Dec

28

Belgrade Travel Guide

December 28, 2007 |

A trip to Belgrade
With tourism still improving, Belgrade is not the most tourist-friendly destination but nevertheless receives its visitors with a warm welcome. What you see here is what you get, and there are no superficial, sugar-coated campaigns to promote this former communist city. Consisting of three parts - Zemun, Novi Begograd and the Stari Grad - this historic Serbian city is ideal for adventuring souls. Only a short flight from many European destinations to Nikola Tesla Belgrade International Airport, you will be able to experience a unique holiday with fascinating traces of days gone by and an energetic atmosphere.

Flights to Belgrade
Most travellers choose to get to Belgrade by air. Nikola Tesla Belgrade International Airport receives a number of flights, both international and domestic. The airport is located about 12kms west of the city centre and is conveniently connected to the city by airport shuttles. You can also opt for bus number 72 which operates to the heart of the city. Don’t take a taxi from the airport as they usually charge tourists double and drivers often refuse to turn on their meters.

Getting around in Belgrade is easier than expected. There are hundreds of bus lines that go around the city and the suburbs. Minibuses are also a good option and are usually in tip-top condition.

Sightseeing in Belgrade
You’d better put on your comfy shoes as Belgrade is all about exploring on foot. Walk around Knez Mihajlova, a pedestrian zone and shopping centre where you can look at some of the oldest buildings in the city as well as urban houses. The street is packed with boutiques and shops so hang on to your cash. Sveti Sava Temple, the world’s largest Orthodox church, is not to be missed, while the Republic square is home to various monuments, built to glorify important events in the past. If time permits, a tour within the Old Palace is very worthwhile.

Fun by night – eating, drinking and partying
One of many of the Serbs’ obsessions is their food. Famous dishes include grilled meats, sausages, delectable local cheeses and French fries. Forget KFC and go for the Serbian variety of grilled chicken.

Serbs are also very fond of their beer. There are many kinds of domestic beers you can try while you are in Belgrade. If you are a big beer fan, do not miss a chance to lick the creamy bits off various beers at the renowned Belgrade Beer Festival in September. Nightlife in Belgrade is thriving, with many pubs and bars in the city centre. Drink like a Serb and try rakija, a strong local brandy.

Fun by day - shopping and activities
Shopping enthusiasts might be a bit disappointed to know that clothes and shoes here are more expensive than in most places in Europe due to import taxes. However, the city boasts all the brand names you can think of, but only window shopping is advised. Those travelling with children should head to Belgrade Zoo, boasting a wide range of animals, pretty fountains and many statues. Situated nearby is the beautiful Kalemegdan Park, where you can jog, walk, laze around or hide from the afternoon sun under a big shady tree.


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