Hidden in the heart of the Balkans, Serbia is an off-beaten European travel hotspot with a lively cultural heritage, throbbing nightlife, and stunning landscapes. A history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply someone who wants to venture off the beaten path, Serbia offers something for everyone. Below are the top 5 things to do in Serbia that will make your travel experience worthwhile:
Discover Belgrade’s Historic Appeal and Nightlife
The capital of Serbia, Belgrade, is an ancient city, with history around every corner. Start with a walk along the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Danube and Sava rivers’ intricate confluence, simply stunning. Then walk down the Knez Mihailova Street, which is flanked by cafes, boutiques, and street performers.
But Belgrade truly gets into full swing after midnight. The “party capital of the Balkans,” it boasts floating river clubs (splavs) and underground bars that cater to anything from techno to jazz.
Discover the Timeless Town of Novi Sad
Just an hour from Belgrade is Novi Sad, the country’s second-largest city. Renowned for its laid-back vibe and Austro-Hungarian architecture, Novi Sad is a weekend getaway waiting to happen. Don’t forget the Petrovaradin Fortress, affectionately called the “Gibraltar on the Danube.” That’s where the EXIT Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music festivals, takes place.
Stroll along Dunavski Park, discover quaint Old Town, and soak up the café culture that gives Novi Sad its easygoing atmosphere.
Hike and Unwind in Tara National Park
For some green therapy, head west to Tara National Park, one of the unadulterated regions of Serbia. It features dense forests, river canyons of great depth, and the rare Pančić spruce, an Ice Age relic species.
Highlights include the Drina River canyon, the fairytale Banjska Stena viewpoint, and serene lakes like Zaovine. You can hike, kayak, or simply relax and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
Unravel the Mystery of Studenica Monastery
Serbia is dotted with stunning Orthodox monasteries, but one like Studenica Monastery doesn’t exist. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a masterpiece of Serbian medieval architecture.
Hidden behind forest hills, the monastery has frescoes over 800 years old, offering a peaceful and hallowed experience even for secular tourists.
Savor Traditional Serbian Cooking
No trip to Serbia would be complete without a taste of its spicy and rich cooking. Try ćevapi (grilled minced meat), sarma (stuffed cabbage), and kajmak (rich dairy dessert). Vegetarians should enjoy prebranac (bean baked) and ajvar (red pepper paste).
Pair your dinner with rakija, Serbia’s famous fruit brandy, and enjoy a meal as generous and friendly as the hosts who are serving it.
Serbia is not on every traveler’s itinerary, but that is half the charm. Its fascinating mix of history, nature, culture, and nightlife makes Serbia a unique real experience in Europe. If you stay for a week or a month, you will likely depart wanting more.