Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, is famed for its vibrant floating parties and underground clubs, making it a top choice for weekend getaways in Southeast Europe. The city is lush with green spaces, rich history, numerous monuments, and endless cafes and bars. There’s something in Belgrade for everyone, no matter the season.
What strikes me most about Belgrade is its resilience. Despite being bombed over a hundred times in the past, it has healed its scars and transformed into a uniquely enjoyable city.
For first-time visitors to this former Yugoslav capital, this guide offers essential information on top sights and activities you can enjoy over three days. Whether you’re a history buff or a nightlife enthusiast, Belgrade has plenty to keep you engaged.
1st Day
Start your Belgrade adventure in the historic heart of the city, especially if it’s your first visit.
Dive into the essence of Serbia’s capital at Kalemegdan Park, the city’s most famous landmark. Stroll down Knez Mihailova, the bustling commercial artery of Belgrade. Don’t miss exploring the Skadarlija district (best area to stay in Belgrade for fist time fyi), often likened to Athens’ charming Plaka, and take time to wander through the trendy and historical neighborhood of Dorćol.
This area perfectly blends the old with the new, offering a taste of Belgrade’s rich history alongside its vibrant contemporary culture.
1. Kalemegdan Park
Nestled at an altitude of 125 meters at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Kalemegdan Park is an emerald oasis of roughly 3,000 trees. Here, you’ll find the Belgrade Fortress, the iconic symbol of the city and one of its most visited attractions.
Be sure to seek out the Pobednik monument, a central figure in the park, along with the Roman Well, the Military Bunker, and the Clock Tower. For those interested in deeper historical exploration, the Military Museum, Nebojša Tower, and the Museum of Natural History are also on site.
Make a point to walk up to the Great Staircase of Kalemegdan for a breathtaking view of the Danube, New Belgrade, and Zemun. This spot is also adorned with sculptures honoring significant artists—a treat for the eyes and the soul.
2. Knez Mihailova
Knez Mihailova Street, the most famous thoroughfare in the city, stretches from Terazije Square to the Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park. This pedestrian avenue is bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, alive nearly around the clock.
As you wander down Knez Mihailova, you’ll encounter street musicians and vendors selling charming souvenirs. Don’t miss the historic buildings and monuments along the way, including the Belgrade Cultural Center Art Gallery and the Zepter Museum, which showcases contemporary paintings.
This vibrant street offers a perfect blend of modern day vibrancy and historical intrigue, making it a must-visit on any trip to Belgrade.
3. Republic Square (Trg Republike)
Right in front of the “horse,” locals and tourists alike set their meeting point. Dominating the central space of the square, the monument of Prince Mihailo Obrenović astride his horse, sculpted by the Venetian artist Enrico Pazzi, serves as a striking landmark.
Nearby in Republic Square, you’ll find the National Theatre, which aims to rival the grandeur of Milan’s La Scala. The Boško Buha Theatre is housed in the impressive Riunione Palace, adding to the cultural richness of this lively area.
These spots are must-visits for their architectural beauty and the vibrant cultural life they host.
4. National Museum of Serbia
To truly grasp the history of the city, I highly recommend a visit to the National Museum of Serbia. Positioned at Republic Square, this is the largest museum in the city and a Cultural Monument of Great Importance.
The National Museum holds an impressive collection of about 400,000 items tracing Serbia’s history from the Paleolithic era to the 20th century. You can check their website for details on opening hours and ticket prices, which range from 250 to 750 dinars.
Plus, entry is free on Sundays! This museum is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and a great way to deepen your understanding of Serbia’s rich heritage.
5. Skadarlija
Belgrade’s Montmartre, the charming cobblestone neighborhood of Skadarlija, was the heart of the city’s artistic life in the last century. This quaint area was once home to writers, painters, and actors who brought its bohemian spirit to life in the early 20th century.
Here, you can explore traditional taverns and art galleries. Enjoy local specialties to the sound of traditional folk music in the background.
The oldest tavern in Skadarlija, known as Tri šešira, has been welcoming guests since 1864. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the historical ambiance while enjoying some culinary delights.
6. Dorćol
A few years ago, the historic neighborhood of Dorćol made headlines worldwide and was featured in Time Out’s list of the “50 Coolest Neighborhoods” globally.
Today, this area along the right bank of the Danube is buzzing with some of the city’s most popular cafes and bars. The nightlife on Strahinjića Bana Street is legendary, with clubs that keep the party going until dawn.
Dorćol is Belgrade’s oldest neighborhood, a vibrant multicultural hub that houses the city’s oldest residential building at Dušanova 10.
It’s also home to Student Park and significant Ottoman landmarks like the Bajrakli Mosque and the tomb of Sheikh Mustafa. This district is a melting pot of history, culture, and modern nightlife.
2nd Day
On your second day in Belgrade, I suggest staying in the old town to explore the sights of the Vračar neighborhood and the cozy bars along the Sava riverbanks in Savamala.
In Vračar, you can visit Saint Sava Church, the largest Orthodox church in the Balkans, stroll through the bustling Kalenić market, and explore the Nikola Tesla Museum. Then, make your way from Sava Square down to the trendy bars of Beton Hala in Savamala.
This area beautifully combines cultural depth with lively nightlife—a perfect way to spend your day and evening in Belgrade.
1. Church of Saint Sava
Don’t be surprised that this church is visible from anywhere in the city center. It’s one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and its grandeur is truly breathtaking.
Perched on Vračar Hill, it stands on the historic site where, during Ottoman rule, it’s believed that the relics of Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, were burned. Construction began in 1935 and the church is still being completed today.
What makes it particularly striking is its impressive dome, reminiscent of the Hagia Sophia, and its subterranean space, seven meters beneath the surface.
It’s well worth descending to explore the crypt and the treasury of the Serbian Orthodox Church—a hidden gem in the truest sense.
2. Kalenić Market
If you’re a fan of markets, then the open-air Kalenić market, nestled in the triangular square between Maksim Gorki and Njegoševa streets, is a vibrant spot where you can immerse yourself in the rhythm of Belgrade’s daily life.
This market, the city’s oldest still in operation, sits just 900 meters away from the Saint Sava Church. Open every day, it offers a delightful array of fresh fruits and vegetables, cured meats, cheeses, meats, fish, herbs, and flowers—all laid out on its stalls, waiting for you to explore and indulge in.
It’s not just a shopping experience; it’s a sensory journey through the tastes, smells, and colors of Belgrade’s culinary scene.
3. Nikola Tesla Museum
Arguably one of the most renowned Serbians globally, if not the most, inventor and engineer Nikola Tesla is celebrated as a towering figure in the realms of electricity and magnetism.
The eponymous museum delves into his fascinating life, from his early days to the groundbreaking inventions that reshaped history. Open daily, it’s nestled on Krunska Street 51 in Vračar. Guided tours in English are available for 800 dinars.
For further details, you can check out the museum’s website. Exploring the Nikola Tesla Museum is not just a visit; it’s a journey through the mind of a visionary whose innovations continue to influence the world today.
4. Sava Square and Waterfront
As you stroll down towards the Sava River, it’s worth taking a leisurely walk along the promenade from Sava Square to the Savamala area. Here, you’ll encounter Belgrade’s newest neighborhood, the Belgrade Waterfront.
It’s a redevelopment project of the neglected urban landscape along the river’s right bank, envisioning the construction of luxurious hotels, apartments, and the largest shopping center in Southeastern Europe.
This square, inaugurated in 2021 in front of the old railway station, features the impressive 23-meter-tall statue of Stefan Nemanja, considered the founder of the Serbian State.
Exploring the Belgrade Waterfront and Sava Square offers a glimpse into the city’s modern transformation and rich historical heritage.
5. Savamala
Savamala, once filled with watermills in the 17th century, rose to global fame last decade when The Guardian hailed it as one of the ten most inspiring places worldwide.
This former industrial area on the right bank of the Sava River has evolved into one of Belgrade’s most significant entertainment hubs. It’s where riverside floating restaurants and clubs begin, offering a plethora of bars with music ranging from rock to techno, and from Latin to traditional Balkan tunes.
At the end of the promenade lies “Beton Hala,” meaning “Concrete Hall” in Serbian. It’s a complex featuring restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs—a vibrant hotspot where you can indulge in diverse culinary delights and enjoy the pulsating nightlife scene.
3rd Day
You can’t leave Belgrade without exploring Zemun, the city’s most picturesque neighborhood along the Danube riverbank. Situated left of the Sava River, after Novi Beograd, Zemun is easily accessible by urban bus from the Zeleni Venac station.
Here, you can visit the Millennium Tower on Gardoš Hill, wander through Zemun’s historic center, stroll along the Danube, and embark on a riverside cruise through the city. It’s a charming district with a rich history waiting to be discovered.
1. Gardoš Tower
Begin your stroll from up high. At Gardoš Hill, located at the heart of the preserved fortress from the 14th century, you’ll find the iconic Millennium Tower or Janos Hunyadi Tower standing tall.
This petite tower, standing at 36 meters, is the emblem of Zemun, offering the finest panoramic views of the city. Constructed in 1896 to commemorate a thousand years of Hungary’s settlement in the Pannonian Plain, it has served as the local firefighters’ lookout in recent decades.
Now, it’s open to the public daily. It’s an ideal spot to take in the city’s splendor and immerse yourself in its history.
2. Zemun
As you wander around Gardoš Hill, you’ll discover a charming village within the city of Belgrade, nestled along the Danube—one of the oldest settlements along its banks.
Zemun, once a separate entity until 1934, boasts quaint squares, churches, terracotta-roofed houses dating back to the Austro-Hungarian era, and cobblestone streets, making it perfect for leisurely strolls.
Explore the area around the main square and the smaller squares like Magistratski, Branka Radičevića, Karađorđev, and Masarikov. Here, you’ll encounter a delightful flower market alongside numerous cafes and restaurants.
Don’t miss the Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas and the Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary while you’re here. It’s an ideal blend of history, culture, and relaxation.
3. Zemunski Kej promenade
Perhaps the most iconic aspect of Zemun, beloved by locals and tourists alike, is the Zemunski Kej promenade that runs along the Danube River.
Here, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility inspired by the river, a vibe cherished by Zemun’s residents. Indulge in local seafood specialties or sip your coffee while watching swans gracefully glide along the river with a view of Veliko Ratno Island.
If you visit during the summer months, you might stumble upon a festival like the Comics Festival, the International Mime Festival, or Tesla Day, adding an extra layer of excitement to your experience.
4. River Cruise
Embark on a riverside cruise along the Danube from the Kej Oslobođenja 3 pier, voyaging from Zemun to both the new and old Belgrade, offering you a fresh perspective of the city.
More things to do..
- If you have the time, I suggest delving deeper into the city’s secrets by exploring its underground. Embark on an underground tour to transport yourself back to the era of the Second World War and be amazed by the espionage and political intrigues of President Tito’s time. Visit the Army Shelter, the gunpowder depot, and an old wine cellar to savor a glass of wine by the banks of the River Sava.
- If you’re a book lover and enjoy browsing bookstores, Belgrade offers many charming spaces, with quite a few doubling as cafes. For some reason, Serbians, especially Serbian women, are avid readers, with over 12,000 titles published in the country every year. My personal favorite bookstore-cafe is called “bookastore,” a place bursting with inspiration, perfect for conversations, reading, and, of course, shopping.
- Before you leave Belgrade, make sure you indulge in the knedle from Ferdinand’s café-patisserie. These traditional sweets, usually filled with apricots and plums, have reached new heights with Ferdinand’s innovative flavors. Resembling large gnocchi, they’re easily the tastiest treat I’ve had lately.
Where to stay in Belgrade
Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Belgrade is divided between the old and the new city. The old city, particularly the districts of Stari Grad and Vračar, where most of Belgrade’s landmarks are located, sits to the right of the Sava River. On the other hand, the new city, Novi Beograd, along with the area of Zemun, lies to the left of the river.
Best Hotels in Belgrade
- (€€€) Square Nine Hotel Belgrade
- (€€) The Location Hotel
- (€€) Hotel City Savoy
- (€) 40 Garden Park
Extra tip..
For those who struggle with the Cyrillic alphabet, navigating through Belgrade might seem daunting with signs mainly in Serbian. If you enjoy exploring the city without a guide, consider downloading the Belgrade Monumental app or the Spotted by Locals travel guide. These handy tools will help you identify the countless monuments and statues you encounter during your walks. Happy travels!