Things to do in Belgrade
If you love to travel and explore attractive tourist destinations, we highly recommend visiting Belgrade, the capital of Serbia and the largest city in the Balkans. With its rich history and famous nightlife, Belgrade offers countless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Belgrade, you’ve come to the right place. From an impressive fortress overlooking the city to charming streets, from museums to restaurants with local specialties… this is a city that never sleeps. Here, we reveal some of the top things to do in Belgrade that will make your stay unforgettable.
Is Belgrade safe? The 1990s created some negative perceptions about Serbia. If you’re still wondering if Belgrade is safe, it’s important to know that Serbia is now a modern and open country with friendly relations worldwide. Belgrade is an absolutely safe and cosmopolitan city, welcoming numerous tourists who are happy to return. This is also evident from the large number of foreign companies and freelancers successfully operating here. Tourism in Belgrade continues to grow, with most visitors saying they were welcomed as dear friends or family members.
Best Things to Do in Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Europe, offering a unique blend of East and West, traditional and modern, local and global influences. Despite its diversity, it remains authentic, unique, and magnificent.
Destroyed over 40 times, Belgrade has been rebuilt each time more beautiful, better, and bigger. In and around the city, traces of prehistoric and ancient settlements can be found. The city’s architecture features a mix of traditional Serbian construction, beautiful 19th-century buildings, socialist-era structures, and modern 21st-century designs.
Belgrade stands out for the friendliness and openness of its people. The city is lively 24 hours a day, with cafes and restaurants bustling even during weekdays. Belgrade’s nightlife is famous worldwide. Here are the best things to do in Belgrade that you shouldn’t miss.
City Center and Knez Mihailova Street
The most beautiful and famous street in Belgrade is Knez Mihailova Street. This nearly one-kilometer-long pedestrian zone features the most beautiful old buildings in Belgrade. It is known for its lively cafes, stores with world-renowned brands, and a large shopping center.
At the beginning of the street lies the city’s main square, Republic Square, which is a popular meeting point. The square is surrounded by the beautiful National Theatre and National Museum buildings. At the end of the street, you’ll find Kalemegdan, Belgrade’s most beautiful park.
Kalemegdan and Belgrade Fortress—The Most Beautiful Park in Belgrade
Kalemegdan and Belgrade Fortress together form the largest and most beautiful park in Belgrade. Belgrade Fortress was established by the Celts in the 3rd century BC. Over the centuries, 115 battles have been fought for the fortress, during which it was destroyed 40 times. Its current form dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The fortress is located on a hill 125 meters high, offering stunning views of Belgrade and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
Within Kalemegdan, you can visit the Zoo, the Military Museum, the Natural History Museum, art pavilions, St. Petka’s Church with a water spring, basketball and tennis courts, and much more. Kalemegdan has become even more fascinating with the opening of its underground. If you’re curious about what lies beneath, such as the long corridors, bunkers, or the underground water cistern, guided tours are available at very reasonable prices.
Belgrade Waterfront: A 21st Century City
Belgrade Waterfront is the most elite and modern part of the city. Just one kilometer from the old city, when you descend from the city center to the banks of the Sava River, you’ll find yourself amidst stunning modern buildings, feeling as if you’re in Dubai, New York, or another modern metropolis. Here you will find luxurious apartments, upscale restaurants, shops, spa and wellness centers, casinos, and more. You can walk along the 1.8-kilometer promenade between the beautiful Sava River and the modern buildings. For photos, there’s a unique floating selfie bridge located in front of Belgrade Tower, the tallest building in Belgrade at 168 meters.
Cruising the Danube and Sava for the Best View of the City
One of the highlights of your visit to Belgrade will surely be an unforgettable cruise along its rivers. The cruise starts from the old part of the city (Zemun), continues through the confluence of the Sava and Danube, and ends at the impressive Ada Bridge. Standing at 200 meters, it is the largest bridge in Europe with a single pylon supporting the entire structure.
Saint Sava Temple: The Largest Orthodox Church in Southeast Europe
Saint Sava Temple is dedicated to Saint Sava, the most significant figure in Serbian history. Born as Serbian prince Rastko, he chose the monastic path on Mount Athos instead of ruling the state, making the greatest contribution to the development of the Serbian church and state. The church is 85 meters high and can accommodate 12,000 people. Its facade is covered with white stone, symbolizing purity. The interior is adorned with golden mosaics, and on the dome, you will find the world’s largest mosaic of the Ascension of Christ. Be sure to visit the underground part of the temple, which dazzles with its golden shine.
Ada Ciganlija - Belgrade's Sea
For those who think the only thing missing in Belgrade is the sea, there is Ada Ciganlija. Ada is a large artificial lake on the Sava River, located just a 10-minute drive from the city center. Its 8-kilometer-long beaches with warm and calm waters attract tens of thousands of swimmers in the summer. Between the forest and the lake lies space for relaxation, recreation, and sports. An 8-kilometer walking path, sports courts, zip line, bungee jumping, water skiing, and rowing are just some of the activities available. Ada also has plenty of space for picnics, camping, and barbecuing. Numerous cafes, restaurants, and clubs provide fun throughout the day and night.
Red Star vs. Partizan Derby – The Most Intense Derby in Europe
People from all over the world come to witness the derby matches between Red Star and Partizan, known as the most intense derby in Europe. This title is due to the passionate fans, elaborate choreographies, flares, and pyrotechnics, which create an atmosphere like no other in Europe. If there’s no football derby during your stay, you can still experience a similar atmosphere at a basketball derby or at EuroLeague games. Both clubs compete in the EuroLeague, offering a unique experience, not only for the quality of basketball but also for the passionate support of their fans.
Rakija, Serbia's National Drink
If you enjoy strong drinks, you surely know that whiskey is made from grains, vodka from potatoes, and tequila from cactus (agave). Rakija (Serbian brandy) is made from the finest fruits. The most famous Serbian rakija is made from plums and is known worldwide as Slivovitz. Other rakijas are made from grapes, apricots, quince, pears, apples, and raspberries. On cold days, a special treat is warm rakija, often called “Serbian tea,” which will warm you up and lift your spirits. If you don’t drink rakija, it makes for an original souvenir and a wonderful gift for friends.
Nightlife in Belgrade: A City Icon
Belgrade’s nightlife is famous worldwide. Whether you prefer underground clubs or glamorous venues, modern music or traditional tunes, Belgrade promises memories that will last a lifetime. For an authentic Belgrade party experience, be sure to visit both the kafanas and river clubs.
Kafanas: The Soul of Serbian Nights
A kafana is a traditional Serbian establishment where people gather for socializing and enjoying music. Belgrade was the first city in Europe to have a kafana, dating back to 1522. To this day, kafanas remain a favorite gathering place for all generations. Unlike modern clubs, kafanas have a more rustic and traditional ambiance, full of warmth and memories of times gone by. They feature live traditional Serbian music and usually serve traditional Serbian dishes and drinks. If you want to have a great time and experience the heart of Serbian culture, kafanas are the right choice for you. The most famous kafanas are located in Skadarlija, a bohemian quarter that preserves the spirit of old Belgrade.
River Clubs: A Favorite Spot for the Younger Generation
River clubs are floating venues on the Sava and Danube rivers, offering the best party experience in Belgrade. You can choose between more relaxed river clubs with mellow music or VIP clubs where you’ll find the most beautiful people in Belgrade. Music in these clubs typically features international hits and modern Serbian folk music.
Ready to Discover the Charms of Belgrade?
These are just a few of the must-see attractions in Belgrade, a city full of surprises and unforgettable experiences. Feel free to ask if you need more information.