Introduction of Belgrade’s Significance
Belgrade, is the capital and largest city of Serbia. It epitomizes the essence of a European metropolis and the heart of Serbian culture. This vibrant city boasts superb connectivity and welcomes over a million foreign visitors annually. Hosting more than 230 international fairs, conferences, and cultural events each year, it serves as a regional center for prominent global corporations such as Microsoft, Siemens, Coca-Cola, Nestle, Philip Morris, and Lidl. Belgrade is also a sports hub, featuring over 50 international competitions annually.
Geographic Location and Key Facts
Strategically positioned at the confluence of the two largest rivers in Southeast Europe, Belgrade is at a crossroads of vital international routes. For Europeans, it is often called the “Gateway to the Balkans” and the “Door to Central Europe” for those from the East.
Like many river cities, Belgrade’s neighborhoods extend across both banks. The southern section forms the city’s historic core, while the northern area encompasses Zemun, an old town incorporated into Belgrade in the 1950s during the construction of New Belgrade. Today, with a population of 1.6 million, Belgrade is Serbia’s political, economic, cultural, and transportation epicenter.
History of Belgrade
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to prehistoric times, often seen as a crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various empires, including the Romans, Ottomans, and Austro-Hungarians, shaping its unique heritage and architectural landscape.
Ancient Origins and the Roman Era
Human settlement in Belgrade dates back to the Neolithic age, with one of the earliest communities established in Vinča, a Belgrade suburb and a cornerstone of Vinča culture. In the 3rd century BC, the Celts founded the settlement of Singidunum, later conquered by the Romans in the 1st century AD, who established a formidable fortification.
When the Roman Empire was divided in 395, Singidunum fell under the Eastern Empire (later Byzantium), shaping Serbia’s future religious and cultural identity. Slavic settlers arrived in the 7th century, and the name “Belgrade” (meaning “White City”) first appeared in records in 876.
Medieval Serbian Capital
Until 1404, Belgrade was governed by the Byzantine Empire and Hungary. That year, the Hungarian king granted Belgrade to Despot Stefan Lazarević, who made it the capital of Serbia and fortified it with walls and towers. Under his leadership, Belgrade thrived as an economic and cultural center with around 40,000 residents. After Stefan died in 1427, his successor, Despot Đurađ Branković, was forced to relinquish Belgrade, prompting him to build a new capital in Smederevo.
Ottoman and Austrian Rule
Beginning in 1440, the Ottoman Empire sought to capture Belgrade, succeeding in 1521 under Suleiman the Magnificent. Over the next few centuries, Belgrade became a key military outpost, undergoing repeated rebuilding and destruction by the Ottomans and the Austrians.
In 1690, an explosion destroyed Despot Stefan Lazarević’s palace. In the early 19th century, as the Ottoman army withdrew troops to Egypt, fearing Napoleon, the First Serbian Uprising broke out in 1804. By 1806, Serbian forces had captured the city, established their court and government, and founded the Higher School (a precursor to the University of Belgrade) in 1808.
However, the Ottomans reclaimed Belgrade in 1813, leading to brutal reprisals that sparked the Second Serbian Uprising in 1815. Following a series of successful battles, Serbian leader Miloš Obrenović negotiated peace, promising not to attack Ottoman fortresses.
In 1829, after the Treaty of Adrianople, Serbia gained autonomy. By 1830, Serbia began developing with Belgrade as its center, marked by the construction of landmarks like the Residence of Princess Ljubica (1831), Topčider Church (1832), and the Residence of Prince Miloš Obrenović (1831). In 1837, the Orthodox Cathedral was completed. Belgrade was formally reinstated as the Serbian capital in 1841.
Modern History and the Yugoslav Period
In 1867, the Ottoman army withdrew from the fortress, heralding Belgrade’s resurgence as a modern European city. Belgrade entered World War I in 1914 with around 100,000 residents but suffered devastating bombardment by the Austro-Hungarian army. In 1918, it became the capital of the new Kingdom of Yugoslavia. Between 1918 and 1941, Belgrade was entirely rebuilt, transforming into a significant industrial center with a population exceeding 300,000, a fairground, and an airport.
The bombing of Belgrade on April 6, 1941, marked the start of the war in Yugoslavia, causing severe destruction. In a single day, over 2,000 Belgrade residents lost their lives, and the National Library, containing historical books, documents, and medieval manuscripts, was destroyed. Throughout World War II, Belgrade endured additional bombings by Allied forces, as it was a key military and transport hub for the occupying forces.
Following the war, Belgrade was rebuilt and expanded. Swamps across the river were drained to create New Belgrade, built in the recognizable socialist architectural style. The city was bombed once more in 1999, suffering significant damage before undergoing yet another phase of reconstruction. Today, New Belgrade is home to the headquarters of Serbia’s most influential companies. In 2014, construction began on the “Belgrade Waterfront,” a modern and exclusive part of the city crowned by the iconic Belgrade Tower.
Over its long history, Belgrade has endured an astonishing 115 wars and has been razed 44 times.
Getting There and Getting Around
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport
Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla Airport is located 18 kilometers from the city center. It features 27 gates and around 200 flights per day. In 2023, the airport served approximately 8 million passengers. It hosts 33 airlines connecting Belgrade directly to 91 destinations across 38 countries on four continents. Currently, the airport is accessible by taxi and three public bus lines, with a rail connection under construction.
Public Transportation Options (Buses, Trams, Metro)
Belgrade’s public transportation system is well-developed and user-friendly, with schedules on the Moovit app (Google Play and App Store) and the Beograd Plus app. The central railway and bus stations in New Belgrade form a transportation hub connecting Belgrade to all parts of Serbia, including the airport.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services
In addition to numerous taxi companies, we recommend comfortable airport transfers and CarGo, Serbia’s version of Uber. Blablacar, a popular ride-sharing site and app, is also highly recommended. If arriving by car, public garages offer convenient parking options.
Main Attractions In Belgrade
Following are the main attractions in Belgrade region:
Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park
Kalemegdan (from the Turkish “kale,” meaning “fortress,” and “meydan,” meaning “field of battle”) is Belgrade’s most important cultural and historical landmark. The site includes a fortress and park, the largest in Belgrade.
Visitors typically start their tour from Knez Mihailova Street, passing through Kalemegdan Park, where they can see the Little Staircase, the Monument of Gratitude to France, the Great Staircase, and the Art Pavilion, which houses the Association of Visual Artists. Visitors can explore medieval Belgrade within the fortress, including the Despot’s Gate (1403-1427) with the People’s Observatory, Zindan Gate with its protective towers, and Nebojša Tower, built around 1460 to guard the river port.
Notable baroque structures include the Stambol Gate (1750) and Karadjordje’s Gate (circa 1760). At the fortress, visitors can enjoy a stunning view of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, best seen from the “Victor” statue, one of Belgrade’s iconic symbols.
Knez Mihailova Street
Knez Mihailova Street is a pedestrian zone beloved by locals and tourists alike. It is a national cultural treasure dating back to the 1870s and is recognized as one of Southeast Europe’s most beautiful pedestrian areas.
Named after Prince Mihailo Obrenović, whose statue stands at its entrance, Knez Mihailova Street is a vibrant promenade filled with shoppers, street vendors, and performers. It’s a favorite shopping destination with countless stores, souvenir shops, and cultural sites like the City Library, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, and the Belgrade Cultural Center. Along this street are some of Belgrade’s most beautiful buildings, antique shops, bookstores, galleries, and historic cafes like “Russian Tsar” and “Kolarac.”
Knez Mihailova connects the city’s central square, Terazije, to Republic Square, where the National Theatre and National Museum stand, and Kalemegdan. Nearby streets are also rich in attractions, such as the Rectorate of the University of Belgrade and the Ethnographic Museum, or the Old Cathedral and Princess Ljubica’s Residence on the opposite side.
When you’re ready to rest, a range of cafes and restaurants on Obilićev Venac, a street parallel to Knez Mihailova, offer great relaxing spots.
St. Sava Church (Cathedral)
The Church of St. Sava is one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches, dominating Belgrade’s skyline from an elevated plateau. It’s dedicated to Saint Sava, a 12th-century Serbian saint who was the youngest son of Serbia’s first ruler, Stefan Nemanja, and is considered the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church after securing its autonomy in 1219.
Construction of the church began in 1935, inspired by the famous Hagia Sophia in Istanbul. The church’s architectural design mirrors Hagia Sophia’s style, with an almost identical layout. However, construction was interrupted by World War II and the subsequent communist era, during which the building served as a warehouse. Work resumed in 1986, with the magnificent 39.5-meter dome becoming one of the world’s largest, adorned with 18 gilded crosses and 49 bells.
The exterior, featuring 13 domes, was completed in 2004 and covers an area of 4,830 square meters. The interior is lavishly decorated with mosaics, many crafted from gold and silver. Below the main church, a 2,000-square-meter crypt hosts church exhibitions and concerts. If explored independently, access to the crypt is free.
The church has three oak and bronze doors weighing over 4,000 kg, each inscribed with prayers in 24 languages. Inside, visitors can find a shop selling a variety of religious and cultural items.
Skadarlija, the Bohemian Quarter
Skadarlija is a charming bohemian district just a 10-minute walk from Republic Square. Stepping into Skadarlija is like traveling back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with cobbled streets and historic facades that create a uniquely nostalgic atmosphere.
Skadarska Street, lined with traditional taverns and art galleries, is the heart of Skadarlija. For decades, it has been a gathering place for actors, poets, painters, musicians, and writers who find inspiration and camaraderie here. Today, Skadarlija is a must-visit spot for artists, international dignitaries, and royalty visiting Serbia.
Some of the most famous taverns, like “Three Hats,” “Two Deer,” “Big Skadarlija,” and “My Hat,” exude authentic charm and offer traditional Serbian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy an evening with live tamburitza music, often leading to spontaneous dancing, capturing Serbia’s rich cultural heritage.
Besides taverns, Skadarlija features numerous art galleries with works by local artists. Street musicians frequently perform, creating a lively ambiance for passersby. Younger visitors may enjoy stopping by the “Brewery,” a popular pub in the area.
Museums (National Museum, Nikola Tesla Museum)
Belgrade boasts 39 museums catering to every interest, from national history to chocolate. Some of the most popular include:
National Museum: Located in the city center, this museum houses collections from prehistoric times to the early 20th century. Alongside Serbian masterpieces, the museum holds works by some of the world’s most famous artists donated by Serbian monarchs.
Nikola Tesla Museum: Dedicated to Serbia’s most renowned scientist, Nikola Tesla, this museum offers interactive exhibits of his inventions. Tesla’s genius shines through patents he never realized, captivating visitors. The museum is centrally located and has a gift shop with unique souvenirs.
Museum of Yugoslavia: The most visited museum in Belgrade, it covers the communist era and includes the “House of Flowers,” where communist leader Josip Broz Tito is buried. The museum is near the Belgrade railway station.
Museum of Contemporary Art: Designed to emulate New York’s MoMA, it’s located across the Sava River, providing an excellent view of Kalemegdan. Art lovers will appreciate its modern exhibits.
Ethnographic Museum: This museum, near Knez Mihailova Street, is perfect for learning about Serbian traditions and finding authentic souvenirs.
Entry fees range from 3 to 5 euros, and most museums are closed on Mondays. A package ticket is available for visiting four museums.
Natural Surroundings in Belgrade
Ada Ciganlija Island
Ada Ciganlija, often called “Belgrade’s Sea,” is the city’s largest and most popular leisure spot. Here, locals and tourists unwind through sports, adrenaline-pumping activities, or a peaceful walk along the riverbank. Up to 250,000 visitors flock to Ada Ciganlija in summer to swim and relax, a testament to its charm.
Avala Mountain
Avala Mountain, a beloved tourist spot 16 kilometers from Belgrade, features the Avala Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city and much of Vojvodina and central Serbia. A well-maintained path from the tower leads to the Monument to the Unknown Hero, where soldiers from WWI are buried. Avala is a favored destination for barbecues with family and friends and offers various trails for mountain running, biking, and orienteering.
Danube and Sava Rivers
Belgrade takes pride in its rivers, the Danube and Sava. Recently, a new complex, “Belgrade Waterfront,” was built along the Sava River. It features a scenic promenade from Kalemegdan, past numerous restaurants, nightclubs, and the Galerija Shopping Center. This riverside walkway hosts exhibitions, concerts, and one of Belgrade’s outdoor New Year’s celebrations.
Culture and Events in Belgrade
Nightlife Scene
Belgrade’s nightlife is renowned, offering something for everyone, from sophisticated bars and nightclubs to unique riverside splats (floating clubs) on the Sava and Danube rivers. These venues often host live music, creating an electric atmosphere and making Belgrade a top nightlife destination.
Some of other cultures and events in Belgrade are as follows:
- EXIT Festival
- Belgrade International Film Festival (FEST)
- Cuisine
Traditional Serbian Dishes
Breakfast in Belgrade is an experience, with options ranging from fresh pastries to hearty meats and cheeses, setting the tone for Serbia’s bold, flavorful cuisine.
Modern Dining Scene
Belgrade’s culinary scene includes traditional Serbian dishes and a variety of international cuisines, with many restaurants offering contemporary twists on classic flavors.
Recommended Restaurants and Cafes
Belgrade’s dining options cater to all tastes and budgets, from high-end establishments to cozy cafes and bistros in every city corner.
Accommodation in Belgrade
- Luxury Hotels
- Boutique Options
- Budget-Friendly Hostels
Conclusion
Belgrade embodies resilience, culture, and vibrancy. Its rich history, combined with its lively modern appeal, makes it an unforgettable destination.
Explore Beyond Belgrade
Consider venturing beyond Belgrade to discover Serbia’s diverse regions.
Plan Your Adventure with Us
If you’re inspired to explore Belgrade or other regions, contact us for tailored trip planning and travel services.
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