If you are visiting Belgrade for the first time, Serbia Transfers is here to guide you. We've crafted a practical guide to the top things to do in Belgrade, ensuring your sightseeing experience is unforgettable, even if your stay lasts only a couple of days. Unlike many posts that reflect personal preferences, we’ve compiled this list based on the feedback we hear directly from our chauffeurs and satisfied clients during their transfers to and from Belgrade Airport. We know exactly what excites tourists about this vibrant city.
From its historic landmarks to hidden gems, our selection is tailored to help you plan your Belgrade itinerary with ease. Stay with us and discover what to visit in Belgrade.
Every attraction in this guide is linked to Google Maps. Just click the site's name to see its exact location and start planning your route. For convenience, we’ve grouped these spots by proximity, helping you optimize your sightseeing tours in Belgrade.
Republic Square and the main pedestrian street, Knez Mihajlova, form the vibrant core of Belgrade’s city life. If your accommodation is near the center, it’s impossible to miss Republic Square and Knez Mihajlova Street. These landmarks are the heart of the city, surrounded by a variety of sights and attractions that make this area a must-visit.
Knez Mihajlova Street begins at Terazije Street and the iconic Palace of Albania. As a pedestrian-only zone, this street and its charming side streets are packed with attractions. A short walk from the beginning of Knez Mihajlova will take you to the Hotel Moskva, an architectural gem and one of the most beautiful buildings in Belgrade. You’ll also pass by the Serbian Parliament and Belgrade Assembly buildings—both worth a visit.
As you stroll down this historic street, you’ll find yourself heading toward the entrance to Kalemegdan Park and Fortress. Don’t miss the smaller pedestrian streets, such as Obilićev Venac and Topličin Venac, where you’ll find many cozy restaurants and bars. At the end of Knez Mihajlova, the modern Rajićeva Shopping Mall awaits, contrasting with the stunning 19th-century architecture that defines the street.
Just 100 meters to the right of Knez Mihajlova, you’ll arrive at Republic Square. This lively square is surrounded by notable landmarks, including the National Museum and the National Theater. At its center stands the striking statue of Prince Michael (Knez Mihajlo) on horseback, a beloved symbol of Belgrade.
At the end of Knez Mihajlova Street, just across Pariska Street, lies Kalemegdan Park, which leads to the awe-inspiring Belgrade Fortress. A visit to Kalemegdan is an absolute must when exploring Belgrade. Most tourists walk straight to the famous Pobednik (The Winner) Monument, a spot offering breathtaking views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. However, to truly appreciate the fortress, we recommend setting aside at least an hour to explore its historical and architectural gems.
Start your journey with the peaceful surroundings of the Ružica and St. Petka churches and make your way to the picturesque Zidan Gate. Don’t miss the Military Museum, which offers a glimpse into Serbia's turbulent past, with its impressive collection of artifacts displayed both inside and outside the museum.
If you have additional time, indulge in a unique dining experience at the Kalemegdanska Terasa Restaurant, located within the fortress. Imagine savoring your meal in a setting surrounded by centuries of history! Additionally, the Belgrade Zoo, nestled within the fortress grounds, adds to the site’s distinctiveness. To fully experience Kalemegdan Fortress, its museums, and the zoo, plan to dedicate at least half a day of your stay in Belgrade.
Just a short walk from the city center, you'll find Belgrade’s bohemian quarter, the iconic Skadarlija. This historic cobblestone street brims with charm and nostalgia, transporting visitors back over a century to the days of old Belgrade.
Although Skadarlija is only 300 meters long, it offers an unforgettable experience. The street is lined with authentic restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy traditional Serbian cuisine while soaking in the lively ambiance of this beloved neighborhood. For a truly memorable meal, we recommend dining at one of the oldest and most famous restaurants in Belgrade, such as Tri Šešira (Three Hats) or Dva Jelena (Two Deers). Both establishments offer a combination of exquisite local dishes and a delightful bohemian atmosphere.
Just 300 meters from both Skadarlija and Republic Square, you’ll find two striking landmarks: the Assembly of Serbia and the Assembly of the City of Belgrade. These two imposing buildings face each other across Nikola Pašić Square, creating a significant focal point in the city’s administrative and architectural landscape.
Nearby, you can also visit the stunning Church of St. Marko and relax in Tasmajdan Park. If you’re up for a slightly longer walk, don’t miss the Nikola Tesla Museum, a must-see for anyone interested in the life and inventions of one of the world’s greatest scientists. However, if time is limited, you can still admire the Serbian Parliament from the comfort of your vehicle. When traveling from Belgrade Airport to the city center, ask your driver to take this route and stop briefly for photos.
Splavovi, or rafts, are a defining feature of Belgrade that give the city its unique charm. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife, Belgrade is a hotspot for party lovers, and splavovi are at the heart of this experience.
Located on both the Sava and Danube rivers, splavovi offer diverse options depending on your preferences. For nightlife, the best splavs are on the New Belgrade side of the Sava River, across from the Sava Port. These floating nightclubs and discos create an energetic and unforgettable atmosphere.
However, not all splavovi are about parties. Many operate as floating cafés and restaurants, offering a more relaxed and scenic experience throughout the year. If you’re looking for a peaceful dining or chillout spot, the Danube near Hotel Yugoslavia is home to some of the finest raft restaurants.
If you have visited one of the splavs on the Danube near the Hotel Yugoslavia, we recommend walking along the promenade along the river to Zemun.
Cute fish restaurants along the Danube will remind you for a moment of taverns on the coast of Greece, while the center of Zemun and its pedestrian zone will look more like a small place in Austria or Hungary. Zemun today is just one of the 17 Belgrade municipalities, but it used to be a different city outside of Belgrade, often throughout history in a separate kingdom. That is why it is not surprising that architecture is different in relation to the center of Belgrade. The Ottoman culture had a more significant influence on Belgrade, while the Austro-Hungarian monarchy influenced Zemun.
Still, the fantastic view of the Danube, Zemun, and Belgrade is the reason why it is worth walking a few hundred meters uphill from the Zemun waterfront. One of the recognizable symbols of Zemun is the Gardoš Tower, also known as the Millennium Tower, built by the Austro-Hungarians who once ruled this part of Serbia. Around the fortress are the remains of a medieval Serbian fortress.
You can go to the sandy beach at Big War Island and swim in the Danube during the summer season. There is a pontoon bridge connecting Lido beach and Zemun.
What to see in Zemun:
The Church of Saint Sava is not only one of the most beautiful buildings in Belgrade but also one of its most iconic symbols. A visit to this remarkable landmark is a must during your stay. Located about 2.5 kilometers from the city center, it is easily accessible via Kralja Milana Street, often considered one of the most picturesque streets in Belgrade. Along the way, you’ll pass through Slavija Square, making the walk an enjoyable sightseeing experience in itself.
This is the largest church in the Balkans and ranks among the biggest Orthodox churches in the world. Its sheer size and grandeur make it one of the most significant tourist attractions in Belgrade. If you're on an airport transfer in Belgrade, don’t hesitate to ask your driver to take a brief detour to see it. Even if it's slightly off your route, the added cost will be minimal and well worth the visit.
Ada Lake, or Sava Lake as it is officially known, is located slightly outside the city center but is easily reachable by bus in just 20 minutes. If you’re visiting Belgrade during the summer, this is the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy outdoor activities. The lake was formed by partitioning the Sava River between the riverbank and the Ada Ciganlija island and is considered one of the best-maintained artificial lakes in Europe.
With nearly 7 kilometers of pebble beaches, Ada Ciganlija offers plenty of space for sunbathing and swimming. It’s surrounded by numerous sports facilities, cafes, and restaurants, earning its nickname, the “Sea of Belgrade.” The lake’s water is clean and suitable for swimming, thanks to a filtration system that pumps fresh water from a nearby lake used as a city water supply.
On your way to Ada, don’t miss the striking Ada Bridge, a modern architectural marvel and one of Belgrade’s most impressive infrastructure achievements of the 21st century. While the entire 8-kilometer walk around the lake might be challenging, you can rent a bike, rollerblades, or hop on a small tourist train that circles the lake.
Of all the places of interest in Belgrade we’ve covered, Mount Avala is the furthest from the city center. However, it is easily reachable by car in less than 30 minutes, provided there are no traffic jams. Though not very high at 511 meters, Avala offers a lush green escape and stunning panoramic views from the 205-meter-tall Avala Tower. This tower provides a breathtaking perspective on the surrounding areas of Belgrade. At the very top of the mountain, don’t miss the historic Monument to the Unknown Hero, which also features magnificent views.
For a relaxing break, we recommend stopping at the restaurant Čarapićev Brest, located at the base of the mountain. Here, you can enjoy traditional Serbian cuisine in a peaceful, green setting. If you have a full day, you can combine your trip to Avala with other nearby attractions such as Kosmaj Mountain, the historic Smederevo Fortress, or a wine tour through Topola and Orašac in Šumadija.
While public transportation is available, the most convenient way to visit Avala and explore its surroundings is by hiring a private driver. We offer a hassle-free solution with our limo service. For more information, check out our page about the private tour from Belgrade to Avala by car.
BOOK YOUR PRIVATE DAY TRIP TO AVALA
Many of the locations we have listed can be visited during your taxi transfer from Belgrade's "Nikola Tesla" airport if you ask for it on your booking quote. All you need to do is contact us and tell us which place you are interested in, and we will offer a price for transportation from the airport, which includes stopping at the sites you choose.
Hiring a reliable private transfer service can reduce the stress of traveling abroad and make your trip more enjoyable. With us, you can have peace of mind during your visit to Serbia.
