Hello everyone, today we at Mikos Store will tell you about Belgrade, the capital and largest city of Serbia. Belgrade is located at a strategic point where the Danube and Sava rivers meet. Known for its rich history, vibrant cultural scene and dynamic nightlife, Belgrade brings together many different cultures as it is located at the intersection of East and West. Belgrade, which means "White City", has been under the rule of many different empires throughout history, which has led to diversity in the city's architecture and culture.
Belgrade has a rich historical heritage with castles, historical buildings and museums that bear the traces of powers such as the Ottoman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. At the same time, the city reflects a vibrant and modern lifestyle with its young population, art galleries, modern restaurants and cafes.
Belgrade is also an important political, economic and educational centre. The city is the heart of Serbia's social, cultural and financial life and is home to the country's most important universities, research institutes and media outlets.
Festivals in Belgrade
Belgrade offers a cultural vibe with various festivals held throughout the year. From music to film festivals, from traditional events to modern art shows, a wide range of festivals enrich the artistic and cultural life of the city. Here are some of the important festivals you should definitely experience in Belgrade:
EXIT Festival
Held annually in July, at the Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad, but easily accessible from Belgrade. EXIT is an international music festival covering a wide range of musical genres, hosting world-famous musicians and DJs.
Belgrade International Film Festival - FEST
This festival, held in February or March, presents distinguished examples of national and international cinema. The festival brings together important names in the world of cinema with screenings of new films, retrospectives and various competitions.
Belgrade Jazz Festival
This festival, held in October, hosts local and international stars of jazz music. The festival showcases the musical diversity of the city by offering jazz lovers unforgettable performances and jam sessions.
Belgrade Light Festival
Held during the New Year period, this festival illuminates the city with light art works, projections and visual shows. The festival offers a unique opportunity to see the historical and modern structures of Belgrade from a different perspective.
Belgrade Beer Fest
This festival, held in August, offers tastings of many local and foreign beer brands. Supported by music concerts and various entertaining activities, the festival attracts both beer lovers and music enthusiasts.
Transportation from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport to the City Center
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is located approximately 18 kilometers from the city center and is the main entry point for visitors to Belgrade. There are several options for getting from the airport to the city center:
Bus
One of the most economical transportation options is the A1 line. This minibus service takes passengers from the airport to Slavija Square, one of the main points in the city center. The journey time is around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Public Buses
Another option to get from the airport to the city centre is public bus number 72. This goes to Zeleni Venac and the journey takes around 40 minutes. There is also bus number 607 which operates as a night service.
Taxi
Taking a taxi from the airport to Belgrade city centre is a faster and more comfortable option. Official taxi stands are located at the airport exit and operate at fixed rates. The journey time can vary between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Car rental
There are many international and local car rental companies at the airport. If you want to travel flexibly on your own schedule, renting a car can be a good option.
Belgrade Urban Transportation
Belgrade has an efficient and extensive public transport network. It consists of buses, trams and trolleybuses and provides access to almost every point in the city. Here are the main transport options you can use:
Buses
The most common form of public transport in Belgrade is buses. There are many bus lines covering a wide area of the city. Buses run regularly to both the central parts of the city and the outskirts.
Trams
Belgrade's tram system provides efficient transportation between major city centre points and suburbs. Tram lines are an important form of public transport, offering easy access to historical and touristic sites.
Trolleybuses
Trolleybuses operate on specific routes, especially in the city centre, and have a similar network to trams. They are noted as an environmentally friendly transport option.
Minibuses (Dolmus)
In Belgrade, minibuses offer a faster but slightly more expensive alternative to transport, serving areas that are not accessible by main public transport lines.
Taxi
Taking a taxi in Belgrade is a convenient option, especially at night or when travelling in groups. Official taxis are generally reliable, but it is best to agree on a fare before boarding.
Bicycle
Belgrade has a developing infrastructure for cycling. Bike paths are available in some areas of the city, and bike rental services are a popular option, especially in spring and summer.
Places to Visit in Belgrade
Kalemegdan Fortress and Park
This historic fortress, the symbol of Belgrade, is one of the oldest structures in the city and is located at the confluence of the magnificent Danube and Sava rivers. Kalemegdan attracts visitors with both its historical ruins and its fascinating views. The military museum and art galleries inside the fortress are also worth seeing.
St. Sava Cathedral
This magnificent structure, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, stands out with its impressive architecture and interior decoration. The cathedral is an important religious center of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Skadarlija
Belgrade’s bohemian neighbourhood of Skadarlija is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, historic restaurants and live music performances. The venues serving the best of traditional Serbian cuisine and art galleries are all excellent reasons to visit this area.
Ada Ciganlija
This large island on the Sava River is visited heavily by locals and tourists during the summer months. Offering swimming, cycling, water sports and picnicking opportunities, Ada Ciganlija is one of the city's most popular recreational and entertainment areas.
Belgrade Museum of Modern Art
Home to one of the most important contemporary art collections in Serbia, the museum exhibits works by local and foreign artists. The museum offers an inspiring experience for art lovers.
Zemun District
Located on the banks of the Danube River, this historic neighborhood is known for its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and riverside restaurants. From the Gardos Tower at the top of Zemun, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Belgrade and the Danube.
Belgrade Zoo
Located in the city center, near Kalemegdan Park, this zoo is home to a variety of animal species and offers an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
What to Eat in Belgrade
Belgrade has a rich gastronomy influenced by Balkan and Central European cuisines. Meat dishes, fresh vegetables and dairy products form the basis of the city's culinary culture. Here are some specialties you should try in Belgrade:
Answers
The famous Balkan meatball variety, ćevapčići, is made from beef or lamb and is usually served in a loaf of bread with onions and paprika. This delicious dish can be found in many restaurants in Belgrade.
Winding
This traditional dish, consisting of rice and meat wrapped in cabbage or chard leaves, is especially popular during the winter months. Sarma is usually served with yogurt or sour cream.
Pljeskavica
Plujeskavica, a large and spicy hamburger patty, is the national fast food of Serbia. It is usually served with tomatoes, onions, ajvar (pepper paste) and produce.
Ajvar
This vegetable paste made from a mixture of red peppers, eggplants and garlic is served as a side dish at almost every meal in Belgrade. Ajvar is especially excellent with grilled meats.
Karadordeva Schnicla
It is prepared by stuffing a breaded beef or pork roll with cheddar cheese and frying. This dish is usually served with mashed potatoes and tartar sauce.
Kajmak
This creamy dairy product, made from milk clotted cream, is used as a spread on bread or as an accompaniment to dishes such as ćevapčići and pljeskavica.
Baklava and Trileçe
With influences from Balkan and Ottoman cuisines, options like baklava and trileçe for sweet lovers can be found in Belgrade restaurants and patisseries.
Belgrade Nightlife
Belgrade is famous as one of the cities with the liveliest nightlife in Europe. The city attracts its visitors with its variety of entertainment options and activities to suit every taste and style. Here are some suggestions for discovering Belgrade's nightlife:
Splavovi (Floating Nightclubs)
One of the most unique aspects of Belgrade’s nightlife is the Splavovi, floating nightclubs moored on the Danube and Sava rivers. Especially popular during the summer months, these venues host performances by local and international DJs. There are a number of Splavs offering different genres of music, so there’s something for everyone.
Skadarlija
Skadarlija, Belgrade’s historic bohemian quarter, is another popular area where nightlife is booming. Traditional Serbian restaurants, live music venues and bars keep these cobbled streets lively throughout the night. Skadarlija is ideal for those looking to experience traditional Serbian music and food.
Bars and Pubs
Belgrade is full of bars and pubs with all kinds of music and atmosphere. The venues in the city centre and in the Stari Grad (Old Town) area are frequented by both locals and tourists. Many bars host live music performances and theme nights.
Concerts and Live Music
Belgrade is also known for its live music scene. Many venues in the city host concerts by local and international artists. Rock, jazz, electronic music and more reflect Belgrade's musical diversity.
Cultural Events and Theatre Performances
Nightlife is not just about entertainment; Belgrade also offers cultural events such as theatre, opera and ballet. Shows at venues such as the National Theatre and Sava Centar offer a wealth of content for art lovers.
In this article, we have told you about Belgrade. We also recommend you to take a look at our Albania Travel Guide article. Mikos Store wishes you a pleasant day.
