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Planning a trip to Belgrade? You’re in the right place.
Serbia’s capital is full of contrast, gritty and grand, yet historic and modern! From its Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian roots to its buzzing nightlife and vibey neighborhoods, Belgrade has a raw charm that kept pulling us back.
We’ve explored the city over several visits, and each time we’ve found new layers, fortress views, smoky kafanas, quirky museums, and some of the best food in the Balkans.
This guide pulls together the most unique tours we’ve taken in Belgrade. Whether you’re here for the first time or looking to go deeper, these experiences offer a fresh way to connect with the city.
Let’s dive into the best of Belgrade!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Belgrade was this full-day city tour! From the Church of Saint Sava to Avala Tower, we covered the best neighborhoods, learned tons from our guide, and never had to worry about transport. It’s the ultimate Belgrade crash course in one epic day.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia
- 1. Spend a day exploring Northern Serbia’s historic towns
- 2. Discover Belgrade’s top sights and history with an expert guide
- 3. Taste your way around the city
- 4. See waterfalls, caves, and monasteries in Eastern Serbia
- 5. Explore Belgrade on an e-bike
- 6. Visit Golubac Fortress and the Iron Gate Gorge
- 7. Discover Belgrade’s underground history
- 8. Kayak to Great War Island
- 9. Cruise around the city on a Segway
- 10. Learn about Belgrade’s history and Communist Yugoslavia
- Where to Stay in Belgrade, Serbia
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia
1. Spend a day exploring Northern Serbia’s historic towns
- Duration: 8 to 9 hours
- Time: 9:30 am (not available on Mondays)
- Highlights: Comprehensive tour from a local guide, explore the famous Petrovaradin Fortress on the Danube, take it easy with door-to-door transport, choice of a private or small-group tour
- Inclusions: Round-trip transport from your hotel, expert guide, local tastings, all entrance fees for attractions
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 330+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We love finding tours that take you to see the best spots beyond the city without the hassle of planning every detail, and this full-day trip into northern Serbia hit the sweet spot. Belgrade has so much to offer, but it’s also the perfect springboard into other iconic parts of the country.
With our local guide, Milica, leading the way, we got to explore a whole new side of the country, one that was, without a doubt, calm, green, and deeply historic!
The tour begins with pickup in Belgrade, and from there you’re off to the region of Vojvodina. Our first stop was the charming town of Sremski Karlovci, where cobbled streets, baroque facades, and the scent of freshly baked pastries welcomed us in.
From there, we headed to the Petrovaradin Fortress, perched above the Danube with sweeping views of Novi Sad. Wandering its underground tunnels and standing at the edge of its high walls was one of those pinch-me travel moments. Our guide shared stories from the fortress’s Austro-Hungarian days, as well as its more recent fame as the site of EXIT Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music events.
We ended the day in Novi Sad, Serbia’s laid-back second city. With time to stroll, grab lunch, or sip a coffee in Liberty Square, it was a great way to unwind before the drive back.
If you’ve got a day to spare, this tour is ideal for first-timers, return visitors, or anyone curious to explore beyond Belgrade.
Read glowing reviews and book this tour here!
2. Discover Belgrade’s top sights and history with an expert guide
- Duration: 7 to 8 hours
- Time: 9:30 am (not available on Mondays)
- Highlights: Visit the most iconic spots in Belgrade in one day, expert commentary and guidance from a local, private and small-group options
- Inclusions: Round-trip hotel transport, professional guide, travel in an air-conditioned minivan or private car, entrance fees for activities (only for private option)
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 210+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If it’s your first time in Belgrade, and you’re not sure where to start, this full-day city tour is the perfect intro. Even if it’s not, you’ll still learn a lot on this one! We always recommend it to friends who want to see the very best spots in one go, without juggling maps or missing key areas.
The day starts with a drive through New Belgrade, where blocky post-war architecture tells a very different story from the charming streets of the Old Town. From there, the tour moves through the leafy neighborhood of Dedinje and up to the impressive House of Flowers, the resting place of Josip Broz Tito.
Our favorite moment was standing at the top of Avala Mountain, where the Avala Tower rises 204 meters (around 670 feet) into the sky. It’s actually the tallest tower in the Balkans and offers panoramic views across the city and countryside.
Our guide kept the pace relaxed and the commentary engaging and full of local insights that really brought the city to life. The mix of driving and walking makes it easy to take in a lot without feeling rushed or exhausted. There are a TON of places to visit on this trip, though, so bring a good pair of walking shoes with you!
You can book this as a small-group or private tour, depending on how you like to travel. Either way, it’s an excellent way to get your bearings and appreciate just how much history and character Belgrade holds.
Get to know Belgrade like the back of your hand on this tour—book here!
3. Taste your way around the city
- Duration: 2.5 to 6 hours (depending on the tour option you choose)
- Time: 11 am or 4 pm (depending on the tour)
- Highlights: A TON of Belgrade’s best food and drinks, learn about the history of each dish you try, feel like a local as you experience local Serbian culture, and go home with a full stomach
- Inclusions: All tasting prices, coffee and/or tea, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 130+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If we had to pick one tour that captured the soul of Belgrade, this would be it. This unforgettable food and culture tour gave us a deep (and absolutely delicious) look into the city’s food scene, not just what people eat, but why it matters.
We joined the 4-hour ‘The Serbia on Your Plate’ tour, which struck a great balance between eating, learning, and exploring. Over the course of five stops, we tasted 11 different foods and sampled four local drinks.
The pacing was spot on, with enough time to linger over a plate of slow-cooked beans or enjoy flaky gibanica (cheese-filled pastry), but never too long before the next bite.
At each stop, our guide, Marija, shared the history behind what we were eating, like how kajmak (a creamy dairy spread) is typically made at home. More than just a food tour, it felt like a warm invitation to get to know Serbian culture, and we’re so glad we went.
We also loved that the group was small enough to feel like a casual stroll with new friends. At the end, we got a little booklet filled with cultural insights and food memories, plus a small souvenir to take home, a thoughtful touch we weren’t expecting. Plus, the surprise stop at a local gelato shop didn’t hurt either!
There are a few different tour lengths available, but whichever one you choose, come hungry and curious. This is one of the best ways to feel like a local in Belgrade!
Book this incredible food and culture tour here—just arrive hungry!
4. See waterfalls, caves, and monasteries in Eastern Serbia
- Duration: 9 to 10 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Explore the best of Eastern Serbia, enjoy a relaxing drive with round-trip transport, listen to local stories from your expert guide, private or shared tour options
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, door-to-door transport, driver, tickets to Resava Cave and Veliki Buk Waterfall, bottled water, on-board Wi-Fi
- Rating: 5 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
One of the things we’ve come to love about Serbia is how quickly the scenery changes once you leave the city. Within just a couple of hours, you go from Belgrade’s wide boulevards and urban buzz to thick forests, limestone cliffs, and quiet mountain roads. This day trip to Eastern Serbia really drove that home!
The day starts with a scenic drive out of Belgrade, heading toward the lush and mountainous region of Eastern Serbia. Our guide, Nina, made the time fly by with stories about the area’s legends, history, and even a few personal anecdotes.
After visiting the beautiful Manasija Monastery, we traveled to Resava Cave, one of the oldest caves in the country. Stepping inside felt like entering a different world, cool, quiet, and filled with towering stalactites. Along the way, Nina pointed out all kinds of fun facts and stories that made it feel even more magical.
Later, we visited Veliki Buk Waterfall, one of the tallest in Serbia. Surrounded by forest and fresh air, it was a really peaceful place to stretch our legs and snap some photos! We took some time to walk the nearby trails and grab a snack from a local shop.
This tour is a full-day experience, but it never felt rushed and was a great way to balance out the urban energy of Belgrade with something quieter and more immersive.
If you’re looking to see a different side of Serbia, one with waterfalls, caves, and very few tourists, this trip is an absolute gem!
Leave the tourists behind on this full-day trip to Eastern Serbia—grab your spot here!
5. Explore Belgrade on an e-bike
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am and 3 pm (bike only rental also available)
- Highlights: Join your local guide to pedal gently through the streets without effort, learn all about Belgrade’s history and culture, visit highlights like The Temple of Saint Sava and Nebojsa Tower
- Inclusions: Your e-bike, helmet, and a professional guide
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Belgrade by e-bike on this half-day bike tour was such a refreshing way to see the city without wearing ourselves out! Belgrade is actually fairly spread out, and having the extra boost from the e-bike on this made it feel effortless, even when cruising uphill or through busy areas.
Arriving at the meeting point downtown, we set off on a relaxed loop through major neighborhoods and landmarks, led by Danilo, a friendly local who knew the city inside and out. Stops included the massive Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, and the Nebojsa Tower, tucked along the river with a history dating back to the 15th century.
Along the way, our guide shared fascinating context that helped tie together Belgrade’s layered past, from Ottoman rule to Yugoslav architecture to modern-day life.
Dan especially loved how the tour weaved through quieter parks and riverside paths, not just busy main roads. It gave us a better feel for the rhythm of the city, a mix of historic grandeur, street-level grit, and laid-back green spaces.
If you prefer to explore on your own, there’s also an e-bike rental-only option, which includes access to an audio guide and suggested routes. It’s a great choice for more independent travelers who still want the ease and efficiency of an e-bike without the structure of a group.
Whether you go with the guide or opt to ride solo, this tour is a really fun way to experience Belgrade from a different angle!
You can check your dates and book this e-bike tour with FREE 24-hour cancellation here!
6. Visit Golubac Fortress and the Iron Gate Gorge
- Duration: 11 hours
- Time: 8:30 am (not available on Mondays)
- Highlights: Visit the jaw-dropping Golubac Fortress, dive into medieval history at the Lepenski Vir Museum, explore the beauty of eastern Serbia, private and small-group options available
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop-off in an air-conditioned van or private car, your professional guide, entrance fees for activities (private option only)
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This full-day tour took us deep into eastern Serbia, where dramatic cliffs, riverside fortresses, and ancient history made it feel like we’d stepped into another world.
We traveled with our guide Milica, whose easygoing style and deep knowledge of Serbian history made the journey a joy. The first major stop was Golubac Fortress, one of the most breathtaking places we’ve seen in Serbia. Built right on the banks of the Danube, it looks like something out of a fantasy novel, nine towers rising above the water, guarding what was once a crucial trade and military route.
After exploring the fortress walls and soaking in the views, we headed to Lepenski Vir, a fascinating archaeological site that dates back over 8,000 years. The glass walls of the museum let us look out over the river while standing in front of some of Europe’s oldest-known architecture. It was such a cool experience!
We did the small-group version of this tour, which felt personal and well-paced. There’s also a private option that includes all entrance fees, worth considering if you want a fully streamlined experience! For small groups, just keep in mind that you’ll pay museum and fortress tickets separately.
This tour is ideal if you want a blend of nature, history, and truly jaw-dropping scenery, all in one unforgettable day!
Book this incredible full-day trip through eastern Serbia here!
7. Discover Belgrade’s underground history
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 11 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Enjoy a unique glimpse into Belgrade’s underground history, discover ancient Roman relics, learn about different eras of history shown through the tunnels and caverns
- Inclusions: Your expert guide, all entrance fees, one local beverage
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 110+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve always loved tours that peel back a city’s layers, and in Belgrade, that’s not just a saying! This 2.5-hour underground tour took us below the streets and into the hidden world beneath the Belgrade Fortress, where centuries of history come to life in dimly lit chambers and ancient tunnels.
Our guide, Bojan, was both incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely hilarious. His storytelling brought each stop to life, balancing dry facts with quirky details, which made the entire trip so memorable.
From Roman ruins to Cold War bunkers, every space told a different story of the city’s long and often turbulent past. It felt like walking through a living time capsule, each chamber echoing with a different era’s struggles and secrets.
One of the highlights was standing in a cavern filled with ancient Roman artifacts, where you could still see stone walls that once formed part of Singidunum, Belgrade’s Roman predecessor. As we moved through the fortress’s dungeons and secret passageways, we got a real sense of how this city has been shaped by layers of conquest, resistance, and reinvention.
The tour itself was an easy walk, but it felt completely different from a typical city stroll! If you’re into lesser-known stories, archaeology, or just want to explore a side of Belgrade most people miss, this one’s a must.
Grab your spot on this unforgettable underground adventure here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Kayak to Great War Island
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11 am and 1 pm
- Highlights: Escape into the Serbian nature reserves, leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind, keep an eye out for wildlife, including herons, receive undivided attention from your guide
- Inclusions: Your expert guide, kayak, paddle, safety belt, private tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 90+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sometimes the best way to see a city is to leave it, or at least, drift just far enough away to take it in from a new angle. This private kayak tour to War Island was a total surprise and one of the most peaceful experiences we had during our trip to Belgrade!
Starting from the banks of the Danube, we paddled alongside our guide at a gentle, easygoing pace. Within minutes, the noise of the city faded, and we were surrounded by nature.
War Island is a protected reserve, and once we got close, the city felt far away. The riverbanks were lined with tall grass and quiet little channels, and we saw plenty of birdlife along the way, including herons and a few cormorants perched on branches near the shore.
Our guide was fantastic, calm, friendly, and full of interesting local facts, and because this is a private tour, the experience felt completely personal. There was plenty of time to pause, take photos, and ask questions without feeling rushed.
We especially loved how this experience offered a different view of Belgrade. Looking back at the skyline from the water, you really get a sense of how the rivers have shaped the city’s history and daily life.
If you’re craving a dose of nature and want a memorable, low-impact adventure, this is a perfect way to paddle your way through a quieter side of the city. Just check out the 5-star reviews here to see why this is a favorite among travelers!
Reserve your peaceful and private kayaking trip here in advance!
9. Cruise around the city on a Segway
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Hourly from 9 am to 7 pm
- Highlights: Zip around Belgrade in style, learn to ride in minutes, check out castle ruins and other local landmarks, small-group tour with a personal feel
- Inclusions: Your guide, beverages, use of Segway and helmet
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve done a few Segway tours in other cities, but this 3-hour Segway experience in Belgrade might be our favorite yet!
Neither of us had ridden a Segway in a while, but our guide, Predrag, gave a quick refresher at the start, and within minutes we were back in the groove. The Segways are super intuitive, and once you get going, it’s hard not to smile the whole time.
The route takes you through Kalemegdan Park and past the fortress walls, with stops along the way to take in the views, snap photos, and hear short stories about local landmarks. It was a great mix of history and fun, and our guide kept things casual and upbeat throughout.
The small group size (max of just 10 people) made it easy to ask questions and keep the pace comfortable for everyone. At one point, someone in our group asked about the graffiti along the fortress wall, and Predrag launched into this spontaneous, fascinating tangent about Belgrade’s street art scene.
This tour is perfect if you want to cover more ground without doing a lot of walking, and it’s also just plain fun. We left with a whole new appreciation for Belgrade’s beautiful architecture, plus a few goofy photos we’ll be laughing about for a while.
Read glowing reviews, grab some friends, and book this fun Segway tour here!
10. Learn about Belgrade’s history and Communist Yugoslavia
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 10 am (not available Monday and Tuesday)
- Highlights: Take a deep dive into the rise and fall of Communism in Serbia, enjoy a fully guided experience from start to finish, both small-group and private options available
- Inclusions: Your professional guide, tickets for transport, admission to the Yugoslav History Museum
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 70+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This half-day guided tour wasn’t just a history tour, it was one of the most thought-provoking experiences we had in Belgrade! If you’re curious about Yugoslavia’s past, Tito’s legacy, or how Communism shaped the region, this walking tour is a must.
We explored key landmarks around the city center as our guide, Nebojsa, led us through stories of the Socialist era, from its rise to its complicated aftermath. What stood out most was how open and engaging the conversation was.
This wasn’t a dry retelling of facts. Nebojsa encouraged questions, welcomed different viewpoints, and connected history to the present in a way that felt honest and personal. We talked not just about Tito, but about how people lived, what changed, and what remains.
One of the most memorable parts was the visit to the Museum of Yugoslavia and Tito’s final resting place, the House of Flowers. It’s slightly outside the center, and not a place we likely would’ve gone to on our own, but getting there by trolley and walking through the museum with our guide made it all the more meaningful.
You can go private or join a small group, either way, you’ll end up with great stories and a whole new understanding of Serbian history!
If you want to understand Serbia beyond the surface, this is the tour to take!
Book this eye-opening experience here with flexible payment options!
Where to Stay in Belgrade, Serbia
Now that you know the best things to do in Belgrade, it’s time to find the right place to stay. From luxurious hotels in historic neighborhoods to mid-range picks and social hostels in the city center, Belgrade has something for every traveler and budget.
To help narrow it down, we’ve highlighted some of the city’s best stays, each offering a great mix of comfort, style, and location, so you can relax and enjoy Belgrade to the fullest.
Luxury – $$$
The Square Nine Hotel Belgrade – The Leading Hotels of the World is a standout five-star luxury retreat in the heart of Belgrade. Located just steps from Knez Mihailova Street and Kalemegdan Fortress, this stylish hotel blends contemporary elegance with historic charm. Expect designer furnishings, plush Treca de Paris beds, and a spa featuring a heated indoor pool, an Ofuro hot tub, and a sauna. Dining options include a rooftop Japanese restaurant and a chic European eatery on the ground floor.
Room rates range from approximately €450–€800 per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Metropol Palace, Belgrade is a stylish mid-range hotel in the heart of the city, offering elegant, spacious rooms with modern comforts. Guests rave about the exceptional breakfast, spa access, and the serene indoor pool—ideal for relaxing after sightseeing. The rooftop restaurant serves up views as memorable as the food, while the gym, steam room, and sauna round out the wellness perks. Its location couldn’t be better—just a short walk to landmarks like the Parliament Building and Vukov Spomenik train station.
Nightly rates average around €150–€250. Check Booking.com for current deals and availability for your dates!
Budget – $
Good People Design Hostel is a stylish, social, and budget-friendly spot in the heart of Belgrade. With an unbeatable location in Stari Grad, this cozy hostel features dorms and private rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi, and a shared kitchen perfect for cooking your own meals. The vibe is friendly and relaxed—think communal BBQs, complimentary cookies, and even a PlayStation in the lounge. Plus, there’s a 24-hour reception, bike rentals, and an airport shuttle service.
Beds start around €42 per night. Head to Booking.com to check availability and lock in your stay!
For more options, see all of Belgrade’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this guide to Belgrade has you just as excited to experience Serbia’s capital as we were! With its blend of gritty charm, rich history, and offbeat adventures, this city never fails to surprise. Whether you’re diving into fortress tunnels, tasting local bites, or kayaking past war islands, Belgrade delivers.
Planning more travel near Belgrade? Check out our other Europe blogs—or read below for more of our favorite destinations nearby that pair perfectly with a Belgrade getaway!
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