Day 1: Arrival in Belgrade
- Arrive in Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia.
- Check into your accommodation.
- Explore Kalemegdan Fortress and Park, offering historical sites and panoramic views of the confluence of the River Sava and Danube.
- Take a stroll along Knez Mihailova Street, a bustling pedestrian zone with shops and cafes.
- Enjoy a traditional Serbian dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Belgrade Sightseeing
- Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the famous inventor’s life and work.
- Explore the Museum of Yugoslav History and House of Flowers, the final resting place of Josip Broz Tito.
- Discover the St. Sava Temple, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
- Experience Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife with its bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Day 3: Novi Sad
- Travel to Novi Sad, known for its charming architecture and Petrovaradin Fortress.
- Walk around the historic center, exploring Liberty Square and Dunavska Street.
- Visit the Petrovaradin Fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube River.
- Attend the EXIT Festival if it’s happening during your visit (usually in July).
Day 4: Vojvodina Countryside
- Take a day trip to the picturesque Vojvodina region.
- Visit Sremski Karlovci, a charming town known for its wine cellars and Baroque architecture.
- Explore Fruska Gora National Park, home to numerous Orthodox monasteries and hiking trails.
Day 5: Nis
- Travel to Niš, one of the oldest cities in Europe.
- Explore Niš Fortress, the Skull Tower, and the Archaeological Hall.
- Visit the birthplace of Constantine the Great and the Concentration Camp Memorial.
- Enjoy local Nišava River specialties for dinner.
Day 6: Southern Serbia and Spa Relaxation
- Drive to the town of Vrnjačka Banja, a famous spa destination.
- Relax in the thermal springs and explore the beautiful park.
- Optionally, visit the nearby medieval monasteries like Žiča and Studenica.
Day 7: Tara National Park
- Journey to Tara National Park, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes.
- Enjoy hiking and nature walks in the park’s lush forests.
- Visit the Drina River Canyon and take a boat ride to see the famous House on the Drina.
- Return to Belgrade in the evening.
When contemplating Serbia, the mind often shifts to its landlocked geography and intricate history. However, our immersive two-year experience in this nation unveiled a profoundness that surpasses these superficial notions. This epiphany prompted us to curate an exclusive Serbia itinerary, meticulously designed to suit a variety of traveler profiles.
Belgrade, a vibrant city adorned with trendy floating bars and an amalgamation of architectural styles, stands as a testament to the manifold facets of this nation. Notably more cost-effective than its Western counterparts and unexpectedly secure, Belgrade exudes a distinctive allure.
In the northern reaches, a collection of captivating cities each possesses its own unique magnetism. To the west stretches a domain renowned for its unspoiled natural splendor. Meanwhile, the less developed eastern territories radiate their own charm, characterized by enigmatic caves and historic vineyards.
Undeniably, despite its dimensions resembling those of Florida, Serbia offers a treasure trove of attractions. Hence, if a journey to Serbia beckons, this guide serves as an invaluable asset. Within its pages, we delineate three distinct one-week itineraries catering to an array of predilections, spanning from urban enthusiasts to intrepid outdoor adventurers.
Day 1: Arrival in Belgrade
Arrive in Belgrade, the capital city of Serbia
.Explore Kalemegdan Fortress and Park, offering historical sites and panoramic views of the confluence of the River Sava and Danube.heck into your accommodation.
Take a stroll along Knez Mihailova Street, a bustling pedestrian zone with shops and cafes
Knez Mihailova Street, referred to as “Ulica kneza Mihaila” in Serbian, serves as the bustling pedestrian and shopping heart of Belgrade. This historically rich street, named in honor of Mihailo Obrenović III, a prominent Serbian historical figure, holds a safeguarded status. Dotted with structures dating back to the late 1870s, it spans a kilometer in length. The year 1964 marked a significant milestone when it was designated a cultural-historical unit—an innovative achievement for Belgrade. Its importance escalated in 1979, securing the distinction as a Spatial Cultural-Historical Unit of Great Importance, enjoying protection under the aegis of the Republic of Serbia.
Enjoy a traditional Serbian dinner at a local restaurant
Nestled at the heart of the Balkan peninsula, Serbia commands a pivotal crossroads. Its history weaves together diverse cultures, traditions, and culinary legacies from its settlers. Consequently, Serbian cuisine emerges as a harmonious fusion of Balkan flavors. Notably, the nation boasts significant ethnic diversity, with more than a quarter of its populace hailing from distinct ethnic backgrounds.
For Serbians, three cornerstones command reverence: Novak Djokovic, gastronomic delights, and libations.
Given the unlikelihood of securing an interview with Djokovic due to his Monaco residence, our attention naturally gravitates toward a more accessible marvel: Serbia’s unparalleled culinary panorama.
Day 2: Belgrade Sightseeing
Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the famous inventor’s life and work
The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum (Tehnički muzej Nikola Tesla) is a technology museum located in Zagreb, Croatia. This establishment is dedicated to curating and presenting a diverse collection of scientific and technical artifacts that have contributed to the nation’s historical development. Its exhibits feature a wide array of items, including historical aircraft, automobiles, machinery, and various types of equipment.
Explore the Museum of Yugoslav History and House of Flowers, the final resting place of Josip Broz Tito
he House of Flowers reigns supreme among three remarkable structures. Initially envisioned as a winter garden for Josip Broz Tito, it now stands as his mausoleum, fulfilling his explicit wish.
Tito’s funeral marked history with representatives from 127 nations and a crowd of 700,000 civilians in attendance.
Within, an authentic portrayal of Yugoslavia unfolds through over 22,000 Relays of Youth. These relays, if you’re intrigued by Yugoslavian history, resonate deeply. For newcomers, here’s a quick peek.
An annual relay race celebrated Tito’s birthday in the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY). Starting in Kumrovec, Tito’s birthplace, it traversed cities, ending in Belgrade on May 25th—Day of Youth and Tito’s birthday. Each relay carried a baton with a pledge to Tito. The race concluded with Tito welcoming participants at his residence and later at the JNA Stadium. The Relay of Youth embodied unity, camaraderie, and loyalty to Tito.
The mausoleum beckons, drawing former Yugoslavia residents annually on May 25th to pay respects.
P.S. Explorers, don’t miss the balcony unveiling Belgrade’s stunning panorama!
Josip Broz Tito.
Assuming the position of marshal from 1943 onwards, he reinforced communist control within Yugoslavia. Occupying roles as both premier and president, he crafted a unique form of socialist leadership that deviated from Soviet sway. He ardently advocated for nonalignment, cultivating relationships with other unaffiliated nations and concurrently improving diplomatic ties with Western powers.
Discover the St. Sava Temple, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world
The Church of Saint Sava is an unmistakable symbol of Belgrade. Positioned at the city’s core, this impressive site entices both devoted worshipers and curious travelers on a daily basis. Crafted from striking white marble, this monumental edifice stands among the foremost highlights of Serbia’s capital, also claiming the distinction of being the largest Orthodox sanctuary in this global region.
Experience Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife with its bars, clubs, and live music venues.
The city that never sleeps” has become a lasting descriptor of Serbia’s capital. Over time, Belgrade has garnered multiple recognitions as a premier tourist hotspot, and with good cause. The city’s dynamic nightlife stands out as a primary driver behind this reputation.
Day 3: Novi Sad
Now’s the time to think about renting a car. From Belgrade to Novi Sad, the A1 toll road gets you there in about an hour (despite the €5 cost, it’s recommended for the experience). Want more? Take a 20-minute detour to Sremski Karlovci, a charming wine town before Novi Sad.
Sremski Karlovci boasts historical Baroque and neoclassical structures. Its narrow cobblestone streets exude enchantment. Explore for around 2 hours, discovering corners filled with wineries and boutiques offering local goods. Don’t skip a visit to hidden wineries, some tucked into locals’ vineyard courtyards. It’s a unique chance to enjoy locally crafted wine.
.Walk around the historic center, exploring Liberty Square and Dunavska Street.
Visit the Petrovaradin Fortress and enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube River
Step into the Petrovaradin Fortress, ascend via a winding brick staircase to its peak. Up there, an open-air museum unveils fortress walls, arched gates, and areas repurposed as terrace cafes and restaurants. Embrace the stunning cityscape from this elevated vantage. Novi Sad’s nightlife thrives thanks to its youthful inhabitants. The ambiance is dynamic, captivating, and at times exuberant. Explore the animated Laze Teleckog street, a hub of budget-friendly pubs perfect for an evening out. Furthermore, a variety of nightlife options awaits, including classic nightclubs and inclusive strip clubs.
Attend the EXIT Festival if it’s happening during your visit (usually in July)
EXIT (stylized in all caps; Serbian: Егзит / Egzit) is a dynamic summer music festival held within Serbia’s Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad. Originating in 2000, it has earned the esteemed Best Major Festival honor twice at the European Festivals Awards, specifically in 2013 and 2017. Furthermore, EXIT garnered the “Best European Festival” award at the UK Festival Awards in 2007. Worth noting, the Regional Cooperation Council acknowledged EXIT Festival as the Champion of Regional Cooperation for the year 2017 in March 2018.
Day 4: Vojvodina Countryside
.Take a day trip to the picturesque Vojvodina region.
Visit Sremski Karlovci, a charming town known for its wine cellars and Baroque architecture.
Originally known as Karom, Sremski Karlovci first appeared in historical records in 1308 as a fortress. This town holds immense significance in Serbian history, being a hub for the Serbian Metropolitanate and hosting the establishment of the second Orthodox Theological Seminary globally. Additionally, the pioneering Karlovci Grammar School also originated here.
The town’s cultural heritage, primarily formed during the 18th and 19th centuries, showcases notable landmarks such as the grand 19th-century Patriarch’s Palace, the historic Karlovci Grammar School, the intricate Orthodox Congregational Church dedicated to St. Nicholas, the Lower Church which honors the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul and is home to a centuries-old state-protected plane tree, the Upper Church transformed into a monastery dedicated to the Presentation of the Holy Mother of God, the Roman Catholic Church devoted to the Holy Trinity, the Chapel of Peace that commemorates the signing of the 1699 Karlovci Peace Treaty, and the “Four Lions” Fountain, constructed to celebrate the inception of Karlovci’s first waterworks.
Explore Fruska Gora National Park, home to numerous Orthodox monasteries and hiking trails
Fruška Gora (Serbian Cyrillic: Фрушка гора) is a mountain located in northern Serbia. While the majority of its area falls under Serbian jurisdiction, a small part on its western side extends into eastern Croatia. The portion under Serbian administration is designated as the country’s oldest national park. Often hailed as the “Jewel of Serbia,” it earns this accolade for its largely unspoiled landscape, conservation initiatives, and its nickname “Serbian Mount Athos,” owing to its numerous Orthodox monasteries.
Getting There
Fruška Gora National Park, situated near Novi Sad, serves as an excellent starting point for exploration. Accessible from various major cities in the vicinity, the largest international airport is in Belgrade, offering a mere 1 to 2-hour drive or train ride to Novi Sad.
Best Time to Visit
Throughout all seasons, Fruška Gora National Park is a captivating destination. Its proximity to Novi Sad allows visitors to relish both urban and natural experiences, ensuring delightful moments even during the colder months.
Day 5: Nis
Travel to Niš, one of the oldest cities in Europe
The City of Niš, with a population of 255,000, holds the distinction of being Serbia’s third-largest city and ranks among the oldest in the Balkans. Nestled in South East Serbia, Niš serves as the administrative nucleus of the Nišava District. Its significance extends as an industrial hub and pivotal tourist destination on the national scale. In 2005, Niš became a member of Energy Cities, molding its local administration’s stance on sustainable energy development. Joining the Covenant of Mayors initiative in 2011, it emerged as Serbia’s trailblazing signatory, adopting a Sustainable Energy Action Plan in 2014.
Niš actively advances the Covenant of Mayors by motivating other Serbian municipalities to participate and by establishing the Serbian Covenant of Mayors club. Rooted in a commitment to involving local stakeholders, particularly citizens, Niš employs participatory decision-making processes and collectively envisions and forges pathways toward a more environmentally sustainable future.
.Visit the birthplace of Constantine the Great and the Concentration Camp Memorial.
.Enjoy local Nišava River specialties for dinner.
Day 6: Southern Serbia and Spa Relaxation
Drive to the town of Vrnjačka Banja, a famous spa destination
Recognized as one of the top tourist destinations not only in Serbia but also beyond its borders, especially attracting visitors from the surrounding region, Vrnjačka Banja has diligently cultivated its reputation as a premier spa destination in this part of Europe for a significant period.
The origins of Vrnjačka Banja’s transformation, now known as Vrnjačka Spa, can be traced back to 1835 and the visionary efforts of Prince Miloš Obrenović. His aspiration was to elevate Vrnjačka Banja to the echelons of Europe’s most esteemed and frequented spa getaways, drawing inspiration from the renowned Karlovy Vary spa in the Czech Republic.
Visiting Vrnjačka Banja provides a tangible realization of Prince Miloš’s vision, inviting you to immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of this captivating destination.
To enrich your experience and create a comprehensive spa itinerary, we’ve compiled a list of essential locales to explore in Vrnjačka Spa. So, if you’re ready to embark on this journey, let the exploration unfold!
Relax in the thermal springs and explore the beautiful park
.Optionally, visit the nearby medieval monasteries like Žiča and Studenica.
Day 7: Tara National Park
.Journey to Tara National Park, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes.
Enjoy hiking and nature walks in the park’s lush forests
Prepare yourself for a delightful day of exploration in the stunning landscapes of Tara National Park. This remarkable destination offers magnificent lakes, captivating hiking trails, charming historic villages, and scenic riverside dining spots. Allocating a complete day, if not more, to your 1-week itinerary in Serbia, is well worth it for an unforgettable experience.
.Return to Belgrade in the evening.