Travel Guide to Belgrade, Serbia

Ra's Travel Guide to Belgrade

The capital of Serbia that has been destroyed 44 times; a complete travel guide to Belgrade.

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Translated as the "White City," Belgrade stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities globally. Despite enduring 44 bombings and earning the moniker "White Phoenix," the capital seamlessly blends the old with the new, featuring a burgeoning Silicon Valley where numerous tech giants have established a presence. Belgrade offers a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. Dive into this travel guide to Belgrade for insights on reaching the city, accommodation options, things to do, and more.

Getting to Belgrade, Serbia: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Unless you're exploring the Balkan region, the quickest and usually the best method to reach Belgrade is by plane, landing at Nikola Tesla International Airport. The airport serves numerous large and budget airlines, facilitating daily arrivals and departures with direct flights from various European countries. There are prospects for future direct flights from destinations like New York.

Serbia boasts robust bus and train connections with its neighboring countries, offering a potentially more time- and cost-efficient option when traveling from nearby nations. This mode of transportation also provides a scenic view as you approach Belgrade. Both the train and bus services conveniently bring you to the city center, where you can easily access public transport for further exploration. It's advisable to book bus or train tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons when spaces fill up quickly.

Road-tripping through the Balkans is a popular choice among both locals and tourists due to the well-connected countries and the opportunity to explore more remote areas. However, it's crucial to check local driving and vehicle registration laws, especially if you're driving from another country.

For a unique and scenic travel experience, consider reaching Belgrade by boat during the warmer months. Cities like Vienna, Prague, and Budapest offer Danube River cruises, catering to adventurous travelers and providing exceptional views.

When planning travel routes, assessing costs, and considering various transportation methods, I often rely on Rome2rio. This invaluable tool offers comprehensive information, suggesting possible route combinations and stops along the way, enabling a customized and well-informed travel experience. Link to Rome2rio

Where to Stay in Belgrade, Serbia?

Trying to decide where to stay in Belgrade may be a little intimidating if you've never visited before. There are many hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels scattered around the city in the old and new sections of Belgrade, at a range of prices. My recommendation for first-time visitors is in the Old Town near Republic Square. Near this location is the main pedestrian street, where many museums and tourist attractions are located. If you're interested in being in the center of nightlife, Savamala is the best location for this. For people interested in staying in a quieter area, I recommend Dorcol. The thorough public transportation network makes it easy for you to book your choice of accommodation and travel around easily.

When I visited Belgrade, I stayed in a smaller hostel called "Good People Design." It was about a 15-minute walk away from the Belgrade Fortress and the main pedestrian street, with a bus stop around the corner. It is one of the best hostels I have stayed at while traveling around Europe. The prices were fair, and I met amazing people who are now some of my closest friends.

Guides to Serbia

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Authentic Serbian Souvenirs

Getting Around Belgrade, Serbia

Car

Renting a car in Belgrade isn't necessary if you're just visiting the city. The city has many one-way roads and is prone to traffic jams. However, if you're considering visiting more remote areas in Serbia or traveling to other countries around the Balkans, many car rental agencies are available at Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade or at smaller agencies within the city. Be sure to have your international driver’s license beforehand.

Bus/Tram/Trolleybus

All three public transportation options operate throughout the city center and into the suburbs. You may see locals getting on and off without a physical ticket; note that they're most likely paying for tickets through text message or risking an inspection. Only people with a Serbian SIM card can purchase tickets through text. Everyone else needs to buy single-ride, 90-minute, single-day, or multi-day passes from the newspaper stands near stops. Don't risk getting fined by a surprise inspection.

Taxi

Uber and Bolt are not available in Serbia. Instead, they use Yandex Go, which operates the same as other taxi apps. You just need to have the app downloaded and set up ahead of time. A few other popular apps are available for you to use: Lux Taxi, Pink Taxi, Beogradski Taxi, and Naxis Taxi. Traditional yellow taxi cabs are still the most popular option, but not all drivers speak English and may try to scam tourists. To avoid these scenarios, it is best to call and reserve a cab ahead of time or have the restaurant or concierge order it for you. Make sure to confirm the price before agreeing to a ride.

Walking

While Belgrade is a large city, it is possible to walk around to almost all of the major tourist attractions. This is also a great way to see the city and to find attractions along the way such as churches, memorials, statues, and more. However, be aware that some of the main spots are further away, which can be up to an hour's walk.

What to Do in Belgrade, Serbia?

Walking Tour

One essential activity I always include in my travel plans is a walking tour. It's an excellent way to learn about the destination, get oriented, and receive local recommendations. While various tour companies offer walking tours, I highly recommend booking through Free Walking Tours. This not only allows you to meet fellow travelers but also lets you determine the tour's value based on your cash tip at the end. Ensure you reserve your spot in advance by visiting their website here.

National Museum of Serbia

Having visited numerous museums in Europe, I can confidently say that the National Museum of Serbia boasts one of the most impressive artifact collections. Housed in an Austrian Baroque mansion, the museum spans three floors, featuring art and exhibits depicting Serbia's rich history, including works by Picasso and Matisse. Admission is $3 and free on Sundays.

Kalemegdan Fortress

Also known as the Belgrade Fortress, this historical site played a pivotal role in Serbian history. Positioned at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers, it served as a major trading point. While the initial fortification dates back to Celtic times, the current structure originates from the 17th century. Entrance to the fortress is free, and its surroundings offer additional attractions.

Church of Saint Sava

If you have time to only visit one church, this is the one you can’t miss. Dedicated to Saint Sava, this is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. The outside architecture is beautiful but once you step inside, your jaw is sure to drop. This is one of the best Orthodox churches I’ve visited and is probably my new favorite. Entrance is free, just be respectful of all the people coming in and out to pray daily.

Nikola Tesla Museum

Dedicated to the Serbian-American inventor, this museum provides insights into Nikola Tesla's life and inventions, offering a fascinating journey into late 19th and early 20th-century science and engineering. Note that the museum only accepts cash (800 dinars for entry) and doesn't take foreign currency.

Skaradlija

Located in the former Bohemian district, Skaradlija charms with its cobblestoned Skadarska Street, hosting some of Belgrade's oldest taverns and restaurants. As night falls, the street transforms into a bustling hub for nightlife, offering an array of bars and taverns to explore.

Serbian National Theater

Situated across from Republic Square, this 150-year-old theatre captivates with its stunning architecture. Hosting a variety of shows, from opera to classical music and theatrical plays, it's a cultural gem. Tickets, priced around 10 euros, sell out quickly, making it advisable to plan ahead.

Yugoslavia Museum

Learn about the history and the time period of Yugoslavia. Within the museum are a variety of exhibits that talk about the formation of Yugoslavia, life in Serbia, and the inflation that was experienced during the time period. There is also much information about Josip Bronz Tito, the former president of Yugoslavia. You can also visit his grave behind the building in the “House of Flowers.”

Hotel Moskva

One of the oldest operating hotels in Serbia that opened in 1908. The building is most known for its gorgeous art-nouveau architecture that contrasts with Belgrade’s skyline. Many historical figures and celebrities have stayed at the hotel over the years such as Albert Einstein, Alfred Hitchcock, and Richard Nixon. It was also the headquarters of the Gestapo during World War II. Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, be sure to stop inside to glimpse at the spectacular interior or to have a coffee at its famous cafe.

Zemun

Escape the city hustle by exploring Zemun, one of Belgrade's oldest areas just outside the city center. Once a separate city within the Habsburg Empire, it merged with Belgrade in 1934. The architecture here reflects its Habsburg past, distinct from other areas of Belgrade. Accessible by public transportation, don't miss the Gardoš Tower for a panoramic city view.

This comprehensive travel guide to Belgrade aims to equip you with the insights and recommendations needed to make the most of your visit to the "White City." From navigating transportation options and choosing the ideal accommodation to exploring historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and cultural gems, Belgrade offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you're captivated by the ancient Kalemegdan Fortress or enchanted by the lively streets of Skaradlija, this guide invites you to uncover the diverse facets of Belgrade, ensuring an unforgettable journey in this dynamic Serbian capital.

Travel Tip

Public transportation tickets can only be purchased in cash at the kiosk stations within the city! They don’t accept cards and there is no tap-and-pay.