can turn violent or cause major traffic and public transport disruptions. Foreigners have been detained after attending protests.

Some sporting events have turned violent, injuring people and damaging property. There have been clashes between police and fans near sports venues and between fans of opposing teams. While foreigners aren't targets, there have been isolated incidents where the clashes have affected foreigners.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• monitor local media for updates
• avoid affected areas
• follow the advice of local authorities

Be careful of celebratory gunfire or fireworks, especially around major holidays, celebrations and after sporting victories.

Border control

The level of security at Serbian land borders can change without notice. The border with North Macedonia is an entry point for asylum seekers attempting to travel through Serbia to the EU. Delays and strict controls at the border are common, especially in the European summer.

To stay safe:

• avoid crowds in border areas
• always carry your passport at or near borders

Kosovo-Serbia border

The Republic of Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in February 2008. Serbia doesn't recognise Kosovo's independence.

Security along the border between Serbia and Kosovo can change quickly. Be cautious travelling in the Kosovo border area. The security situation can be unpredictable.

In the past, clashes between security forces and armed groups have happened:

• in the Presevo area of southern Serbia
• in the Bujanovac area of Southern Serbia
• at border points with Kosovo

Further unrest may occur at any time.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest
• Travel advice for Kosovo

Unexploded weapons

The area of Southern Serbia bordering Kosovo has unexploded landmines and other remnants of war. Only use well-known roads or paths.

To stay safe in southern Serbia, only use well-known roads and paths and be alert to uncleared landmine warning signs.

Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other petty crimes are common. Criminals often target foreigners in crowded places, such as markets and on public transport.

To reduce your risk of crime:

• pay close attention to your personal belongings, especially in crowds
• carry only what you need
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you

Violent crime

Violent criminal acts are usually linked to organised crime. They aren't directed at foreigners.

However, there have been several violent and fatal attacks against foreigners, particularly late at night:

• near nightclubs
• in inner-city suburbs

Many Serbians own guns, and shootings happen. 

To protect yourself from violent crime:

• move away from dangerous situations
• avoid trouble spots
• be ready to leave quickly if trouble arises

Credit card fraud

Credit card fraud is common.

Only use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres.

Always take care to protect your card and PIN.

Be alert for suspicious behaviour.

To reduce your risk of fraud:

• avoid ATMs that open onto the street
• keep your credit card in sight during transactions

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. 

More information: 

• Kidnapping  

Terrorists have staged attacks in European cities. Targets have included:

• public transport
• transport hubs
• public places popular with tourists

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats in public places
• report any suspicious behaviour or items to the police
• monitor the media for updates
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Serbia experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather .

Severe  earthquakes  are rare, but tremors are common.

Flooding  can happen throughout the country, especially along the Sava River.

Bush and forest fires  can occur in summer, from June to September, especially in southern Serbia.

Extreme hot and dry periods may lead to water shortages.

In winter, some parts of Serbia can experience extremely low temperatures from October to March. Snow and ice are hazards.

Monitor local media and weather reports. Plan ahead.

If there is a natural disaster or severe weather:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location or carry it in a waterproof bag
• keep in contact with family and friends
• monitor the media and other sources

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location .

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medications available over the counter or by prescription in Australia are available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Serbia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medicine is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use only

Health risks

Air pollution levels can be high, especially in winter. Heavy smoke from coal and wood-burning heaters can stay in the air.

Accidental release of toxic matter from factories is common.

Authorities don't always issue public health warnings.

If you have asthma or other breathing difficulties, speak to your doctor before travelling.

Tick-borne encephalitis

There's a risk of  tick-borne encephalitis  in forests and fields.

Ticks are common in country areas. They are active from spring to autumn.

Take measures to avoid tick bites, particularly in rural areas.

During and after visiting a forest:

• check your body for ticks
• carefully remove any whole ticks as soon as possible
• be alert for any signs of infection

Insect-borne diseases

Cases of  West Nile virus  are reported throughout Serbia. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• Infectious diseases

Other health risks

Outbreaks of foodborne and other infectious diseases happen from time to time. These include:

• trichinosis /trichinellosis
• brucellosis

To protect yourself from illness, avoid the following:

• raw and under-cooked food, such as salads
• unpasteurised dairy products
• Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities in Serbia are below Australian standards.

If you're injured or become seriously ill, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You must wear a face mask in health facilities.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long prison terms in local jails.

• Carrying or using drugs

Photography

It's illegal to photograph military and police:

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Serbia recognises dual nationality.

Serbia abolished compulsory military service in 2011.

If you're an Australian-Serbian dual national, you could have military service duties from before this date.

Check with an  Embassy or Consulate of Serbia  before you travel.

If you're returning to Serbia after many years away, living conditions may be different to what you expect. Do your research before travelling.

• Dual nationals
• Serbian diplomatic missions

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely accepted.

Verbal and physical aggression is sometimes directed towards the LGBTI community. Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI Travellers

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You don't need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days in a 6-month period. This applies from the date of the first entry.

You'll need a visa for other situations.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest  embassy or consulate of Serbia  for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

The security situation along the Kosovo-Serbia border is volatile.

Don't attempt to enter Serbia from Kosovo unless you first travelled to Kosovo from Serbia.

You'll need a valid, recent Serbian entry stamp in your passport to travel from Kosovo to Serbia. You'll have to enter Serbia from another country if you don't.

Serbia can deny entry if you have any border entry or exit stamps from Kosovo in your passport. In practice, this does not occur often. Still, the Serbian border police will cancel the Kosovo entry/exit records by stamping over them.

Political violence has broken out many times at the border crossings of:

• Jarinje, also known as Gate 1
• Brnjak, also known as Gate 31 

Be cautious travelling in the Kosovo border area. See  Safety

• Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs   (English version)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing an 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

Serbia's currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD). You can't change it outside Serbia.

On arrival, you'll need to declare currency and valuables with 10,000 euros or equivalent value. Valuables may include:

Make sure you get a copy from customs officials. You'll need the declaration form when you leave Serbia.

If you don't declare your currency or valuables, they could be taken away.

Most banks in towns and cities have ATMs that accept international bank cards.

ATMs only dispense Serbian Dinar.

Traveller's cheques aren't widely accepted. However, larger branches of some banks will cash them.

Local travel

Border crossings.

Border crossings close at short notice. Delays and disruptions to cross-border transport are possible.

• avoid large groups near borders
• have back-up plans

Driving permit

To drive, you'll need both:

• a current Australian driver's licence
• a valid international driving permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

Road travel

Driving can be dangerous due to poorly maintained vehicles, roads and poor driving habits.

It's dangerous to drive after bad weather.

Drivers and pedestrians frequently ignore road rules.

In rural areas, pedestrians and farm animals sometimes share the roads.

In winter, snow and ice are additional hazards. Local authorities may not always clear roads after heavy snowfall.

It's illegal not to wear a seatbelt if one is available.

The blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.03%.

Call 1987 for roadside assistance.

• Driving or riding

Only use registered taxis and authorised limousines. Ask your hotel to arrange this for you.

Registered taxis have both a municipal registration number and a taxi number.

Public transport

Public transport is usually reliable, but it can be crowded. Standards vary.

• Transport and getting around safely

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Serbia's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

For non-emergency criminal issues, contact the local police.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Belgrade.

Australian Embassy, Belgrade

Vladimira Popovica 38-40, 8th floor 11070 Belgrade, Serbia Phone: (+381 11) 330 3400 Email:  [email protected] Website:  serbia.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Serbia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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