SERBIA

Welcome to Serbia! Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, this dynamic country is a fascinating blend of ancient history, vibrant cultural traditions, and stunning natural landscapes. From the bustling energy of Belgrade to its medieval monasteries and scenic national parks, prepare to discover a nation with a rich and often turbulent past, now embracing a lively future.

Region: Southeast Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula

Capital: Belgrade

Official Language: Serbian

Level of Travel Safety: Generally safe, but exercise a high degree of caution near administrative boundary lines with Kosovo due to the potential for unrest. Petty crime, especially pickpocketing, is common in crowded tourist areas in major cities.

Map highlighting Serbia in Europe

Why Visit Serbia?

Living History: Roman ruins, Ottoman bridges, Austro-Hungarian cities—Serbia is a cultural melting pot.

Belgrade’s Energy: With its nightlife, floating river clubs, and gritty charm, Belgrade is like nowhere else.

Natural Beauty: Explore canyons, waterfalls, and wild national parks like Tara and Đerdap.

Belgrade, Serbia in winter with a river and buildings

Authentic Experiences: Serbia’s hospitality is legendary. Share rakija with locals in rustic kafanas.

Festivals Galore: From the EXIT music festival in Novi Sad to the trumpet madness of Guča.

Budget Traveler’s Dream: Serbia offers rich experiences without breaking the bank.

Green hills and valleys under a cloudy sky

Essential Trip Information

Serbia allows visa-free entry for citizens of many countries for stays up to 90 days, including the EU, UK, U.S., Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Travelers from countries requiring a visa must apply at a Serbian consulate prior to arrival.

Your passport must be valid for at least 90 days beyond the stay.

Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested.

Check up-to-date requirements here: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia – Visa Info

  • Serbia uses the Serbian Dinar (RSD). Notes range from 10 to 5000 RSD.

  • 1 US$ ≈ 110–115 RSD (fluctuates; check current rates).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before your trip: Bring a small amount of cash (US$50–100) to exchange on arrival.

  • During your trip: Use ATMs at major banks (e.g., Raiffeisen, Banca Intesa). Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in cities.

  • What to avoid: Avoid changing money at airports or unauthorized exchange kiosks.

Serbian is the official language (written in both Cyrillic and Latin).

English is widely spoken in urban areas and tourist sites.

Helpful phrases: “Hvala” (Thank you), “Gde je…?” (Where is…?), “Molim” (Please/You’re welcome)

Serbia is generally very safe for tourists, including solo travelers.

Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded buses or festivals.

Some rural roads are poorly marked—drive cautiously.

Emergency number: 192 (police), 194 (ambulance)

No vaccinations required.

Tap water is safe to drink.

Pharmacies (“apoteka”) are common and well-stocked.

Travel insurance is recommended (public hospitals are basic; private clinics better for tourists).

Belgrade public transport includes buses, trams, and trolleys—tickets from kiosks.

Taxis are affordable; use apps like Yandex or CarGo (Serbia’s Uber alternative).

Buses are the best way to travel between cities.

Trains are improving but remain slower and less reliable than buses.

Many towns and parks are walkable or bike-friendly in warmer months.

Serbia is one of Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Hostels, guesthouses (US$20–50/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels, 3-star (US$60–100/night)

  • Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (US$120–250/night)

Food

  • Street eats: Burek, ćevapi (US$3–6)

  • Casual dining: Local restaurants (US$10–20/person)

  • Upscale: Fine dining (US$30–60/person)

Drinks

  • Beer: US$1–3 (bars), US$0.50–1.50 (stores)

  • Cocktails: US$4–8

Transportation

  • City buses/trams: US$0.80–1.20 per ride (tickets from kiosks)

  • Taxis: US$3–10 (short city rides)

  • Intercity buses/trains: US$5–20 (Belgrade to Novi Sad ~US$8)

Money-Saving Tips

  • Use local bakeries and green markets for cheap meals.

  • Avoid taxis without meters or official signage.

  • Many museums and churches are free or under US$5.

Explore Serbia

Serbia’s vibrant capital, where the Sava and Danube rivers meet. Explore Kalemegdan Fortress, stroll through Skadarlija bohemian quarter, and experience its lively nightlife. Located in Northern Serbia.

A charming city known for its Petrovaradin Fortress, home to the EXIT Festival. Wander through its pedestrian-friendly center and enjoy its relaxed atmosphere. Located in Northern Serbia, Vojvodina province.

Serbia’s largest and most popular ski resort, offering excellent slopes for all levels in winter, and hiking and mountain biking in summer. Located in Southern Serbia.

One of the oldest cities in the Balkans, famous for its Roman heritage (Mediana) and the chilling Skull Tower (Ćele Kula). Birthplace of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. Located in Southern Serbia.

“The Holy Mountain” of Serbia, home to numerous medieval Serbian Orthodox monasteries nestled amidst rolling hills and vineyards. Perfect for hiking and wine tasting. Located in Northern Serbia, near Novi Sad.

A stunning natural gorge on the Danube River, forming part of the border with Romania. Offers breathtaking scenery, ancient Roman sites, and boat tours. Located in Eastern Serbia.

A whimsical traditional village built by film director Emir Kusturica, offering a unique cultural experience. Close to the popular Sargan 8 railway. Located in Western Serbia.

A magnificent 13th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Byzantine frescoes. Located in Southwestern Serbia, near Novi Pazar.

Famous for its breathtaking meanders of the Uvac River, a natural habitat for griffon vultures. Ideal for boat trips and hiking with incredible viewpoints. Located in Southwestern Serbia.

A city celebrated for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, particularly the City Hall and the Synagogue. It boasts a unique Central European charm. Located in Northern Serbia, near the Hungarian border.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices
  • Fewer Crowds
  • Authentic Local Vibe
  • Winter Sports (excluding peak)
  • Cozy Atmosphere

Main Drawbacks:

  • Cold Temperatures
  • Shorter Days
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski)
  • Some closures

Key Regions:

  • Belgrade: Enjoy indoor attractions, vibrant nightlife, and local warmth.
  • Novi Sad: Explore museums and galleries without the summer rush.
  • Kopaonik: Excellent for budget-friendly skiing early or late in the season.
  • Spa Towns (e.g., Vrnjačka Banja): Perfect for relaxation and wellness escapes.

Key Advantages:

  • Ideal Weather
  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Festivals & Events
  • Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn)
  • Some mountain areas might still have snow (early Spring)

Key Regions:

  • Belgrade: Perfect for exploring the city on foot and enjoying outdoor cafes.
  • Novi Sad & Fruška Gora: Ideal for hiking, wine tasting, and monastery visits.
  • Đerdap National Park: Scenic drives and boat tours along the Iron Gates.
  • Central Serbia (e.g., Ovčar-Kablar Gorge): Great for hiking and enjoying nature’s beauty.
  • Southern Serbia (e.g., Niš): Pleasant for historical exploration and cultural immersion.
  • Mid-Summer (June-August)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • Peak Ski Season (January-February)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: A firm handshake is common. “Dobar dan” (Good day) is a polite greeting.

Hospitality: Serbians are generally very hospitable. If invited to a home, it’s customary to bring a small gift (e.g., a bottle of wine or sweets).

Respect for Elders: Show respect to older individuals.

Dress Code: Generally casual for sightseeing. When visiting monasteries or churches, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).

Tipping:

  • Restaurants/Cafes: Tipping is customary, usually 10% is appropriate if satisfied with the service.
  • Taxis: Round up the fare or leave a small tip.
  • Barmen/Hotel staff: A small tip is appreciated.

Politics: While Serbians are often passionate about their country, avoid engaging in heated political discussions with strangers.

Slava: If you are invited to a “Slava” (family patron saint day), it’s a significant honor and a deep cultural experience.

Smoking: Smoking is still common in Serbia, including in many cafes and restaurants, although there are increasing non-smoking areas.

Accommodation:

  • Hostels: US$20–40

  • Mid-range hotels: US$60–120

  • Luxury: US$200+

Food:

  • Bakeries/street food: US$2–6 (burek, ćevapi).

  • Local restaurants: US$10–20

  • Fine dining: US$40–80 (e.g., Homa, Salon 1905 in Belgrade)

Transport:

  • Bus tickets: US$2–10

  • Taxi rides in city: US$3–6

  • Car rental: US$40–70/day

Activities:

  • Museums: US$2–5

  • Fortress entry (e.g., Petrovaradin): often free

  • Wine tastings/tours: ~US$15–30

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, bakery food, public buses)
  • Mid-range: US$120–180 (hotel, restaurants, tours)
  • Luxury: US$250+ (boutique stays, driver, fine dining)

Free Wi-Fi: Common in hotels, cafés, and public spaces (Belgrade has public hotspots).
SIM Cards:

  • Local providers: MTS, Telenor, A1.

  • Tourist SIMs: ~US$5–10 for 10–20 GB data.

  • eSIMs: Available via Airalo and Holafly, starting at ~US$10 for 7–10 days.

Tip: Buy SIMs at airports or kiosks with passport.

Recommended for: Healthcare, theft, and winter sports coverage.

Healthcare: Public hospitals are basic; private clinics better but pricier.

Adventure activities: Skiing, canyoning, and paragliding common in mountain areas—check policy coverage.

Tip: Serbia is generally safe, but medical insurance is advised for peace of mind.

From riverside boutique hotels to rustic mountain chalets, Serbia offers a broad range of stays.

Luxury:

  • Square Nine Hotel (Belgrade), Prezident Hotel (Novi Sad).

  • Ski resorts: Grand Hotel Kopaonik (~US$250+/night).

Mid-range:

  • Garni Hotel Argo (Belgrade), Hotel Leopold I (Petrovaradin Fortress).

  • Countryside guesthouses: Etno village Vrhpolje (Tara).

Budget:

  • Hostels: Hedonist Hostel (Belgrade), Hostel Day ‘n’ Night (Niš).

  • Guesthouses: ~US$20–40/night, often family-run.

Unique Stays:

  • Wooden chalets in Drvengrad (Mećavnik village).

  • Floating hotels on the Danube and Sava rivers.

Tip: Book early during EXIT Festival (July) and ski season (Dec–Feb).

Serbia has a modest but functional transport network. For regional travel, buses dominate; trains are scenic but slow.

Trains:

  • Belgrade–Novi Sad: Now high-speed (~35 min, US$6–10).

  • Other routes: Slow but scenic (e.g., Belgrade–Bar, Montenegro).

  • Classes: 1st and 2nd; online booking limited.

Buses:

  • Extensive coverage across cities/towns.

  • Prices: US$2–20 depending on distance. Frequent buses from Belgrade to Niš, Novi Sad, and Subotica.

  • Bold Recommendation: Use buses for reliable intercity travel.

Taxis:

  • Cheap by European standards (US$3–6 for short rides).

  • Use apps like CarGo (local Uber), or Pink/Beo Taxi.

Car Rentals:

  • Recommended for rural exploration (Tara, Uvac Canyon, Studenica Monastery).

  • Costs: ~US$40–70/day. Roads are decent; signage is in Cyrillic and Latin.

Domestic Flights:

  • Not common—Serbia is compact; flights are rarely necessary.

Bold Recommendation: Use CarGo in cities and buses or rental cars for exploring beyond Belgrade.

Handy Tips

Serbia uses the Serbian Dinar (RSD). Bills come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 RSD denominations; coins include 1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 RSD. As a general reference, 1 US$ is approximately 110 RSD (this can fluctuate).

Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport exchange kiosks (high fees). Use ATMs or banks for better rates. Exchange offices (menjačnica) are widely available and often offer competitive rates, but compare a few before exchanging larger amounts.

Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities, but carry small bills (RSD) for tips, street vendors, smaller shops, or public transport farecards, especially in rural areas.

Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is generally appreciated but not always strictly expected as in the US.

  • Restaurants/Bars: 10–15% of the bill is standard if service was good. Rounding up is also common.
  • Taxis/Rideshares: Round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount.
  • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–5 per day for housekeeping.
  • Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for group tours, depending on the length and quality.

Serbian is the official language. While younger generations and those in the tourism industry often speak English, knowing a few basic Serbian phrases will greatly enhance your experience.

  • “Hello”: Zdravo (ZDRAH-voh)
  • “Thank you”: Hvala (HVAH-lah)
  • “Please”: Molim (MOH-leem)
  • “How much is this?”: Koliko košta ovo? (KOH-lee-koh KOHSH-tah OH-voh?)
  • “Where is the nearest ATM?”: Gde je najbliži bankomat? (GDEH yeh NYAH-blee-zhee BAHN-koh-maht?)
  • Pro Tip: Serbians appreciate politeness and directness. A friendly “Zdravo” and a smile go a long way.

Serbia is generally safe, but like any destination, it’s wise to stay alert in crowded areas (e.g., public transport, markets) and exercise caution late at night in less-trafficked areas.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 192: Police
  • 193: Fire Department
  • 194: Ambulance
  • Your Embassy: Keep details handy (e.g., U.S. Embassy in Belgrade).

Serbia uses 230V/50Hz with Type C/F plugs (two round pins). International visitors from countries with different plug types (like the U.S.) will need an adapter. Converters are rarely necessary for modern electronics, but check your device specifications.

Tap water is generally safe to drink in most cities in Serbia. However, some locals prefer bottled water. Restaurants typically provide bottled water, and it’s a good idea to ask if the tap water is safe if you are in a less developed area.

Federal offices, banks, and some businesses close on:

  • January 1-2: New Year’s
  • January 7: Orthodox Christmas
  • February 15-16: Sretenje (Statehood Day)
  • Good Friday to Easter Monday (Orthodox Easter – dates vary)
  • May 1-2: Labour Day
  • November 11: Armistice Day

Note: Many shops and restaurants, especially in tourist areas, may remain open on public holidays, but expect some closures.

Stores: Typically 09:00/10:00 – 21:00 (malls often open later, until 22:00).

Supermarkets: Many larger supermarkets are open until late, some even 24/7 in big cities.

Pharmacies: Generally 08:00 – 20:00, with some 24/7 pharmacies in larger cities.

Farmers’ Markets: Usually open early mornings until early afternoon, typically 06:00 – 14:00/15:00.

Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages, often served with onion and kajmak (a creamy dairy product).

Pljeskavica: A Serbian-style hamburger patty, often larger and flatter than a Western burger, also served grilled.

Sarma: Cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice, slow-cooked. A winter comfort food.

Karađorđeva šnicla: A rolled veal or pork schnitzel stuffed with kajmak, breaded and fried.

Burek: A flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach, popular for breakfast.

Kajmak: A rich, creamy, slightly salty dairy product, often served as a side or spread.

Ajvar: A relish made from roasted red peppers, often with eggplant, garlic, and chili.

Gibanica: A savory cheese pie made with layers of phyllo dough and cheese.

Krofne: Serbian doughnuts, often filled with jam or chocolate.

Princes Krofne: Small cream puffs filled with vanilla cream and topped with chocolate.

Alcoholic

  • Rakija: National fruit brandy—try šljivovica (plum), kajisija (apricot), or dunja (quince).

  • Local Wine: Visit Topola or Fruška Gora regions—try Prokupac or Tamjanika varietals.

  • Craft Beer: Brands like Kabinet, Dogma, and Salto are reshaping Serbia’s beer scene.

  • Jelen & Lav: Popular mass-market beers—light and crisp.

  • Medovača: Honey brandy—smooth and sweet.

Non-Alcoholic

  • Kisela Voda: Sparkling mineral water, often served with meals.

  • Boza: Traditional fermented corn drink—sweet, low alcohol.

  • Domaci Sok: Homemade fruit juices, especially raspberry or sour cherry.

  • Turkish-style Coffee: Strong and unfiltered, served in a small džezva.

  • Jogurt Drink: A tangy liquid yogurt—common with savory pastries like burek.

Skadarlija: Bohemian quarter with cobblestone streets, live music, and hearty Serbian food.

St. Sava Temple: One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.

Nikola Tesla Museum: Tribute to the famous inventor, with interactive exhibits.

Viminacium: Roman archaeological site with preserved mosaics and tombs.

Ethnographic Museum: Insight into rural traditions and folk costumes.

Novi Sad: Charming city with Baroque architecture, café culture, and Danube views.

Drvengrad: Traditional wooden village built by filmmaker Emir Kusturica.

Uvac Canyon: Dramatic meanders and home to the rare griffon vulture.

Resava Cave: Stalactite wonderland with vivid formations.

Pirot Kilims: Handwoven rugs—UNESCO intangible heritage.

Belgrade Fortress: Panoramic Danube views and layered history.

Ada Ciganlija: A river island turned beach/resort with kayaking, biking, and bars.

Splavovi: Floating river clubs and restaurants—legendary nightlife.

EXIT Festival: Held in Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad—Europe’s best music fest.

Belgrade Nightlife: From jazz bars to wild clubs—try Cetinjska Street.

Knez Mihailova Street: Central shopping, cafés, and people-watching.

Tasmajdan Park: Great for families and evening strolls.

Underground Tours: Explore Roman wells and Tito-era bunkers under Belgrade.

National Theatre: Catch a ballet, opera, or classic play.

Cineplexx or Kombank Hall: Watch international films with English subtitles.

Brankow Bar: Hidden club under Branko’s Bridge—urban cool.

Hype Club: Glamorous rooftop in Belgrade’s Beton Hala district.

Jazz Basta: Cozy live jazz garden with candlelit charm.

Drugstore: Industrial techno club in a repurposed slaughterhouse.

20/44: Legendary splav (boat-club) with underground music.

Kalemegdan Park: Summer open-air concerts and film nights.

Zappa Barka: Alternative splav with indie acts and local DJs.

Lazaro Caffe: Cocktail lounge with a chic vibe near Republic Square.

Museum Night (May): One-night pass to dozens of museums across the country.

Beton Hala: Trendy riverfront complex with high-end dining and bars.