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About this guide
Right along the Danube and Sava riverbanks, Belgrade, Serbia, stands out as a dynamic city with stunning architecture, from Ottoman-era fortresses to striking socialist-era monuments. The nightlife and entertainment scene is legendary, with popular bars, clubs, and riverside splavs (floating clubs) keeping the city buzzing well into the night. Foodie travelers will appreciate the traditional Serbian cuisine, rich with grilled meats, hearty stews, and local wines. There are plenty of museums, galleries, and historic neighborhoods to explore, along with scenic riverside walks and parks. Belgrade effortlessly highlights its Old World charm while offering contemporary energy at every corner.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season); December and February (off-season); March to May and September to October (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central European Time (CET)
- Currency: Serbian Dinar (RSD)
- Language(s): Serbian, English, Hungarian
- Noteworthy: Belgrade Film Festival (March), EXIT Music Festival (July), Belgrade Beer Fest (August), Guca Trumpet Festival (August), Belgrade Dance Festival (October)
- Best for: Southeastern Europe History Buffs, Nightlife and Entertainment, Brutalist Architecture Aficionados, Outdoor Adventures
Get Away: Getting To And Around Belgrade, Serbia
By Air
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is the main international gateway, located about 12 miles west of the city center. It serves both low-cost and full-service airlines with plenty of convenient arrivals from Europe and beyond. From the airport, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and shuttle buses can take you directly to central Belgrade. With English widely spoken and a well signposted airport, navigation is simple for first-time visitors.
By Car
Renting a car gives flexibility for exploring beyond the city, including day trips to Novi Sad or Oplenac. Central Belgrade has busy streets and limited parking, so it’s best to plan parking in advance. Traffic congestion can be high during rush hours, but major roads are generally well-maintained. Make sure to carry cash for tolls and parking meters, as card payments are not always accepted.
By Public Transit
Belgrade has a reliable network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses connecting major neighborhoods. Purchase affordable tickets at kiosks or via mobile apps. Services run frequently during the day, though schedules may be limited late at night. Public transit is an efficient way to avoid city traffic while experiencing local life.
Explore Belgrade, Serbia On Foot
Travelers can see popular areas like Knez Mihailova Street, Kalemegdan Fortress, and the riverside promenade, all within walking distance of each other. Side streets reveal hidden cafés, boutiques, and street art. Wear comfortable shoes as some areas have cobblestone streets and uneven terrain. Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the season.
Quick facts
Central European Time (CET)
Serbian Dinar (RSD)
Serbian, English, Hungarian
Good For
Southeastern Europe History Buffs
Nightlife and Entertainment
Brutalist Architecture Aficionados
Outdoor Adventures
Keep in mind
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Belgrade, Serbia
Dine at Nebojsa Traditional Restaurant, featuring warm interiors and a garden overlooking the park near Sveti Sava Church. Signature dishes like Nebojsa Lamb, Beef Cheeks, and Tatar beefsteak pair perfectly with a curated list of fine Serbian wines.
Experience the Michelin-recognized Bela Reka that celebrates Serbia’s rich culinary heritage with farm-to-table ingredients from the Homolje Mountains. From meat and fish tasting menus to wine pairings, each course is a masterful blend of Belgrade’s tradition and innovation.
Spice it up with Curry Souls, which serves bold Sri Lankan flavors in the city’s popular Obilićev Venac district. From curry fries to aromatic chicken curry, every dish bursts with street food authenticity and vibrant seasoning.
Step into one of Belgrade’s most iconic cafés at Cafe Moskva, where Old World charm meets the city’s social heartbeat. Sip coffee, enjoy a slice of decadent cake, and listen to live piano for a slower-paced moment in an otherwise busy day of exploring.
Luff Gelato serves handcrafted gelato that makes every scoop an edible work of art and flavor. With unique recipes like marzipan, pistachio-white chocolate, and fior di latte, it’s a sweet escape for any dessert lover.
Indulge in fine dining, perfected since 1982, at Franš with dishes made from premium organic ingredients. From freshly caught seafood to charcoal-grilled meats and freshly baked breads, every plate is a testament to local culinary craftsmanship.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Belgrade, Serbia
Step back in time on the Belgrade Historic Walking Tour to see architectural gems, from The Grand National Assembly to the historic Belgrade Fortress. Along the way, guides share centuries-old stories, showcase monuments, and lead strolls through Knez Mihailova Street like a local.
Savor the soul of Serbia on the Food and Culture Tour in Belgrade, including fiery rakija drinks and hearty dishes. Guests discover the history, customs, and hospitality that define Belgrade’s culture.
Paddle through Belgrade’s scenic waterways on the Great War Island Kayak Adventure for a nature-filled escape. With no experience required, visitors enjoy a calm ride exploring the terrain before a refreshing swim in the Danube River.
Join a warm local host in the Traditional Serbian Cooking Class to learn the secrets behind beloved regional dishes. Guests can cook, taste, and take home flavorful, time-honored recipes, including Serbian delicacies like sarma and pilav.
Wander through the creative underworld of the Belgrade Street Art And Adventures Tour, where every wall tells a story through vivid murals and daring designs. Visit private studios, quirky cafés, and secret cultural hubs that make this city’s art scene truly unforgettable.
Glide along the Danube and Sava rivers on the Belgrade Sunset Cruise Tour as the city lights sparkle. From historic fortresses to tranquil islands, every view feels like a postcard, especially under the golden sunset or sunrise glow.
Escape the city buzz at the Bali Spa Massage Belgrade to melt away tension and detox from long travel days. Rejuvenating treatments, like their Balinese-inspired massage, leave guests refreshed, restored, and ready for more Belgrade adventures.
Cast a line on the Serbia Fishing Adventure in one of the region’s most naturally beautiful landscapes and peaceful rivers. Guests learn how to cast lures and hike along the riverbank, then enjoy an authentic Serbian breakfast.
