Things To Do
in Belgrade
Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia, stands at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, embodying a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern urban life. Known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse architecture blending Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and socialist periods, Belgrade is a city that never sleeps, offering a wide array of cafes, bars, and clubs.
It is a city where historical tragedies and triumphs are etched into the urban landscape, from ancient Belgrade Fortress to the contemporary museums and galleries, making it a captivating destination for travelers from around the globe.
- "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): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.70 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Kalemegdan Fortress for panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Don’t miss the historical museums within the fortress grounds.
Head to the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija for lunch at a traditional Serbian restaurant. Stroll through the cobbled streets and enjoy local art galleries and shops.
End your day with a river cruise along the Danube River. Relax with stunning views of the city skyline as the sun sets.
Visit the National Museum of Serbia to explore its vast collection of artifacts and artworks. Spend some time at the Republic Square nearby.
After lunch, explore the nearby Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the life and inventions of this famous inventor. Participate in interactive exhibits for a hands-on experience.
Dine at a local restaurant known for its traditional Serbian cuisine. Try dishes like sarma and ajvar, followed by a traditional music performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural history and diverse architecture
- Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
- Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe
- Friendly and hospitable locals
- Delicious local cuisine, especially grilled meats and pastries
- Growing tech and startup scene
- Beautiful parks and riverfronts
- Central location in Southeast Europe, making travel to other countries easy
- Public transportation can be unreliable and overcrowded
- Pollution and environmental concerns in some areas
- Issues with bureaucracy and inefficiency
- Economic challenges and lower average salaries
- Limited options for some modern amenities compared to larger Western cities
- Periodic political instability and social issues
- Language barrier for non-Serbian speakers
- Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some residents
Best Activities in Belgrade
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A popular recreational area with beaches, sports fields, and bike paths.
Historic park with walking trails, fortress views, and occasional outdoor events.
Bohemian quarter known for its lively atmosphere, outdoor cafes, and live music.
Beautiful trails with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Tours
Uncover the best of Belgrade with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Belgrade
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, as well as a view of the New Belgrade skyline.
Provides a bird's-eye view of Belgrade and its surroundings, especially stunning during sunset or at night.
Located in Zemun, this historic tower offers a picturesque view of the Danube River and the old town of Zemun.
Food in Belgrade
Belgrade Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These grilled skinless sausages made of minced meat (usually beef or pork) are a staple of Serbian cuisine. Recommended places to try them include Tri Šešira and Dva Jelena.
Must-Try!
Ajvar is a delicious relish made from red bell peppers, eggplant, and garlic, with a smoky and slightly sweet flavor. You can find ajvar at local markets and in many restaurants.
A breaded and rolled veal or pork dish, filled with kajmak and then fried until golden, often served with tartar sauce. Visit Manufaktura or Kod Šiška for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Belgrade better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and baked goods. Don't miss the opportunity to try street food like burek (flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese or spinach) from the nearby bakeries.
Known as the Bohemian Quarter, Skadarlija Street features charming restaurants and street vendors offering traditional Serbian dishes such as grilled meats, pljeskavica (a seasoned patty of ground meat), and various stews.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Belgrade, it is common to greet people with a firm handshake, especially in formal settings. It is also customary to use formal titles when addressing people, such as 'gospodin' (Mr.) or 'gospođa' (Mrs.).
Respect for elders is highly valued in Serbian culture. It is important to show deference and respect to older individuals, especially in family and community settings.
When dining in Belgrade, it is polite to wait until the host invites you to start eating. It is also customary to leave a small amount of food on your plate to indicate that you have been provided with a sufficient amount.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Belgrade with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Belgrade
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Belgrade, Serbia is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is customary to leave a small tip of 10% in restaurants if the service charge is not included. Tipping is also common in bars, taxis, and for other services, but it is not expected in all situations.
In Belgrade, Serbia, cash is still widely used for everyday transactions, although credit and debit cards are accepted in many establishments, especially in the city center and larger stores. It's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases and transactions in more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Belgrade.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Belgrade with moderate temperatures, blooming flowers, and cultural events like Belgrade Dance Festival.
Peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and lively nightlife along the Sava and Danube rivers.
Mild weather, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to enjoy the changing colors of the foliage in Kalemegdan Park.
Cold temperatures, but festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, traditional food, and the possibility of enjoying winter sports in nearby mountain resorts.
Belgrade at Night
Hiking in Belgrade
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking location near Belgrade, Avala offers various trails through lush forests and stunning views from its peak, where the Avala Tower is located.
Kosmaj is a favorite among local hikers, featuring diverse terrains and scenic landscapes. The area is rich in historical sites, including monuments from World War II.
Located a bit further from Belgrade, Fruska Gora is known for its beautiful nature, diverse wildlife, and numerous monasteries, with trails suitable for all levels.
Though a bit of a drive from Belgrade, Tara National Park is renowned for its breathtaking views, deep canyons, and diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal hiking destination.
Rudnik Mountain offers a range of trails amidst picturesque landscapes and is known for its rich history and charming villages along the way.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Belgrade through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Belgrade by plane.
The main international airport serving Belgrade, Serbia.
Located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, approximately 250 kilometers from Belgrade.
Located in Niš, Serbia, around 250 kilometers southeast of Belgrade.
Located in Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, approximately 230 kilometers from Belgrade.
Located in Sofia, Bulgaria, around 400 kilometers southeast of Belgrade.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Belgrade, making up around 83% of the population.
A minority group in Belgrade, primarily concentrated in certain neighborhoods.
An ethnic group with a presence in Belgrade, traditionally associated with the region of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
A smaller ethnic minority in Belgrade, mainly residing in specific areas.
An ethnic group that has a notable presence in the city, often facing social challenges.
A minority group that has migrated to Belgrade for various reasons, including education and employment.
A small but historically significant community, with roots dating back centuries.
A small ethnic minority who have settled in Serbia, including Belgrade.
The Soul of Belgrade
Discover the essence of Belgrade through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Belgrade, with a rich tradition and passionate fan base. The city is home to major clubs like Red Star Belgrade and Partizan Belgrade.
Basketball is highly popular in Belgrade, producing many professional players who have succeeded in international leagues. The city has successful clubs such as KK Crvena Zvezda.
Water polo enjoys immense popularity in Belgrade, where the sport has a strong tradition. The city has produced many competitive teams and players who excel internationally.
Tennis is widely followed in Belgrade, especially with the rise of Serbian players like Novak Djokovic. The sport has numerous clubs and facilities in the city.
Volleyball is popular, with both men's and women's teams competing at various levels. Belgrade boasts a number of successful clubs in this sport.
Handball has a dedicated following in Belgrade, with several successful teams that participate in national and European competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Belgrade.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Belgrade offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with Homa, Radost Fina Kuhinjica, and Mandala serving as popular spots for plant-based cuisine.
While gluten-free options may be more limited, several restaurants, such as Mandala and Istok, accommodate gluten-free dietary needs with dedicated menu items.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Belgrade with these cultural adventures.
