For years, Serbia and Belgrade, in particular, have not been very popular destinations among tourists. For people who visit Europe, cities like Rome, Barcelona or Paris have been on the top of their list. These last years though things have changed. Belgrade has started gaining more and more popularity and loads of people visit every year to enjoy the Serbian cuisine and culture. The Serbian capital is quietly but steadily changing itself into a very fun and welcoming metropolis. We recommend you read below to discover 3 things you should definitely do in Belgrade.
Even though you can definitely stay in Belgrade for more than two or three days and enjoy yourself, it is easy to get around in a small amount of time. The city can be explored easily on foot or by bike, and also the means of transportation are in great condition. Be sure that you will encounter kind and easy-going people wherever you go, from cafes to restaurants and museums. Get ready and discover everything the former capital of Yugoslavia has to offer.
1. First thing you should definitely do in Belgrade: visit the amazing museums.
The Serbian capital and former Yugoslavia, in general, have a fascinating history. It is definitely worth it to look more into it if you’re interested in history. What better time is there to do that than when you are in Belgrade? We strongly recommend you take some time during your trip to visit a couple of museums and we promise that you will be fascinated.
The National Museum
The first of our recommendations is definitely the National Museum in the center of the city. In 2003, to everyone’s surprise, the museum was closed for renovations and many thought that it would never open again. But it actually opened again in 2018, renovated and better than ever. You will easily spot the museum, its neoclassical building in Republic Square, right in the middle of the city. Enjoy the three floors with exhibitions from the Roman era, paintings by Tintoretto, Monet, and Renoir as well as 20th-century works by the Yugoslavian painters and sculptors. The entrance is 300 dinars.
Museum of Yugoslavia
If you are interested in the modern history of Serbia we recommend you visit the Yugoslavia Museum. It is not located in the city center, but it is very easy to reach by public transportation. In this museum, you will discover history from the post-World War I Kingdom of Yugoslavia through the post-World War II Socialist Yugoslavia. There is a big section dedicated to the dictator Josip Broz Tito who kept the federation together until his death on May 4, 1980. In particular, you can see Tito’s grave, a marble grave under a glass ceiling. It is located in a building called the House of Flowers. You can also see a collection of gifts Tito received from other world leaders and other public figures over the years. Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shop and buy something unique to remember the experience. The admission to the museum is 400 dinars.
2. Second thing you should definitely do in Belgrade: walk around Skadarlija
If you do some research before visiting Belgrade, Skadarlija will be one of the most recommended things to see. And it is definitely worth it. It is one of the most famous spots in the city, while its official name is Skadarska and not Skadarlija. This area is the bohemian quarter of Belgrade. Even though it is very old, its appearance is the same as it was centuries ago. The cobblestone streets and historic buildings have been carefully preserved and restored when needed. Here you will find some of the best traditional restaurants in the city, with live music and a great environment.
Even though most of the restaurants and shops there are great, we recommend you visit a couple of specific ones. The first one is Šešir Moj. It was declared as the best tavern in South-Eastern Europe and that is definitely not a coincidence. In Šešir Moj you will feel the true spirit of Skadarlija, the rhythm of Belgrade’s life. It is an authentic Serbian tavern, where you will find the most amazing traditional food and drinks. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxing, perfect for getting some rest after a day of exploring the city.
The second one we recommend is Dva Jelena. This is also a very famous restaurant in the region. Its name means “Two Deers” as you will figure out from its logo as well. You should definitely visit it if you want to taste local Serbian cuisine in a traditional environment without breaking the bank. Lots of historical figures have dined in Dva Jelena over the years, with one of them being Tito himself.
3. Enjoy some rakija
This might be the last of the 3 things you should definitely do in Belgrade, but it is also the most enjoyable. Right in the heart of Europe, and especially in Belgrade you will have the chance to try rakija. If you have never heard of it before, this is your chance to know more about it and give it a try during your trip. Rakija is an alcoholic drink made from the distillation of fermented fruit. Its name is Serbo-Croatian and at first sight, it might remind you of drinks you’ve had before. Don’t let yourself be fooled though. It is clear as water but with a percentage of alcohol that can range from approximately 40% to 65%.
There is an entire world for you to discover in terms of the tradition, rituals, and particularities of Rakija. You will definitely have the chance to try this drink in most bars and pubs you go to in Belgrade and the rest of Serbia. For a different experience keep an eye out for the festival that happens once every year. Every September, the Rakija Fest takes place in Belgrade and even though it is not that big or popular yet, you should pay it a visit.
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