Things To Do
in Raška

Raška is a picturesque town located in southwestern Serbia, known for its rich history and natural beauty. Surrounded by the mountains of Kopaonik and the river Raška, it offers stunning landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere. The town is a cultural hub, with historical sites dating back to the Middle Ages, including the nearby Studenica Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Raška is also renowned for its hospitality, traditional cuisine, and vibrant local culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Raška
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Raška Fortress, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the town center, visiting local shops and the Church of St. Peter and Paul, an important historical site.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant to experience authentic Serbian cuisine and enjoy a leisurely evening walk along the Raška River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and History
morning
:

Head to the nearby Studenica Monastery for a guided tour, exploring its beautiful frescoes and historical significance.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon hiking in the Kopaonik National Park, taking in the breathtaking scenery and fresh air.

evening
:

Return to Raška for an evening at a local café, enjoying traditional desserts and interacting with the friendly locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1
🏨Budget Hotel Room$30
🍺Local Beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and authentic Serbian cuisine.
  • Limited English spoken in some areas.
  • Public transport may be infrequent.
  • Fewer tourist amenities compared to larger cities.
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Gde je toalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kako se zovete?" - What is your name?

Places to Visit in Raška

Visit one of these nice places.

Raška Fortress

Capture stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape from the fortress.

Studenica Monastery

Photograph the intricate frescoes and serene surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Kopaonik National Park

A perfect location for capturing the breathtaking natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.

Culinary Guide

Food in Raška

Raška offers a delightful array of traditional Serbian dishes that are a must-try for any visitor.

Raška Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarma

Cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice, simmered in a tangy sauce.

Must-Try!

Ajvar

A roasted pepper and eggplant spread, often served as a side dish.

Pljeskavica

A grilled minced meat patty, similar to a hamburger, often served with onions and various condiments.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Raška Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and traditional Serbian snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Try local street food such as burek (savory pastry) and roasted chestnuts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Raška experiences a continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring and autumn are mild and comfortable, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly handshake is common upon meeting; it is polite to greet everyone in a group.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and it's polite to try all dishes offered.

Personal Space

Serbians are generally warm and friendly, but it’s important to respect personal space.

Safety Guide

Safety

Raška is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take common precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Raška

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Expect warm weather, ideal for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Autumn

Experience colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it a great time for photography.

Winter

Cold weather with snowfall provides opportunities for winter sports in nearby Kopaonik.

Nightlife Guide

Raška at Night

Raška has a charming and laid-back nightlife scene, with several bars and cafés that offer live music and a friendly atmosphere. Most venues focus on local music and traditional Serbian performances, making it a great way to experience the culture. The nightlife tends to be more active on weekends, with locals enjoying time with friends and family.

Hiking in Raška

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kopaonik Trails

Numerous trails of varying difficulty levels in Kopaonik National Park, offering breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.

Studenica Monastery Trail

A scenic hike leading to the historical Studenica Monastery, surrounded by lush forest and mountainous terrain.

Airports

How to reach Raška by plane.

Niš Airport

Approximately 140 km from Raška, Niš Airport is the nearest international airport, offering flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Raška is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance from each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, allowing visitors to explore comfortably on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Serbians

The majority demographic, Serbians are known for their hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Ethnic Minorities

There are small communities of ethnic minorities, including Bosniaks and Hungarians, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Raška, with local clubs and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys a significant following, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Raška is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, although schedules may vary. Most visitors find walking or biking to be the most convenient means of getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Raška.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; it's best to communicate your dietary needs directly with the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Raška is generally good, with a local hospital and several clinics providing services. In case of emergencies, it's advisable to seek care at larger hospitals in nearby cities. Having travel insurance is recommended for any necessary medical treatment.

Discover Serbia

Read more in our Serbia 2025 Travel Guide.

Serbia Travel Guide