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Belgrade

Serbia

About Belgrade

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, sits at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. One of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, it blends a turbulent history with an infectious energy — famous for its nightlife, riverside splavovi (floating clubs), and a rapidly evolving food scene. The city's fortress, bohemian quarter, and brutalist architecture create a uniquely layered urban landscape.

Despite its size, Belgrade remains remarkably affordable compared to Western European capitals, offering excellent value for travelers who love culture, history, and good food.

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Quick Tips

  • Currency: Serbian Dinar (RSD). Cards accepted in most places, but carry cash for markets and smaller cafés.
  • Transport: Buses and trams cover the city well. Buy a BusPlus card at kiosks. Taxis are cheap — use the CarGo app to avoid scams.
  • Tipping: Round up or leave 10%. Service charge is not usually included.
  • Nightlife: Belgrade's club scene starts late — midnight or later. The splavovi (river clubs) on the Sava are legendary and run all summer.
  • Rakija: Serbia's national spirit is offered as a welcome drink everywhere. Try šljivovica (plum) or kajsija (apricot) — it's always homemade and always strong.

Interesting Places to Visit

Belgrade Fortress & Kalemegdan Park

A massive fortress complex overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. Explore Roman, Ottoman, and Austrian layers of history. The surrounding Kalemegdan Park is the city's favorite gathering spot.

Skadarlija (Bohemian Quarter)

Belgrade's Montmartre — a cobblestone street lined with traditional Serbian restaurants (kafanas) where live folk music fills the air. The best place to try a full Serbian feast with rakija.

Temple of Saint Sava

One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, with a stunning gold-and-mosaic interior completed in 2020. The crypt below features breathtaking Byzantine-style mosaics. Free entry.

Knez Mihailova Street

Belgrade's main pedestrian boulevard, stretching from Republic Square to Kalemegdan. Lined with elegant 19th-century buildings, shops, and cafés. The heart of city life and people-watching.

Ada Ciganlija

Belgrade's "sea" — a river island turned peninsula with a sandy beach, clear lake water, sports facilities, and bars. Locals flock here every summer. Great for swimming, cycling, and barbecue.

Nikola Tesla Museum

A small but fascinating museum dedicated to Serbia's most famous inventor. Holds Tesla's original urn and personal documents. Interactive demonstrations of his inventions run throughout the day.

Zemun

A charming former Austro-Hungarian town now part of Belgrade, with red-roofed houses climbing up Gardoš Hill. Climb the Millennium Tower for panoramic Danube views. Excellent riverside fish restaurants.

When to Visit

Belgrade is a year-round destination, but the seasons bring very different vibes:

🌸 Spring (March – May)

Excellent choice. Mild weather (12–22°C), blooming parks, and outdoor café terraces reopen. The city comes alive after winter.

  • Kalemegdan gardens in full bloom
  • Fewer tourists than summer
  • Belgrade Marathon (April)

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Hot (25–35°C) and vibrant. River clubs and Ada Ciganlija beach at peak season. Long warm evenings perfect for outdoor dining.

  • Splavovi nightlife in full swing
  • EXIT Festival in nearby Novi Sad (July)
  • Beer Fest Belgrade (August)

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

Pleasant temperatures (8–20°C), beautiful fall colors along the rivers. September is arguably the best month — warm, calm, and less crowded.

  • Belgrade Jazz Festival (October)
  • Wine season and harvest festivals
  • Cozy kafana season begins

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Cold (−2 to 6°C) but atmospheric. Fewer tourists, lower prices. Belgrade's indoor cultural scene — theaters, galleries, and warm kafanas — takes center stage.

  • New Year's celebrations on the streets
  • Affordable accommodation
  • Hot rakija and comfort food season

Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)

Belgrade's food scene is hearty, meat-heavy, and incredibly affordable. Step away from the main tourist drag for the best value:

Dva Jelena (Skadarlija)$ – $$

One of Skadarlija's most iconic kafanas, serving traditional Serbian cuisine since 1832. Try the ćevapi, pljeskavica, or Karađorđeva šnicla. Live music most evenings. Mains 800–1,500 RSD (~€7–13).

Comunale Caffé & Cucina$$

Modern Mediterranean-Serbian fusion in Dorćol. Excellent pasta, grilled meats, and creative salads. Beautiful interior and terrace. Mains 1,200–1,800 RSD (~€10–15).

Pekara (any neighborhood bakery)$

Serbian bakeries are everywhere and incredibly cheap. Try burek (flaky phyllo with meat or cheese), gibanica (cheese pie), or proja (cornbread). A filling meal for 150–300 RSD (~€1.30–2.50).

Restoran Zavičaj$ – $$

Authentic homestyle Serbian cooking near Republic Square. Famous for its mixed grill platters and prebranac (baked beans). Generous portions at fair prices. Mains 700–1,400 RSD (~€6–12).

Manufaktura$ – $$

Beautifully designed restaurant on Knez Mihailova serving Serbian comfort food. Great kajmak (creamy cheese spread) starters and grilled meats. Mains 900–1,600 RSD (~€8–14).

Saran (Zemun)$$ – $$$

The best river fish restaurant in Belgrade, right on the Danube in Zemun. Try the fish soup (riblja čorba) and grilled catfish. Worth the trip. Mains 1,200–2,500 RSD (~€10–21).

Walter (multiple locations)$

Belgrade's favorite ćevapi spot. Perfectly grilled minced meat served in somun bread with onion and kajmak. A ćevapi portion costs around 500–700 RSD (~€4–6). Fast, no-fuss, delicious.