As a travel blogger, I have had the opportunity to explore many countries around the world, but few have captured my heart like Serbia. From its rich history and culture to its breathtaking natural beauty, Serbia is a country that has something for everyone. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of the best destinations in Serbia, including Belgrade, Novi Sad, Golubac, Viminacium, Smederevo, Resava Valley and Cave, Tara National Park, Drina River Valley, Niš, and many more.
The Capital City: Belgrade
Belgrade is a city that does not immediately strike you, but as you visit it day by day, it starts to reveal its charm. Located at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, Belgrade is a great destination for a weekend getaway and has become increasingly popular in recent years among low-cost tourists.
Some of the top attractions in Belgrade include:
- Novi Sad and Karlovci Sremski: These two cities are located north of Belgrade and can be visited on a day trip. Novi Sad is known for its beautiful historic center, while Karlovci Sremski is famous for its wine.
- Golubac, Viminacium, and Smederevo: These three cities are located east of Belgrade and have great historical significance for Serbia and all of Europe.
Day Trips from Belgrade
If you’re looking for a day trip from Belgrade, here are some suggestions:
- Novi Sad and Karlovci Sremski
- Distance: 78.8 km
- How to get there: A 1-hour drive or 67 kilometers by car.
- Availability: All day
- Cost: €50.00 per person – Book online
- Golubac, Viminacium, and Smederevo
- Distance: 120 km
- How to get there: A 1-hour drive or 67 kilometers by car.
- Availability: The Fortezza di Smederevo is open every day from 8am to 8pm; the archaeological site of Viminacium is open from February to November end, from May to September until 7 pm, and from October to November until 5 pm.
- Cost: €65.00 per person (minimum of two participants) – Book online
- Danube River Tour and Iron Gates
- Distance: 129 km
- How to get there: A 1 hour and 45 minutes drive or 67 kilometers by car.
- Availability: The river cruises usually last about 12 hours with departure around 8am.
- Cost: €70.00 per person – Book online
Nature and Culture
If you’re looking for a break from the city, Serbia has plenty of natural beauty to offer. Some of the top destinations include:
- Resava Valley and Cave
- Distance: 155 km
- How to get there: A 2-hour drive or 67 kilometers by car.
- Availability: The cave is open usually from 8am to 5pm, but the opening hours can vary depending on the season.
- Cost: Entrance to the cave costs €2.50 (300 RSD); in case of joining the tour, the price starts from €70.00 per person – Book online
- Tara National Park and Drina River Valley
- Distance: 178 km
- How to get there: A 4-hour drive or 67 kilometers by car.
- Availability: The park and its attractions are always accessible; in case of adherence to the tour, this has a duration of about 12 hours, departure at 8:00 am.
- Cost: Admission is free. Only one area, “Crveni potok – Tepih livada” is paid (€0.80), whose entrance costs 100 RSD (approximately); all trails for hiking are free; you can rent a bicycle for €1.20 per hour and €5.00 for the whole day.
- Niš
- Distance: 234 km
- How to get there: A 2-hour and 30 minutes drive or 67 kilometers by car.
- Availability: The archaeological site of Mediana is currently closed to the public; the Fortezza is always open every day of the year; the Skull Tower is open from Tuesday to Friday until 4 pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 3 pm, closed on Monday.
- Cost: Entrance to Mediana is currently closed, the price would be €1.70 (200 RSD); entrance to the Fortezza costs nothing; entrance to the Skull Tower costs €1.70.
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Food and Drink
Serbian cuisine is known for its hearty meat dishes and fresh produce. Some of the top local specialties include:
- Ćevapi: a type of minced meat sausages that are typically served with flatbread, cheese, and ajvar (a roasted red pepper sauce).
- Pljeskavica: a type of burger made from ground meat and cooked on a grill.
- Krafne: a type of doughnut-like pastry that is typically filled with cream or jam.
- Burek: a type of flaky pastry that can be filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat.
Accommodation
Serbia has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Some of the top choices include:
- Hostels: Serbia has many hostels throughout the country, including some of the most popular destinations such as Belgrade and Novi Sad.
- Hotels: From budget-friendly options to luxury hotels, there is something for everyone in Serbia.
- Guesthouses: These are a great option for travelers who want to experience local culture and hospitality.
Transportation
Getting around Serbia can be relatively easy, with many transportation options available. Some of the top choices include:
- Buses: Buses are a cheap and convenient way to get around Serbia, with routes connecting major destinations such as Belgrade and Novi Sad.
- Trains: Trains are also a good option for longer journeys, with some routes offering scenic views along the way.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Serbian cities, but be sure to agree on prices before you start your journey.
Safety
As with any country, there may be some safety concerns in Serbia. However, the vast majority of tourists have no problems when visiting the country. Some general tips for staying safe in Serbia include:
- Avoid traveling alone at night: It’s best to stick with a group or stay in a hotel when traveling at night.
- Be mindful of pickpocketing: As with any crowded city, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Respect local customs: Serbia is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
Conclusion
Serbia may not be a well-known destination for many travelers, but it has so much to offer. From its rich history and culture to its breathtaking natural beauty, Serbia is a country that has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer vacation, Serbia is definitely worth visiting.
FAQs
- What are the best times to visit Belgrade?
- Best time to visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and sunny.
- How do I get to Novi Sad from Belgrade?
- By bus: The journey takes around 1 hour, with several daily departures from Belgrade’s central bus station.
- What are some popular activities in Tara National Park?
- Hiking: Tara is a great place for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Serbia.
- Can I drink tap water in Serbia?
- Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in Serbia.
Tips and Tricks
- Learn some basic Serbian phrases: While many Serbs speak English, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic phrases such as “hello” (zdravo) and “thank you” (hvala).
- Respect local customs: Serbia is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- Try some local specialties: Serbian cuisine is known for its hearty meat dishes and fresh produce, so be sure to try some local specialties during your visit.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to having a fantastic trip to Serbia!
