Serbia is a hidden gem in the Balkans and my second house. If you’re wondering, “Is Serbia worth visiting” the answer is a big YES!! In this blog post, I will try to convince you to explore this country by listing reasons why it is a great place to visit.
The country offers plenty of options for outdoor adventures, with untouched landscapes perfect for hiking. Beyond hiking, you can enjoy activities like rafting and doing winter sports in the mountains. While Serbia may lack dedicated cycling infrastructure, exploring some places by bike is still possible. I have done it myself and with my friends.
One of the best reasons to visit Serbia is its people. Serbs are warm and welcoming, always interested to learn what brings you to their country. Their hospitality stands out from many countries as what makes a trip unique is the people you meet during your visit.
Serbian cuisine is heavily based on meat, so it’s a culinary paradise for meat lovers. Visiting cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad have options for vegetarians or vegans. Local dishes are strong and flavorful, ideal after a day of exploring nature or heavy cold winters.
When the sun sets, Belgrade’s nightlife comes alive with plenty of affordable options, from clubs to bars, making it a good destination for those seeking to explore a different side of the country.
If you are interested in learning more about this Balkan country, keep reading.
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Affordable country
Serbia is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Europe. Prices in Belgrade went up due to a big influx of foreigners (mostly Russians) since 2023, but in general, the country is still very affordable.
When looking for a place to stay in Belgrade, I advise you to check Facebook Groups and HaloOglasi. Unfortunately, it is not rare to see some people pumping prices unreasonably nowadays, but you can avoid that if you don’t use websites like Airbnb or Booking to find a place.
Besides the current problem with prices in Belgrade, you will find affordable meals at local restaurants and good prices in the local markets.
Fresh products, local wines, and traditional dishes are easily available at low costs.
Other expenses like public transportation, hygiene products, and drinks are more affordable than in most European countries.
Many of the country’s attractions, such as historic sites and natural parks, are either free or reasonably priced, which also motivates people to explore its nature and culture.
The people
One of the best reasons to visit Serbia is its people. As I mentioned, Serbs are famously warm and welcoming, always keen to learn about visitor’s backgrounds and what brings them to their country.
If you’re wondering, is Serbia worth visiting? The friendliness and openness of its people make the experience especially memorable and unique.
Making friends in Serbia is easy, even if you don’t speak the language. Serbs are naturally social. Many of them speak good English and are often willing to help newcomers settle in or show them around.
Serbian hospitality creates a sense of belonging and adds more authenticity to your trip, even if you are just visiting the country for a few days.
Social life is incredibly important in Serbian culture. Gathering with friends and family at cafes, bars, or parks is a daily routine for many. You’ll often find locals ready to meet to chat or share a meal.
They can also be quite spontaneous; don’t be afraid to call a friend and ask to hang out anytime. They will likely say yes!
Untouched nature
Serbia’s untouched nature is very rich, offering many options for hiking in landscapes that many locals haven’t fully explored. If you are reading this blog, you are an ecotourist, and exploring nature is one of your preferred activities while traveling. You will be very happy to know that Serbia’s natural beauty remains untouched in many parts of the country.
While national park infrastructure is less developed than in other European countries, this only adds more charm for an authentic adventure. Exploring places like Tara National Park or Stara Planina may require a bit more planning, but joining a group tour with an agency will help you overcome the challenges of limited public transportation.
Serbia’s landscapes offer incredible contrasts throughout the year, with lush green forests in the summer, snow-capped trees in winter, and energetic colors in spring.
Each season brings a unique experience; even to this day, it is very interesting to me how the seasons in the country are very distinct, which is very different from the seasons in Brazil.
If you want to know more details about each season in Serbia, I wrote an entire guide about the best time to visit Serbia based on the season of your choice.
Rich history
Serbia’s rich and complex history is intense and fascinating at the same time. From ancient Roman ruins to medieval fortresses and Ottoman influences, Serbia’s past remains active in its landscapes, architecture, cuisine, and culture.
If you are into history, exploring Serbia will offer an incredible journey through time. There are plenty of museums in the country; as I mentioned before, they are very affordable. So, is Serbia worth visiting for history lovers? No doubt about that.
You should also know about the more recent historical events, especially the Yugoslav era, conflicts of the 1990s, and the current situation with Kosovo. These events have left an unforgettable mark on its people and places, and it is understandable why.
As you learn more about the history and conflicts, I recommend being careful when talking to locals about it. Avoid talking about these topics openly; Serbs are very sensitive to issues related to their troubled history.
If you want to know or talk about something, it is better to talk to some close friend about it. Approaching Serbia’s history with respect and curiosity is the key to creating a meaningful connection with the country and its people.
Nightlife
Serbia’s nightlife is energetic and diverse, Serbs love to party and celebrate!! Belgrade is known for its clubs, bars, and live music venues. Savamala and Cetinjska Street are popular spots with a mix of clubs and alternative bars.
Beton Hala offers bars by the river with great views and a higher price tag. Skardalja is a famous street where you can find good local food while listening to folk music.
Clubs in Serbia stay open late, often until sunrise, with some places still working for after-parties. Music ranges from electronic, latin music, and hip-hop to traditional Balkan folk. Entry fees are generally low, and most of the time, you will pay only to save your jacket in your wardrobe. Drinks are affordable, especially compared to other European capitals.
Socializing is a big part of Serbian culture. Locals enjoy spending time with friends in bars or mingling in crowded clubs. The energy in Serbia’s nightlife is strong, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Serbian cuisine
Serbian cuisine is rich and heavily centered around meat dishes. Grilled meats like ćevapi, pljeskavica(the Serbian burger), and sausages are among the main dishes in the country. These dishes are often served with flatbread and side dishes like potatoes, ajvar, or kajmak.
Ajvar is a roasted red pepper spread, often mixed with garlic. It is very famous in Serbian cuisine and used as a side dish. I love to eat it with bread. Kajmak is a creamy dairy product made from milk. It has a buttery taste and is often served with grilled meats, bread, or as a topping for various dishes.
Meals are very filling, and the portion sizes are often really big! This also helps people to endure cold winters. Soups and beans are common, and they also provide warmth during the colder months.
Vegetarians/Vegans may find limited options in smaller towns, as the cuisine is heavily meat-based. However, dishes like prebranac (baked beans) and fresh salads made with seasonal vegetables are available.
In cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad, you won’t have issues finding restaurants with vegetarian options. At the same time, you can go to the famous pijacas (open markets) and find plenty of veggies and protein-rich options like lentils, beans, and tofu.
Fun all year-round
Serbia offers activities for every season, and you don’t need to wait for a specific season to visit the country. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and cozy mountain retreats. Spring brings vibrant landscapes and cultural events like the Night of Museums.
Summer is perfect for festivals and outdoor adventures, while autumn offers good hiking opportunities and harvest festivals.
If you’re asking yourself, is Serbia worth visiting, the diversity in each season gives plenty of reasons to plan a trip. Serbia has it all for you if you prefer snowy mountains, lively festivals, historical sites, or peaceful nature walks.
Safety
Serbia is generally a safe country for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and most visits are trouble-free. Cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad are energetic yet calm, even late at night. Petty theft can happen in crowded areas, so keeping an eye on belongings is a good idea.
Is Serbia worth visiting for solo travelers or families? Yes, definetely. Locals are friendly and often help people when in need. Police presence in tourist areas adds an extra layer of safety, even though the country is quite safe.
If you want to dive deep in details about safety in the country, I wrote a whole blog post about this topic here.
Nomadism hotspot
Serbia is a great destination for digital nomads. The cost of living is affordable, with good food and many options for coworking spaces.
It is possible to enjoy a high quality of life as a nomad without breaking the bank. Cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad offer fast and reliable internet, making it easy to settle in.
As a nomad, I found it better to make a base in Belgrade and, from there, start exploring the other parts of the country and the Balkans. There are several travel agencies in Belgrade, so it is easier to join a group tour. The other option is to rent a car and explore the country by yourself.
Locals are welcoming and often curious about foreigners, creating opportunities for meaningful connections and friendships. Nomads can enjoy a productive environment while experiencing Serbia’s rich culture and hospitality.
If you make an effort to learn the language, your experience will improve considerably. I know Serbian is not an easy language, and English is widely spoken in big cities, but learning a bit of their language will enrich your connection with the country.
Conclusion
Serbia is a destination that offers many things for every traveler. From its warm and welcoming people to its rich history and untouched nature, the country invites exploration in all seasons. Its affordability, energetic nightlife, and hearty cuisine can create a great memory in someone’s journey. If you were asking yourself, is Serbia worth visiting, the answer lies in its diversity and charisma.
Whether you’re a digital nomad seeking a new base, a history lover, or someone looking for outdoor adventures, Serbia is a country to add to your bucket list.
If you’ve visited Serbia or are planning a trip, I’d love to hear about your experiences. Share your thoughts in the comments and inspire others to explore this incredible Balkan gem!
See you all on the next adventure!! Bye!!!
