Local 3-Day Family Trip to Belgrade: Shopping and Sightseeing

Belgrade, Serbia

3 days

Kalemegdan fortress and park
Pobednik monument
Knez Mihailova street
Buildings on Belgrade Waterfront is an urban renewal development project
Kalemegdan Fortress

About Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade, Serbia's vibrant capital, is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Its rich history is evident in the ancient Kalemegdan Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. The city's heart, Knez Mihailova, is a bustling pedestrian zone with a myriad of shops, cafes, and galleries. Belgrade's nightlife is legendary, with floating river clubs, or 'splavovi', offering unforgettable experiences. The bohemian quarter, Skadarlija, is a testament to the city's artistic spirit, with its cobblestone streets lined with traditional Serbian restaurants and live music. A visit to the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, is a must. Belgrade offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, making it a fascinating destination for any traveler.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City Center and Kalemegdan Park

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Belgrade Fortress, a significant historical monument that offers panoramic views of the city. The fortress is located in Kalemegdan Park, a perfect place for a morning stroll with the family.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Serbian lunch in a family-friendly restaurant in the city center. Try local dishes like cevapi, pljeskavica, and sarma.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the pedestrian-friendly Knez Mihailova Street. It's a bustling shopping district with a variety of stores, boutiques, and street performers.

Dinner

Have dinner in a restaurant offering a variety of international and Serbian cuisine. The city center offers many family-friendly dining options.

Evening

End the day with a leisurely walk along the Sava River promenade. The area is beautifully lit at night, offering a relaxing atmosphere.

Morning

Visit the Museum of Yugoslavia in the morning. It's a great place to learn about the country's history and culture. The museum is also home to Tito's Mausoleum.

Lunch

Have lunch in a cozy restaurant near the museum. Try local dishes like karađorđeva šnicla and ajvar.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon in Ada Ciganlija, a river island turned into a peninsula. It's a popular recreational spot with beaches, sports facilities, and a shopping area.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a restaurant with a view of the Sava River. Try dishes like gibanica and kajmak.

Evening

End the day with a visit to the Nikola Tesla Museum. The museum offers night tours, which can be a unique and educational experience for the whole family.

Morning

Start the day with a visit to the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the church. Try traditional Serbian dishes like pasulj and prebranac.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon in Zemun, a charming neighborhood known for its Austro-Hungarian architecture. Visit the Zemun Market for some local shopping.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Belgrade in a restaurant offering a variety of Serbian and international dishes.

Evening

End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Danube River. The Zemun Quay is a popular spot for evening strolls.

Attractions in Itinerary (12)

Belgrade Fortress

1
Belgrade Fortress

A historic fortress located on an overlooking ridge where the Sava and Danube rivers converge, offering panoramic views of Belgrade.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Kalemegdan Park

2
Kalemegdan Park

The largest park and the most important historical monument in Belgrade. It is located on a 125-metre-high cliff, at the junction of the River Sava and the Danube.

Attractions
Parks
Monuments
Landmarks
Knez Mihailova Street

3
Knez Mihailova Street

A pedestrian zone and shopping center, protected by law as one of the oldest and most valuable landmarks of the city. It's one of the most famous streets in Belgrade.

Attractions
Shopping
Landmarks
Sava River

4
Sava River

The Sava River is one of the major rivers in Europe and a significant landmark in Belgrade. It offers beautiful views of the city and is a popular spot for boat tours.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Museum of Yugoslavia

5
Museum of Yugoslavia

A museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Yugoslavia, featuring a wide range of exhibits and artifacts.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Tito's Mausoleum

6
Tito's Mausoleum

Tito's Mausoleum, also known as the House of Flowers, is the final resting place of Josip Broz Tito, the former President of Yugoslavia. It is a significant historical site and museum in Belgrade.

Attractions
Museums
Monuments
Ada Ciganlija

7
Ada Ciganlija

A river island turned into a peninsula, located in the Sava River. It is Belgrade's most popular beach and offers a variety of sports and entertainment facilities.

Beaches
Parks
Sports
Entertainment
Nikola Tesla Museum

8
Nikola Tesla Museum

A scientific museum dedicated to honoring and displaying the life and work of Nikola Tesla. It holds more than 160,000 original documents and around 5,000 personal other items.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Church of Saint Sava

9
Church of Saint Sava

One of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, the Church of Saint Sava is a significant landmark in Belgrade, known for its impressive size and beautiful architecture.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Zemun

10
Zemun

A historical town and one of the 17 municipalities which constitute the City of Belgrade. Known for its unique architecture, cultural heritage, and beautiful views of the Danube river.

Neighborhoods
Cultural Experiences
Zemun Market

11
Zemun Market

Zemun Market is a popular open-air market in Belgrade, where locals and tourists alike can buy fresh produce, local products, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Danube River

12
Danube River

Europe's second-longest river, flowing through Belgrade and offering beautiful views, boat tours, and fishing opportunities.

Attractions
Tours
Sports

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica

A Serbian version of a burger, Pljeskavica is a patty made of a mix of ground meats, often a blend of pork, beef, and lamb, grilled and served with flatbread. It's a must-try street food in Belgrade.

Ćevapi

Ćevapi

Ćevapi are small, oblong-shaped kebabs made from minced and mixed meats, usually pork and beef. They are a popular fast food in Belgrade, often served in a flatbread with onions and sour cream.

Sarma

Sarma is a traditional Serbian dish, made from minced meat and rice wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves. It's a hearty and comforting dish, especially popular in the winter months in Belgrade.

Karađorđeva šnicla

Karađorđeva šnicla

Named after a Serbian prince, Karađorđeva šnicla is a rolled veal or pork steak, stuffed with kajmak (a creamy dairy product), then breaded and fried. It's a rich and indulgent dish, typical of Belgrade's hearty cuisine.

Prebranac

Prebranac

Prebranac is a baked bean dish, made with white beans, onions, and paprika. It's a staple of Serbian cuisine, often served as a side dish or a vegetarian main course in Belgrade.

Kajmak

Kajmak

Kajmak is a creamy dairy product, similar to clotted cream. It's made by simmering milk and then skimming off the creamy top layer. In Belgrade, it's often served as a spread on bread or as a topping for meats.

Ajvar

Ajvar

Ajvar is a red pepper relish, made with roasted red peppers and garlic. It's a staple of Serbian cuisine, often served as a spread on bread or as a side dish in Belgrade.

Rakija

Rakija

Rakija is a fruit brandy, popular in Serbia. It's often homemade, with plum (šljivovica) being the most common flavor. In Belgrade, it's traditionally served as an aperitif.

Proja

Proja

Proja is a traditional Serbian cornbread, made with cornmeal, eggs, and yogurt. It's a staple of Serbian cuisine, often served as a side dish or a snack in Belgrade.

Gibanica

Gibanica

Gibanica is a traditional Serbian pastry, made with layers of cheese, eggs, and filo dough. It's a popular breakfast or snack food in Belgrade.

Kompot

Kompot

Kompot is a sweet beverage made by cooking fruit in a large amount of sweetened water. It's a traditional drink in Serbia, often served as a refreshing drink in the hot summer months in Belgrade.

Vanilice

Vanilice are small, round cookies made with nuts and jam, and dusted with powdered sugar. They are a traditional Serbian dessert, often served during the holidays in Belgrade.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Belgrade, Serbia, is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September and October). During these periods, the weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. The summer months (July and August) can also be a good time if you don't mind the heat, as there are many festivals and events happening. However, it's worth noting that these are also the busiest tourist months, so it might be a bit crowded. Winter in Belgrade can be quite cold and snowy, but it offers a different kind of charm with Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

Western New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

Second Day of Western New Year's Day

January 7

Sun

Christmas Day

February 15

Thu

Statehood Day of the Republic of Serbia

February 16

Fri

Statehood Day of the Republic of Serbia (Day 2)

May 1

Wed

Labor holiday

May 2

Thu

Labor Day Holiday

May 3

Fri

Good Friday

May 4

Sat

Holy Saturday

May 5

Sun

Easter Day

May 6

Mon

Easter Monday

November 11

Mon

Armistice Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Belgrade's public bus system is extensive and can take you to almost any part of the city. There are regular buses, express buses, and night buses. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks or on board.

Trams are another popular mode of public transportation in Belgrade. They are slower than buses but can be a scenic way to travel around the city.

Trolleybuses are a unique form of public transportation in Belgrade. They are electric buses that run on overhead wires. They are quieter and more environmentally friendly than regular buses.

Belgrade's train system connects the city with other parts of Serbia and Europe. The main train station is Belgrade Centar.

Taxis are plentiful in Belgrade and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or through a mobile app. Always ensure the taxi is licensed and metered to avoid being overcharged.

Ridesharing services such as Car:Go and Yandex are available in Belgrade. These can be booked via a smartphone app and offer a convenient way to get around the city.

Belgrade has a growing network of bicycle lanes and bike-sharing schemes. Cycling can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city.

Belgrade's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's main attractions are within walking distance of each other.

Boat tours along the Danube and Sava rivers offer a unique perspective of Belgrade. There are also public boat services that can take you to different parts of the city.

Renting a car can be a convenient option if you plan to explore outside of Belgrade. However, traffic can be heavy and parking difficult in the city center.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency RSD

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone94

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Belgrade, Serbia as a first time visitor

1

Belgrade operates on Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time.

2

The official language is Serbian, but English is widely spoken, especially among the younger population and in tourist areas.

3

The official currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

4

Tipping is customary in Serbia. In restaurants, it's common to leave around 10% of the bill. Taxi drivers also expect a small tip.

5

Belgrade has a continental climate. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching 86°F (30°C), while winters can be very cold with temperatures dropping to 32°F (0°C).

6

Public transportation in Belgrade includes buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on board.

7

Taxis are plentiful and relatively cheap, but make sure to use a licensed taxi to avoid being overcharged.

8

Belgrade is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's advisable to take precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas.

9

Serbian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean, Turkish, Austrian, and Hungarian influences. Don't miss trying local specialties like pljeskavica (Serbian burger) and cevapi (grilled meat).

10

Serbians are known for their hospitality. Don't be surprised if locals invite you into their homes for a meal or a drink.

11

Smoking is allowed in many public places in Serbia, including bars and restaurants.

12

Serbia uses the Type F power plug, so you may need a power adapter if your devices use a different type.

13

Tap water is safe to drink in Belgrade.

14

Belgrade has a vibrant nightlife, with many clubs located on boats along the Danube and Sava rivers.

15

Serbia is not part of the European Union, so EU roaming regulations do not apply. Consider buying a local SIM card for cheaper data and calls.

16

Belgrade has a rich history and culture. It's worth learning a bit about the city's past before your visit.

17

Serbians are passionate about sports, especially football and basketball. Try to catch a local game if you can.

18

If you're visiting in winter, be prepared for snow and icy conditions.

19

Belgrade has a number of markets where you can buy fresh produce, local delicacies, and souvenirs.

20

Serbia has a unique tradition of 'splavovi' or river clubs. These floating nightclubs are a must-visit for party-goers.

Basic Serbian to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Zdravo

ZDRAH-voh

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Doviđenja

doh-VEE-jen-ya

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Molim

MOH-leem

Making a request

Thank you

Hvala

HVAH-lah

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Da

dah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Ne

neh

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

Izvinite

eez-VEE-nee-teh

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ne razumem

neh RAH-zoo-mem

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Da li govorite engleski?

dah lee GOH-voh-ree-teh ENG-les-kee

Asking if someone speaks English

I'm lost

Izgubljen sam

eez-GOOB-lyen sahm

When you are lost

Where is the bathroom?

Gde je kupatilo?

gdeh yeh KOO-pah-tee-loh

Asking for the bathroom

Help

Pomoć

POH-mohch

When you need assistance

Call the police

Pozovite policiju

poh-ZOH-vee-teh poh-LEE-see-yoo

In case of an emergency

I need a doctor

Treba mi doktor

TREH-bah mee DOHK-tor

When you need medical assistance

Water

Voda

VOH-dah

When you want to order water

Food

Hrana

HRAH-nah

When you want to order food

Beer

Pivo

PEE-voh

When you want to order beer

Cheers

Živeli

ZHEE-veh-lee

When toasting

How much does it cost?

Koliko košta?

KOH-lee-koh KOSH-tah

Asking for the price

Where is...?

Gde je...?

gdeh yeh...?

Asking for directions

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear (3 pairs)

  • Socks (3 pairs)

  • T-shirts (3)

  • Pants/Jeans (2 pairs)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Swimwear (if planning to visit a spa or pool)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license (if planning to rent a car)

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Serbian dinar)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Universal power adapter

  • Headphones

  • Camera (if not using phone camera)

  • Charger for camera

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel guidebook for Belgrade

  • Map of Belgrade

  • Phrasebook or language app for Serbian

Weather Conditions

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, experiences a continental climate, with distinct seasons that each offer a unique charm. If you're visiting in the winter, from December to February, be prepared for cold weather. Temperatures can drop to around 32°F (0°C), and snowfall is common. Dress warmly, with layers, and don't forget your winter accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats. Spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November, are generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures range from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities like sightseeing and exploring the city's parks. Light jackets or sweaters are recommended for the cooler evenings. Summer, from June to August, can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 86°F (30°C). It's advisable to wear light, breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen. This is a great time to visit the city's outdoor cafes, or take a boat ride on the Danube and Sava rivers. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Also, keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, so it's wise to always have a backup plan for indoor activities. Belgrade is a city that can be enjoyed in any weather, so don't let the climate deter you from exploring all it has to offer.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

4° / -2°

January is the coldest month in Belgrade, with snowfall being quite common. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter charm of the city.

February

7° / -1°

February is still cold with occasional snow, but the end of the month might bring some warmer days.

March

12° / 2°

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually increasing, but still pack some warm clothes.

April

18° / 6°

April is a pleasant month with more sunny days, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

May

22° / 10°

May brings warm and comfortable weather, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

June

26° / 14°

June is the start of summer with long sunny days, great for enjoying Belgrade's outdoor cafes and river cruises.

July

28° / 16°

July is the hottest month in Belgrade, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for swimming and sunbathing on Ada Ciganlija.

August

28° / 16°

August is equally hot as July, with occasional thunderstorms. It's a perfect time to visit the city's numerous festivals.

September

24° / 12°

September is a lovely month with mild temperatures and less crowds, ideal for leisurely exploration.

October

18° / 8°

October brings the autumn colors to Belgrade, with cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

November

10° / 4°

November is a bit chilly with shorter days, but it's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

December

6° / 0°

December is cold with occasional snow, making it a magical time to visit Belgrade's Christmas markets.

Did you know?

Did you know that Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a history dating back to around 7000 BC?

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