Welcome to Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. Located at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers, Belgrade blends a rich history with modern energy, offering visitors a mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Brutalist architecture, legendary nightlife, and a thriving café culture.
Quick Facts About Belgrade
- Country: Serbia
- Population: ~1.7 million
- Founded: ~279 BC (originally as Singidunum)
- Area: 138 square miles (359 km²)
- Currency: Serbian Dinar (RSD)
- Official Language: Serbian
- Nicknames: “The White City” (Beograd means “White City” in Serbian)
Why Visit Belgrade?
Belgrade is one of Europe’s most underrated capitals, offering a deep historical past, a vibrant cultural scene, and one of the best nightlife scenes in the world. Whether you’re exploring ancient fortresses, enjoying a sunset on the Danube, or partying in floating river clubs, Belgrade is a city full of surprises.
Top Attractions in Belgrade
- Belgrade Fortress & Kalemegdan Park
- A historic fortress with breathtaking views over the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers.
- Tip: Visit at sunset for incredible panoramic views.
- Skadarlija (Bohemian Quarter)
- A charming, cobblestone pedestrian street filled with traditional restaurants, live music, and local artists.
- Knez Mihailova Street
- The city’s main shopping and pedestrian street, lined with historic buildings and lively cafes.
- Church of Saint Sava
- One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, with a stunning golden interior.
- Ada Ciganlija (Belgrade’s Beach)
- A man-made lake and recreational area, perfect for swimming, biking, and beach bars.
- Nikola Tesla Museum
- A must-visit museum dedicated to Nikola Tesla, featuring his inventions and original documents.
- Zemun District
- A historic riverside neighborhood with Austro-Hungarian architecture, cafes, and scenic Danube views.
- Republic Square & National Museum
- The central square of Belgrade, home to the National Theatre and the National Museum.
- Floating Nightclubs (Splavovi)
- Famous party boats and river clubs on the Sava and Danube Rivers, offering non-stop music and entertainment.
Neighborhood Highlights
- Stari Grad (Old Town): Home to Belgrade Fortress, Skadarlija, and Knez Mihailova Street.
- Dorćol: A trendy, artistic district with boutique shops, cafes, and museums.
- Vračar: Known for the Church of Saint Sava and a mix of traditional and modern architecture.
- Zemun: A historic neighborhood with riverfront dining and Austro-Hungarian charm.
- Novi Beograd (New Belgrade): A district of modernist architecture, business centers, and river clubs.
Cost of Living in Belgrade
Belgrade is one of Europe’s most affordable capital cities, offering excellent value for travelers.
- Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in central areas like Stari Grad averages RSD 60,000–120,000/month (~$550–$1,100 USD).
- Dining: Meals at mid-range restaurants cost RSD 1,000–2,500 (~$10–$25 USD).
- Transport: A monthly public transport pass costs around RSD 3,000 (~$27 USD).
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Ideal for sightseeing with mild temperatures and blooming parks.
- Summer (July–September): Hot but perfect for Ada Ciganlija, river parties, and festivals.
- Autumn (October–November): Pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December–February): Cold but magical, especially with Christmas markets and New Year celebrations.
Cuisine to Try
- Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages, served with flatbread and onions.
- Pljeskavica: A Serbian-style burger, often filled with cheese and spices.
- Sarma: Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, cooked in a savory sauce.
- Kajmak: A creamy dairy spread, often eaten with bread or grilled meats.
- Ajvar: A delicious red pepper relish, served as a side dish.
- Rakija: A strong fruit brandy, Serbia’s national drink.
Transportation in Belgrade
- Buses, Trams & Trolleybuses: The main form of public transport, operated by GSP Beograd.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Yandex, CarGo (Serbian Uber), and traditional taxis are widely available.
- Bikes & Scooters: Belgrade has bike lanes, but the city is hilly—best for flat areas like Zemun.
- Boats & Ferries: A scenic way to explore the Danube and Sava Rivers.
Fun Facts About Belgrade
- Belgrade is one of Europe’s oldest cities, with settlements dating back over 7,000 years.
- The city has been destroyed and rebuilt more than 40 times throughout history.
- Nikola Tesla was born in Serbia, and his museum in Belgrade houses his original inventions.
- The city is famous for its “Splavovi” (floating nightclubs), making it one of Europe’s top nightlife destinations.
- Belgrade is located at the meeting point of two great rivers, the Danube and the Sava.
Travel Tips for Visitors
- Cash is king—many smaller cafes and shops don’t accept credit cards.
- Use Yandex or CarGo instead of regular taxis to avoid overcharging.
- Visit Kalemegdan at sunset for the best panoramic views.
- Dress casually—Belgrade has a relaxed but stylish fashion sense.
- Try Rakija responsibly—it’s much stronger than it looks!
Plan Your Visit to Belgrade
Belgrade is a city of history, culture, and energy, offering visitors a mix of old-world charm and modern excitement. Whether you’re exploring its historic fortresses, enjoying the café culture, or partying on the river, Belgrade is a city that never sleeps.