Drenched in fascinating secrets and history in a city founded as early as the 3rd century BC, Belgrade, whose name means “White City” in ancient Slovene, is one of the most underrated cities in the Balkans that continues to surprise visitors in incredible ways.
Tucked between the Danube and Sava Rivers, the city introduces its history to new visitors with impressive sights like the Belgrade Fortress, the historic Temple of Saint Sava, and scars from its past like the NATO bombed buildings.
Shopping in the country’s capital is a must with its inviting shopping districts like the lively Knez Mihailova Street, and trendy neighborhoods like Dorcol and Skadarlija, perfect for searching unique treasures!
Rest up during the day because as many locals will attest, the nightlife is an attraction all on its own! From the best rooftops with soaring city views to the best clubs playing every genre of music – Belgrade’s nightlife is not to be missed!
Ready to fill your itinerary with more amazing things to do in Belgrade? Let’s jump in!
1 – Explore the city’s layered history at the Belgrade Fortress
Visit the city’s main symbol, the Belgrade Fortress, made up of Upper and Lower Town and a true marker of the historical layers in the city, during its construction between the 2nd to 18th centuries.
Around the fortress, visit Kalemegdan Park, located in front of the fortress and used historically for battles. Today, it’s a beautiful park the locals stroll through.
Check out the Phobednik (The Victor) Monument in the Upper Town, a symbol of the Serbian victory against the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian forces, and then stroll through history (literally) in the underground tunnels.
Lastly, stop by Dino Park “Jura Avantura” – a stretch of dinosaur statues open April-December.
2 – Learn about Tesla’s genius inventions at the Nikola Tesla Museum
Enter the impressive Nikola Tesla Museum dedicated to the inventions and life of one of the most popular, inventors, Nikola Tesla.
Spend an hour exploring on your own, or take a guided tour of the museum housed inside an old villa, learning about the life and beginnings of Tesla as a student of engineering, and how he started working in various spaces that inspired his inventions later on in life!
Check out the amazing 3-D computer-generated images of some of Tesla’s inventions from the Tesla coil to the magnifying transmitter, induction motors, wireless power transfer, and so much more!
Entry tickets start at 500 RSD for adults.
3 – Join a walking tour of the Republic Square
Explore the history and allure of the city’s main Republic Square, located in the Stari Grad district, and surrounded by other famous landmarks and monuments worth seeing!
On a walking tour of Belgrade, you’ll get to see for yourself some of the sights in Republic Square, while learning a bit of history. From the statue of Prince Mihailo, the city’s first monument, to walking through one of the main pedestrian streets best known for shopping called Prince Michael Street, and more!
On a 3-hour walking tour, learn about the city’s socialist landmarks, while learning about some other important historical moments, and what the local city culture is like today!
4 – Step into the lush Jevremovac Botanical Garden 
Get some peaceful garden time when you visit the Jevremovac Botanical Garden, also located in the Stari Grad municipality, known for its scenic strolls and picture-perfect Victorian-style greenhouse!
Originally founded in 1874, the pristine garden houses a beautiful Japanese garden, as well as collects various local flora, typical of Eastern Europe worth taking a closer look at. The garden is currently protected and maintained by the Biology Department of the University of Belgrade.
Check out the rich botanical library, containing over 7,000 books and 300 scientific periodicals about European flora. Check out the oldest book, dating to the 17th century!
Tickets to the garden start at 300 RSD.
5 – Explore the amazing crypt of the Temple of Saint Sava
Named after St. Sava, the father of Serbian education and literature, the Temple of Saint Sava is known as the most famous Serbian Orthodox church in Serbia, located on the Vracar plateau.
For many Serbians, the church is a sign of faith and enlightenment, and it is believed that the place where the church was built was the same spot where the remains of Saint Slava were found and burned by the Ottoman Empire. Therefore, the church was constructed in his honor.
Step inside, and head towards the immense underground crypt with frescoes, exhibitions, and other special Serbian Orthodox religious relics inside the Byzantine-style space!
6 – Book a sightseeing boat cruise
Relish a delightful cruise along the Danube and Sava Rivers on a scenic sightseeing boat cruise, and gain a different vantage point of the city, exploring its many sights from the water!
Pass by the city’s different sights like the War Island, the Belgrade Fortress, and Kalemegdan Park, amongst many other important sites.
Depending on the tour you choose, you can opt for a fun boat and drinks tour, or an idyllic sunset cruise, which includes your seat in a comfortable boat, with drinks included, as you learn about the city’s history, other fascinating facts and local legends from your local and knowledgeable tour guide.
Sightseeing boat cruises start at $36 USD.
7 – Get educated at the National Museum of Serbia
From the Paleolithic period up to 20th-century art, freely spend your time at the National Museum of Serbia, and explore the many permanent exhibits detailing the culture, art, tradition, and history of the vibrant city of Belgrade, and the country as a whole.
Check out antiquities from ancient money and coins, to pieces of Serbian and Byzantine art and frescoes, all the way to pieces of art and sculptures by modern 20th-century artists, including Yugoslavic art and a few pieces of international, modern art.
To get to the museum, visit it at its location on Trg Republike, another central and famous square in Belgrade. Tickets start at 300 RSD.
8 – Learn more about Communism in Belgrade on a Communist tour
Sign up for an interesting Communist tour, taking you to all the most important places in the city with remnants of this impactful era in Belgrade, learning everything from architecture to stories, ideologies, and more!
Spanning between the end of World War ll to the late 1990s, on this communist tour, you’ll see the many examples in which the communist era left its imprint on society.
From the grey buildings to learning about the unique festivities and holidays observed by all under communism, stop by a few remarkable buildings which a few important and historical figures visited, and learn the names of the current-day landmarks!
9 – See the interiors of The White Palace
Book a guided tour of the intriguing White Palace, known as the previous home of the former Yugoslavic Royal Family, which was built between 1934-1936 and constructed with the funds of King Alexander l.
Inside, allow your gaze to scan the classic style of the palace, from large halls, wide windows, opulent chandeliers, numerous drawing rooms, and even a library that houses over 300,000 books!
Don’t have time to go inside for a tour? Check out a city tour in Belgrade, and cross off this sight as your tour will take you to the White Palace to learn a bit about it, mostly looking at it from its exteriors.
10 – Get wild at the Belgrade Zoo
Take a break from history and cut loose at the Belgrade Zoo! Located at Kalemegdan Park, one of the city’s largest parks, the zoo is a must to add to your list of things to do in Belgrade, especially if you’re traveling with kids!
Known as the oldest public zoo in the region, the zoo goes under a few names including The White Zoo and the Garden of Good Hope, for its ample amount of animals that live there.
From Asian elephants to Cuban crocodiles, American flamingoes, yellow-billed Cockatoos, cheetahs, pumas, and so many more, the large zoo of 7 hectares houses over 200 animal species!
Entry starts at 600 RSD.
11 – Get lost in the charm of Belgrade on a bike tour
There’s nothing quite exciting than hopping on a bike to explore for hours the beautiful streets of a new city, and lucky for you, that option is available in Belgrade!
Enjoy a fun and informative bike tour in Belgrade, offering you the option of using an e-bike, to glide through the historical streets of the city, while also tucking into some of the hidden corners and narrow streets that not many tourists get to pass.
With multiple departure times, choose between an early ride or a scenic afternoon cycle with your guide, learning information as you move around!
Belgrade bike tours last around 2-5 hours.
12 – Grasp the history of the former Yugoslavia at the Museum of Yugoslavia
Go more in-depth into the history of Yugoslavia at the Museum of Yugoslavia, taking you to the beginning of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, to the Socialist Yugoslavia, and the person behind such a movement.
Book an English guided tour, typically held every Saturday at 11:00 AM, and explore the museum’s permanent exhibits, from photography galleries showcasing antique photos of what life was like between 1947-1980, Yugsolavic nationalism relics, posters, busts of famous figures, and even letters describing a day in the life.
The Museum of Yugoslavia takes you to a time that has since faded into history, yet still has an impact on today’s culture.
13 – Observe the Bajrakli Mosque
Visit the city’s only left mosque dating back to 1575 at the Bajrakli Mosque, located in the neighborhood of Dorcol.
During the Austrian occupation, the mosque was converted into a Catholic church, however, it was restored to a mosque after the Ottomans took hold of Serbia.
Today, the Bajrakli Mosque is considered a national heritage site, despite the troubles of the scrutiny of the Muslim community and difficult tensions between them and the overtly Orthodox Christians.
Visit the sacred, small space, and take in the detailed decor, from its plush carpets to its separate seating for women and men, religious art, and geometric shapes.
Entry is free. Modest dress is required.
14 – Go kayaking around Great War Island
Consider a fun escapade from the city when you go book a kayak tour around Great War Island, getting to know the local flora and fauna near Belgrade and the stellar views of the city.
On a kayaking tour, you’ll wander through the River Danube and make your way through the verdant nature of the Great War Island, while arriving at Veliki Galijas, a lake that takes you through the picturesque woodlands.
Looking for an evening activity? Consider a stunning sunset kayak tour, and take bring binoculars to peek at the incredible amount of local birds! You won’t believe you’re still in the city!
Kayak tours start at $30 USD.
15 – Take a nature break at Javni Akvarijum i Tropikarijum Beograd
See for yourself the diverse array of colorful fish and other amazing sea life that lives at Javni Akvarijum i Tropikarijum Beograd, Belgrade’s main aquarium and tropicarium!
Located only a 9-minute car drive from Old Town, the aquarium is a wonderful place to explore and learn a bit more about the different sea creatures of the world, as well as different types of plants from around Serbia.
From turtles to large reptiles, birds from Africa, parrots, and other exotic birds, to over 40 bonsai trees, and more, this tropicarium encompasses all there is to know about nature!
Tickets for the aquarium/tropicarium start at 500 RSD.
16 – Snake your way through Belgrade on an e-scooter tours
Zip through Belgrade on a fun e-scooter tour, freely roaming different parts of the city, from the historical to the modern, and everything in between!
As you make your way through the city, your guide will make stops to point at different landmarks and sites with historical importance, as well as answer any questions whether it’s about the sites themselves, or best restaurant recommendations in the different neighborhoods.
From the Palace of Serbia and its communist architecture to zipping through the Zemunski kej riverwalk, and taking a peek at the historical Zemun cemetery, these are just a few of the stops awaiting you on this tour!
17 – See what’s inside the Residence of Princess Ljubica (Konak kneginje Ljubice)
Explore the interiors of the Residence of Princess Ljubica also known as Kokak kneginje Ljubice. An example of an Ottoman-style heritage house, the palace was opened in 1830 and was designed for multiple purposes.
For one, it was built to be a representative court of the Serbian sovereign dynasty, and then briefly, it was the home of Prince Milos. After the Serbian family moved away, the space became a museum 130 years later.
Book a tour of the impressive palace, and walk through the different rooms, from the traditional halls to the different bedrooms, and special exhibits! Be sure to book a tour on their website.
18 – Make your way to Northern Serbia on a day trip
Plan a day trip to the northern Serbian towns of Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci known for their charming streets and excellent wine-making traditions!
Explore the charming town of Sremski Karlovci where you can sample some of the regional wine Bermet, unique to Serbia and not found anywhere else! Next, explore the second largest city in Serbia, Novi Sad, known for its important trading history and plethora amounts of historical landmarks, the city has even been dubbed Serbian Athens.
Prep for an 8-hour day-long tour from Belgrade that includes a trip to both cities with wine tastings and a few other stops, starting at $67 USD.
19 – Jet off on a speed boat to Iron Gates Natural Park
Visit the large natural park located between Serbia and Romania called Iron Gates Natural Park on a Danube tour, housing one of the longest and largest gorges in Europe, the Iron Gate Gorge!
With ample amounts of fun water activities to enjoy the outstanding natural scenery, consider a thrilling speed boat that will take you along the Danube River to see the Golubac Fortress, some of Europe’s oldest settlements, until you arrive at the Iron Gate Gorge!
Don’t want to go into the water? Consider a tour with a provided air-conditioned minivan to transport you to the amazing sights around Gates Natural Park!
20 – Plan a day for visiting the Art museums
Opened in 1958, the Museum of Contemporary Art Belgrade is one of its kind to be the first to open up in the world, housing modern pieces of art including thought-provoking Yugoslav-style art.
Check out the Museum of Applied Art, with over 37,000 pieces of applied art within its walls, that cover well over 2,400 years of different types of art, from metalwork to ancient coins, and other forms of cultural art.
Lastly, the Museum of African Art is one not to miss, uniquely the only of its kind in the region, dedicated to sharing art mostly from Western Africa. Stop by to browse the amazing exhibits, or for a theater or concert inside!
21 – Plan for an Eastern Serbia day trip
Plan a tour to explore the historic towns of eastern Serbia, known for the healing waters of the famous spas of Sokobanja to the impressive Silver Lake, near the village of Veliko Gradiste, and more!
Check out a day-long excursion and visit the historical medieval monasteries dotting eastern Serbia, such as the Manasija Monastery. The Manasija Monastery, dating to 1406, still houses amazing frescoes inside, detailing images from the Passion of Christ and scenes from the life of the Virgin and more.
Stop by the nearby Resava Cave on a tour! Known as one of the largest cave systems in Serbia that measures 4.5 kilometers long!
22 – Pack your best walking shoes for some hiking
Challenge yourself to a good hike around the beautiful mountains of Belgrade on a fun hiking tour!
From off-the-beaten-path hiking trails to more popular routes, there is sure to be a route that calls out to your senses the best! Check out a hiking tour of the amazing Great Pyramid of East Serbia, which is one of the most popular hikes in the country because of the mountain’s shape of a pyramid!
To switch it up, explore the beauty of the canyons, mountains, rivers, and dozens of hiking trails at Uvac Nature Reserve when you book a tour that includes a boat ride and hiking for the perfect mix!
23 – Bop around other churches
Located near the parliament of Serbia is the St. Mark Orthodox Church, known as one of the largest churches in the country, completed in 1940. Step inside and take a look at the Serbo-Byzantine architecture, and religious relics.
Known as the first church built post-World War ll, the Crkva Svetog Vasilija Ostroškog was finalized as recently as 2001. Step in, and conclude for yourself how different this church looks in comparison to the other historic churches!
Check out the quaint Saint Petka Church, a small sacred space that was built over a holy spring said to grant miracles since the Middle Ages. It is dedicated to Saint Petka, who is the patron saint of needleworkers, embroiders, and weavers.
Dedicated to the Nativity of Mary, the Ružica Church is a fascinating church to step inside, and specifically check out the grand chandeliers inside. The chandeliers are said to have been constructed by Serbian soldiers who made them out of materials they had like spent shells and other scraps.
Holy Archangel Michael Orthodox Church is dedicated to the Arch Angel Michael, and is recognized as one of the most important churches for worship in the country! It also influenced the fight for freedom from the Turkish forces.
24 – Cruise around Belgrade on a segway tour
Another fun way of exploring all there is to see around Belgrade is on a fun segway tour! Without overworking yourself (hey, there’s a lot of walking to do in Belgrade!) opting for a segway tour offers the perfect mix of exploring and giving your body a break while doing so.
Cruise through the most famous sights in Belgrade and wander through the city’s most magical viewpoints from the riverbanks, and the city’s main avenues, as you pass the fortresses, and even the Roman catacombs!
See more, faster when you book a segway tour in Belgrade, and learn from your guide the history of the sights as you pass them.
25 – Learn about historical artillery at the Military Museum
Go back into Serbian military history at the Military Museum, located in the city center of Belgrade.
Transport back as far as the times when soldiers used swords, ancient helmets, and even knight’s armor, all the way to recent military technology. With over 33,000 items inside its walls and a fascinating photo collection with over 10,000 photos, the military museum will pique the attention of curious travelers for a while!
Hone in on the military equipment used in the Balkans, as you learn about some of the country’s most important wars, and the tools used to win, as well as different uniform collections used through time.
26 – Go on a day trip to the Golubac Fortress
Known as a symbol of power and military strength, discover the historic Golubac Fortress! A medieval fortified town located under 2 hours away from Belgrade near the entrance of the Iron Gate Gorge.
From the Golubac Fortress, get uninterrupted views of the stunning Iron Gate Gorge, and take a peek at the old European civilizations, and the incredible nature of the area.
The fortress has documentation dating back to the 14th century, although some scholars have determined that it could have existed even before that. Its charming castle-like aspect contrasting with the rugged natural terrain of the mountains makes for a perfect scene to take in!
27 – Museum hop through the other museums in Belgrade
Check out the Auto Museum Belgrade, and time travel through automotive history, taking a peek at the different types of car collections! From motorcycles to cars from all different decades, and more. Learn about the different cars, and also who they belonged to!
Similarly, explore the Aeronautical Museum, where you can learn about the country’s history of aviation, from military use to even remnants of planes that were shot down and landed on Serbian territory. Take a peek at helicopters and airplanes used in a variety of situations and eras.
The Ethnographic Museum in Belgrade is a wonderful museum that houses over 51,000 artifacts and documents from the 19th and 20th centuries, giving a glimpse of what life was like in Belgrade then. For the specialized history of Belgrade, check out the Belgrade City Museum also offering a peek at the archaeological, historical, and artistic sides of the city.
In the same way, the Historical Historical Museum of Serbia is another great museum to learn about the nation’s history, from its archaeology to modern culture.
Get brainy at the Museum of Science and Technology, and see the different inventions and ideas that sparked in Serbia, and contributed to the worlds of science, medicine, and technology.
28 – Take a swim break at Ada Ciganlija
Locally known as Belgrade’s Seaside, the Ada Ciganlija is an artificially made peninsula that was created on the Sava River. Today, many locals and visitors love to spend a lazy afternoon at the beaches on the peninsula or settle for a picnic.
Located in central Belgrade, the Ada Ciganlija also boasts numerous fun water activities to enjoy, including the Beo Aqua Adventure Parks, a fun water park for children and families near Sava Lake!
Explore the surrounding nature and the lake itself, by checking out an Ada Lake tour which includes an e-scooter tour and a little swim break on Sava River. Ada Lake tours start at $34 USD.
29 – Shop till you drop on Knez Mihailova Street
Named after the Prince of Serbia who ruled in the 1800s, Mihailo Obrenović III, the Knez Mihailova Street is today the city’s main shopping district and popular promenade to stretch your legs and of course, do some shopping!
The long promenade boasts plenty of shopping opportunities from designer brands, to local brands and boutiques, catering to all different types of styles, and budgets.
At the beginning of the promenade, you’ll see the statue of Mihailo Obrenović III himself, who is known as one of the best leaders of modern Serbia until he was assassinated in 1868.
After your shopping, grab a cup of coffee and sit to people-watch a bit!
30 – Plan a day trip to Fruska Gora
Plan a nature-filled day trip to Fruska Gora, one of the most popular mountain ranges in Serbia, part of the nation’s oldest national park!
With many activities to do in the mountains, consider booking a tour that includes horseback riding, and enjoy a picture-perfect ride along the hills, passing by ancient monasteries, and learning about Serbia’s countryside from your expert guide.
Other tours also include stopping by quaint small towns like Sremski Karlovci, known for its beautiful baroque architecture and locally-made wine. Then, check out the Petrovaradin fortress and Novi Sad known as an important cultural city!
Tours to Fruska Gora start at $50 USD.
31 – Wander through the expansive House of Flowers
Visit the final resting place of the President and the First Lady of the former Yugoslavia at the House of Flowers, part of the Museum of the History of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito.
When the president passed in 1980, his resting place was called the Flower Shop. However, it was considered rude for the president’s resting place to be called a grave, and with so many people visiting, they changed the name to House of Flowers.
Get amazing views of Belgrade from the terrace. Step inside to view the memorial room and learn more about the president, and check out the May 25th exhibit, the Old Museum, and Tito’s Tomb.
32 – Hop on a dreamy sunset cruise
Say goodbye to another day in Belgrade when you sign up for a sunset cruise, lasting around 1.5 hours.
Cruise through the River Danube and River Sava, taking in magnificent sights of Belgrade, including the Belgrade Fortress, The Great War Island, the lively Ada Ciganlija peninsula, and much more! By the time you’re returning, you’ll see the city lit up beautifully, creating a beautiful sight to see, so bring your cameras!
Be sure to bring your binoculars whether it’s to see some of the city’s architecture up close, or if it’s to take a peek at the amazing wildlife flocking to Belgrade’s nature spots on your tour.
33 – Tune into the cool vibes at Skadarlija
Known as the city’s bohemian and artsy street, Skadarlija is one of the cobblestone pedestrian avenues in Belgrade not to skip out on!
Fall in love with the charm of the famed street, from the live music performers performing traditional music, to the ample amount of art galleries, restaurants, boutiques, and cute coffee shops!
Though it’s not a large neighborhood, visiting Skadarlija is a little like time-traveling to the city’s origins. Stop by the Sebilj fountain, a replica of the one in Sarajevo, and check out the souvenir shops to purchase a few goodies for friends back home! Skadarlija is located in Old Town.
34 – Get a bird’s eye view of Belgrade skydiving
Catch some major air and impressive views of Belgrade when you book an epic skydiving experience!
Fly up some 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) and hop off with your experienced skydiving guide who will handle all the technicalities of jumping off and landing safely.
As part of your skydiving experience, you’ll be recorded and photographed so you can later use the images to share on your socials, or simply look back on your incredible act of thrilling bravery in Belgrade!
Oh, and don’t worry about how to get to the takeoff location, as your tour will also include ground roundtrip transportation!
Skydiving tours start at $319.
35 – Take the kids to Beogradski Luna Park
If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to take them to unwind and have fun at Beogradski Luna Park, a small amusement park designed for kids located at the Zamun Promenade!
Watch as your kids enjoy hopping on the wacky worm roller coaster, playing with the Super Mario-inspired games, the carousel, bumper cars, air hockey, jumping high on the trampoline, and many more fun activities!
Is it a rainy day? Check out the game room with tons of indoor games!
The price list for the Beogradski Luna Park is dependent on the tokens that you buy, starting with 1 token for 150 RSD to 50 tokens for 3,500 RSD.
36 – Figure out the tricks at the Museum of Illusions
Looking for some head-scratching fun? Check out the Museum of Illusions, offering a mind-bending good time with tons of fun rooms created to twist reality a bit!
This family-friendly museum is one of the best things to do in Belgrade whether the weather isn’t cooperating outside, or you’re looking for something a bit unique to do in the city!
Have fun playing with the turntables, take a seat on the Chair of Illusion, figure out how the Rotated Room works, and try to hold on as you make it through the spinning Vortex Tunnel.
Grab your skip-the-line tickets ahead of time for only $8.79 USD!
37 – Hit up the Štark Arena for a concert
Sway to the sound of live music when you attend a concert at Štark Arena, one of the most popular arenas in Belgrade where dozens of concerts, as well as basketball tournaments and other large-scale events, take place!
Located a little outside the city center of Belgrade, the Štark Arena can hold up to 18,368 visitors, and can easily be accessed via public transportation.
Check out the arena’s calendar of upcoming events, select from several national and international artists, and prep for a fun night ahead!
Pro tip: If you plan to attend a concert at the arena, consider taking public transportation, as parking may be limited!
38 – Attend an adrenaline-pumping Football match
With a few teams and stadiums dotting the city, and their good reputation for playing well, watching a football match is a must when visiting Belgrade!
Check out the game at Rajko Mitić Stadium (Marakana), home of the Red Star Belgrade! Don’t have time to watch a game? Check out a football stadium tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at the stadium’s facilities!
Partizan Stadium (Stadium JNA) is another main stadium, home of the FK Partizan and the Serbian National Team. To catch a game, make sure to head to their website to purchase tickets!
Die-hard football fans, sign up for the Belgrade Football History Tour, which encompasses the city’s passion for football in a fun walking tour around the Dorcal neighborhood, and other fascinating facts that intertwine football and society.
39 – Get up to Avala Mountain on a day trip
Fall in love with the city views from Aval Mountain, a towering mountain only 10 kilometers from Belgrade.
Whether it’s the breathtaking views, or sheer nature with its fresh mountain water and fragrant pine tree forests, those who make it up must pack a picnic and plan to relax and unwind.
Avala Mountain tours from Belgrade are available and a wonderful option to consider whether you want to take a comfortable car, or you want a good challenge and you opt for a bike tour!
Your tour guide will inform you of the mystical stories that surround the mountain, as well as the expansive flora and fauna!
40 – Learn about the NATO bombed buildings
Since the bombing of the Yugoslav Army Headquarters in 1999, the ruins of the catastrophe are what most call the NATO bombed buildings, which are centrally located in Belgrade, just a few steps from the city’s main bus and train station.
The cause of the bombings is said to originate with the intervention of NATO to prevent a potential war within the Balkans, and since the bombing occurred, now over 20 years, the buildings remain the same in their destroyed appearance.
Learn about the bombed buildings, and take in the raw vision of the ruins of the Yugoslav Army Headquarters, to its bare bones.
41 – Deconstruct the meaning behind the murals on a street art tour
Explore the city and get to know its culture and social issues via an educative and fascinating street art tour!
Walk through the various streets and neighborhoods, from the Dorcol neighborhood to see the art at the Cultural Center Parobrod, the Gundulicev Venae, the BITEF Theater, and many more places with incredible street art!
On your 2-hour street art tour, your knowledgeable and local guide will shed not only fascinating facts about the street and the artist but also shed light on the meaning of the art as a way of self-expression for many young Serbians.
Street art tours start at as little as $0 USD.
42 – Step inside the opulent Stari Dvor and Novi Dvor
The Stari Dvor and Novi Dvor both symbolize the city’s power and the previous royal family.
The Stari Dvor (old palace) was the home of the Obrenović dynasty, the Royal Serbian family that ruled throughout the 1800s. They were later abolished in 1945. Today, the Old Palace is home to the City Assembly of Belgrade which is open for tours!
The Novi Dvor (new palace) was built to be the palace where the Karađorđević dynasty would live. The Karađorđević dynasty was the former Yugoslavia Royal Family. Today, the Nvor Dvor is Serbia’s Presidential Palace, and you can also book a 1-hour guided tour to see the impressive interiors!
43 – Enjoy Nis on a day trip
Book a Nis tour from Belgrade, and enjoy what this ancient city has to offer, from its amazing archaeological ruins and the Archaeological Hall of the National Museum to something a bit more creepy like the Skull Tower built with 58 visible human skulls, and more!
Nis is known as one of the oldest European cities, and in fact, at one point was the city that connected Belgrade and Istanbul, which was especially important for trading purposes.
On the day-long excursion, enjoy uncovering the secrets and fascinating history of the city, as you get transported from Belgrade to Nis, and all around to different sites in a comfortable air-conditioned car.
44 – Bring your best outfit for a night out at the theater
Enjoy a movie inside the beautiful mts Dvorana, featuring everything from international blockbusters to indie Serbian films!
Looking for some live theater? Don’t pass up evening plans at Terazije Theatre and catch world-famous theater productions like Chicago, and other famous productions! Known as the city’s only live theater that produces musicals, don’t miss your chance to see the local talent here take center stage!
Step inside the stunning 19th-century National Theatre in Belgrade to get a taste of local theater productions, with its first-ever production enchanting visitors since 1869!
To interact with up-and-coming local talent, check out SKC (Studentski Kulturni Centar), a space for film screenings, concerts, local theater, and other cultural events, typically attracting a younger crowd!
45 – Go to Drina House on a day trip
A sight to see while in Belgrade is the amazing Drina House, a house that is built on top of a rock, in the middle of Drina River only 2.5 hours away from Belgrade.
Built by swimmers looking for a place to rest in the late 60s, the wooden structure stands proudly in the middle of the river, making visitors scratch their heads with curiosity and intrigue as to why and how this came to be.
The best way to learn this is by booking a Drina House tour from Belgrade, and asking your tour guide directly. You’ll stop by the Mokra Gora Wooden Village, and explore western Serbia!
46 – Climb up the Millenium Tower (Gardoš Tower)
Located in the lovely neighborhood of Zemun, the Millenium Tower (Gardoš Tower) is a tower that was built 1,000 years after the settlement of Hungary in the Pannonian region, which is modern-day Belgrade.
Considered 1 of the 4 Millennium Towers that the Hungarians built, this particular tower is located near the 9th-century Zemun fortress, whose ruins can still be seen today. The tower however opened in 1896 and was built and seen as a symbol of power as well as used as a lookout tower.
Today, a mix of temporary exhibits are hosted inside, and of course, the observation tower at the top is a popular attraction to explore!
47 – Plan an outing to Timisoara on a day trip
Visit Timisoara, known historically as the unofficial capital city of the subregion of Transylvania, which was known as Banat in the 1800s. On another note, it was also the first European city to have electricity street lamps in 1884!
On a fascinating day trip to Timisoara from Belgrade, you’ll enjoy traveling through the Serbian countryside until arriving in Timisoara.
Enjoy a walking tour to immerse yourself in the culture, stopping by the Orthodox Cathedral, Libertatii Square, and Piata Vioctoriei, and exploring on your own! Try some of the region’s specialty dishes like Sarma, which is a grape leaf stuffed with fillings, and a glass of fruity rakija!
48 – Watch a basketball game at the Aleksandar Nikolić Hall (sports complex)
Known as a famous local sports venue in Palilula, only a 10-minute drive from Belgrade, the Aleksandar Nikolić Hall is a sports complex with a capacity of 8,000 people and was named after a Serbian basketball player and coach in 2016.
Come by, and cheer on the Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) basketball team, for a riveting game, or check out the Pionir Ice Hall next door, and watch a competitive figure ice skating game or hockey game!
On occasion, the Pionir Ice Hall will also open the ice rink to the public to enjoy some ice skating, so make sure to check the events calendar!
49 – Relish the best of Serbian food on a food tour
Expand your Serbian culinary knowledge on a delicious Serbian food tour through Belgrade, and sample the best of the rich culinary scene that involves tradition, delicious flavors, and various historical influences.
On a food tour, you’ll stop by some of Belgrade’s most popular restaurants and other local food joints that locals frequent, to try several different dishes and house specialties!
From Ajvar, which is a vegetable relish made with red bell peppers and eggplants enjoyed with grilled meats, to Srpska Salata, a traditional Bulgarian salad that includes many fresh vegetables, and much more!
Taste-test Serbian rakija, and you’re set for a delicious experience!
50 – Pack a picnic at the best parks
Enjoy a lovely stroll through Tasmajdan Park, brimming with picture-perfect gardens, fountains, ample green spaces, and a few bars and restaurants nearby!
Plan the perfect afternoon at Topčider Park, walking under the ancient Sycamore trees, and viewing the Topčider Church and nearby restaurants.
Hang with the locals at Sava Promenada, a 1.8 kilometers path with biking trails, tons of children’s playgrounds, murals, an amphitheater, and benches to sit and take it all in.
Make the trip to Hyde Park, a beautiful urban park with tons of tree-lined walking paths, quaint ponds, and plenty of picnic tables to enjoy a lovely outdoor lunch.
Also known as just City Park, Zemun City Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in Belgrade for sights inside like the old Zemun high school from the 1880s, the monument of the partisan bomber, and the bust of Serbian poet, Branko Radičević, and more!
Bring a book to read at the lovely Karađorđev Park, offering idyllic green spaces to spread out your blanket, near a water pond and under a shady tree.
51 – Try out some Serbian wine at a wine tasting
With growing popularity and recognition, Serbian wines have successfully started to make their mark on the global wine map as a destination offering delectable wines worth trying! So trade the rakija for some sauvignon blanc on a delicious wine tasting!
Enjoy your wine tasting, not in a vineyard or a restaurant/bar, but instead, underground inside the Belgrade Fortress’ army bunker, where your tour will explain the history of Serbian wines inside this historic setting.
Learn about both the Cold War and a few historical and archaeological events while sampling the best Serbian wines in perhaps one of the most unique venues! Wine tours start at $29 USD.
52 – Enjoy a meal at the best restaurants
Indulge in traditional Serbian cuisine at the oldest restaurant in Belgrade, Znak Pitanja! Offering traditional meats, beans, soups, stews, and more, enjoy the historic ambiance and wonderful Serbian hospitality!
Step into the aromatic Manufaktura, and enjoy the cozy and relaxing vibes as you enjoy classic Serbian dishes using traditional recipes with the perfect addition of dried meats and local wine.
Celebrating something? Check out Enso, dishing up Mediterranean dishes at this fine dining restaurant. Enjoy chef-created dishes that look like art, showing you a slice of modern Serbian cuisine with a twist.
Enjoy traditional Serbian dishes at Kafana Kalenić, offering over 80 years of family-friendly service, in the Milesevska neighborhood.
53 -Taste some local beer at a beer tasting
Known as the craft beer capital of Serbia, there’s truly no better place in the country to enjoy a beer tasting, and enjoy Serbian beer at the best breweries in Belgrade!
On a beer-tasting tour, enjoy for 3-4 hours hopping around the city’s best beer bars in the different neighborhoods, as you stop at each brewery and sample the best craft beers!
Learn about the beer-making process from the beer masters, and with your tour guide, learn about local drinking traditions and customs that go beyond just drinking rakija!
Try over 9 different craft beers, stop by 4 breweries, and enjoy a cheese platter to compliment the experience!
54 – Go shopping at Kalenić Green Market
Be local at Kalenić Green Market, offering some of the freshest ingredients from deli meats, fruits, vegetables, spices, dairy products, tea, herbs, and more! Stimulate your senses from the aromas of the fresh ingredients to the sights of colorful flowers and more.
See as the farmers sell their products, and observe local market customs. Located a 6-minute car drive from Old Town, the open-air market is open Monday-Sunday, 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM all year round except for the winter season, with the hours of 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Later, stop by the local restaurants and cafes for some more fuel for the day!
55 – Check out the Belgrade Western Gate
Also known as the Genex Tower, the Belgrade Western Gate comprises 2 towers, one 36-stories, and the other 26-stories, connected by a 2-story bridge.
Inside the gates, there are multiple residences and office spaces, and at the top of the building, is a revolving restaurant with picture-perfect, 360-degree style views of the city.
The interesting building was built in 1977 and was designed in a Brutalist style. At its base, you’ll find some graffiti and a few shops, so make sure to bring your cameras!
The Belgrade Western Gate is Serbia’s 2nd tallest building, and accessible for visitors to enter and get amazing views of the city from the top!
56 – Get a scenic view of Belgrade at the best rooftop bars
Get panoramic views of the city and the Danube River from The Roof at Prezident Palace! Relax in one of the sun lounger chairs, with a craft cocktail in hand, and relish the evening breeze on one of the most luxurious rooftops!
Enjoy Mediterranean gastro-pub bites and the specialty house cocktail at Heritage Rooftop, located on the 9th floor of the swanky Heritage Hotel. Select from over 50 wines, as the beats continue playing in the background.
Enjoy the youthful and colorful vibes at Mama Shelter Rooftop, located in the popular Stari Grad neighborhood. Order a house-special frozen cocktail, with a side of Serbian bites.
57 – Plan to join a fun pub crawl
Enjoy the night at some of the best pubs and bars in Belgrade, from an American-style speakeasy at the Druid to eclectic cocktails at Kultura Bar, and DIM, known for their creative cocktails and bumping electronic music pulsing through the DJ bar.
As a rule of thumb, most of the popular and interesting bars are typically found in the Savamala quarter, known as the city’s hipster, trendy, and creative neighborhood!
Another great plan is to join a pub crawl through Belgrade, and get taken straight to the best bars and pubs without having to figure it out yourself! Receive VIP treatment at the bars, and taste test the signature cocktails!
58 – Paint the town red discovering the Nightlife in Belgrade
Explore the best of Belgrade’s nightlife options, from techno clubs, electronic music clubs, hip hop clubs, and more!
Stay until the early hours when you hit up the famous Gradska Kafana, and maybe bump into a local celebrity as they tend to frequent this club in Belgrade!
On a budget? Extend the night at Klub Studenata Tehnike Belgrade, offering reasonably priced drinks and a whole lot of fun meeting open-minded individuals with one goal in mind – to have fun!
Check out the unique floating river clubs called Splavovi, open between April-September, offering a variety of different music and vibes, from mainstream splavs, alternative splavs, and more!
59 – Play your luck at Grand Casino Beograd
Hit the slot machines and enjoy the exciting atmosphere of the live games and more when you check out Grand Casino Beograd!
Choose over 200 new slot machines, or hit up the poker table, and even think about visiting during the poker festival held at the casino, or a riveting poker tournament!
The casino may be known for traditional games, but make sure to check the calendar, and see more exciting events coming up, from live music concerts, the Belgrade Boat Carnival, themed parties, and even fashion shows!
Located only 7 minutes away from the city center, the Grand Casino Beograd surely offers more than meets the eye!
How to get to Belgrade?
The city’s main airport is Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, located 1 hour away on public transportation, and only 18 minutes via car. If you’re looking to facilitate your transportation between the airport and your hotel, the best option is to pre-book an airport transfer!
Starting at $38 USD, enjoy the comforts of arriving directly at your hotel, versus searching for public transport.
Where to stay in Belgrade?
Enjoy the modern amenities at MARK Hotel, centrally located and only a few minutes away from the city center! Relish the hotel’s fresh continental breakfast by day, and by night, toast with a craft cocktail at the hotel’s bar!
Spend a few nights at Hotel Skadarlija NB, featuring clean and modern-designed rooms, with the best selection of restaurants nearby! Located in the famous Stari Grad district, be in the middle of everything in the city!
Bask in the opulence and beauty of the new Eden Luxury Suites Terazije, with large windows and amazing views of the city, an easy check-in process, and professional and warm hospitality from the hotel staff.
Also located in the heart of Belgrade is the wonderful Central Point Hotel Beograd, equipped with an in-house gym, plenty of lounges to relax in, a splendid terrace with city views, and a fresh American continental breakfast!
Visiting Belgrade on a budget?
Stretch your travel budget and widen your knowledge on a free walking tour in Belgrade! Explore on foot with your tour guide and other like-minded travelers the history and mystery of the city’s best-kept secrets, and most popular landmarks!
What’s more, you can ask your tour guide for insider tips for a smoother experience in Belgrade, and restaurant recommendations.
Where to go next?
Explore some of the best day trips from Belgrade for an extended period with the multi-day trips from Belgrade!
Set your adventures south and explore other popular Balkan cities like Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, brimming with layers of history and tons of amazing sites to see for yourself!
Podgorica, Montenegro is another wonderful city known for its historic Ottoman past with its 15th-century mosques and other religious buildings. Interested in the clash of nature and culture? Head to Kotor and indulge in the rich nature around for incredible hiking opportunities around historic sites!
Next, head to Skopje, North Macedonia, offering an in-depth look at Alexander the Great at the “Warrior on a Horse” statue, and Sofia, Bulgaria offering theater, and snow sports activities!
Check out Zagreb, Croatia and spend time museum hopping at the world-class museums, and then move over the beauty of Budapest on the city’s Buda Castle Hill Funicular!
Final thoughts
From the impressive Belgrade Fortress, to wandering through the city’s cool neighborhoods like Skadarlija and Stari Grad district and learning about the genius Nikola Tesla, the amount of things to do in Belgrade is enough to exceed your expectations!
Which attraction caught your eye the most? Let us know!
Happy travels!