Guide to Belgrade, Serbia
General Background
Belgrade is a modern and vibrant city situated at the confluence of two rivers: the Danube and the Sava. Its geographical position turned it into an exceptionally strategic focal point throughout Europe's history.
Belgrade is built upon the remains of a prehistoric settlement. Its first urban settlement dates back to the 3rd century BCE, established by the Celts. Its historic center contains numerous Roman remnants. It is without a doubt one of the oldest capital cities in Europe. The many empires that ruled Belgrade—from the Romans and Huns, through the Ottomans, to Austro-Hungary and Yugoslavia—left their distinct mark on this fascinating city in diverse architectural styles: notable Ottoman architectural influence blends with Neoclassical, Baroque, and Art Nouveau styles.
Belgrade combines the old with the new: abundant with impressive buildings illuminated at night, sculptures, and parks, alongside countless restaurants, cafes, shops, clubs, bars, and a casino. Beneath the city lie more than one hundred caves, tunnels, and subterranean passageways.
Did you know?
Belgrade is a city weathered by wars and difficult periods. Over 115 wars took place here throughout history, and it was destroyed and rebuilt 44 times! That is why it has earned the nickname "The White Phoenix."
Belgrade is a relatively inexpensive city. Accommodation, food, drinks (including alcoholic beverages), and entrance fees to major sites and attractions are cheap compared to most European capitals, making a vacation here very attractively priced.
The locals are friendly, welcoming, and hospitable toward visitors. Navigating the city in English is easy and convenient (most young people and virtually everyone working in tourism speak excellent English).
It is recommended to dedicate at least four full days to the city itself, and at least an additional two days if you wish to take day trips within a drive of up to an hour and a half.
Short video about Belgrade:
Location and Transportation
Serbia is just a 3-hour flight from Tel Aviv. The national carrier "Air Serbia" operates direct flights several times a week between Belgrade and Tel Aviv, and Israeli charter airlines such as Israir and Arkia also operate numerous direct round-trip flights. The main international airport is located in Belgrade: Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, approximately a 15-minute drive northwest of the city center. From Belgrade, there are direct flights to many destinations, primarily across Europe, but also to New York and the Emirates.
Serbia borders Croatia to the northwest, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, Montenegro to the southwest, Hungary to the north, Romania and Bulgaria to the east, and North Macedonia and Kosovo to the south.
Public transportation in Belgrade is cheap and fairly convenient, though the best way to explore is on foot as much as possible. When tired or heading to more distant locations, taxis are widely available and very affordable.
Weather and When to Visit
Belgrade can be visited year-round. It experiences no extreme weather, though due to its distance from the sea, temperature differences between day and night can be significant.
Belgrade has four distinct seasons with marked differences in weather:
Summer is warm with an average temperature around 27°C. The hottest month is August with an average temperature of about 29°C, with many days reaching 32°C.
Winter is cold; in the coldest month, January, average night temperatures drop to 1°C below zero, while daytime averages hover around 2°C.
The pleasantest seasons in terms of weather are spring and autumn, with May–June and September–October being especially ideal, featuring average daily highs of 18–24°C and average nightly lows of 8–14°C. Rain can occur throughout the year, with June being the wettest month averaging 100 mm of precipitation and around 12 rainy days per year. Weather can change rapidly from fair to overcast and rainy; even if rain is forecast, it often showers only during part of the day.
Recommended Accommodations in Belgrade
Courtyard by Marriott Belgrade City Center
In the most central location in the city, just across from Republic Square. A 4-star hotel from the Marriott chain. Features a restaurant, bar, and fitness center. Rooms accommodate 2–3 guests and are bright and modern. Free internet; parking available for an extra fee.
A wonderful location in the heart of Belgrade's pedestrian boulevard, between the fortress and Republic Square. Features a fitness room, bar, restaurant, and rich breakfast. Spacious rooms suitable for 2–4 guests. Free internet; parking available for an extra fee.
A 4-star hotel located right on Republic Square, in the city's premier central location.
Offers various room sizes, including family rooms for up to 4 guests. Free Wi-Fi and parking. Includes a gym, spa, bar, and great breakfast service.
A luxurious 5-star hotel in a prime yet distinct setting by the fortress park, about 50 meters from the main pedestrian promenade. Features a swimming pool, spa and fitness center, bar, restaurants (including a rooftop Japanese restaurant), free internet, and parking for an extra fee.
A large, wonderful, and highly recommended apartment in the city center, perfectly situated about 300 meters from Republic Square. Comfortably accommodates up to 8 people at an attractive rate. Located on the 5th floor with an elevator (note: not wheelchair accessible as the elevator stops between floors). Features 4 spacious bedrooms, a expansive living room and kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony. Wonderfully equipped with a washing machine, dishwasher, oven, stovetop, and microwave. Excellent free Wi-Fi. Paid parking available at a garage a 3-minute walk away.
Guided Tours in Belgrade:
Recommended guided tour in Belgrade:
Belgrade Big Tour: Top Attractions and Belgrade Neighborhoods
♦ Recommended Belgrade food tours from Viator:
Food Tour
A wonderful food tour: Flavors of Belgrade - food tour in the historic city center.
Visits 5–6 different culinary stops with explanations on local food and drink, culture, and more. Ask for guide Igor—a knowledgeable foodie and passionate home cook who will take you to authentic restaurants, bakeries, and cafes, ordering the very best dishes everywhere. It is recommended to take this tour early in your Belgrade stay so you can revisit favorite spots and know what traditional dishes to order later.
Garlic peppers and Ajvar pepper spread:
Kajmak local cheese and Ajvar pepper spread:
For sports and action enthusiasts, there are tours on both land and water:
Segway Tour
A fun way to explore Belgrade is by Segway: Belgrade Segway Tour, covering the main central sights in about three hours.
River Kayaking:
Recommended tour: Belgrade War Island Kayak Tour (duration approx. 3 hours).
Bike Tour
Guided bike tour on the river island: Belgrade Island Bike Tour
Day Trips from Belgrade:
Great day excursions heading north from Belgrade lead to Novi Sad and the nearby wine town of Sremski Karlovci—a charming small town near Novi Sad in northern Serbia, well known for its wineries and excellent wines, especially whites and dessert wines. It is recommended to combine a visit to Novi Sad with a stop at a local winery for wine tastings paired with a hearty meal featuring the region's signature traditional goulash. Taking a guided tour is particularly recommended so you can sample freely without worrying about driving. Kiš Winery is a prominent family estate with generations of winemaking tradition.
The tour can be booked through reliable Viator:
Northern Serbia, Sremski Karlovci, and Novi Sad Full-Day Tour from Belgrade
Another excellent day excursion heads east to the "Iron Gate", taking in fortresses, archaeological sites, and historic towns along the Danube: Iron Gate - Lower Danube History Tour. Highly recommended for history and archaeology buffs.
Note:
A single-day trip to southwestern Serbia's Zlatibor area (such as Tara National Park, Uvac Canyon, or Mokra Gora) is not recommended, as driving time takes 3–4 hours each way, and this scenic region offers countless activities well worth staying several nights.
Top Tourist Attractions in Belgrade:
Must-See City Sights:
Belgrade's Main Square - Republic Square (Trg Republike)
The ideal starting point for touring the city. Here you will find the National Museum, the National Theatre, and the equestrian statue of Prince Mihailo. The square is dotted with open-air and indoor cafes and marks the beginning of the "Knez Mihailova" pedestrian promenade, bustling with street performers, musicians, entertainers, food stalls, and an energetic atmosphere. It is especially lively on weekends, but bustling every afternoon when the weather is fine.
Belgrade Fortress
Also known as Kalemegdan Fortress, situated on a hill overlooking the confluence of the two rivers. Construction began in the 1st century CE, making it the oldest continuously inhabited spot in Belgrade. The fortress changed hands many times, being destroyed and rebuilt across generations by the different rulers and nations that held Serbia.
The fortress is situated in:
Kalemegdan Park
A vast public park that, alongside the fortress, features monuments, a Military Museum (with tanks and planes displayed outdoors by the ramparts), a zoo, and a dinosaur park.
Walking trails, sports fields, and panoramic river viewpoints. The park also hosts numerous stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. Entrance to the park and fortress is free; only the zoo and dinosaur park require modest admission fees. A fascinating 2.5-hour guided tour through the underground tunnels, caves, and bunkers beneath Belgrade Fortress is also well worth joining: Belgrade Underground Tour w/ Sparkling Wine Along the River
Temple of Saint Sava (Hram Svetog Save)
The largest Serbian Orthodox church in the Balkans, whose construction spans over a century and is still ongoing. The architectural design takes strong inspiration from Byzantine architecture. The cathedral features a 70-meter-high central dome. Stepping inside to admire its monumental and ornate interior mosaics and frescoes is highly recommended.
Sava River Promenade
A long and modern 1.8 km waterfront promenade along the Sava River, parts of which are still undergoing development. Recommended access is via the stairs and pathways down from Kalemegdan Park, continuing past Brankov Bridge (Brankov Most) to the Old Sava Bridge. Along the promenade you will find restaurants (including floating riverboat restaurants), bars, galleries, playgrounds, and an amphitheater. A dedicated bicycle lane extends its entire length and connects to the broader city bike network.
Ada Island (Ada Ciganlija)
(Connected to the mainland by causeways) Serving as Belgrade's prime recreation and leisure hub. It offers organized lake swimming beaches, pools, active recreation and sporting facilities, mini-golf, and a ropes adventure park. While swimming and certain vendors may be seasonal, walking or cycling along the riverbank trails (bike rentals available on-site) offers a wonderful green escape right in the city.
Zemun
A charming historic suburb of Belgrade situated on the Danube. A trendy historic quarter brimming with galleries, restaurants, cafes, and character. Perfect for a leisurely stroll along the Danube quay, relaxing at a riverside cafe watching the swans. Zemun features an active market, historic churches, and the Gardoš Tower (Millenary Monument), which offers outstanding panoramic vistas over the city, the river confluence, and Belgrade Fortress.
Mount Avala
Located roughly half an hour (25 km) south of central Belgrade.
Features the Avala Tower observation deck and the Monument to the Unknown Hero honoring World War I soldiers. On a clear day, the tower provides breathtaking views of Belgrade and the surrounding countryside.
Recommended Museums:
Belgrade, true to a major capital rich in history and culture, boasts an extensive range of museums, from grand national institutions to quirky boutique spots.
National Museum in Belgrade
The city's largest and most significant museum, located directly on Republic Square in a grand monumental building. Houses an extensive collection of Serbian art, masterpieces by world-renowned international artists, and rich archaeological artifacts from various epochs.
Nikola Tesla Museum
A popular, compact museum honoring one of the world's most influential physicists and inventors of Serbian origin (who lived and worked in the US). An electrical engineer regarded among the greatest inventors of all time, the SI unit for magnetic flux density—the Tesla (T)—is named after him. Joining the guided demonstration tour (included with entry) is highly recommended.
Josip Broz Tito Mausoleum
Also known as the "House of Flowers," this is the resting place of Yugoslavia's prominent leader Tito and his wife. The tombs reside within well-tended flower gardens next to a museum displaying Tito's personal collections and state gifts, chronicling the life of the leader who also commanded the massive Partisan resistance against the Nazis. Located about 10 minutes' drive from downtown in an upscale neighborhood.
Museum of Illusions (Muzej iluzija)
A fun, interactive 2-story museum featuring optical illusions, sensory exhibits, and logic brain-teasers.
Selfie Museum Belgrade
A playful, creative venue featuring themed photo backdrops and installations. It has two locations, with the popular branch located in New Belgrade, about a 15-minute taxi ride from downtown.
Automobile Museum
Housed in the city center within a historic 1929 garage, showcasing a fine collection of around 50 vintage cars (the oldest dating to 1897), alongside historical automotive memorabilia, signs, and technical equipment.
Other noteworthy museums include the Museum of Aviation, Museum of Science and Technology, Ethnographic Museum, and the Military Museum.
Shopping in Belgrade
Belgrade is a shopper's haven with vibrant pedestrian promenades and numerous large, modern shopping centers. Most malls and retail streets operate seven days a week (including Sundays) with generous hours (typically 9:00 or 10:00 AM to 9:00 or 10:00 PM).
Shopping Centers
Usce
The largest and most popular mall, Usce, is located in "New Belgrade" across the river, roughly a 10-minute drive from the city center. It houses top international brand chains, a food court, a teen entertainment zone, a large cinema complex, and even a casino.
Other popular malls include:
Rajiceva Shopping Center – The most central shopping venue in the city, situated at the end of Knez Mihailova near the fortress park, offering popular high-street brands, dining, and a children's play area.
- BIG FASHION Shopping Center
A large, modern shopping center featuring retail shops, a cinema, teen entertainment area, and dining, located about 10 minutes east of the city center.
Beo Shopping Center – A modern mall about 20 minutes southeast of central Belgrade, featuring extensive retail options, cinemas, family arcades, dining, and an entire level dedicated to major sports retailers.
Pedestrian Shopping Boulevards
A wide variety of brand stores and souvenir stalls line the charming main pedestrian street: Knez Mihailova, full of street artists, musicians, entertainers, food stalls, and great atmosphere.
LC Waikiki is a popular fashion chain offering quality items at budget-friendly prices, with branches across Serbia's malls and a 4-story flagship along the main pedestrian strip.
Department Store Jumbo
Fans of large variety discount stores will enjoy visiting Jumbo, offering a vast array of toys, home goods, accessories, apparel, cosmetics, and seasonal items. The nearest branch to the center is located in New Belgrade (approx. 10 minutes across the river), connected to the large Super Vero hypermarket.
Supermarkets
For groceries, visitors can shop at LIDL, the affordable European discount supermarket with branches in the suburbs, or Tempo Centar, a massive hypermarket located roughly 15 minutes from the center.
If you prefer staying central, numerous smaller supermarkets operate extended hours across downtown under chains like IDEA, MAXI, SHOP & GO, and AROMA.
Pharmacies & Drugstores
For health and beauty essentials, Belgrade offers two prominent drugstore chains with branches on nearly every corner: DM (the German chain with locations across Europe) and LILLY.
Markets
Market lovers should not miss Kalenić Farmers Market (Kalenić Pijaca), where you'll find fresh produce at bargain prices alongside artisanal cheeses, smoked meats, baked goods, household wares, and souvenirs, often accompanied by lively street musicians. Located near Saint Sava Temple.
Food and Recommended Restaurants
Belgrade is a culinary paradise boasting a wide variety of excellent restaurants.
Serbian cuisine is meat-rich, with nearly every establishment serving traditional ćevapi kebabs, but starting with hearty soups (especially veal soup) and fresh salads is highly recommended.
Did you know?
The first coffeehouse (Kafana) in Europe opened in Belgrade in the 16th century—long before London, Paris, or Vienna.
Especially popular is the national "Šopska" salad—a regional cousin of Greek salad made with tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and onions topped with grated white cheese. A personal favorite is the roasted sweet red pepper salad (watch out, as spicy versions exist too) grilled and seasoned with generous amounts of garlic.
Peppers are a staple of Serbian cooking, featured prominently across many dishes. A signature local roasted pepper spread is Ajvar.
Food Tours
Taking a culinary walking tour through downtown is an ideal way to get introduced to regional staples, discover which specialties to order, and discover local spots off the standard tourist path.
♦♦ A top-rated private food tour is led by Igor from Tours From Belgrade, an enthusiastic foodie guide whose love for Serbian cuisine shines through. Tours can be tailored to tastes and preferences, and doing this early in your trip gives you valuable dining recommendations for the rest of your stay. Strolling between cafes, bakeries, and taverns, you will also explore central landmarks while learning about Belgrade's culture and history, including the story of traditional Serbian kafanas.
♦ Another popular tour in the trendy Dorćol neighborhood is operated by Still in Belgrade Tours.
This tour combines street art and graffiti with authentic culinary tastings.
The first stop introduces you to a Rakia distillery to sample the potent fruit brandy regarded as Serbia's national drink. Locals enjoy it on many occasions, believing in its medicinal qualities.
The tour wraps up at the city's favorite artisan ice cream parlor, Crna ovca (after sampling classic Serbian dishes including local ćevapi at an authentic eatery).
Highly Recommended Restaurants in Central Belgrade:
Little Bay – A unique and atmospheric restaurant in the center designed like a classic opera house with private red-and-gold theatre boxes. Features live classical and acoustic music in the evenings alongside a creative menu that departs from standard traditional fare, with standout appetizers.
Restaurant Novak 1 – A restaurant owned by the family of tennis legend Novak Djokovic. Beyond a diverse menu with plenty of vegan options (including Djokovic's favorite vegan fig, coconut, and nut dessert), it functions as a hall of fame adorned with trophies, photos, and a life-size statue. A must-visit for tennis fans, and one of the few dining venues offering dedicated non-smoking seating. Located in New Belgrade, near Usce Shopping Center.
Manufaktura Belgrade – A popular venue with a striking outdoor patio shaded by vibrant red umbrellas, alongside an inviting interior. Offers an extensive menu of traditional dishes and broader international choices, including excellent classic burgers.
Proleće – A beloved traditional Serbian restaurant located right along the central pedestrian precinct. Highlights include breaded mushrooms and Karađorđeva šnicla (a breaded cutlet rolled with rich kajmak). For spicy food lovers, Leskovačka mućkalica (also available with chicken) is a great choice.
A classic, authentic "kafana" offering traditional appetizers, hearty staples, and a wide selection of rakia varieties is Grmeč.
For dessert, do not miss Ferdinand knedle, an artisan dessert parlor specializing exclusively in "knedle"—soft potato dumplings with gourmet fillings like pistachio and berries, marzipan, Nutella, strawberry, and more. It offers a contemporary gourmet twist on traditional plum dumplings, with three branches across Belgrade, including one right in the pedestrian zone.