Things To Do
in Niš
Niš is one of Serbia's oldest cities, situated at the confluence of the Nišava River with rolling hills surrounding the city. Its history runs from Roman times through Ottoman rule to the present, leaving a rich architectural and cultural tapestry. The compact city center blends cobbled lanes, bustling markets, and riverfront promenades with lively cafes and museums.
With approachable scale and genuine hospitality, Niš is an inviting gateway to southern Serbia and its nature-rich surroundings.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Niš Fortress, where you can stroll along the ancient walls and soak in the history of the site. As the sun rises, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local pastries and coffee. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning views of the Morava River that flows nearby.
After exploring the fortress, head to the historical square, Trg Kralja Milana, where you can visit the National Museum of Niš and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the city. For lunch, try some traditional Serbian dishes at a local restaurant, such as ćevapi or sarma. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets, stopping by local shops for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in one of the city’s traditional taverns, known as kafanas, where you can enjoy live music and a vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in a delicious dinner featuring regional specialties, perhaps paired with a local wine. End your evening with a stroll along the illuminated fortress, taking in the beauty of Niš under the stars.
Begin your morning with a visit to the famous Skull Tower, a unique monument that serves as a reminder of the region's turbulent past. Take your time to reflect on the history as you explore the surrounding area and read the informative plaques. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day ahead.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Mediana archaeological site, where you can explore the remains of a Roman villa and learn about ancient Roman life in the region. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local bistro, savoring a fresh salad and a traditional Serbian dish. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the nearby Nišava River, where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
In the evening, head to a local theater for a performance or cultural event to immerse yourself in the arts scene of Niš. After the show, visit a popular local restaurant for dinner, sampling local cuisine and perhaps some homemade rakija. Wrap up your night by exploring the vibrant nightlife, enjoying a drink at a bustling bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🚌One-way local transport | $0.8-1.5 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2-3 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🎬Movie ticket | $5-9 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and approachable city size
- Compact to explore on foot
- Delicious regional cuisine and markets
- Accessible day trips to natural areas like Rtanj and Jastrebac
- Limited direct international flight options from Niš
- Some venues can be cash-only or have variable service levels
- Summer heat can be intense; plan early-day activities
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Belgrade or Novi Sad
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Gde je ... ?" - Where is ...?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Da li govorite engleski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Izvinite" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Može li račun?" - Can I have the bill?
Places to Visit in Niš
Visit one of these nice places.
Ottoman-era fortress with expansive walls and river views; dramatic lighting at dawn and dusk.
Mausoleum-like tower with a stark, historically charged façade—powerful for black-and-white or high-contrast imagery.
Roman villa ruins with mosaic floors and well-preserved courtyards—great for architectural photography and storytelling shots.
European-style Orthodox cathedral with solemn interiors and exterior details suited for architectural shots.
Food in Niš
Niš Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled minced-meat cylinders served with chopped onions, ajvar, and lepinja (flatbread). A staple of Niš and Serbia-wide street food.
Must-Try!
A juicy Serbian burger made from ground meat blend, typically accompanied by onions, kajmak, and lepinja or bread.
Flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat; a popular snack for breakfast or a quick lunch.
Cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice, simmered in tomato-based sauce; a comforting traditional dish.
Creamy dairy spread enjoyed with fresh bread, often as a part of a meat platter.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market near the old town offering fresh produce, bakery items, herbs, and stalls selling ready-to-eat regional bites.
Lanes around the old bazaar host numerous stalls serving ćevapčići, burek, and other quick Serbian bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and direct eye contact are standard. A friendly greeting in Serbian (e.g., Dobar dan) is appreciated.
Serbians are known for warmth and hospitality; if invited to a home, bringing a small gift or food is thoughtful.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove hats indoors where appropriate and speak in respectful tones.
Small talk often touches on family and local culture; avoid controversial topics in initial conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Niš
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, leaving a tip of about 5-10% is common if service is satisfactory. For taxi rides, rounding up the fare is appreciated.
Cash (RSD) is widely accepted, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Cards are common in mid-range places, but some cash-only venues remain. ATMs are plentiful in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming riverside scenery; great for walking tours and outdoor photography. Expect occasional showers; pack a light rain jacket.
Hot days with peaking temperatures; plan early morning or late afternoon explorations and stay hydrated. Evening riverfronts are lively and photogenic.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for city walks, markets, and outdoor dining. Nights can be cool; bring a light jacket.
Cold with the possibility of snow; indoor museums and cafes become cozy refuges. If traveling for photos, aim for overcast skies to emphasize textures.
Niš at Night
Hiking in Niš
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A pyramid-shaped massif northeast of Niš with forest trails, panoramic overlooks, and a range of hiking routes suitable for a day trip.
Forested hills south of Niš offering shaded trails and nature views, popular for longer day hikes.
Accessible for more ambitious day trips or weekend hikes from Niš; rugged scenery and diverse terrain.
Airports
How to reach Niš by plane.
Located near Niš, this airport handles domestic and limited international flights; taxis or airport shuttles connect to the city center.
Serbia's main international hub located several hours from Niš by road or rail; good options for onward connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic Serbs with minority communities, including Roma and others in urban neighborhoods.
Niš hosts several universities, contributing to a youthful, energetic urban scene.
Vibrant small businesses around the old town and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A top sport across Serbia with local clubs and active participation by youth and adults.
Popular on local courts and in schools; community leagues and viewing events are common.
A well-followed sport with competitive local teams.
Part of Serbia's strong water sports culture; often played in pools and rivers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Niš.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many kafanas offer vegetarian variants (sarma without meat, grilled vegetables, cheese plates). Look for ajvar, roasted peppers, beans, and mushroom dishes. When in doubt, ask for grilled vegetables or kajmak with bread as a filling alternative.