In the 1990s, Serbia was at the center of a lot of conflict from Kosovo to the bombing of the capital of Belgrade by NATO.
However, almost 20 years later, the country is thriving and tourism is increasing, and for those who visit this Eastern European country, it's no surprise why. Serbia offers a lot in terms of history, art, and culture, and while it has been known as a nightlife destination, the country continues to surprise visitors with the opening of new attractions and edgy takes on food and design.
Serbia may not have been on your bucket list, but here's why you should change that.
A direct flight from New York City
In 2016, a direct roundtrip flight from New York City to Belgrade reopened with AirSerbia.
The flight is between eight and nine hours long, and it's a smooth trip that allows for travelers to sleep overnight and awake in Belgrade in the morning. While other airlines fly to Serbia from the U.S., they often come with pesky layovers in European cities.
You can find roundtrip flights for as low as $450-$650.
Belgrade's daytime activities and fun nightlife
Belgrade is the capital of Serbia and has plenty to do day or night.
Explore the Belgrade Fortress and the Church of St. Sava with a private tour from Explore Belgrade! or visit the Nikolas Tesla Museum to learn about the Serbian-American scientist. Shop along Prince Michael Street or discover edgy designs in the Design District. In the summer, swim at Ada Lake or spend an afternoon wandering down the cobble-stoned bohemian quarter of Skadarlija.
At night, the splavs, or clubs located on the barges of the Sava River, come alive with locals and visitors. The bars along Ada Lake are also worth a visit, as are those in the Dorcalmala area, which houses cool bars with indoor and outdoor spaces like Polet and Zaokret.
Historical places you'll love to explore
Serbia has a long history that dates to Roman times, so it's no surprise that the country is full of historical sites travelers will love.
The country's 400 monasteries, 9 of which have UNESCO status, have beautiful frescoes and unique architecture. In eastern Serbia, visitors can admire the last Roman fortified palace and memorial complex, the Palace of Galerius and Gamzigrad-Romuliana, and in western Serbia, the Stecci Medieval Tombstone Graveyards from the 12th-16th centuries.
On the Romania border is the Golubac Fortress, an impressive sight on the Danube.
Tasty and trendy food and drink scene
Serbian food is hearty, to say the least. While it involves fresh vegetables and bread, it's primarily focused on meat.
Enjoy Serbian food in the traditional way of family-style where platters of food are shared among a group. Head to Kafanica for an authentic -- or folksy -- Serbian dining atmosphere or have lunch at Mala Fabrika Ukasa and experience a modern take on this traditional way of eating.
Be sure to venture out into other food scenes, like Beton Hala, a warehouse district along the River Sava that has been turned into different restaurants with great views, a chic atmosphere, and international offerings.
As far as drinks go, Serbia is most famous for their fruit brandy called rakia or rakija which comes in flavors like quince, peach, and strawberry.
Cool art scene
In the summer of 2018, the Museum of Contemporary Art, Belgrade reopened after 10 years in a beehive-shaped building from the 1960s. It features 8,000 pieces of Yugoslavic art and is one example of the thriving art scene in Serbia.
You don't have to be limited to art in museums. For instance, Dorcal Platz is a popular neighborhood with street murals. There are also ample art galleries that showcase the contemporary and modern art of Serbia like Gallery Zvono, Gallery Beograd, and O3One Gallery.
Day trips from Belgrade are worth it
While there's much to do in Belgrade, taking a day trip outside of the city provides an opportunity to witness the diversity of Serbia.
Drive to Subotica near the Hungary border to marvel at beautiful Hungarian Secession and Art Nouveau architecture and design at the Synagogue, Town Hall, and throughout the city center.
On your way back, stop for a wine tasting and tour at the Zvonko Bogdan winery. For a more in-depth wine experience, check out the Negotin Wine Route in Eastern Serbia, known for their authentic 17th-century cellars.
For a charming day of strolling through a beautiful village, try Sremski Karlovci, just an hour away from Belgrade.
Outdoor adventure for all
Outdoorsy travelers will be delighted by all the nature activities available to see and do in Serbia. In Belgrade, for example, Ada Lake is a popular destination for biking, walking, swimming, and water sports like water skiing.
Outside of Belgrade, the Kopaonik Mountain Resort is the best place for skiing in the winter, while the Djerdap National Park and Tara National Park are perfect for hiking in the summers. Kayaking on the Danube and Sava rivers is a relaxed water adventure, and thrilling rafting adventures are available on the Drina, Lim, and Uvac Rivers.
The locals are kind and welcoming
Serbia's Eastern European status may come with assumptions and stereotypes of the people being cold or distant, but it's quite the opposite.
Serbians are warm and friendly, and they love to talk about their country with pride and excitement. Take a chance to talk to the locals, many of whom speak English, and you'll be surprised by how welcoming and helpful they can be. They'll have all the best tips and advice for you to explore Serbia to its fullest extent.
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