Discover Serbia: The Heartbeat of the Balkans

If you are planning a trip to the Balkans and Eastern Europe, then Serbia is probably on your list. But if you are like us when we started planning our trip, you are probably wondering where else should you visit in Serbia (other than the obvious Belgrade)? From vibrant cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad to stunning natural wonders like Tara National Park and Uvac Canyon, Serbia has something for every traveler.

Here is our Instagram Post on our trip to Serbia.

Pro Tips:

• English was spoken in the larger cities such as Belgrade and Novi Sad but less so in the more rural areas

• Credit card was accepted in large cities but still advisable to carry cash

• Driving was easy and recommended so that you can access the beautiful and remote locations that Serbia has to offer

• Don't just visit Belgrade, otherwise you will be disappointed and miss out on so much more that Serbia has to offer. Whilst Belgrade was fine - it wasn't our most favourite destination in Serbia (or the Balkans)

• Serbians switch between the Cyrillic and Latin alphabets. Both are in official use and you’ll see them sharing space on street signs or restaurant menus. In more rural areas, Cyrillic was more common

• Belgrade is walkable but everything is spread out so be prepared for lots of walking!

  
  

We visited Serbia in May 2025 as part of our driving trip through Eastern Europe and below is the itinerary that we followed, along with some things we wished we had known before we visited and what we would do differently. However, you could amend this itinerary to start and finish in Belgrade if you are flying into Serbia.

Day 1 - Mokra Gora and Zlatibor

After leaving Visegrad in Bosnia, we drove across the border and headed towards Zlatibor where we stayed the night. On the way we passed through the village of Mokra Gora, which is popular for its traditional reconstructed homes. There is also the narrow-gauge railway in the town.

Zlatibor, located in western Serbia, is one of the country’s most popular year-round destinations and will make you think you are more in Slovenia with its alpine charm, traditional villages, fresh mountain air, and wellness resorts. It’s popular for travelers seeking nature, relaxation, or adventure.

We were only in Zlatibor for 1 night, so unfortunately, we weren't able to experience the many things that are on offer in this area. But here are a few things that make this area popular:

• Gold Gondola - The longest panoramic gondola in the world (9 km) connects the town center to Tornik Peak to the ski fields. We drove past this gondola and were amazed at how long it was!

• Ethno Village Sirogojno - A living museum showing traditional life in 19th-century Serbia. Thatched-roof houses, craft shops, and a peaceful, time-travel atmosphere.

• Gostilje Waterfall - Located about 20 km from the town, this 20-meter waterfall is a great half-day nature escape, surrounded by picnic areas and short forest trails.

Zlatibor is also an ideal base for exploring the wider western Serbia region, including Mokra Gora and Tara National Park. This town has such a relaxed feel about it that you could easily spend a few days here hiking (in summer) or skiing (in winter).

Where to stay: Hotel Agape. This hotel offers a lovely breakfast with traditional foods as well as a wonderful salt spa / sauna and indoor pool.

Day 2 - Uvac Canyon and Novi Pazar (2 1/2 hrs from Zlatibor)

Uvac Canyon

The highlight of our trip to Serbia was undoubtedly the amazing Uvac Canyon! However, finding this hidden gem certainly wasn't easy. But we were so glad we persevered as we were blown away by the natural beauty of the Uvac River. In addition to its scenic beauty, the Uvac River Gorge stands out as a protected natural reserve due to its famous and rare resident, the griffon vulture, which we were able to see soaring above us.

Here is our Instagram Post on our visit to Uvac Canyon.

The best part of visiting this beautiful spot is that it is truly off-the-beaten path with very little tourists. Here are the directions on how to get to the spot (Molitva Outlook) where the above photo was taken:

• Drive to the town of Sjenica

• Follow the signs to Molitva - just be careful if Google Maps tells you to leave the paved road for a dirt road. DO NOT follow Google Maps or take the dirt road. There is now a full paved road to the parking lot for the lookout.

• At the end of the paved road is a small parking lot. From here you will need to walk about 15mins across a field to the lookout. There is a sign at the parking lot which explains the natural wildlife including the griffon vultures but other than that there is no signs or map explaining how to get to the lookout.

• Just keep walking right - we started by walking straight ahead. Eventually you will find a trail that leads to a lookout which gives you the view in the picture above.

Novi Pazar

Tucked into the rolling hills of southwestern Serbia, Novi Pazar is a city that most guidebooks skip — and that’s exactly why you should go. It’s raw, real, and different. Novi Pazar isn't developed and touristy so don't come with any expectations of high-end shopping or fancy restaurants.

Over 70% of the population is Bosniak Muslim, and that cultural flavor is everywhere. From our hotel, the adhan (call to prayer) echoed across the rooftops at sunset.

Located in the Raška District, Novi Pazar sits near the borders of Kosovo and Montenegro, at a crossroads that has been connecting empires, cultures, and trade routes for centuries. When we arrived, the first thing we noticed was how distinctly different Novi Pazar felt from Zlatibor.

Novi Pazar is surrounded by some of the oldest and most important Orthodox monasteries in Serbia, many of them UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Sopoćani, home to some of the most beautiful medieval frescoes in Europe, is located 17 kms west of Novi Pazar. It dates from the 13th century, when it was erected by the Serbian king Stefan Uroš I. Due to its magnificent frescoes that represent a masterpiece of art, Sopoćani gained world fame and got included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

High above Novi Pazar stands the Church of St. Peter, arguably the most iconic symbol of this fascinating town. This 4th-century church is actually the oldest of its kind in the country.

Novi Pazar Fortress is located in the city center, within the city park. This relatively well-preserved fortification dates back to the 15th century and is an easy walk.

Where to stay: Hotel Vbrak. This hotel is right in the centre of the town and includes breakfast and free parking. But what we loved about this hotel was that it was so unusual with its Ottoman-style architecture and fountain in the middle of the building.

Day 3 - Studenica Monastery and Belgrade (3 1/2 hrs from Novi Pazar)

Where to stay: Belgrade City Hotel.  This hotel included breakfast and parking (for a fee). We also recommend the onsite restaurant for dinner.

Studenica Monastery

On the way to Belgrade, and about 1 hour from Novi Pazar is the Studenica Monastery.

Studenica is one of the most important Serbian Orthodox monasteries. Its white marble church and world-famous 13th-century frescoes make it a must-see. Peaceful, majestic, and deeply spiritual — it’s perfect for a reflective break from driving. Stefan Nemanja, the founder of the medieval Serb state, founded the monastery in 1190.

Day 3 - Afternoon. Belgrade

After checking into the hotel, start exploring the city centre by walking down Knez Mihailova Street. Here you can do some shopping or enjoy some people watching whilst having a coffee. The famous Princess Puff shop is also in this street, where you can buy different crispy puffs with different fillings inside.

Also in the vicinity is the famous Moscow Hotel / Moskva, which is known as an architectural gem of the Serbian capital. During its long history, this historic hotel with the famous Café Moskva, has hosted some famous names such as: Albert Einstein, Ana Pavlova, Indira Gandhi, Robert De Niro, Brad Pitt, Kirk Douglas and Michael Douglas. (source http://hotelmoskva.rs)

For somewhere to eat / dinner go to  ? (Znak Pitanja) — the oldest kafana in the city (over 200 years old). Yes - it has a ? in its name. They serve traditional food in an even more traditional setting and also have live music most nights.

Day 4 - Belgrade

Morning

• Explore the Kalemegdan Fortress. Arrive early to beat the tourists. What to do:

  • Explore ancient ramparts, Roman ruins, Ottoman gates

  • Enjoy sweeping views over the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers

  • Visit the Military Museum if you're into Serbian and Balkan history

On the walk back into the city centre, stop at the Konak kneginje Ljubice or Residence of Princess Ljubica. which was built in the early 19th century. The building now functions as a museum, showcasing period furniture, art, and artifacts that provide insight into the lifestyle of Serbian nobility.

Lunch: Trattoria Campania. This italian restaurant is close to the Residence of Princess Ljubica and was very busy when we were there and for good reason. The food was fantastic! Highly recommend the wood-fire pizzas.

Afternoon

Saint Sava Temple – one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Impressive inside and out, especially the golden mosaics and underground crypt. We were lucky to be visiting on a day when there was a mass being held inside. The interior of this temple is absolutely mind-blowing with its golden mosaics. The church is dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church and an important figure in medieval Serbia and is built on the presumed location of Saint Sava's grave.

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• Nikola Tesla Museum – small but fascinating if you’re into science, showcasing Tesla’s inventions and personal items. Places are limited and sell out fast so advise to pre-book and take note that they only accept cash payment.

Day 5 - Novi Sad

A couple of hours north of Belgrade lies Novi Sad, the laid-back cultural jewel of the Vojvodina region. This city on the Danube mixes Austro-Hungarian elegance with Serbian warmth. We much preferred the laid-back beauty of Novi Sad compared to Belgrade and wished we could have stayed here longer.

We started by visiting the Petrovaradin Fortress. Recommend stopping at one of the cafes to enjoy a drink or meal, as well as the great views of the Danube and the city.

Then make your way into the city centre and the main pedestrian street to enjoy some shopping and lunch. Highly recommend stopping by the Manual Leather Company to purchase some high-quality hand-made leather goods. I just love my handbag and inside was a card with details on who made the bag and on what date!

Continue walking down the street until you reach the H&M Store. Even if you don't need any clothes you will want to just walk inside to see the magnificent building, staircase and painted ceiling.

If you have more time here are a few other destination suggestions:

• Niš: The City of Emperors - Head southeast to Niš, the birthplace of Constantine the Great. This city blends ancient history with gritty charm. Explore the Niš Fortress, and visit the haunting Skull Tower (Ćele Kula).

• Tara National Park: a dense forest haven home to the endangered European brown bear

Serbia is definitely a country with much to experience with its culture, history and food. From wild landscapes, natural beauty, bohemian cities to monasteries carved in cliffs and stories of war told by its fortresses.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out and leave a comment.