Belgrade

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a visit to Belgrade's botanical garden. Founded in 1874 by decree of the Kingdom of Serbia's Ministry of Education, on the recommendation of renowned botanist Josif Pančić, who also became its first manager, this garden offers a tranquil retreat. Each plant is systematically labelled, and the garden features a variety of areas including a peaceful Japanese Garden, a European garden, a Rock garden, and a Glasshouse. There's also a library and a dedicated Kid's corner. This is the perfect spot for a day spent in nature without leaving the city, allowing you to leave all your worries at the entrance.

In 1928, the famous artist Ivan Meštrović designed a sculpture for the drinking fountain on Terazije. The public was against having a nude male figure set up in the city centre, however. After World War I, the project was cancelled and thus the Victor was set up on Kalemegdan instead. The plato next to the monument is among the most crowded places in the city, where visitors love to take photos and enjoy the view over New Belgrade and Zemun.

Knez Mihailova Street is the pedestrian area that unifies Belgrade's beautiful architecture. It leads to the Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park on one end, and to Terazije and the iconic Terazijska česma drinking fountain near Hotel Moskva on the other, offering a splendid view of the Sava river valley. Inside tip: Take a detour to Kosančićev venac, the oldest part of Belgrade outside the fortress. This charming elbow-shaped street is home to Princess Ljubica's Residence, the Building of the Patriarchate of the Serbian Orthodox Church, and the Cathedral Church of St Michael the Archangel, all of which are sure to captivate you with their elegance.

Situated at the junction of two international rivers, Danube and Sava, Belgrade offers great opportunities for river cruising. The Confluence itself represents one of the most attractive places in the city, just below the Belgrade Fortress, and right next to the Great War Island, an oasis of untouched nature. The river banks never sleep: on numerous floating restaurants and clubs, visitors can enjoy the view, fish specialities, and local beverages.

Skadarlija, an old bohemian quarter of Belgrade, is alive 24/7. The neighbourhood arose during the 19th century, with a large number of inns (called "kafana"), and since then has been a gathering spot of the most renowned personalities in Belgrade. It is frequently compared to the Montmartre of Paris, both in appearance and atmosphere. In all the inns, a visitor can taste typical Serbian food, drink local wines and listen to live traditional music till the early morning hours. Skadarlija restaurants have hosted many celebrities over the decades, such as Alfred Hitchcock, Jimi Hendrix, Josip Broz Tito, King Juan Carlos I of Spain, chess player Anatoly Karpov and many others. Best known kafanas are Šešir moj (This old hat of mine), Tri šešira (Three Hats), Dva jelena (Two Deer), Zlatni bokal (The Golden Chalice), Ima dana (There will be days) and Dva bela goluba (Two White Doves). The present Skadarlija, a short and curved street, is a remarkable Belgrade tourist attraction. Since 1993, the official opening of the summer season in Skadarlija has been marked by rising a "bohemian flag". The ceremony is always attended by celebrities, including popular and opera singers, actors, and artists.

Beton Hala, located on the Sava riverbank, is the crown jewel of Savamala. What were once warehouses have been transformed into a row of fine dining establishments and contemporary event venues, drawing international attention. With acclaimed chefs, signature dishes, and a blend of industrial and modern design, Beton Hala is a top destination in Belgrade for both nightlife and culinary experiences.

The standout feature of the modern Vračar neighbourhood is the Temple of Saint Sava, the second-largest Orthodox church in the world. Its construction has not only defined the Plateau's current appearance but also shaped the skyline of Belgrade, making it visible from most parts of the city. The Plateau underwent a transformation in the early 2000s, with the addition of fountains, marble access roads with pillars leading to the temple, and children's playgrounds. The existing Karađorđe Monument, the leader of the First Serbian Uprising, remains a key element. The plateau is also home to the National Library of Serbia and Karađorđev Park. Nearby, you'll find the artisan settlement of Gradić Pejton and the bohemian quarter of Čubura.

Once a separate city, Zemun is now a renowned part of Belgrade, famous for its river taverns, unique atmosphere, and small restaurants specialising in fresh fish from the Danube. The main street of Zemun is home to the Homeland Museum and the Madlenianum Opera and Theatre. Along the Danube, Zemunski kej is a kilometre-long promenade featuring barge-cafés, an amusement park. The former largest hotel in Belgrade, Hotel Jugoslavija, now hosts the Grand Casino. At night, the barge-cafés become the epicentre of nightlife, staying open until dawn. Gardoš Tower, also known as Millennium Tower, stands as Zemun's most iconic symbol, offering panoramic views of Belgrade and a tranquil escape from urban noise. The neighbourhood has retained its authentic charm, with narrow, mostly cobbled streets and individual residential houses.