Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia, has a rich history and contagious energy. If you’re short on time and wondering what to do in 1 day, don’t worry! It’s still possible to get a true taste of the city, focusing on its main tourist spots and rich local culture, especially since many highlights are concentrated around Republic Square (Trg Republike). However, for a deeper dive and to experience all that the ‘White City’ has to offer, we recommend dedicating at least two days, as detailed in our guide: Belgrade in 2 Days.
But for those with just 24 hours, this practical guide is your starting point! Let’s get straight to what you can see and do in Belgrade in a single day (Hajde!, as they say in Serbian), with tips to optimize your time and make the most of every moment. To complement your experience, check out our delicious guide on Serbian Food to get your appetite going!
Flavors of Serbia Around Every Corner: A Stop at the Pekaras
During your journey through Belgrade, an authentic and affordable gastronomic experience is visiting a pekara (pronounced ‘peh-kah-rah’). These bakery-deli hybrids are common throughout the Balkans and offer a variety of fresh savory and sweet pastries, perfect for a quick breakfast, a tasty lunch, an afternoon snack, or even a late-night bite after a night out. At Serbian pekaras, you’ll have the opportunity to try various local specialties at inviting prices. Try the famous burek, a delicious flaky pastry filled traditionally with meat (sa mesom), cheese (sa sirom), spinach (sa zeljem), or potato (sa krompirom). Other options include the savory pljeskavica (a type of Serbian hamburger, often served with various sides), different types of bread, and cakes. It’s an economical and delicious way to dive into Serbian cuisine and feel the rhythm of daily local life.
While you’re exploring Belgrade, take the chance to stop at a pekara to try some local delights, like the savory pljeskavica, the delicious burek, and perhaps even the famous ćevapi (though this is more characteristic of Bosnian cuisine, you can find it in some places). If you’re craving a pizza slice, Bucko Pizzeria always has a line day and night, known for having the best slices in Belgrade.
The Church of Saint Sava
The Church of Saint Sava is one of Belgrade’s landmarks, impressive with its monumental architecture. It’s visited daily by local Orthodox Christians, who represent the majority religion in Serbia, especially on weekends and during religious celebrations. It’s a bit far from the center, but easily accessible by bus and tram (tramvaj) from Republic Square. During your stay in the city, it’s worth starting your day at the Church of Saint Sava or saving it for the end, depending on your location.
Republic Square and Knez Mihailova Street
Another icon of Belgrade, the Republic Square, is marked by the statue of Prince Mihailo, who led the expulsion of the Turks from Serbia. In daily local life, it serves as a meeting point. Just in front of Republic Square is Knez Mihailova Street, full of cafes, restaurants, and bars. At the end of Knez Mihailova, you’ll find Kalemegdan. This quarter is a great spot to observe the local hustle and bustle in Belgrade and to stop for a coffee or a beer.
Kalemegdan Fortress
Kalemegdan is Belgrade’s famous fortress, built before the arrival of the Romans (around 279 BC), destroyed and rebuilt hundreds of times until the 18th century. Around the fortress, there’s a large public space with gardens and a square where locals spend time, enjoy a beer, and appreciate the view of the confluence of the Danube River and the Sava River. There’s also an open-air military museum! Late afternoon is often a busy time, as locals and visitors head there to watch the sunset. Early mornings tend to be less crowded.
Skadarlija
Skadarlija is an old street, known as Belgrade’s bohemian quarter. It’s one of the local icons alongside Republic Square, with restaurants and taverns that are always busy at night. It’s an ideal place for anyone looking for dinner with live music.
Go to a Kafana
Even if you visit Belgrade for one day, you can’t pass by Serbia without going to a kafana, a Serbian tavern with music and drinks. Most of them require reservations, especially on weekends. After some drinks, rakija, and beers to be precise, everyone is dancing and singing.
Even with just one day, Belgrade will certainly leave a mark on your memory. From its imposing architecture to its delicious cuisine and contagious energy, the Serbian capital offers a fascinating glimpse into the Balkans. We hope this guide is your perfect companion to make the most of every hour in this vibrant city. And remember, if you fall in love with Belgrade (and I think you will!), you can always plan a longer visit, exploring the corners you missed, with the help of our guides: Belgrade in 2 Days and the delights of Serbian Food.
What’s your number one point of interest in Belgrade? Share in the comments and inspire other travelers.
Originally posted 2017-12-04 11:31:16.
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