Belgrade
Food | Wine | ArchitectureBelgrade Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go
Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of food, wine, and architecture. Whether wandering through the charming streets admiring the architecture or indulging in delicious Serbian cuisine paired with local wines, Belgrade has something to offer for every kind of traveler.
Steeped in history and culture, Belgrade beckons travelers with its charming streets lined with a mix of architectural styles. From the vibrant food scene that tantalizes taste buds to the rich selection of wines that exude character, every corner of this city has a story.
Prepare to be captivated by Belgrade’s unique charm and immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey through its culinary delights and stunning edifices. This travel guide is your key to unlocking the secrets of Belgrade, offering insights and tips to make the most of your visit to this enchanting destination.
We spent the entire month of July exploring Belgrade. Below is a guide to our favorite food, wine, and architecture, plus some additional travel tips and resources we picked up along the way.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Belgrade Food
Prepare to embark on a tantalizing journey through Belgrade’s vibrant food scene. From hearty traditional dishes like cevapi and burek to the delicate flavors of ajvar and rakija, Serbian cuisine is a true reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage. Indulge your taste buds in a plethora of flavors that will leave you craving for more with each bite.
Belgrade Wine
Embark on a journey through Belgrade’s hidden gem, where history and culture intertwine seamlessly. The charming streets are adorned with architectural wonders, inviting travelers to explore every corner of this enchanting city. Delight your senses in the vibrant food scene, from traditional cevapi to exquisite ajvar, each bite a testament to Serbia’s culinary legacy.
As you traverse Belgrade’s cobbled pathways, allow yourself to be captivated by the selection of wines that grace the tables of local taverns. Let the rich characters of Serbian wines paint a portrait of the region’s viticultural prowess, offering a glimpse into centuries-old winemaking traditions. Indulge in a glass of robust red or crisp white, perfectly complementing the flavors of the local cuisine. Uncover Belgrade’s wine culture, where every sip tells a story of passion and dedication passed down through generations.
Belgrade Architecture
Step into a world where history whispers through the facades of grand buildings and quaint cobblestone streets. Belgrade’s architecture is a blend of influences, reflecting its tumultuous past and vibrant present. From the imposing fortress overlooking the confluence of two rivers to the elegant Art Nouveau facades lining the boulevards, Belgrade’s architecture tells a story of resilience and evolution. Each building is a testament to the city’s diverse heritage, showcasing elements of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modernist styles.
Stroll through the historic neighborhoods and marvel at the intricate details of each structure. Let yourself be transported back in time as you admire the ornate frescoes of Orthodox churches or the grandeur of Belle Époque mansions. Explore the hidden courtyards and charming alleyways that reveal glimpses of a bygone era.
Where Is Belgrade Located?
Belgrade is at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers in the north-central part of Serbia.
Belgrade is approximately 186 miles (300 km) northeast of Sarajavo, 242 miles (390 km) northwest of Sofia, 373 miles (600 km) west of Bucharest, 236 miles (380 km) south of Budapest, and 245 miles (395 km) east of Zagreb.
Where Is the Best Place To Stay In Belgrade?
Hotels in Belgrade
If you are planning a trip to Belgrade, there are plenty of excellent places to stay. However, for the best experience, we strongly recommend staying in the pedestrian area on Knez Mihailova Street. The castle marker on the map below is the heart of the pedestrian area. We suggest staying as close to it as possible, depending on your budget and preferences.
The below interactive map provides hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.
Book your stay now!
What Is The Best Time To Visit Belgrade?
The best month to visit Belgrade depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.
Weather
The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Belgrade during the summer is relatively mild.
Below is a chart showing each month’s average high and low temperatures so you can decide what is best for you.
Shoulder Season
The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Belgrade is April through May and September through October. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.
We spent the entire month of July in Belgrade. The weather was hot during the day but cooled off a bit overnight.
Best Value
May and September are good months to visit Belgrade for the best value, good weather, and fewer crowds.
Other Things to Know About Belgrade
Airport
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, or Belgrade Airport, is the international airport serving Belgrade, Serbia. It is located 11 miles (18 km) west of downtown, near the suburb of Surčin.
Time Zone
Central European Time (CET; UTC+01:00) and Central European Summer Time (CEST; UTC+02:00).
Currency
The Serbian Dinar (abbreviation: DIN; code: RSD) is the currency of Serbia.
Language
Serbian is the official language of Serbia. However, English is widely spoken in Belgrade.
Visa
Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Serbia if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Serbia, check out our article on traveling visa-free.
Electricity
Serbia’s electrical outlets are Type C and F. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter. It’s the same adapter used for the rest of Europe.
Serbia operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
We recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins if you have many items to plug in. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.
SIM Card
Travelers will want a SIM card for Serbia. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.
To get a local SIM card, you must find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.
We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased before arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.
Car Rental
Serbia has a limited train system, and rental cars or private transfers are often required when visiting the country.
In addition to the major car rental companies found in the United States, Sixt and Europcar are common throughout Europe. For a comparison of rental car offers from large international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.
FAQs About Belgrade
Is Belgrade, Serbia Worth Visiting?
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a vibrant city with a rich history and lively culture that makes it worth visiting. From the historic Belgrade Fortress to the bustling Skadarlija district, there is plenty to see and do in this charming city.
If you want more information, we explored this question in depth in our article “Is Belgrade Worth Visiting?”
Which month is best to visit Belgrade?
The best months to visit Belgrade are typically May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is pleasant with warm temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities. Additionally, these months are less crowded with tourists compared to the peak summer months of July and August. If you prefer a quieter experience with milder weather, visiting Belgrade during May, June, or September would be your best bet.
How many days are enough for Belgrade?
The number of days you spend in Belgrade depends on your interests and what you want to experience in the city. However, to get a good feel for Belgrade and explore its main attractions, spending around 3-4 days in the city would be ideal. This timeframe allows you to visit key landmarks, enjoy the local cuisine, experience the vibrant nightlife, and soak in the rich culture and history of Belgrade. Of course, if you have more time to spare, you can further delve into the hidden gems of the city and immerse yourself in all that Belgrade has to offer.
Is Belgrade Expensive?
Belgrade is known for being an affordable destination compared to many other European cities. While prices may vary depending on your preferences and spending habits, overall, Belgrade offers good value for money when it comes to accommodation, dining, and attractions. You can enjoy a fulfilling travel experience without breaking the bank in this charming Serbian city.
We prepared a Budget for a Month in Belgrade that analyzes all the necessary expenses.
Belgrade Blog Posts
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