Your full Wanderlust guide to
Serbia
Serbia’s capital city Belgrade is undoubtedly the country’s highlight, with many coming to reveal in its renowned party scene and fabulous restaurant culture.
But outside the capital the country is steeped a rich and varied history, with attractions ranging from the pre-historic ruins at Lepenski Vir to the medieval monasteries of Manasija and Studenica.The baroque splendour of the Petrovardin Fortress in Novi Sad, also known as the ‘Gibraltar of the Danube’ is a must see.
Serbia’s starling natural beauty is evident in its five national parks. Exploring the wild woodlands, rugged mountains and rapid rivers can easily be done from the seat of your car if you’re not inclined to hiking or rafting. Views of the soaring cliffs of Kazan and the massive Drina River Gorge are not to be missed
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Belgrade is a notorious party town, so if you’re looking to live it up, head to the capital city for it’s excellent restaurants, music and nightlife.
Visit the pretty café lined streets of Novi Sad, host to Serbia’s biggest music festival each July. The town also boasts the impressive baroque Petrovardin Citadel.
Explore the historical sites of Derdap National Park, featuring pre-historic remains at Lepenski Vir and the impressive Derdap Gorge.
Discover Serbia’s stunning monasteries, the most impressive of which are the hidden gems of Studenica, Decani and Gracanica.
Tour some of the old Hungarian towns in Vojvodina, including Subotica and Sombor and marvel at their ornate secessionist architecture.
Hike amongst the forested hills of Zlatibor and Kopaonik national parks, taking in the picturesque views of valleys, rivers and streams
Wanderlust tips
It goes without saying that any discussion of politics can invite hostilities, especially if talking about Kosovo. Beware of taking photographs of military installations and taking photos of obvious war damage does not go down well either.
When to go to Serbia
The days are warm and mostly sunny from May to the end of September. Winter is cold, wet and best avoided.
International airports
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) lies 20kms from Belgrade.
Nis Constantine the Great Airport (INI) lies 4kms from Nis in the South of Serbia.
Pristina International Airport (PRN) lies 15kms of Pristina, Kosovo.
Getting around in Serbia
By Road: Coach and bus services are the most practical way of getting around the country, and service more remote locations. Services between most towns are frequent, comfortable and cheap. Rental cars are also widely available and better for some of the more out of the way places.
By Rail: Trains are cheaper than buses, but slower, unreliable and prone to breakdowns and delays.
Serbia accommodation
There is a lack of options beyond the mid-priced, state owned hotels, with luxury hotels and budget accommodation hard to find. Private accommodation in villages and towns is on the rise and can be booked through local tourist offices.
Serbia food & drink
Serbia is famous for its grilled meats. Local dishes include pljeskavica, gilled meat patties with spices served with onions and raznjici, shish kebabs of pork or veal. Seafood is also very popular especially trout and carp. A popular fish dish in the north is Alaska corba i riblji paprikas, a spicy red stew with lots of paprika. Serbia wine is readily available and the country makes a number liquors.
Health & safety in Serbia
Serbia is relatively safe and robbery and violent crime very rare, however try to avoid any large public demonstrations and areas which have obvious ethic tensions.
Hospital and medical treatment is free to travellers with a UK passport. Remember to use strong sun cream and it’s best to drink bottled water.
