Top 10 Attractions to See in Belgrade

BELGRADE FORTRESS

Belgrade sightseeing should start in the place where every story, tale, or myth about the city seems to have been conjured up. The Belgrade Fortress, normally referred to as Kalemegdan, is the largest attraction of the city, free of charge, with its gates open to the public 24/7 all year round. It is situated in the heart of Belgrade and is adjacent to the city boroughs of Stari Grad, Dorćol, and Savamala.

KNEZ MIHAILOVA ST.
Knez Mihailova Street is the favorite district of most locals, lying between Terazije Square and the Kalemegdan Fortress. It serves as the main meeting point, easily accessible from almost every part of the city. Renowned as the cultural, architectural, and historical hub, Knez Mihailova has earned the title of one of the most beautiful pedestrian streets in Eastern Europe.

SKADARLIJA STREET

Skadarlija Street is a cobbled road steeped in history, with its stories embedded deep within its pebbles beneath pedestrians’ feet. Situated in an urban borough in the downtown area of Belgrade, it is considered the main bohemian district of the city. Often referred to as ‘the Montmartre of Belgrade’, it was once a popular gathering place for Serbian and Yugoslav artists, writers, and poets. Authentic traditional restaurants boast guest lists featuring worldwide celebrities who have been patrons for decades.

REPUBLIC SQUARE

Republic Square is the central meeting point in Belgrade. If your Belgrade friends ask you to meet them in the city center, specifically at “the Horse,” they mean exactly that – look for the Horse. However, there’s a surprise awaiting you there, as there are no stables or stalls in the city center. Instead, you’ll find the conspicuous statue of Prince Mihajlo riding on horseback. This square, officially named Republic Square, represents the very heart of the city and holds historical significance, having been the site of numerous protests and riots, among other events.

THE CATHEDRAL CHURCH

The Cathedral Church of the Holy Archangel Michael (Saborna Crkva) was constructed between 1837 and 1840 on the site of an older church dating back to 1728, following the plans of architect A.F. Kverfeld. Architecturally, it was built in the classical style with elements of Baroque, featuring a single-nave structure with a tall steeple to the west. It stands as the most prominent church in Belgrade, serving as the final resting place of Serbian ‘enlighteners’ Vuk Stefanović Karadžić and Dositej Obradović, who were buried in the churchyard

THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. SAVA

The Cathedral of Saint Sava is the largest Serbian Orthodox Church and the largest Orthodox place of worship in the Balkans. It was constructed on the exact location where Sinan-Pasha is believed to have burned the remains of Rastko Nemanjić, also known as Saint Sava, in 1595. Saint Sava was the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church and the youngest son of the Serbian ruler Stefan Nemanja, who was the founder of the Nemanjić dynasty.

ADA ISLAND

Ada Ciganlija, known as the “Belgrade Sea,” encompasses both an island and a lake. Green, clean, sporty, and laid-back, it has become a favorite destination for Belgradians, who begin flocking to the area with the early onset of spring. From early mornings until late into the night, Ada Ciganlija appears to be brimming with life.

ZEMUN QUAY

Zemun’s Quay, known as Zemunski Kej, stretches along the right bank of the Danube River. The promenade begins below Gardoš Hill, at the square of Veliki Trg, and extends for 2.5 kilometers into the municipality of Novi Beograd. To the east, it borders the boroughs of Donji Grad and Retenzija, and to the south, it connects with the neighborhood of Ušće in Novi Beograd. This area is becoming increasingly popular among tourists and visitors to Belgrade. In close proximity lies Lido. Zemun is home to many traditional and international restaurants, as well as hidden bars and cafes.

AVALA TOWER

The Avala tower, situated atop Mount Avala in the southern suburbs of Belgrade, is not only a telecommunication and observation tower but also a symbol of architectural significance. Standing at a height of 205 meters, it currently holds the title of the tallest tower in Belgrade, Serbia, and the Balkans. Renovated and rebuilt after its destruction in 1999, the tower boasts a brutalist architectural design that harmonizes with the natural surroundings. On a clear day, visitors can enjoy a splendid view extending up to 100 kilometers around, encompassing breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills, towns, roads, and rivers, as well as the expansive Pannonian Plain to the north. It offers a perfect setting for nature enthusiasts and provides an ideal spot for enjoying coffee with scenic views.

YUGOSLAV HISTORY MUSEUM

In addition to President Tito’s and Jovanka’s (the then First Lady) graves, the Museum of Yugoslav History serves as a ‘pilgrimage’ destination for all “Yugonostalgic” crowds seeking to pay homage to the late President Tito. Within the museum, visitors can explore Tito’s personal presents, belongings, and numerous items from the Yugoslav era, making it one of the most intriguing and sought-after museums in the entire city. Moreover, the museum is housed in a stunning building from the Yugoslav era.