Things To Do
in Zemun
Zemun is a historic riverside town now part of Belgrade, Serbia. Its winding streets, red-tiled roofs, and the iconic Gardoš Tower evoke a Balkan-town atmosphere. The town sits on the Danube, offering pleasant promenades and scenic views across the water.
Visitors come for relaxed cafés, riverfront charm, and a sense of old-world character that blends with Belgrade's modern energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets of Zemun's historic center, admiring the charming architecture and colorful buildings. Visit the Gardoš Tower, where you can climb to the top for stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and the surrounding area. Enjoy a traditional Serbian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local pastries and strong coffee.
After lunch, immerse yourself in the rich history of Zemun by visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art, which features intriguing exhibitions from local artists. Take a peaceful walk along the Danube promenade, where you can watch boats drift by and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Stop at a riverside restaurant for a late lunch, sampling fresh fish dishes that Zemun is famous for.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Zemun quay, where you can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with locals and tourists alike. Choose one of the many outdoor restaurants to dine al fresco, enjoying a delicious Serbian dinner paired with local wine. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the lively streets, soaking in the ambiance of this historic town.
Begin your day with a visit to the Zemun market, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere and explore stalls filled with fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade crafts. Interact with the friendly vendors, sampling local delicacies and picking up souvenirs to take home. Afterward, head to the nearby Church of St. Nicholas, an architectural gem, to appreciate its beautiful frescoes and serene surroundings.
Spend your afternoon at the Zemun Fortress, where history comes alive as you explore the ancient walls and learn about the fortress's strategic importance. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the fortress grounds, taking in the breathtaking views of the Danube and the city skyline. Take some time to relax and soak in the rich history before heading back to the center.
In the evening, venture out to one of Zemun's traditional taverns for a cozy dinner, where you can indulge in hearty Serbian comfort food. Engage with locals and listen to live music, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. As night falls, stroll through the illuminated streets, discovering hidden gems and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚇Public transit (single-ride) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historic riverside town with a relaxed vibe
- Vibrant local life and scenic viewpoints
- Strong dining scene with Balkan specialties
- Good access to Danube waterfront and nature
- Smaller scale of attractions compared to Belgrade
- Some services concentrated in central Belgrade
- Public transport to distant parts can require transfers
- "Zdravo" - Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Izvinite" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Gde je toalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Da li govorite engleski?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Zemun
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop views over the Danube with the old city walls and red-tile roofs framing Belgrade across the water.
Long promenade with boats, reflections on the water, and golden-hour light along the quay.
A vantage point in the Gardoš area offering sweeping panoramas of the river and Belgrade skyline.
Food in Zemun
Zemun Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small minced-meat sausages served with onions, sour bread (lepinja), and ajvar.
Must-Try!
A juicy beef patty or mixed-meat burger, often served with kajmak and onions.
Flaky pastry layered with cheese, spinach, or meat, perfect for a quick bite.
Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, a traditional comfort dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Casual street-food spots offering grilled specialties and pastries with views of the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; address people by title until invited to use first names.
Dress modestly and speak quietly when visiting churches and monasteries.
Be punctual for meetings; conversations are warm and direct, with good humor appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Zemun
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a 5-10% tip is customary if service is not included; you can round up or leave a bit more for good service.
Cash in Serbian dinars is widely accepted; cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops, with some smaller places preferring cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with budding trees; carry a light jacket and plan outdoor strolls along the Danube.
Warm to hot, often humid; seek shade, stay hydrated, enjoy riverside cafés and breezy evenings.
Cooling temperatures with colorful foliage; great for long walks and photo opportunities.
Cold with occasional snow; many outdoor cafés close early but indoor dining is abundant.
Zemun at Night
Hiking in Zemun
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with well-marked trails, viewpoints, and fresh air, about an hour’s drive from Zemun.
Rolling hills and monasteries with extensive hiking trails, a bit further away but accessible on day trips.
Airports
How to reach Zemun by plane.
Belgrade’s main international gateway; located about 15-20 km from Zemun; accessible by bus, taxi, and ride-hailing.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families living in Zemun that maintain a slower, neighborly pace.
A mix of university students and expat residents drawn by Belgrade’s opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular pastime with local clubs and fan culture; matches can be found in Belgrade or nearby venues.
A common sport with local leagues; easy to catch a game in Belgrade.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zemun.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer veggie options like grilled vegetables, cheese breads, sarma without meat, salads, and mushroom dishes; when in doubt ask for ajvar or kaymak as toppings or sides.