Visit Belgrade: what are the best things to do and see in the capital of Serbia?
Belgrade is especially famous for its nightlife and to attract young travellers, especially Europeans, but the capital of Serbia has much more to offer than that. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe with a rich cultural heritage, a long history and many shows throughout the year, so to satisfy different types of travellers. It is a very beautiful city with liveliness, welcoming people and a superb setting on the banks of the Danube and Sava. It is also one of the emerging destinations in Europe and, again today, the right time to visit it. Here are some of the best things to do in Belgrade if you want to go there on a weekend longer or less.
1. Belgrade fortress and Kalemegdan Park
Flickr – Jorge Láscar
This is the attraction you can’t miss in Belgrade! The fortress is located at the end of the pedestrian street Knez Mihajlova in the "Stari grad" (old city). It is one of the largest fortress in Europe, and Kalemegdan Park around the fortress is the largest in Belgrade. The fortress, which dates back to the Roman period (1st century), is very well preserved and has a number of museums and restaurants, but the best thing it can offer is the point of view since its west wall overlooking the Danube and the Save.
2. Skadarlija
Wikimedia – Remi Jouan
It is the Bohemian quarter of Belgrade, a bit like Montmartre in Paris. Skadarlija, a Hedonist quarter in Belgrade, was the gathering point for the poets and artists of the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. It connects the Republic square with the Skadarlija market (Bajloni), one of the most important in the city centre. Skadarska Street is home to some of the most famous restaurants and cafes in Belgrade, as well as some art galleries. This paved street also includes antique shops and souvenirs, night bakeries and folklore bands. An impressive fresco covers the wall of an old brewery down the street.
3. The old town of Zemun
Wikimedia – Raphaëlle MARTIN
The old town of Zemun is a preserved area with urban life in the 18th and 19th century. The city has existed since the Roman period where it was known as Taurunum . Some vestiges of the fortress are still visible today, especially around the Gardoš tower and the cemetery. In Zemun you will find beautiful Orthodox and Catholic churches and old buildings. Don’t forget to go for a walk on the Zemun dock on the Danube, as do the locals.
4. Republic Square (Trg Republike) and Knez Mihailova Street
Flickr – Anthony Joh
The Republic Square is the central square and the main gathering point in Belgrade for the inhabitants and visitors. There is the National Theatre, the National Museum, the House of the Army, the monument to Knez Mihailo (prince Michel), several cultural institutions and many cafes. It is from here that Knez Mihailova Street, the main pedestrian street in Belgrade. There are many hotels, famous shops and restaurants... This street offers a mix of interesting architectural style.
5. Museums in Belgrade
Flickr – Michael Goodine
Several museums are worth visiting in Belgrade if you have time. The National Museum, the Military Museum, the History Museum of Yugoslavia, the Nikola Tesla Museum (Serb inventor), the Ethnographic Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art are recommended.
6. Saint-Sava Cathedral
Flickr – Jorge Láscar
Serbia has built a huge monument in honour of the founder of the Orthodox Church in the country. No other cathedral in this religion is greater than that found on Vračar hill in Belgrade. This church has the shape of a Greek cross and has a magnificent marble and granite façade and can contain more than 10,000 people at a time. The basement contains a crypt, the treasure of Saint Sava, and the church-tomb of Prince Lazarus.
7. Island and area of Ada Ciganlija on the Sava
Flickr – giulio nepi
It was the largest river island on the Sava until it was connected to the city by two dams. This turned a river arm into an artificial lake, which is now the most popular resort in Belgrade, attracting nearly 100,000 visitors a day during the summer months. There are many sports fields and excellent beach clubs. The full tower around the lake is about 7 km long, with a bike path. In the summer, there are many places to go out.
8. Nightlife in Belgrade
Flickr - Miloš Ranđelović
It is not for nothing that Belgrade is called the “Barcelona of the Balkans”. Nightlife is famous and you will not have trouble finding a place to go out. Among the places where to party, splavovi (floating boats) are famous in Belgrade. To learn more, read our article on Where to go to Belgrade?
9. Mount Avala
If you decide to stay a little more than a weekend in Belgrade, go to Avala. It is a mountain that is ideal for walking and relaxing and is 16 km from Belgrade. From there you will have a panoramic view of Belgrade and its surroundings.
10. Borrow tram n°2
The tram n°2 is a circular line that allows you to visit Belgrade by visiting the city.
11. Explore the basements of Belgrade
Credit – nightlife-belgrade.net
For the most adventurous of you, you will prefer a walk in the underground of the city. The basements of Belgrade reveal hundreds of caves, caves and underground tunnels dug by the Romans, the Austrians, the Serbs and the Germans. A good way to learn more about the history of the city and to do an unusual activity.
How do I get to Belgrade?
The best time to go to Belgrade is at the beginning of autumn or spring. With low-cost companies like Wizzair, you'll find direct and affordable flights to Belgrade from Paris or Mulhouse. To do your search, use Ulysses .
Where to sleep in Belgrade?
Youth hostels are not missing in Belgrade. Small budgets will be there. You have to decide what residential area in Belgrade ! To find a cheap hotel in Belgrade, search our website Compare hotels in Belgrade .
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