Serbia

Serbia is a land of striking contrasts where Ottoman relics stand alongside Austro-Hungarian architecture and Brutalist monuments. At its heart lies Belgrade, a high-energy capital famous for its confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers and a world-class nightlife scene. Beyond the city, you will discover the lush rolling hills of Šumadija, the dramatic limestone peaks of the Dinaric Alps, and the tranquil plains of Vojvodina. The country is defined by a spirit of resilient hospitality, often centered around long, hearty meals and spirited conversation. Whether you are exploring ancient fortresses or hiking through pristine national parks, Serbia offers a raw and authentic European experience that remains remarkably affordable.

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We built this guide using official tourism data, local travel insights, and real pricing from our city guides, so you can plan your trip with confidence.

1 city

3 guides

$65 Daily Budget

Quick Facts

Capital

Belgrade

Languages

Serbian

Currency

Serbian Dinar (RSD)

1 $ ≈ 100 din

Plug Type

Type C/F (230V, 50Hz)

Driving Side

Right

Dial Code

+381

Entry Requirements

Check requirements →

Time Zone

CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2 in summer)

Emergency

112 (Police 192, Fire 193, Ambulance 194)

Why Visit Serbia

Exceptional Value for Travelers

With an average daily budget of ~$65 / 6,460 din, Serbia is one of Europe's most affordable destinations. You can enjoy high-quality dining, vibrant nightlife, and comfortable accommodation for a fraction of the cost found in Western Europe.

Belgrade's Legendary Nightlife

Known as the party capital of the Balkans, Belgrade offers everything from underground techno clubs to 'Splavovi'—floating river clubs that stay open until dawn. The city's energy is infectious, fueled by a social culture that thrives at all hours of the day and night.

Untamed Natural Beauty

From the emerald waters of the Drina River to the sweeping vistas of Tara National Park, Serbia is an outdoor enthusiast's playground. You can hike through dense forests, explore deep canyons like the Iron Gates, or marvel at the unique rock formations of Đavolja Varoš.

Rich Layers of History

Serbia's strategic location has left it with a complex heritage spanning the Roman Empire, the Ottoman era, and the Yugoslav period. You can visit the massive Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad or explore the medieval frescoes of UNESCO-listed monasteries like Studenica.

Warm Balkan Hospitality

Serbians are famously welcoming toward international visitors and take great pride in their traditions of 'gostoprimstvo'. It is common to be invited for coffee or a glass of Rakija, as locals are eager to share their culture and stories with travelers.

Top Experiences

Top-rated tours and activities in Serbia

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Cities & Destinations

Best in Apr

Serbia

Belgrade

Moderate

From $65 /day

Cost Guide Where to Stay

Regions

Belgrade and Surroundings

The capital is the nation's cultural and economic engine, centered on the historic Kalemegdan Fortress and the pedestrianized Knez Mihailova street. Nearby, the mountain of Avala provides panoramic views, while the riverbanks offer endless dining and entertainment options.

Vojvodina

This northern province is characterized by flat plains, baroque architecture, and a slower pace of life. It is home to Novi Sad, the 'Serbian Athens,' and the Fruška Gora National Park, which protects 16 historic Orthodox monasteries and numerous boutique vineyards.

Western Serbia

This region is the heart of Serbian mountain tourism, featuring the popular resorts of Zlatibor and the pristine wilderness of Tara National Park. Travelers flock here for the scenic Šargan Eight heritage railway and the famous wooden village of Drvengrad.

Southern Serbia

Centered around the city of Niš, this region offers a mix of Roman history and a distinct, spicy culinary tradition. Key highlights include the haunting Skull Tower and the strange, natural earth pyramids of Đavolja Varoš near Kuršumlija.

Eastern Serbia

Dominated by the Danube River, this region features the spectacular Iron Gates gorge and the medieval Golubac Fortress. It is a land of mystery and folklore, perfect for those looking to explore Roman ruins like Felix Romuliana or the caves of the Homolje mountains.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Serbia is during the spring and autumn for mild weather and outdoor activities. Summer offers vibrant festivals and warm river days, while winter is ideal for mountain skiing in Kopaonik.

Peak Season

Jun, Jul, Aug

Summer brings hot, sunny weather with temperatures reaching 25–35°C (77–95°F). This is the busiest season for river-based tourism and major music events like the EXIT Festival in Novi Sad.

Shoulder Season

Apr, May, Sep, Oct

Shoulder months feature pleasant daytime temperatures of 15–25°C (59–77°F). It is perfect for exploring Belgrade's history and the wine regions of Fruška Gora without the summer crowds.

Off-Peak

Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar

Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures averaging -2–10°C (28–50°F). While cities are quieter, this is the peak season for ski resorts and cozy mountain spas.

Getting Around

Serbia is a major transit hub in the Balkans with a dense network of buses and improving rail infrastructure. Belgrade is the main gateway for international flights and domestic transport links.

Bus

Buses are the primary way to travel between cities and towns. The network is extensive and reliable; tickets for long-distance routes should be printed if purchased online via sites like busticket4.me.

Train

The fast 'Soko' InterCity trains link Belgrade (Beograd Centar) and Novi Sad in about 36 minutes for ~$5.89 / 587 din. Direct Budapest–Belgrade passenger trains are planned to restart by mid-March 2026 (subject to final approvals).

Metro

Belgrade has no metro, but it runs an extensive network of trams, trolleybuses, buses, and the BG Train. City public transport has been free since Jan 1, 2025; however, some services (notably the A1 airport minibus and some express minibus lines) still require a paid ticket.

Car

Car rentals are widely available. Carry an International Driving Permit (1968 format) alongside your licence—some authorities and rental agencies expect it. Serbia's drink-driving limit is very low (0.2 g/L ≈ 0.02% BAC for standard drivers, with 0.0 for some categories), so the safest rule is not to drink and drive.

Food & Drink

Serbian cuisine is a soul-warming blend of Mediterranean, Central European, and Turkish influences, with a heavy emphasis on grilled meats and seasonal vegetables. Meals are social events, usually starting with a strong spirit and accompanied by local bread and cheese.

Must Try

Ćevapi

Small, grilled rolls of minced meat served inside a flatbread called lepinja, usually accompanied by chopped onions and kajmak.

Sarma

A winter staple consisting of pickled cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of minced meat and rice, then slow-cooked for hours.

Ajvar

A rich, smoky relish made from roasted red peppers and oil, often referred to as 'Serbian vegetable caviar' and served with almost everything.

Karađorđeva šnicla

A breaded and fried veal or pork steak rolled with kajmak, named after a Serbian revolutionary leader and often served with tartar sauce.

Rakija

The national fruit brandy, most commonly made from plums (šljivovica), served as a gesture of welcome or as an aperitif.

Kajmak

A creamy, unripened dairy product similar to clotted cream but with a sharper, saltier flavor, often spread on warm bread.

Pljeskavica

A spiced meat patty that is often called the Serbian burger, best enjoyed with onions and spicy pepper flakes from a street-side grill.

Money & Costs

Serbia offers excellent value for money with a typical daily budget of ~$65 / 6,460 din. Costs are significantly lower than in Western Europe, though prices in Belgrade's city center are rising.

Tipping

Tipping 10–15% is standard in restaurants for good service. Tips should ideally be left in cash, as adding them to a credit card payment is often not possible.

Cards

Cards are widely accepted in Belgrade hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, cash is still required for small kiosks, local markets, and rural guesthouses.

ATMs

ATMs (Bankomats) are plentiful in urban areas and at the airport. Avoid using non-bank ATMs that may charge high conversion fees and always select 'decline conversion' if prompted.

Culture & Etiquette

Social life in Serbia revolves around the 'kafan' (traditional tavern) and the home, where guests are treated with the utmost respect. While the country is modern and secular, many people hold deep respect for Orthodox Christian traditions and national history.

✓

Make direct eye contact and say 'živeli' when toasting with Rakija to show respect to your companions.

✓

Bring a small gift like a bottle of wine, chocolate, or flowers (in an odd number) when invited to someone's home.

✓

Remove your shoes when entering a private home unless your host explicitly tells you to keep them on.

Avoid bringing up sensitive political topics like the 1990s wars or the status of Kosovo unless your local host initiates the conversation.

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Dress modestly when visiting Orthodox monasteries by covering your shoulders and wearing long trousers or skirts.

Do not refuse food or drink too easily; hosts take pride in their abundance, and a polite taste is always appreciated.

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Leave a tip of 10–15% in cash at restaurants, as it is difficult or impossible to add a gratuity to a credit card bill.

Do not take photos of government buildings, military installations, or police checkpoints, as this can lead to questioning or fines.

Safety & Health

Belgrade is generally safe for tourists, though visitors should exercise increased caution due to organized crime and potential violence at high-profile sporting events.

Tap Water

Safe to drink

Vaccinations

No mandatory vaccines are required for entry in most cases. Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date; Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B are commonly recommended for travelers. Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine may be recommended for higher-risk outdoor exposure in tick areas (e.g., extensive hiking/camping).

Common Scams

⚠ Taxi scams involving fast-running meters or taking circuitous routes from the airport; use the taxi voucher desk instead.
⚠ Inflated bills at certain Belgrade nightclubs (e.g., Mr. Stefan Braun), which are noted by authorities for occasional xenophobic incidents.
⚠ Unauthorized 'ticket collectors' on public transport attempting to fine tourists; always verify official ID badges.
⚠ The 'friendship' scam where strangers approach to offer help or a tour, then demand payment for the interaction.

Medical facilities require cash payment upfront for non-residents. Air pollution can be significant in major cities during the winter heating season.

Language

Serbian uses both Cyrillic and Latin scripts. English is widely spoken by younger generations and staff in Belgrade's tourist areas, though it is less common in rural villages.

English Spoken: Widely spoken

Key Phrases

Key Phrases
Meaning	Local	Pronunciation
Hello	Zdravo	ZDRAH-voh
Thank you	Hvala	HVAH-lah
Please	Molim	MOH-leem
Excuse me	Izvinite	Eez-VEE-nee-teh
Where is...?	Gde je...?	Gdeh yeh...?
How much?	Koliko košta?	KOH-lee-koh KOHSH-tah?
Yes	Da	Dah
No	Ne	Neh

Visa & Entry

Serbia has a liberal visa policy and accepts online visa applications via the Welcome to Serbia portal. Serbia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs began issuing visas in electronic form (Digital Travel Authorizations) as of 23 April 2025. Travelers entering from Kosovo must have a valid Serbian entry stamp from a recognised Serbian entry point to avoid entry refusal.

Max Stay

90 days within any 180-day period

Passport Validity

At least 90 days after you plan to leave Serbia

Visa-free for

Many nationalities (e.g., USA, UK, EU states, Canada, Australia, Japan); Serbia also allows visa-free entry for some travelers who hold valid Schengen/UK/EU visas or a U.S. visa, and certain residence permits—check the official MFA checker

Check requirements →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Serbia safe for tourists?

Serbia is generally a safe destination for international travelers, and violent crime against tourists is very rare. However, visitors should exercise increased caution in Belgrade due to organized crime and should avoid high-profile sporting events, such as football derbies, where fan violence can occur. Standard precautions against pickpockets in crowded tourist areas and on public transit are also recommended.

How expensive is a trip to Serbia?

Serbia is very affordable by European standards, with an average daily budget of ~$65 / 6,460 din covering meals, transport, and mid-range lodging. A typical lunch in a local tavern costs between $5.89–$12 / 587 din–1,175 din, while a high-end dinner might range from $24–$41. Public transport is inexpensive, and many of the country's best attractions, such as fortresses and parks, are free or have nominal entry fees.

When is the best time to visit Serbia?

The peak travel season occurs during the summer months of June, July, and August, when temperatures typically range from 25–30°C (77–86°F) and the major festivals like EXIT are held. For those who prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of May and September offer pleasant conditions for hiking and sightseeing. Winter is ideal for skiing in resorts like Kopaonik, though Belgrade can be quite cold and foggy.

Do I need a visa for Serbia?

Citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, and many other nations can enter Serbia visa-free for tourism purposes. The standard maximum stay is 90 days within any 180-day period. Serbia also allows visa-free entry for some travelers who hold valid Schengen/UK/EU or U.S. visas. Serbia is not part of the Schengen Area, so time spent here does not count toward your Schengen limit. You must register your stay with the local police within 24 hours of arrival (hotels typically handle this for guests).

Is English widely spoken in Serbia?

English proficiency is generally high throughout Serbia, especially among younger generations and people working in the tourism and hospitality sectors in Belgrade and Novi Sad. You will find that most restaurant menus in major cities are bilingual and museum staff speak English fluently. In more remote rural areas, English is less common, so learning a few basic Serbian phrases is highly appreciated by locals.

What should I eat in Serbia?

You should definitely try Ćevapi, which are iconic grilled meat rolls, and the hearty Sarma (stuffed cabbage). For a unique snack, grab some Ajvar, a delicious red pepper spread that locals take great pride in making during the autumn. Don't miss out on Karađorđeva šnicla if you want a filling meal, and always save room for local cheeses like Kajmak or sweet desserts like Baklava or Palacinke.

How do I get around Serbia?

Serbia serves as a major transit hub in the Balkans with a dense and reliable network of intercity buses that connect Belgrade to almost every town. The rail infrastructure is currently undergoing significant improvements, with fast 'Soko' trains now running between Belgrade and Novi Sad in about 36 minutes. Within Belgrade, the public transport system (buses, trams, trolleybuses, and BG Train) has been free since Jan 1, 2025, though some services like the A1 airport minibus still require a paid ticket.

Can I drink the tap water in Serbia?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in Belgrade and most other major cities across Serbia. The water quality is regularly monitored and meets international safety standards. In some smaller towns or rural areas, the mineral content might be different than what you are used to, so if you have a sensitive stomach, you might prefer bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive.

What are the 'Splavovi' in Belgrade?

The Splavovi are Belgrade's famous floating river clubs and restaurants moored along the banks of the Sava and Danube rivers. They range from laid-back cafes and traditional restaurants to high-energy nightclubs featuring international DJs or local folk music. Visiting a splav is a quintessential Belgrade experience, especially during the warm summer months when the parties can last until 06:00 or 07:00.

What is the currency and how should I pay?

While the official currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD), many larger hotels and some international services may quote prices in Euros. Credit cards are widely accepted in Belgrade and Novi Sad at most shops, hotels, and restaurants. However, you should always carry some cash for smaller purchases, markets, and tipping, as many smaller businesses and rural guesthouses only accept local currency and cannot add tips to card transactions.

Why you can trust this guide

Jan Křenek

35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data

Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.

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