Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia – Top 5 things to do

The rich culture and history of Serbia make it one of the best tourist destinations in the Balkan countries and the whole of Europe. There are unaccountable numbers of places you can visit in Serbia that will keep you dazzled and delighted by its charm. Apart from the stunning places, friendly and hospitable people make Serbia more interesting. Enjoy the astonishing scenery of the region and explore the captivating medieval era and other important artefacts that enrich this country. One of the must-visit cities in Serbia is Belgrade. 

Also, known as ‘The White City’, Belgrade offers vociferous, adventurous and a joyful experience to its visitors. Belgrade experiences a sub-tropical climate and receives precipitation all around the year. The warm summers and freezing winters of Belgrade invite tourist from all over the world. The best time to visit the city of Belgrade is from March to May and from September to October. 

Top 5 things to do in Belgrade

Belgrade is truly an extraordinary city! There are so many exciting places for you to see that you will hardly have any time to rest when you are there. Situated on the banks of the Sava and the Danube rivers, this city offers its charm to visitors from all over the world. A place you wish to come back and enjoy its charisma again and again. 

Once you have arrived in the city, you may get confused about where to start with. Here are the handpicked things to do in Belgrade that you definitely shouldn’t miss. 

Let’s explore the 5 best things to do in Belgrade:

1. Belgrade Fortress
2. Skadarlija
3. Church of Saint Sava
4. Ada Ciganlija
5. Knez Mihailova Street

Belgrade Fortress

The Belgrade Fortress is the symbol of Serbia’s Capital. This fortress was built over a long time from the 2nd century to the 18th century on a white ridge, just above the confluence of the two main rivers. It has been destroyed multiple times, yet it still stands to be the capital city’s symbol.

Knowing the history of the Belgrade fortress is likely to know the history of the people and to understand the way of life in the modern-day Belgrade. The beauty and significance of this majestic place can be felt only if you visit it. Under every footstep of yours will lie more history than those found in history books. 

Opening Hours:

The Fortress is open 24 hours (every day)

Also Read: Best Forts in Rajasthan

Skadarlija

Skadarlija is a historic place and is referred to as the main bohemian quarter of Belgrade. It is known as the ‘the Montmartre of Belgrade’. Skadarlija is home to some of the best restaurants including Tri Sesira, Sesir Moj, and Dva Goluba.

It is only a short walk from the Republic Square and Terazije and is located right in the city’s centre. At night, this street is filled with smiling faces and joyous moments. There’s no doubt why everyone gets captivated, as they walk down the street. The fun and positive energy in this buzzing street, especially during late evenings are humongous. 

Also read: Markets in Florence

Church of Saint Sava

The Church of Saint Sava or the Temple of Saint Sava is the largest Orthodox Church in the Balkan region and also the second-largest in the world. The impressive sight of this church will make you understand the reason Vogue Magazine called it Eastern Europe’s Sagrada Família!

This church built in the Serbian-Byzantine style is a symbol of Belgrade and without any doubt is the most amazing structure in the entire Balkan Peninsula. The church’s exterior facade is covered in smooth white marble and granite. The structure is topped with several copper domes. In case you had visited the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, then you will be able to notice similarities between both these churches. 

Opening Hours:

The Church remains open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Also read: Churches in Rome

Ada Ciganlija

Ada Ciganlija is an elongated river island and is rich in wildlife. Ciganlija is believed to have come from Celtic language words ‘singa’ and ‘lia’. Singa in Celtic means island and lia means a land underwater. The name sums up the variability of Sava’s water level. When the level is low the land in Singa (island) and when the level is high it becomes Lia. It is believed that with time Singalia changed to Ciganlija.

It is undoubtedly one of the central ecological points with an area of about 800 hectares. Situated at about 4 kilometres from the Sava River, this island is covered with dense deciduous forest, interspersed with glades and meadows. The Ada Ciganlija is one of the largest, most beautiful and most visited place in Belgrade. 

Ada is rich in wildlife and is also one of the few places in the city where you will be able to spot a deer or rabbit. Even though Ada Ciganlija is in the middle of the city, it has been left all to nature. 

Also read: Greek Islands

Knez Mihailova Street

Knez Mihailova is one of the most expensive streets in the city. This street has everything right from pedestrian shops to high-end international brands. It includes from the fortress to Republic Square diagonally through the Stari Grad and then continues to the Terazije Square. Be it any time of the day, this street is filled with shoppers, couples or revellers. 

Knez Mihailova also houses many national and international cultural institutions. Some of them are Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Centre Culturel Français, Instituto Cervantes and Goethe institute. It also houses lots of cafes and restaurants and a few hotels and hostels. 

Open timings:

Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 12:00 pm; 3:00 pm – 8 pm
Saturday: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm

Similar to most of the major European cities, Belgrade also boasts of rich culture and history. This city was seen to be controlled by different groups, empires and monarchies, throughout its history. From the remarkable history and rich culture to the delicious cuisine and dynamic nightlife, these are just a few things to do in Belgrade! Whether you visit Belgrade to a party or to explore its culture, or for work, you are sure to receive a warm welcome. Hope these recommendations were helpful for you to plan your trip.

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