Travel guide for Serbia: Everything you need to know

The country that has gone through a lot, but always finds a way to stand out. Serbia is not the classic case of a country that is at the top of a bucket list; it is full of interesting travel treasures and compensates those who want to visit it. We chose it as a road trip destination starting by car from Athens. In our complete travel guide below, you will find all the basic information you need before your first visit to the country.

Where to stay in Serbia — Costs

Serbia is one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, offering exceptional value for money.

Low-cost hostels in Serbia can be found on HostelWorld

Belgrade:

• Hostel dorm: €15–21/night
• Budget private room: €30–50/night
• Mid-range hotel: €50–100/night
• Luxury: €100–200/night

Novi Sad / Niš: 20–30% cheaper than Belgrade

The cheapest rooms are usually a long distance from the city center and the respective tourist attractions. So, it is better to pay a little more for your accommodation and save time, than to spend more money on travel.

Best hotel deals can be found on Booking.com

Traditional Food

Serbian cuisine is characterized by its great variety and spicy food. There is a mix of Greek, Bulgarian, Turkish, and Hungarian cuisine. The locals eat meat and salads on an almost daily basis and also show great love for cheese and cold cuts. Basic ingredients of almost every local recipe are their very favorite paprika and other spices. In Serbia, paprika takes the meaning of the original product, the pepper itself, i.e., not the spice (powder) that is widely used in other kitchens. Paprika appears in most menus in various forms: raw, grilled, pickled, stuffed, mashed, or seasoned (ajvar, also known as Serbian vegetarian caviar). Some of their most famous local dishes are:

Gibanica: Traditional handmade pie with pastry. The filling is with eggs and cheese. It is one of the most popular Serbian dishes and is also sold in bakeries in pieces (for those in a hurry), but it is also served in their traditional taverns.

Pljeskavica: It is a thin roll made of ground beef and pork. There is no way you can go to a restaurant in Belgrade and not have this dish on the menu. It is one of the favourite dishes of the locals. Usually served with cabbage salad.

Ćevapi: The Balkan sausages known as cevapi or cevapcici were found in Eastern Europe and throughout the Ottoman Empire. They are similar to the Greek soutzoukaki. Today, there are different versions of this dish throughout the Balkans. Some use pork and lamb, others use beef, and others skip pork altogether. They are hand-made, and the meat mixture usually has enough garlic.

Svadbarski kupus: One of the dishes that combines cabbage with pork. It is one of the favorite dishes of the Serbs, which is never missing from their festive tables and family gatherings. It is just a little spicier and is a must for cold winter days.

Karadjordeva snicla: Crispy and juicy at the same time, the “Karadjordjeva” schnitzel is one of the most famous, characteristic Serbian delicacies. The schnitzel was named after Karadjordje, the founder of the first Serbian Royal Dynasty. Top with tartar sauce and a lemon slice. Boiled beans and French fries are usually served as side dishes. Serve with mild white wine.

Rakija: The national drink in Serbia, which is made mainly from plums or grapes, but in general can be made from various fruits, with favourite flavours being apricot, quince, and pear. It is a kind of brandy, but quite heavy, something that can be seen from its name, which comes from an Arabic word meaning “sweat”.

Getting Around Serbia

Belgrade city transport — FREE since January 2025: All regular city buses, trams, trolleybuses, and BG suburban trains are completely free since 1 January 2025, a major benefit for visitors. Simply board and ride. Exceptions: A1 airport minibus (~€4) and E-express minibuses (~€2/ride).

Airport to centre:

• Free city buses (lines 72, 600, 607), longer but free
• A1 minibus to Slavija Square: ~€4 (cash only)
• Official airport taxi voucher (inside terminal): ~€23–30 to the centre, always use the official desk to avoid overcharging

Between cities:

Car: Essential for monasteries, national parks, and rural Serbia. Compare on Discovercars.com

Train: Belgrade–Novi Sad high-speed “Soko” train: ~€6–7, 35 minutes. Belgrade–Niš: slow (~6h by train), bus faster

Bus: Most reliable for intercity travel, frequent services, good prices. Main Belgrade bus station (BAS)

Where to go in Serbia

Belgrade or Beograd

The capital and largest city of Serbia. The most famous tourist city in the country. One of the most must-see attractions in the capital is, of course, the huge Kalemegdan castle, with its towers, tracks, and cobbled streets. Knez Mihailova is the most central street in Belgrade, something similar to our Ermou, and is full of people at all hours of the day. Shops, street vendors, and various events can be found all along this pedestrian walk.

The imposing St. Sava Church in Belgrade is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. While the most picturesque neighborhood of the city is called Skardarlija. It is full of life and local taverns with live music, as well as being full of people from the art world, such as painters and poets. Finally, you can visit the well-known, albeit small, museum of the famous inventor Nikola Tesla. See his inventions and contributions in the field of engineering and electrical engineering, even up to the present time.

Discovering our Belgrade Travel Guide

Nis

This is the third-largest city in Serbia. Nis has a rich history and cultural and historical monuments. It has a large fortress, which was built in the 18th century and is still one of the most well-preserved stone castles in the country. It is the city where Constantine the Great was born, where the ruins of his summer house are located. One of its main attractions is the skull tower.

The tower was built in 1809 to warn the Serbs against other uprisings. The skulls of 952 dead Serb rebels were used, but fewer than 100 skulls remain there to this day. The tower remains to this day one of the most important sites in the entire Balkan region. There is also a concentration camp in the city, the Red Cross Camp from the Nazi era. Finally, there is a large pedestrian area for walking, shopping, and food. We visited it for a few hours as a stopover for relaxation before continuing our road trip to Belgrade.

Kragujevac

The first capital of modern Serbia, an industrial center, and the 4th largest city in Serbia. Kragujevac is located 140 km south of Belgrade. This town is crossed by the small river Lapenitsa. Near the city is Lake Gruzansko. It has a rich history and many cultural and historical monuments, while it has gone through many trials during the Second World War, including the many executions that took place in the area.

Kraljevo

Kraljevo is an important economic center of Serbia, located about 182 km south of Belgrade. It is located between two rivers, the Morava and the Ibar. On the outskirts of the city is the Zitsa Monastery with a rich history, the famous Mataruska thermal baths, and a little further, the Butovatska thermal baths.

Novi Sad

The second largest city after Belgrade, at a distance of about 93 km. It is an important industrial, cultural, and tourist center, with many cultural and historical monuments and museums. There you will see the Petrovaradin fortress, a trademark of the city, you will eat delicacies in the shops of the city, and you will walk for hours in the alleys and in the national park called Fruska Gora. It is noteworthy that in the clock tower in the fortress, the hands of the clock are upside down, i.e., the big hand shows the time and the small hand shows the minutes. This was done so that fishermen on the Danube could see from afar what time it was.

The city also hosts the famous Exit Festival, which is also organized at the Petrovaradin Fortress. The festival started in 2020 as a student movement for democracy and freedom in Serbia and the Balkans. It lasts 4 days, and the types of music are: rock, techno, electronic-dance, hip hop, reggae, and metal. In recent years, it has been one of the most up-and-coming cities and holds a high position in the travel lists of travellers. The main factor for this is the liveliness of the city, combined with the low prices that generally prevail in Serbia.

Pozarevac

One of the oldest cities in Serbia, with a great historical heritage. An important commercial and cultural center, located 80 km east of Belgrade. Nearby is the small town of Stari Kostalac with the famous archeological site Viminasium. The name of the most central street is derived from the word “leather”, since during the Ottoman Empire, there were dozens of leather processing shops in the area. During the summer months, many festivals are organized in the city center. In the city, there is also the well-known cathedral of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel.

Drvengrad or Küstendorf

It means “wooden city” and is a typical example of a traditional village from another era. It is located about 250 km from Belgrade in the Mokra Gora region, very close to the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Created by Serbian director Emir Kusturica for the film ‘Life is a Miracle’, it will take you to another era.

Along the main road are placed traditional wooden houses and huts, and a small church made of logs, modeled on Russian churches. The small streets of the village are named after celebrities such as Nikola Tesla and Diego Maradona. In the village, you can book your stay and enjoy the scenery, or just sit down to eat and continue your journey.

Packing Tips & When to Go

Serbia is a relatively easy destination with no particular fluctuations in the weather. You will not need an adapter as we have the same type of socket and supply as in Greece. All you need are comfortable shoes because you will need to walk a lot to see the various sights, whether you are in Novi Sad or Belgrade and the surrounding areas. In winter, the temperatures are quite low, so if you decide to go at that time, do have warm clothes with you. In winter, snowfall is quite possible, especially in the northern part of the country. In this case, do not forget the tire chains if you are driving with your own vehicle from Greece.

Serbia is a destination accessible all year round, but you will find better conditions from mid-April to early October. Many travellers choose the summer months because of the favourable conditions and because of the organization of several festivals and events in the cities of the country. The weather conditions favour walks in parks and on beaches, and the enjoyment of the intense nightlife. Every July, the well-known music festival “EXIT” takes place in Novi Sad. And because everything is a matter of taste and choices, there are many who attempt their trip to the country in December. Although the temperatures are low, the climate is very warm due to the festive atmosphere that prevails, especially in the big cities and the capital.

Useful Words

The official language is Serbian. However, in the main tourist areas, you will not encounter particular communication problems. Not everyone speaks English, but they are very willing to offer help and to guide you, even with the use of sign language. Some of their key words and expressions are listed in the table below:

Read about our road trip to the Balkans

Useful Sites & Apps

In the last few years, we have been travelling we have singled out some applications, which we use on every trip or during it. We have chosen them over others for their validity, ease of use, and variety in the options they have to offer. We describe below in detail what these are, together with their characteristics.

Booking.com

Booking.com is a popular online booking platform for accommodations worldwide. With a vast selection of hotels, apartments, villas, and more, Booking.com offers travellers the convenience of finding and booking their ideal stay in just a few clicks.

The site’s user-friendly interface and extensive filtering options make it easy to narrow down search results based on specific preferences such as price, location, amenities, and more. As a result, Booking.com has become a go-to destination for travellers looking for hassle-free booking options. With competitive pricing and a loyalty program that rewards repeat bookings, Booking.com is a top choice for travellers seeking great deals and a seamless booking experience. Find available rooms in Serbia on Booking.com.

Welcome Pickups

One of the best, most trustworthy, and most convenient 5-star airport taxi companies for your airport transfer based on user reviews across various platforms such as Google, Tripadvisor, and Trustpilot. Welcome Pickups offers a great experience and safety to its travelers. Local English-speaking drivers, flat, pre-paid fee, flight monitoring for delays, 24/7 Customer support and free cancellation. Check your options on Welcome Pickups.

Air Bnb

With over one million properties all around the world, and always increasing, ideal for a low budget stay even in expensive areas. Furthermore, because you stay in people’s villas, houses, or flats, you are made to feel more at home by the host of each destination and the homely surroundings.

Hotels.com

Hotels.com is a leading provider of hotel accommodation worldwide, offering booking services through its own network of localised websites. Once you reach 10 nights, you’ll have a free night, which you can apply at checkout. You can earn multiple free nights by continuing to book with Hotels.com, though. The platform gives travellers one of the widest selections of accommodation on the net, including both independent and major chain hotels as well as self-catering in over hundreds of thousands of properties worldwide. The company offers a one-stop shopping source for hotel pricing, amenities, and availability. Find the best deals on Hotels.com.

TripAdvisor

TripAdvisor helps hundreds of millions of people each month become better travellers, from planning to booking to taking a trip. Travellers across the globe use the Tripadvisor site and app to discover where to stay, what to do, and where to eat based on guidance from those who have been there before. With more than 1 billion reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses, travellers turn to Tripadvisor to find deals on accommodations, book experiences, reserve tables at delicious restaurants, and discover great places nearby.

Omio.com

Omio is a leading travel platform that helps you easily plan and book your trips. With a comprehensive network of trains, buses, and flights across Europe and beyond, Omio allows you to compare and choose the best travel options for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or an extended vacation, Omio’s user-friendly interface and competitive prices make it easy to create unforgettable travel experiences. Check available routes on Omio.com.

Skyscanner

Skyscanner is a leading global travel search engine, helping millions of travellers find the best flights, hotels, and car rentals. With a user-friendly interface and powerful search technology, Skyscanner makes it easy to compare prices and options across hundreds of travel providers, giving you the best deals for your trip. From budget to luxury, domestic to international, Skyscanner has everything you need to plan your next adventure. So whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, start your journey with Skyscanner and discover the world like never before. Available flights and prices can be found on Skyscanner.

GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is an online marketplace for booking travel activities and experiences. With a wide variety of tours, activities, and attractions available in destinations around the world, GetYourGuide makes it easy to find and book unique experiences for your next trip. From city sightseeing tours and food and wine tastings to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, GetYourGuide has something for every type of traveller. With a user-friendly website and mobile app, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, GetYourGuide is a top choice for travellers seeking memorable and authentic experiences. Book your activities on GetYourGuide.

Discover Cars

DiscoverCars.com offers a hassle-free car rental booking experience, with a wide range of rental car options available worldwide. Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, DiscoverCars.com offers competitive rates, 24/7 customer support, and flexible cancellation policies. With no hidden fees and a user-friendly interface, booking your rental car has never been easier. Choose from a variety of car rental options, including economy, luxury, and family-friendly vehicles, and enjoy the freedom of the open road on your next adventure. Book with DiscoverCars.com today and start exploring the world on your own terms!

Hotel Tonight

Here you will find last-minute discounts on vacancies from hotels. This is an amazingly simple app, and it doesn’t take long to book a room. You may search in each town for sights and maps. Furthermore, you can check the reviews and photos of other travellers in order to be sure about the reliability of each hotel. It also has a 24/7 customer service. If you’re stuck somewhere and you need a room desperately, this is the perfect app for you.

City Maps 2Go

Maps for travelling, hiking, mountain cycling, and many other activities. A necessary app for every adventure, activity, or touring abroad. You may only download one map per country, whereas it was possible to download two in the past. For an additional map, you need to pay. Alternatively, as soon as you have looked at the information on a map, you can delete it and then download a new one. 

You can mark all the places of interest on the map you have downloaded. Whether they are sights, shops, or restaurants, you can use the directions guide to get there. The great advantage of this app is that you don’t need to have an internet connection, although it might get stuck a few times. Nevertheless, it is quite a reliable and useful app.

EXTRA TIP: When you mark most points of interest before your trip, you can see approximately in which area you will need to book a room. To be as close as possible to all points of interest.

iVisa.com

iVisa.com is an online platform that helps travellers obtain electronic visas, eVisas, and other travel documents quickly and easily. With an extensive database of travel requirements for over 200 countries and a user-friendly application process, iVisa.com makes it simple for travellers to apply for and obtain the necessary documents for their trips. Whether you’re planning a vacation, business trip, or other travel experience, iVisa.com can help you navigate the complexities of travel documentation with ease. More information for the necessary travel documents, depending on your nationality and destination, can be found on iVisa.com.

Serbia Travel Guide FAQ — Everything you need to know