Serbia is located in the southeastern part of Europe and in the central part of the Balkans with a population of almost 9 million. The country has renowned spectacular historic landmarks, gorgeous natural wonders, and an amazing cuisine.
Serbia, especially Belgrade, has always been an important spot in its region both culturally and historically. Now, the country attracts a growing number of international tourists every year thanks to its cultural heritage and historic significance.
General Information About Serbia
| Language | Serbian |
| Capital of Serbia | Belgrade |
| Continent | Europe |
| Time Zone | GMT+2 |
| Currency | Serbian Dinar |
| Socket Type | C,F – 230V |
| Annual Average Temperature | 12,3°C |
| Climate | Continental and Adriatic Climate |
| Area | 88.361 km² |
| Political System | Parliamentary Republic |
| Vegetation | Steppe and Forest |
| Main Economic Activities | Agriculture, Energy and Mining |
| Telephone Code | +381 |
Language
Serbian is the only official language of the country. Serbian is written in Cyrillic alphabet. Hungarian, Slovak, Macedonian and Romanian are also spoken in the various parts of Serbia.
Common Phrases in Serbian (Latin Alphabet)
- Baš ti hvala – Thanks a lot!
- Kako si? – How are you?
- Kako se zoveš? – What is your name?
- Zdravo, moje ime je... – Hello, my name is …
- Ja ne govorim srpski – I don’t speak Serbian.
Capital of Serbia
Belgrade is the capital city of Serbia and located in the central part of the country. Belgrade is also a prominent cultural, economic and historic center of the country.
Time Zone
Serbia has only 1 time zone. The country follows the Greenwich Mean Time GMT +2.
Currency
The currency used in Serbia is Serbian Dinar. There are many currency exchange vendors and banks in populated areas.
Main Economic Activities
Although Serbia is ranked as the 83th richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita (nominal), the country is doing well in various economic development indexes. Serbia is a steadily growing economy with its dominant sectors such as agriculture, energy, and mining.
Where is Serbia?
Serbia is located in the southeastern part of Europe, in the center of Balkans. Its neighbors are Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Romania, and Hungary.
Best Time to Visit Serbia
Most of Serbia has a continental climate with hot summers and cold/snowy winters. The best time to visit Serbia is during summer or early autumn since the weather is more welcoming with a lesser chance to rain.
How to Get to Serbia?
Pegasus Airlines offers direct flights to Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport from İstanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport. The flight duration to Belgrade from İstanbul is 1 hour and 45 minutes. You can buy your direct flight tickets to Belgrade from here.
Serbia Public Transportation
Public transportation in Serbia consists of trams, buses, subways, and taxis. In order to use public transport, you need to buy a rechargeable “BusPlus” card from kiosks and sale points which are available in most stops in the city centers. The initial cost of card is 40 RSD. (2019)
There are also many taxis available in populated areas and they offer fixed fares for specific routes. It is recommended for you to download a taxi service application to avoid excessive fares.
Transportation from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport to City Center
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport is located 20 kilometers away from the city center. You can get to the city center with direct bus, public bus and taxi.
Direct bus costs 300 RSD and the trip approximately takes 30 minutes to the Slavija Square.
Bus line 72’s last stop is Zeleni venac Square. The trip costs 150 RSD and takes approximately 35 minutes. It is recommended for you to buy the ticket from kiosks in the airport since it only costs 89 RSD.
There are also many airport taxis available in the airport 24/7. The trip to the city center from the airport approximately costs 2000 RSD. (2019)
Places to Visit in Belgrade
Belgrade is one of the most significant spots in Balkans in terms of cultural heritage and historical landmarks, thus the city attracts almost a million and a half tourists annually. The city is also famous for its green parks and vibrant nightlife.
Kalemegdan Park
Kalemegdan Park was built as a fortress during the reign of the Roman Empire. Kalemegdan had many renovations since then with the Ottoman extension being the most notable one. The park covers a huge area and is home to many historic landmarks such as Belgrade Fortress and several museums. This huge complex also has various sculptures, walking paths and a small zoo.
Knez Mihailova Street
Knez Mihailova Street is the most famous street in the city with various historical buildings and landmarks. The street is also regarded as one of the best pedestrian boulevards in Europe. Knez Mihailova Street is located in the Old Town district.
Nikola Tesla Museum
Nikola Tesla Museum is one of the most visited attractions of the city and is devoted to famous Serbian inventor Nikola Tesla. The museum exhibits his belongings and also his inventions such as the Tesla coil. Nikola Tesla Museum is located walking distance away from the city center.
Where to Stay in Serbia?
Belgrade is the most popular tourism destination of Serbia and offers many accommodation options to its visitors.
If you are in Belgrad for the first time, it is recommended for you to stay in hotels around the Stari Grad (Old Town) since you will be walking distance away from cities’ most popular historic and cultural attractions.
If you are looking for a calmer vacation, it is recommended for you to stay in hotels in Zemun district. These hotels are also closer to the airport.
What to Eat in Belgrade?
Belgrade is a culinary heaven for food enthusiastic visitors. Its cuisine is a delicious fusion of Slavic, Turkish, Bosnian, Mediterranean and medieval Serbian influences. Its traditional recipes mostly consist of meat and pastry.
Pljeskavica
Pljeskavica is the renowned mixed hamburger-like meat of the Serbian cuisine with many spices. Pljeskavica is usually served with onions, kajmak, potatoes, tomatoes, and green pepper. “Zavičaj Restaurant” is one of the best places in town where you can enjoy traditional Pljeskavica.
Karađorđeva šnicla
Karađorđeva šnicla is a rolled veal or pork steak, stuffed with kajmak. Karađorđeva šnicla is served with roasted potatoes and tartar sauce. “Gradska Restaurant” in Dorćol district offers one of the best traditional Karađorđeva šnicla in the city.
Shopping in Serbia: Best Souvenirs to Buy
Serbia is famous for its pottery, jewelry, rugs, traditional instruments, local honey and “ajvar”. There are many traditional shops in popular tourism destinations where you can enjoy a selection of amazing local crafts.
Things to Know Before Visiting Serbia
- Restaurants and cafes usually have their menu written with Latin alphabet.
- It is customary to leave tip at restaurants and bars.
- You are encouraged to bargain with the local vendors and taxis.
- Visitors should always be cautious about pickpocketing in public transport.
Nightlife in Belgrade
Belgrade offers a variety of nightlife options to its visitors. Bars, pubs, and restaurants around Stani Grad are widely popular among locals and tourists. While pubs and restaurants are usually closed before midnight, many bars and clubs are open until dawn.
Holidays in Serbia
Some religious days are subject to change every year such as Easter Holiday or Eid Al Fitr (End of Ramadan).
- 1st and 2nd of January – New Year’s Day and Holiday
- 7th and 8th of January – Orthodox Christmas and Holiday
- 15th and 16th of February – Sovereignty Day and Holiday of Serbia
- 26th of April – Orthodox Good Friday
- 27th of April – Holy Saturday
- 28th and 29th of April – Easter Holiday
- 1st and 2nd of May – Labour Day and Holiday
- 9th of May – Europe Day
- 11th of November – Armistice Day
Festivals in Serbia
- EXIT Festival (July, Petrovaradin)
- Guča Trumpet Festival (June, Guča)
Visa Requirements
Serbia does not mandate visa for touristic visits up to 90 days in 6 months from the countries including United States of America, Russia, Australia and Europe. You can control whether Serbia requires a visa from your country or not from this site, the official web site of the Serbian Government.
You can learn the details of the Serbian visa application process from the "Serbia Visa Guide" article.
FAQ About Serbia
Do people in Serbia understand English?
Most of the young people speak excellent English in Serbia, especially in Belgrade.
Is Serbia an expensive country?
No, Serbia is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe.
Is tap water drinkable?
Tap water is drinkable in Serbia except for northern Vojvodina region.
Is Serbia safe?
Serbia does not have high levels of crime but still, it is recommended to be watchful for pickpocketing in crowded areas.
