Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a vibrant and historic city that offers visitors a rich tapestry of culture, history, and entertainment. When arriving in Belgrade, most visitors will fly into Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, which is located about 18 kilometers west of the city center. From the airport, there are several options for getting into the city. Taxis are readily available outside the airport and offer a convenient way to reach your accommodation. Alternatively, there are also public buses that run from the airport to various parts of the city, providing a more budget-friendly option for travelers.
Once in the city, getting around Belgrade is relatively easy thanks to its well-developed public transportation system. The city boasts an extensive network of buses, trams, and trolleybuses that connect all parts of the city. Additionally, Belgrade also has a commuter rail system that provides access to the surrounding suburbs. For those who prefer to explore the city on foot, Belgrade’s compact city center makes it easy to navigate by walking. And for those who want a more unique way to see the city, there are also bike rental services available for exploring Belgrade on two wheels.
Day 1: Exploring Belgrade’s Historical and Cultural Landmarks
On your first day in Belgrade, be sure to visit some of the city’s most iconic historical and cultural landmarks. Start your day with a visit to the Belgrade Fortress, which is located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This ancient fortress dates back to the 3rd century and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding rivers. From there, make your way to Kalemegdan Park, which surrounds the fortress and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
After exploring the fortress and park, head to the Republic Square, which is home to some of Belgrade’s most important cultural institutions, including the National Museum and National Theatre. Take some time to explore these institutions and learn more about Serbia’s rich history and cultural heritage. Finally, end your day with a visit to Skadarlija, Belgrade’s bohemian quarter. This charming cobblestone street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and art galleries, making it the perfect place to soak up the city’s unique atmosphere.
Day 1: Indulging in Belgrade’s Culinary Scene
No visit to Belgrade would be complete without indulging in the city’s rich culinary scene. Start your day with a traditional Serbian breakfast at one of the city’s many cafes or bakeries. Be sure to try some local specialties such as burek (a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese) or ajvar (a delicious red pepper spread). For lunch, head to one of Belgrade’s many restaurants and sample some traditional Serbian dishes such as cevapi (grilled minced meat) or sarma (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice).
In the evening, be sure to experience Belgrade’s vibrant nightlife by dining at one of the city’s many restaurants or taverns. Many restaurants offer live music and entertainment, providing a lively atmosphere for enjoying a meal. After dinner, head to one of Belgrade’s many bars or clubs to experience the city’s famous nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening sipping cocktails by the river or a night of dancing at a lively club, Belgrade has something to offer for every taste.
Day 2: Discovering Belgrade’s Art and Entertainment Scene
On your second day in Belgrade, take some time to explore the city’s thriving art and entertainment scene. Start your day with a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from Serbia and around the world. From there, make your way to the Nikola Tesla Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Serbian inventor. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays that provide insight into Tesla’s groundbreaking discoveries.
In the evening, be sure to catch a performance at one of Belgrade’s many theaters or concert halls. The city is home to a vibrant performing arts scene, with regular performances ranging from classical music concerts to avant-garde theater productions. Check out the schedule at venues such as the Belgrade Philharmonic Hall or the National Theatre for a chance to experience some of Serbia’s top cultural offerings.
Day 2: Relaxing and Unwinding in Belgrade’s Parks and Green Spaces
After a day of exploring Belgrade’s cultural offerings, take some time to relax and unwind in one of the city’s many parks and green spaces. Start your day with a visit to Ada Ciganlija, a popular recreational area located on an island in the Sava River. Here you can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, or renting a bike or kayak to explore the island. For a more tranquil experience, head to Topcider Park, which is home to beautiful gardens, walking paths, and historic landmarks such as the Topcider Palace.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through one of Belgrade’s many parks such as Tasmajdan Park or Tašmajdan Park. These green spaces offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and are perfect for enjoying a picnic or simply taking in the natural beauty of Belgrade.
Nightlife in Belgrade: Where to Experience the City’s Vibrant Night Scene
Belgrade is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with countless bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to every taste. Start your evening with a pre-dinner drink at one of the city’s many rooftop bars or riverside cafes. These venues offer stunning views of the city and are the perfect place to relax and enjoy a cocktail as you watch the sun set over Belgrade.
For dinner, head to one of Belgrade’s many restaurants or taverns that offer live music and entertainment. Many venues feature traditional Serbian music or folk performances, providing a lively atmosphere for enjoying a meal. After dinner, make your way to one of Belgrade’s many bars or clubs to experience the city’s famous nightlife scene. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening sipping cocktails by the river or a night of dancing at a lively club, Belgrade has something to offer for every taste.
Departing Belgrade: Making the Most of Your Last Hours in the City
As your time in Belgrade comes to an end, be sure to make the most of your last hours in the city. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of Belgrade’s many cafes or bakeries, where you can savor one last taste of traditional Serbian cuisine. After breakfast, take some time to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at one of Belgrade’s many markets or boutiques.
If you have time before your departure, consider taking a leisurely stroll through one of Belgrade’s many parks or green spaces for one last chance to soak up the city’s natural beauty. Finally, as you make your way to the airport or train station, take some time to reflect on your time in Belgrade and start planning your next visit to this vibrant and historic city.
Nevena is a travel writer based between Serbia and the UK, with a focus on exploring and promoting tourism across Serbia and the wider Balkan region. Her writing dives into local culture, hidden gems, and everyday stories that give travelers an insider’s view. Nevena also covers the realities of expat life, sharing honest insights about living between countries. A passionate solo traveler, she brings a personal touch to her work—showing what it means to discover the world on your own terms.