Belgrade Serbia 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Belgrade: A Two-Day Itinerary

This two-day itinerary is a starting point for exploring the highlights of Belgrade.

Day 1:

  • Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Serbian breakfast at “Fudbaler” (known for its delicious pastries and coffee), or grab something quick and tasty from a street vendor like “Burek & Cevapi”.

  • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM):

    • Explore the vibrant Kalemegdan Fortress, located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Enjoy the panoramic views from the fortress walls, visit the military museum, and wander through the charming cobblestone streets within.

    • Things to do:

      • Stroll along the ramparts for breathtaking views of the city and river.
      • Visit the Military Museum inside the fortress to learn about Belgrade’s rich military history.
      • Relax and enjoy the Danube River: Take a walk along the riverbanks, have a coffee at a riverside cafe, or take a boat trip for stunning views of the city.

  • Evening (7:00 PM - 11:00 PM):

    • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious Serbian meal at “Kod Karađozica”, a traditional restaurant with great ambiance.
    • Experience Belgrade nightlife: After dinner, explore the lively nightlife scene in the Skadarlija district (known for its bohemian atmosphere and traditional music) or head to a modern club in Savamala (a trendy area known for its nightlife).

  • Alternative: If Skadarlija isn’t your style, enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Dorćol with its many bars and pubs offering diverse experiences.

Where to stay:

  • For budget travelers: Hostel “Belgrade” or “Zephyr Hostel Belgrade”.

  • For mid-range options: Consider hotels in the city center, such as “Hotel Moskva” for its luxurious history, or “Grand Hotel Belgrade” for a modern and stylish experience.

  • For luxury stays: Opt for a stay at the “Crowne Plaza Belgrade” or “Hyatt Regency Belgrade” for their upscale accommodations and central location.

Where to eat:

  • Traditional Serbian Cuisine:

    • Skadarlija, located in the heart of Belgrade, offers a variety of traditional restaurants with live music.
    • Try “Mala Fabrika Ukusa” for a delicious and modern take on Serbian cuisine, or “Dva Jelena” for a more classic experience.

  • Modern Restaurants: For something different, head to “Savamala, an up-and-coming nightlife district with unique restaurants and bars offering international cuisines.

Day 2:

  • Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM):

    • Visit the St. Sava’s Temple, a stunning Orthodox church with a rich history.

  • Other things of interest:

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the Belgrade Fortress: This historic landmark is a must-see for any visitor, offering breathtaking views of the city and a chance to explore its museums and ramparts.

  • Enjoy the vibrant cafe culture: Stop by one of the many cafes along Knez Mihailova Street or in the bohemian Savamala district for traditional Serbian coffee and pastries.

    • Visit the Church of Saint Sava: Located on the Vračar plateau, this impressive church is a symbol of Serbian Orthodox faith and a popular spot for local music and cultural events.

Things to know:

  • Currency: The Serbian dinar (RSD) is the official currency.

  • Language: Serbian is the official language.

  • Culture: Be prepared to experience a warm and welcoming culture, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and tradition.

  • Food & Drink:

    • Traditional Serbian food is hearty and delicious, often featuring grilled meats like cevapcici (grilled minced meat) and pljeskavica (grilled patty).

    • Try the local rakija, a fruit brandy that’s a popular way to end a meal in Serbia.

  • Travel: Belgrade has an excellent public transportation system, with buses, trams, and trolleybuses covering the city extensively. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or on board buses and trams.

Things to do (Alternatives):

  • Explore Belgrade’s history: Visit the Museum of Yugoslavia, the Belgrade History Museum, or take a walking tour of the city’s historical landmarks.

  • Enjoy the arts: Catch a performance at the National Theatre, explore the Belgrade National Museum, or visit the Museum of Contemporary Art.

  • Experience the nightlife:

    • Explore the bohemian scene:

The “Belgrade” neighborhood in the city center is known for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a night out with live music and traditional Serbian food at the following:

* **Live Music:**
    * **"Jazz & Blues Club"** (live jazz, blues)

* **Enjoy the outdoors:**

Visit Ada Ciganlija, a popular island destination in Belgrade, perfect for enjoying the beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.

Things to note:

  • Serbian cuisine is delicious and affordable.
  • Food is a great way to experience local culture and connect with the history of the city.
  • Belgrade has a rich and vibrant nightlife scene with options for all tastes.

Enjoy a “traditional” Serbian meal:

  • Try the grilled meats: Cevapcici (grilled minced meat), Pljeskavica (large, flat, grilled patty), or other local specialties.

  • Explore the bohemian restaurants in Belgrade’s “Skadarlija” district.

  • Visit a “kafana” (traditional Serbian tavern): Enjoy live music and a taste of the local culture at a “kafana” with dishes like:

    • Cevapi: Grilled minced meat sausages served in a flatbread with onions.
    • Ajvar: A roasted red pepper spread.
    • Burek: Flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach and meat.

  • Explore the Belgrade Bohemian Quarter: Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural scene with a visit to Belgrade’s vibrant bohemian district, known for its:

Where to find “the best” traditional food:

  • Traditional Serbian Food: Explore restaurants in the “Skadarlija” area.

  • Cafe Culture: Enjoy a traditional meal with a side of history at the “Belgrade Fortress”.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and nightlife of Belgrade’s cafes, which often serve as cultural hubs for locals.

Other things to do:

  • Visit the “Kalemegdan”: Explore this historical fortress complex on the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
  • Explore the art scene: Discover the local music and culture in a traditional setting.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Currency: While the Euro is widely accepted, Serbia uses its own currency, the Serbian dinar (RSD).

  • Safety: Belgrade is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against petty theft, just as you would in any major city.

  • Language: English is not widely spoken in Serbia, so learning a few basic Serbian phrases will be helpful for navigating everyday interactions.

For a truly “local” experience:

  • Focus on the food: Belgrade’s “national” cuisine scene is a treat, with “National Museum of Serbia” and “Belgrade” offering traditional dishes in a charming setting.
  • Enjoy the city’s vibrant culture: Explore the bohemian “Knez Mihailova Street” for a taste of local nightlife.

Enjoy the “kafana” experience:

  • Try “Skadarlija”, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional music, is a great place to start your exploration of Belgrade’s culinary scene.

For a fun evening out:

  • Explore the city: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the “Belgrade” neighborhood in the evenings.

Enjoy the

  • “Traditional” food: The Serbian capital is known for its rich and diverse culinary offerings, with many restaurants serving delicious and authentic dishes.

Enjoy the “Burek” experience:

  • “Kafana”: A traditional Serbian restaurant**: Explore “Kod Karađozica” for a taste of local food.

  • “Traditional” culinary experiences:

      * **Taste "homemade" cevapi**: Many locals believe that "the best" cevapi are found at the "Knez Mihailova" restaurants, but you can explore the city's "traditional" culinary scene in many other places.

  • Try “grilled” dishes: Enjoy the traditional Serbian flavors of the “cevapi” (a type of grilled sausage) and “burek” (a savory pastry).

  • “Belgrade” is a great place to find delicious “traditional” food, as it’s a popular destination for local and international tourists.

Other things to consider:

  • Currency:

  • “Belgrade” is a city with a vibrant history.

  • Try a “kafana” (traditional) experience: Visit the “Belgrade” Museum of Serbian Cuisine and Culture, which features a traditional restaurant setting.

Transportation:

  • The “national” museum is located on the “Savamala”**.

  • Public Transportation: Belgrade has an extensive public transportation system with buses, trams, and trolleybuses.

  • Walking:

  • Enjoy walking: Explore the city on foot - it’s a great way to experience its charm and discover hidden gems.

  • Taxis: Use reliable taxi services.

  • “Taxi” stands are common in Belgrade, but it’s recommended to use ride-hailing apps for transparent pricing and convenience.

  • “Car rental”: Explore the city on your own terms.

Other “fun” things to explore:

  • “Belgrade’s” nightlife: “Enjoy” a traditional Serbian meal.

  • Explore “traditional” Serbian cuisine: Try local specialties like “pljeskavica” (a grilled patty) and “burek” (a savory pastry), which are both delicious and affordable.

  • Visit the “Knez Mihailova”:

  • “Street food” vendors offer a variety of local dishes.

Other “fun” things to do:

  • Explore the city: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and culture. Try “traditional” Serbian cevapi (grilled minced meat sausages) or “try” a traditional Serbian restaurant for authentic “cuisine”.

  • Enjoy “the best” of Belgrade’s nightlife:

  • **Visit “the” National Museum of Food in Belgrade:

  • “Taste” the unique flavors of Serbia.

  • Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes and drinks.

  • Explore: “The Fortress of Belgrade”, which is located on the top of a hill, overlooks the Danube River.

Safety: *

Be aware of your surroundings and “take precautions” against pickpockets.

Things to remember:

  • “Enjoy” the city’s history and culture, but be mindful of your belongings.
  • Avoid carrying large sums of money with you:

Use a safe, secure wallet or money belt for valuables.

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Enjoying a new city is exciting, but it’s important to stay alert.

For “traditional” food lovers:

  • Try the “Belgrade Fortress” for a unique and cultural dining experience.
  • Learn a few basic Serbian phrases:

While “enjoying” the “city” ( Belgrade) it is always helpful to be able to communicate with locals, even if it’s just a simple “hvala” (thank you).

Enjoy your trip:

  • Enjoy:

Be sure to try “traditional” Serbian dishes like “burek” and “cevapi”.

  • Learn about Serbia’s history:

Visit the historical museum or “traditional” restaurant and enjoy the local cuisine.

  • “Knez Mihailova” is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, so you can be sure to find some delicious and traditional food options there.

  • Be mindful of your surroundings:

Keep an eye on your belongings while you’re enjoying the sights and sounds of “the city”.

  • Try:

For those looking for adventure:

  • Explore Belgrade:

  • “Visit” the historical museums and learn about the history of the city.

  • “Enjoy” the local cuisine, which is known for its hearty dishes and flavors.

  • “Explore” the “city’s” rich cultural heritage.