Things To Do
in Serbia
Serbia is a landlocked country situated in Southeast Europe, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and significant contributions to the fields of science, arts, and sports. Its capital, Belgrade, is renowned for vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and numerous cultural events, reflecting the country's complex heritage at the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilizations.
The country's landscape varies from the fertile plains of Vojvodina in the north, through the rolling hills and valleys of the central region, to the mountains and ski resorts in the south, offering a variety of natural beauties and outdoor activities.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Kako ste?" - How are you?
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Izvinite" - Excuse me
- "Gde je toalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.80 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kalemegdan Fortress for stunning views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby cafe.
Head to the bustling Skadarlija street, known for its bohemian atmosphere and traditional Serbian restaurants. Explore the numerous art galleries and shops in the area.
Wind down with dinner at one of the many riverfront restaurants. Experience Belgrade's vibrant nightlife in the bars and clubs along the Sava River.
Arrive in Tara National Park early and enjoy a hike through its breathtaking landscapes filled with lush forests and diverse wildlife. Don’t forget to visit the viewpoint at Banjska stena for incredible panoramas.
Take a break for lunch at one of the park’s charming wooden lodges. Afterward, explore the local flora at the botanical garden.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic dinner by the Drina River. Listen to the sounds of nature as you relax under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous historical sites and landmarks.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and national parks.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European countries.
- Delicious cuisine influenced by various cultures, particularly Balkan and Mediterranean.
- A vibrant and lively social scene, especially in urban areas like Belgrade.
- Economic challenges, including high unemployment rates in certain areas.
- Infrastructure issues in rural areas, with some roads and services needing improvement.
- Political instability and tensions in the past that may affect perceptions.
- Limited access to certain modern amenities and services in more remote regions.
- Bureaucratic hurdles that can complicate business and administrative processes.
Best Activities in Serbia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of Tara National Park or Kopaonik Mountain.
Enjoy thrilling white-water rafting on the Tara River.
Ride through the picturesque landscapes of Fruska Gora or along the Danube River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Serbia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Serbia
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, as well as the city of Belgrade.
Boasting stunning viewpoints of the Drina River and its canyons, as well as lush forests and diverse wildlife.
Providing picturesque views of the city of Niš and the surrounding countryside.
A unique ethno-village nestled in the mountains, offering charming vistas of the surrounding landscape.
Featuring breathtaking views of the meanders of the Uvac River and the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Food in Serbia
Serbia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled sausages made from a combination of beef and pork, typically served with flatbread, chopped onions, and kaymak (clotted cream). Best enjoyed at 'Šadrvan' in Belgrade.
Must-Try!
A spiced mixture of ground meats formed into a patty and grilled, often served in a lepinja (flatbread) with kajmak, onions, and ajvar (red pepper relish). Try 'Ruski Car' in Novi Sad for an exceptional pljeskavica.
A savory red pepper-based condiment made from roasted peppers, garlic, and sunflower oil. Visit the Zeleni Venac market in Belgrade to buy fresh ajvar to take home.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Serbia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the oldest and most vibrant markets in Belgrade, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls serving traditional Serbian snacks like burek and proja.
A charming cobblestone street in Belgrade lined with kafanas (tavern-style restaurants) and street food vendors offering local specialties such as grilled meats, karadjordjeva schnitzel, and rakija (fruit brandy).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Serbia, it is customary to offer a firm handshake and direct eye contact when greeting someone. It is also common to use formal titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' when addressing people, especially in business settings.
Serbians value personal space, so it is important to maintain a comfortable distance when engaging in conversations. Physical gestures or touching should be kept at a minimum, especially when interacting with someone new or in a professional environment.
When dining in Serbia, it is polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to offer a toast before eating. It is also customary to finish the food on your plate as leaving food may be considered impolite.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Serbia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Serbia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Serbia, but it is customary to leave a tip of 10% in restaurants and cafes if the service was good. In other service sectors, such as taxis and hotels, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Serbia, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. Contactless payment methods are becoming more popular. It is advisable to carry cash for small purchases and in rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Serbia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and vibrant green landscapes make spring a beautiful time to visit Serbia. It's also a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring national parks.
Warm to hot temperatures, festivals, lively atmosphere, and outdoor events are common in summer. It's ideal for experiencing the vibrant culture, enjoying outdoor concerts, and swimming in the many rivers and lakes.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and harvest season. It's a great time for food and wine festivals, as well as enjoying scenic drives through the countryside.
Cold temperatures, snow-covered landscapes, and Christmas markets create a festive atmosphere. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in the mountain resorts.
Serbia at Night
Hiking in Serbia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning landscapes, Tara National Park offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of the Drina River and lush forests.
A popular destination for both summer and winter activities, Kopaonik features a range of hiking paths that showcase the mountainous terrain and diverse flora.
Located in northern Serbia, Fruska Gora is famous for its rolling hills and historical monasteries, providing a variety of scenic hiking trails.
Home to the Iron Gates gorge, this national park offers unique hiking opportunities through beautiful landscapes, rich biodiversity, and archaeological sites.
This mountain range features numerous trails that take hikers through dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and endemic plant species.
A lesser-known gem, Rska Gora offers peaceful hiking trails through forests and meadows, perfect for nature lovers seeking solitude.
Vojvodina region has various flat hiking trails, often alongside rivers and through fields, making it ideal for leisurely walks and bird watching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Serbia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Serbia by plane.
The main international airport serving Belgrade, the capital of Serbia.
The primary airport serving Bucharest, Romania, located approximately 300 km from Belgrade.
The main international airport serving Zagreb, Croatia, located around 400 km from Belgrade.
The main international airport in Budapest, Hungary, situated about 350 km from Belgrade.
The primary airport of Sofia, Bulgaria, approximately 400 km from Belgrade.
The main airport serving Vienna, Austria, located around 600 km from Belgrade.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Serbia, making up approximately 83% of the population.
The largest minority group in Serbia, primarily located in the northern province of Vojvodina, representing about 3.5% of the population.
An ethnic group predominantly found in the southwestern region of Serbia, constituting around 2.1% of the population.
Another minority group mainly found in Vojvodina, making up about 0.9% of the population.
An ethnic group in Serbia, primarily located in Vojvodina, representing about 0.8% of the population.
Mostly residing in the southern region of Serbia, particularly in the Preševo Valley, accounting for approximately 1.6% of the population.
A marginalized ethnic group in Serbia, with estimates of their population often varying, commonly stated to be around 2%.
Found mainly in the region bordering Bulgaria, representing about 0.5% of the population.
An ethnic minority primarily found in southern Serbia, representing a very small portion of the population.
A collection of various smaller ethnic groups, including Czechs, Ukrainians, and others, making up the remaining percentage of the population.
The Soul of Serbia
Discover the essence of Serbia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is the most popular sport in Serbia, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. The Serbian SuperLiga is the top professional league, and clubs like Red Star Belgrade and Partizan Belgrade are well-known.
Basketball is highly popular in Serbia, with the national team having a strong international presence and success in European competitions. The sport is played at both professional and grassroots levels.
Tennis has gained popularity in Serbia, particularly due to the success of players like Novak Djokovic. The country has produced numerous top-ranked players and has developed various tennis facilities.
Water polo is another sport in which Serbia excels. The national team has won multiple international titles, including European and World Championships, contributing to its popularity in the country.
Volleyball, including both indoor and beach variations, is popular in Serbia. The national team has achieved success in European championships and is a common sport at schools and recreational levels.
Handball enjoys a significant following in Serbia, with a competitive domestic league and a national team that has performed well in European and World competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Serbian cuisine is meat-heavy, most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as prebranac (baked beans), sarma (cabbage rolls), and a variety of fresh salads. Vegan choices may be more limited but can usually be accommodated upon request.
Gluten-free awareness is increasing in Serbia, and many restaurants now offer gluten-free versions of traditional dishes such as proja (cornbread), grilled meats, and fresh seafood. It is advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly to ensure suitable options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Serbia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Serbia.