Serbian Adventure: Discovering the Top 10 Places to Visit in Serbia

Man suggesting various activities to enjoy in Serbia, including sightseeing and local cuisine.

I had been to Serbia couple of years back, and I wanted to share my experiences with you. If you’re wondering about the top 10 places to visit in Serbia or considering Belgrade city tours, you’re in for a treat. I’ll take you through my 3-day adventure, highlighting some of the most beautiful places in Serbia and answering the burning question: “Is Belgrade worth visiting in winters?” Spoiler alert: it absolutely is! The day itinerary may not be in same sequence as mentioned in blog but you can cover all in a day, & its possible.

Day 1: Exploring Belgrade’s Treasures

The awe-inspiring Temple of Saint Sava topped my list of must-see sites. As I stood there, gazing up at its massive dome, I felt tiny in comparison. Moreover, it is definitely a must-see on any Belgrade city tour. The mosaic on the central dome is particularly impressive; it depicts various scenes from the Bible and Serbian history. 

Interior and exterior views of the Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade, showcasing its grand architecture and intricate mosaics.

The Church of Saint Sava stands as one of the largest Orthodox Christian churches in the world. Dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, this church represents a pivotal figure in Serbian history. Moreover, it showcases an outstanding example of Serbian-Byzantine architectural style, featuring a magnificent central dome accompanied by four smaller domes. 

I also visited the House of the National Assembly, and I must say the stunning architecture captivated me. Furthermore, it provides a real sense of Serbia’s political history. Additionally, the building offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially at night when its beauty shines even brighter! Overall, my experience there was unexpectedly enriching and visually rewarding.

A man standing in front of the House of National Assembly in Belgrade, showcasing its grand architecture.

I also headed to the Museum of Yugoslavia in Belgrade same day. It’s packed with artifacts and exhibits that really bring Yugoslavia’s past to life. I had spent hours wandering through the displays, soaking it all in. The museum houses over many artifacts that chronicle the history of Yugoslavia throughout the 20th century, with a special emphasis on the life and work of Josip Broz Tito, the country’s prominent leader.

The Museum of Yugoslavia in Belgrade, featuring its distinctive architecture and surrounding park.

No Belgrade city tour would be complete without a visit to the Belgrade Fortress and Military Museum. The views from the fortress are absolutely breathtaking – you can see where the Sava and Danube rivers meet. Meanwhile, the Military Museum offers a sobering look at Serbia’s wartime history.  Monument to the Victor, or Pobednik in Serbian was erected in 1928 to commemorate Serbia’s victory over the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires during the Balkan Wars and World War I. 

The Belgrade Fortress with the Military Museum in the foreground, showcasing its historic architecture and military exhibits.

The bronze statue depicts a naked male figure holding a falcon in his left hand and a sword in his right hand. These elements symbolize peace (falcon) and war (sword), representing Serbia’s triumph.

I also decided to check out the Belgrade Zoo. Now, I know zoos can be controversial, but I was impressed by the efforts they’re making here to educate visitors about conservation. Plus, its being said more than 200 species of animals are there.

The Belgrade Zoo entrance, featuring vibrant greenery and animal exhibits, inviting visitors to explore.

I also strolled through Topčider Park and Košutnjak. These green spaces are like oases in the city, perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. Topčider Park, with its historic residences, and Košutnjak, with its forest trails, are truly some of the most beautiful places in Serbia.

A man standing in front of Topčider Park and Košutnjak, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic pathways.

The London Plane Tree in Topčider Park, Belgrade, is a historic natural monument planted in 1868. Towering at around 38 meters, it is one of Europe’s oldest and largest specimens. Supported by metal poles, this majestic tree symbolizes the park’s heritage.

Day 2: Venturing Beyond Belgrade

On my second day, I ventured outside Belgrade to explore more of Serbia’s treasures. My first stop was Krusedol Monastery, which I found to be a hidden gem! The stunning frescoes inside captivated me, and the peaceful atmosphere provided a welcome change from the bustling city. Nestled on the southern slopes of Fruška Gora mountain, Krusedol Monastery offers a serene and secluded environment for spiritual reflection and religious activities.

A man standing in front of Krušedol Monastery, surrounded by lush greenery and historic architecture.

Next, I made my way to Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad. I often hear people call this place the “Gibraltar of the Danube,” and I quickly understood why. The views from the top amazed me, and the underground tunnels added an element of mystery and adventure. This fortress has definitely earned its spot on my list of the top 10 places to visit in Serbia. The clock at Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad is special for several reasons. Locally known as the “Drunk Clock” (Pijani Sat), its unique design features reversed hands: the hour hand is longer than the minute hand. This distinctive arrangement allows boatmen on the nearby Danube River to easily read the time from a distance, which was crucial for navigation.

A man standing in front of Petrovaradin Fortress, showcasing its impressive architecture and panoramic views of the Danube River.

I finished my day at the Church of the Name of Mary, also in Novi Sad. This neo-Gothic church is a real showstopper. The intricate details of the architecture left me in awe. It’s a testament to the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Serbia over the centuries. 

The Church of the Name of Mary in Novi Sad, Serbia, showcasing its neo-Gothic architecture and prominent bell tower.

Day 3: Natural Wonders and Belgrade Nightlife

For my final day, I decided to explore some of Serbia’s natural beauty. I began at Zlatar Lake, and wow, was I truly blown away! The crystal-clear water, beautifully surrounded by lush forests and snow, looks like something out of a fairytale. Additionally, the serene atmosphere enhances the experience, making it one of the most beautiful places in Serbia. Furthermore, the lake offers various activities and stunning views that capture the essence of this enchanting region. Overall, visiting Zlatar Lake is an unforgettable experience that showcases the breathtaking natural landscapes Serbia has to offer!

A man standing in front of Zlatar Lake in Serbia, surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters.

Then, I visited Uvac Lake. If you’re a nature lover like me, this place will take your breath away. The meandering river creates these incredible horseshoe bends, and if you’re lucky (like I was), you might spot some griffon vultures soaring overhead. It’s a photographer’s dream specially when when the mountain peaks are covered with snow!

A man standing in front of Uvac Lake, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and meandering waters.

Back in Belgrade, I decided to sample some local flavors. I tried Rakija, a traditional fruit brandy that packs quite a punch! I also couldn’t resist trying Ajvar, a delicious red pepper spread that goes great with bread, try the freshwater fish platters. The food is mostly meat and hence pure vegetarians need to plan accordingly. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

A selection of traditional Serbian foods including rakija, ajvar, and a river fish platter, beautifully arranged on a table.

For my last night, I hit up Belgrade’s famous nightlife scene and is considered widely amongst the top nightlife cities in entire Europe. I started with a stroll down Knez Mihailova Street, which is buzzing with energy and . Then, I checked out some of the floating clubs on the Sava River. Let me tell you, Serbians know how to party!

So, is Belgrade worth visiting in winters?

Absolutely! While it can get chilly, the city takes on a magical quality when dusted with snow. Moreover, the winter festivities and cozy cafes make it a perfect cold-weather destination. Additionally, the beauty of Uvac Lake and Zlatar Lake in winter is indescribable and truly needs to be seen with your own eyes. Furthermore, Belgrade city tours become less crowded during this season, providing you with a more intimate experience of the city’s attractions. Overall, visiting Serbia in winter offers a unique charm that you won’t want to miss!

I couldn’t visit Kopaonik, renowned as Serbia’s largest ski resort, which features over 62 kilometers of ski trails suitable for all skill levels. Therefore, it stands out as a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. If you have the chance, you should definitely try this resort; it deserves a spot on your to-do list! Additionally, Kopaonik offers various amenities and activities that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers, ensuring an unforgettable experience for everyone. Overall, Kopaonik promises not only thrilling slopes but also stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere that you won’t want to miss!

To wrap things up, here are my top 10 places to visit in Serbia:

1)Belgrade Fortress

2)Temple of Saint Sava

3)Petrovaradin Fortress

4)Uvac Lake

5)Zlatar Lake

6)Krusedol Monastery

7)Church of the Name of Mary

8)Museum of Yugoslavia

9)Knez Mihailova Street

10)Skadarlija District (Belgrade’s bohemian quarter)

Conclusion

Serbia surprised me at every turn, offering a diverse range of experiences. From the lively streets of Belgrade to the serene monasteries and breathtaking natural wonders, this country truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply soaking up the local culture, you will find it here. Additionally, the people are incredibly friendly, making it easy to strike up conversations; most communicate decently in English. I recommend booking your day itinerary after consulting with the hotel staff where you are staying. Moreover, cross-check tour prices on Viator, GetYourGuide, or Tripadvisor before making any reservations to ensure you get the best deals. Overall, Serbia is a destination that continuously delights and surprises!

Staying Connected 24/7 with eSIM for best traveling experience

You can access affordable internet in Serbia with eSIM data plans, provided your mobile device is compatible. Enjoy seamless connectivity without needing a physical SIM card. For the best travel experience, consider eSIMs as an alternative to traditional roaming, which can be costly and less reliable. If you’re traveling to other European countries, explore our Europe eSIM data plans available on our website, which work in 33 countries. Stay connected with loved ones 24/7 and enhance your travel experience effortlessly!

Experience shared by Swatantra Ranjan who has traveled more than 15 countries.

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