Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a vibrant city where the influences of the Ottoman, Roman, and Austro-Hungarian empires are interwoven into its culture.

Known for its historical landmarks, nightlife, and food, Belgrade offers an immersive cultural experience that is waiting for you.

A weekend in this Balkan gem will take you through centuries of history, lively streets, and riverside vistas. Let’s explore how to spend the perfect two days here without missing out on the essentials.

Day 1: Explore the Heart of Belgrade

Kick off your adventure by visiting Belgrade Fortress in Kalemegdan Park, a must-see with free entrance! Overlooking the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, this historic fortress offers panoramic views of the city. Wander through Kalemegdan Park and imagine Belgrade’s battles over the centuries. Take in the museums, ancient ruins, and outdoor exhibits of tanks and cannons before heading down to Knez Mihailova Street for some shopping and sightseeing.

Belgrade Fortress Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays; Tuesday - Sunday: 10.00 - 17.00.

For lunch, grab a burek - a flaky pastry filled with cheese or spinach - from a local bakery. It’s a Balkan favorite and will fuel you for the rest of the day!

Afternoon in Bohemian Skadarlija

In the afternoon, stroll through Skadarlija, Belgrade’s bohemian quarter, where cobblestone streets and traditional kafanas (restaurants) serve up local dishes. Once home to artists and poets, this neighborhood’s charming atmosphere will transport you back to the early 20th century. Enjoy a relaxed late lunch at one of the kafanas here while taking in some live Serbian folk music. Prices for a meal in Skadarlija range from $15 to $25 per person, making it a perfect spot for an affordable and authentic experience.

Nightlife by the River

Wrap up your first day along the banks of the Sava River. The floating barges, or splavs, double as nightclubs and offer everything from electronic music to live performances. Belgrade’s nightlife is lively yet affordable, with most venues charging between $5 and $10 for entry. Whether you want to dance or enjoy a relaxed drink by the river, there’s no shortage of options.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Tesla

Start your second day with a visit to the Nikola Tesla Museum, dedicated to the life and inventions of Serbia’s greatest innovator. Entry is about $7, and the museum showcases Tesla’s remarkable works in electricity. Following this, head to Zeleni Venac Market to grab fresh produce or some local delicacies like goulash or flatbread, perfect for a quick snack.

Nikola Tesla Museum Opening Hours: Monday: 10.00 - 18.00; Tuesday - Sunday: 10.00 - 20.00.

Nikola Tesla Museum Address: Krunska 51, Beograd 11000, Serbia.

Zeleni Venac Market Address: Jug Bogdanova, Beograd 11000, Serbia.

Evening by the River

As your weekend comes to a close, take a peaceful walk along the riverside and enjoy a riverside dinner at one of the floating restaurants. Opt for local specialties such as sarma (cabbage rolls) or grilled vegetables. Prices at riverside restaurants range from $20 to $30 for a meal, but the views of the sunset over the river are priceless.

Belgrade is a city where history and modern life coexist effortlessly. With affordable options for food, entertainment, and sightseeing, a weekend getaway to Belgrade is an experience you won’t want to forget!