City Guide: Belgrade

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Belgrade is a city with a vibrant atmosphere, friendly people, and delicious food. If you’re planning a trip to Belgrade, here are some tips to make the most of your visit!

Belgrade has a long and fascinating history, and there are plenty of sights to see that reflect its past. Start your tour of the city at Kalemegdan Fortress, a magnificent fortress that overlooks the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The fortress has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the centuries, and it is now a park and a cultural center. From the fortress, you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the rivers. Another must-see attraction is the Museum of Yugoslavia, which tells the story of the country’s history from the 19th century to the present day. The museum features a large collection of artifacts, documents, and art from the country’s past.

Serbian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, and the food is delicious. One of the most popular dishes is cevapi, grilled sausages made from a mix of beef and pork, served with onions and bread. You can find cevapi at many restaurants and street vendors in the city. Another dish to try is sarma, cabbage rolls filled with a mix of meat and rice, served with sour cream. When it comes to drink, the most famous Serbian drink is rakija, a fruit brandy that comes in many flavors, including plum, apricot, and pear. You can find rakija at most bars and restaurants in the city, and it’s a great way to warm up on a cold day.

Belgrade is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The most famous area for nightlife is Skadarlija, a cobblestone street lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes. The street has a bohemian vibe and is a great place to enjoy a night out. Another popular area is the Savamala district, which has been revitalized in recent years and is now a hub for art and culture. The district has a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs, and it’s a great place to explore!

Belgrade is a city that’s surrounded by natural beauty. The Danube and Sava rivers offer plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can also take a walk or bike ride along the Ada Ciganlija, an island on the Sava river that has been turned into a park. The island has a beach, sports facilities, and restaurants, making it a great place to spend a day.

To Eat: 

• Sunset 1999 at Ada Lake – A great spot for breakfast, looking over Ada Lake! With a tradition of more than 20 years, Sunset has become a true pearl amidst the restaurants of Ada Ciganlija, one of the longest beaches on the artificial lakes in Europe.
• Manufaktura – Located in the very heart of Belgrade. This restaurant offers the most authentic Balkan experience with amazing dishes, drinks, and ambiance with live music!
• Tri šešira – Opened in 1864, this historic eatery “Three Hats” is a true pearl among the restaurants of Skadarlija!
• Cantina de Frida – Cantina de Frida menu is based on the numerous, diverse vivid, and tasty meals from Mexico, South America, and Spain! There is generally vibrant live music here!
• Ba Ba Lu – A fun and swanky spot for dinner! Some of the best gnocchi in town as well!
• Nebojsa – National Serbian cuisine with a  modern twist! Settled within a spacious garden, this restaurant has the perfect ambiance!
• Salon 1905 –  Grand staircase, gilded and marbled columns catapult an intricate vaulted dome. Salon 1905 serves modern Serbian cuisine.
• Enso – The chefs at this establishment are having fun by taking their grandmothers’ recipes and reimagining them with new twists and flavors from around the world! They have a 5-course tasting menu!
• Homa – Homa’s modern cooking has a Serbian foundation at heart, with hints of Italian flair!
• Bucko Pizza – Specialty pizzas with fun ingredients – great for late-night!
• Dva Jelena – Open since 1977, this is a great traditional Serbian restaurant to indulge at!
• Comunale – Located near the Belgrade Pier,  this was one of the first restaurants in the now-reformed trendy eateries facing the Sava River. it highlights Italian cuisine with delicious pizzas, risottos, and wine selection
• Saša bar – This meat-centric eatery is serving up steaks and other sizzling cuts of meat in a charming alleyway!

To Drink: 

• Pivara
• Prohibicija bar – Speakeasy bar
• Ceger Bar
• Bar Central 
• Riddle Bar – Craft cocktail bar
• Restaurant “?”/ Question Mark – Coffee
• Mandarina Cake Shop – Bakery and coffee shop

To Do: 

To Stay:

Western Serbia:

To do:

• Drvengrad (Wooden Town)
• Zlakusa Village
• See the Old Village of Sirogojno, open-air museum
• Boat cruising through Uvac
• Visit the  Ice Cave
• Visit the Drina River House 
• visit Mileseva Monastery – with famous White Angel fresc

Stay:

• Zlatibor Resort – Designed in a modern style, our luxuriously equipped rooms, tucked away in the centre of a tourist attraction such as Zlatibor, are the ideal place for your holidays. Whether it is a romantic, family, or business vacation.

In conclusion, Belgrade is a city that has something for everyone. With its rich history, delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and natural beauty, it’s a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Serbia. Please message me if you’re heading to Belgrade or are interested in Serbia! If and have any questions about restaurants, the layout of the city, or any other inquiries let me know!

Stay Risky,

– John