Things to do in Belgrade

Serbia's capital city is a gritty and vibrant hub of history and hedonism. From the ancient Kalemegdan Citadel and Byzantine churches to the Soviet-era (housing blocks) and art nouveau architecture, Belgrade tells many stories and offers plenty of unique experiences.

Visitors can marvel at the Roman ruins, art galleries, or the magnificent Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Those who wish can delve deeper into Serbian heritage at the National Museum, and gain some insight into the lives of Serbian royalty with tours of the Residence of Princess Ljubica and the Royal Palace.

There's something for everyone to enjoy at the Kalemegdan, whether it's the ancient fortress, Military Museum, and art pavilion for the culture vultures and history buffs, or the parks, planetarium, and zoo, which will delight the kids.

Visitors can wander the Old Town, admiring the architecture and historical sites, and stroll along the pedestrianised shopping promenade Knez Mihailova. The vibrant nightlife of the capital city is notorious, with endless dancing, live music, and even floating nightclubs.

Skadarlija Street is the bohemian heart of Belgrade, boasting bars, cafes, and restaurants that spill out onto the pavements on balmy evenings. In summer, visitors can join the locals with picnics, water-skiing and sunbathing on the beaches of Ada Ciganlija, an artificial island in the Sava.

Kalemegdan photo

Kalemegdan

Some of Belgrade's most popular attractions for visitors are concentrated on the rocky ridge of Kalemegdan, site of the original fortified city, which overlooks the confluence of t…

Kalemegdan

Some of Belgrade's most popular attractions for visitors are concentrated on the rocky ridge of Kalemegdan, site of the original fortified city, which overlooks the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The neighbourhood is now split into two beautiful parks, namely the Great and Little Park, and plays host to Belgrade's ancient fortress, a zoo, art pavilion, observatory, planetarium, a Roman well and the Military Museum. Throughout the year, a range of sporting, cultural and arts events are held in Kalemegdan, and it's a popular attraction among Belgraders and visitors alike.

Royal Palace photo

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace in Belgrade has become a popular tourist attraction, boasting elegant salons, breathtaking artworks and magnificent decor. The palace was built between 1924 and 19…

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace in Belgrade has become a popular tourist attraction, boasting elegant salons, breathtaking artworks and magnificent decor. The palace was built between 1924 and 1929, and was designed by architects Zivojin Nikolic and Nikolay Krassnoff in the Serbian-Byzantine style. Beautiful gardens, pools and pavilions surround the palace, offering superb views of Kosutnjak Forest and Avala Mountain. Today, the Royal Palace is home to Crown Prince Alexander and the Karadordevic royal family, and is now open for public tours.

Website www.dvor.rs

Temple of Saint Sava photo

Temple of Saint Sava

Dominating the skyline of Belgrade is the massive Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. This remarkable domed building, with its white marble and…

Temple of Saint Sava

Dominating the skyline of Belgrade is the massive Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. This remarkable domed building, with its white marble and granite facade, is dedicated to the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The Ottomans publicly burnt the relics of the medieval saint Sava on this site in 1595. Although construction began in 1935, the church remains incomplete, particularly the interior. Visitors are welcome to view the church, which is set in lovely gardens.

Skadarlija Street photo

Skadarlija Street

Skadarlija Street is Belgrade's equivalent of Montmartre, the famous bohemian neighbourhood in Paris, and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Belgrade. The pedestrianised p…

Skadarlija Street

Skadarlija Street is Belgrade's equivalent of Montmartre, the famous bohemian neighbourhood in Paris, and is one of the most popular tourist spots in Belgrade. The pedestrianised precinct is lined with restaurants and pubs, with tables set on cobbled pavements, creating the perfect place to sample local specialities and take in the vibey atmosphere. Visitors flock here to enjoy a good beer and conversation; unearth some souvenirs, art and antiques; or simply soak up the traditional Serbian social scene.

National Museum of Serbia photo

National Museum of Serbia

A must for any history buff or art lover, the National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade houses a remarkable collection of more than 400,000 items. There's so much to see, from exquisit…

National Museum of Serbia

A must for any history buff or art lover, the National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade houses a remarkable collection of more than 400,000 items. There's so much to see, from exquisite works by Old Masters and medieval and modern art to ancient coins and architectural models. The artefacts are split into 34 archaeological, numismatic, artistic and historical collections to form a complete and fascinating picture of Serbian culture and history.

Website www.narodnimuzej.rs

Residence of Princess Ljubica photo

Residence of Princess Ljubica

One of few surviving buildings from the first reign of Prince Milos Obrenovic, the stately home of Princess Ljubica was built between 1829 and 1831 as a royal private residence. Th…

Residence of Princess Ljubica

One of few surviving buildings from the first reign of Prince Milos Obrenovic, the stately home of Princess Ljubica was built between 1829 and 1831 as a royal private residence. The building is a perfect example of the unique Balkan architectural style, incorporating some Baroque elements, while preserving an interior that showcases the luxurious lifestyle of Belgrade's wealthy in the 19th century. The residence of Princess Ljubica is an important icon of cultural heritage in the city, and is now part of the Belgrade City Museum.