This list collates some of the unique things a traveller can do when visiting the historic nation.

1. Visit Tara National Park

A noteworthy member of the Dinaric Alps, Tara National Park presents the visitor with some of the most scenic views that Serbia has to offer.

The part features magnificent ravines, shimmering bodies of water, and forested slopes that go on for at least 220 km sq.

The biggest attraction of the park is Drina River Canyon – the third largest river canyon in the world.

The canyon induces vertigo in those who stand at its top, and the river cuts down through the cliffs, making for great pictures and even greater ripper raft experiences.

Image by GoodMate from Pixabay 

2. Walk Down Knez Mihailova Street

Located in the capital, Belgrade, Knez Mihailova Street is the main and most ancient walking street in the city.

Knez Mihailova still maintains traces of the ancient days when it was built and visitors to the city love to take in the spirit as they walk down the street that spans from Kalemegdan Central Park and Fortress to Terazije square.

The street features buildings that speak of different architectural schools and those buildings play host to a variety of amazing institutions.

accommodation in belgrade

3. Visit Gora National Park

Whenever you make a list of places to go in Serbia, a few places in nearby Montenegro must make a guest appearance.

One such places are the Biogradska Gora National Park, located within the Kolašin municipality.

Gora National Park is rife with rigid mountains, glacial lakes, and virgin forests.

In fact, it is renowned as one of the three largest virgin forests remaining in Europe.

Photo by Lazar Gugleta on Unsplash

4. Experience the Best of Novi Sad’s Art Scene

If you are in Novi Sad, you will find that the beautiful city is home to the most beautiful pieces of art, from large murals to little A4 frames.

You can find some great work in museums and galleries, but most of the best art is to be found outside the Kombinat area and tucked into the alleyways that ride of the main streets of Novi Sad.

5. Get a 360 view of Novi Sad’s Main Square

Also known as Freedom Square, Trg Slobode sits at the center of Novi Sad and connects the entire city.

If you want to get an expansive view of the city at large, you can take a 360-degree camera (a regular one works as well) and get a full panoramic look at the most beautiful and important buildings in Novi Sad.

Take a look at Novi Sad’s huge cathedral, situated opposite to the massive Town Hall.

You can also get a view of places like Hotel Vojvodina and the Tanurdžić Palace.

Check out this awesome tour that goes to Novi Sad from Belgrade!

6. Explore the Churches and Synagogue of Novi Sad

Visiting ancient churches is one of the things most tourists love to do and Novi Sad’s largest Catholic church, the Name of Mary Church is one of the places tourists visit the most whenever they are in Novi Sad, Serbia.

Magnificent and awe-inspiring, it is only one of the beautiful churches that Novi Sad is home to.

Tourists also visit Saint George’s church, the main orthodox cathedral in Novi Sad, and the Novi Sad Synagogue.

accommodation in Novi Sad

7. Shop at Serbia’s Prettiest H&M in Novi Sad

For lovers of beauty and fashion, the Kralja Aleksandra branch of the famous H&M store is often regarded as a religiously beautiful site.

Located on the south side of Novi Sad’s City Hall, the store occupies a space in a modern but luxury row of apartments.

Its interior is tastefully designed and the tiles, the ceiling, and banisters all speak of custom attention to detail, setting off the mass-production clothes on sale.

Image by Danilo Krnjaić from Pixabay 

8. Visit Novi Sad’s Fortress, Petrovaradin

Also known as “Gibraltar on the Danube”, Petrovaradin is one of the most legendary landmarks in Novi Sad.

Built on top of the remains of other structures from times when the Romans, the Hungarians, and the Turks ruled the land, Petrivaradin is one of the most impressive monuments in Serbia.

Modified for modern use, visitors to Petrovaradin can now navigate through different tunnels and levels, wandering over moats and through arched gates.

At the top, there are some shops and cafes.

There is a great walking tour to do if going to the fortress, click here to check it out!

9. Visit the church of St. Sava, Kalemegdan

If you have listed great churches among your places to visit in Serbia, then the church of St. Sava in Kalemegdan should definitely be on your list.

The architecture behind this place of worship is astounding and leaves visitors with a sense of awe.

Part of the awe also comes from the size of the church, which looms over most of the city landscape and the massive stained windows that pay tribute to the Christian faith.

Photo by Rade Šaptović on Unsplash

10. Go to Studenica Monastery

Serbia is not only home to brilliantly-designed churches, but also monasteries which are well recognized for their spirituality and fascinating architectural design.

Of the many monasteries in Serbia, Studenica is one of the most popular – an exhibit of the best in medieval Serbian architecture.

The grounds are structured to create a sense of tranquillity in its inhabitants, offering a level of spirituality that is felt even by tourists as they walk the beautiful grounds.

11. Check out Subotica’s City Hall

Of the many cities in Serbia, Subotica is probably the least popular of them all.

However, its lack of popularity is in no way a reflection of the beauty to be found in that city.

For example, the City Hall of Subotica is a jaw-dropping jewel of Art Nouveau architecture.

This building was designed and constructed in the early 20th century with an astonishing amount of detail, making it something to marvel at nearly a century after.

12. Visit the Grave of Serbia’s Longest Living Ruler

In the capital city of Kalemegdan, a piece of Serbia’s history rests in the grave of the person who ruled Yugoslavia, before it went on to become the Serbia we know today.

A communist leader, Josip Broz Tito ruled the people of Yugoslavia for the majority of its existence and was loved by the people as being a beneficent ruler.

People still go to his tomb, known as House of Flowers, to pay homage and leave flowers as they loved him dearly.

13. The House on the Drina

Some people are in love with the large and majestic and so gravitate towards sites like the Church of St. Sava.  \

However, for those who are enthralled by architecture that is small and intimate, the House on the Drina captures that perfectly.

It was built in 1969 by swimmers who wanted to have a comfortable rest place when they went down the river.

Image by Arvid Olson from Pixabay 

14. Belgrade fortress

The history of this ancient Serbian fortress is long and very dramatic.

Also known as Kalamegan, Belgrade Fortress has been fought over many times, seeing about 115 and being destroyed at least 40 times since its construction, centuries ago.

Although the fortress is now home to many cafes, people looking for things to do in Serbia are often attracted by the bloody history behind this amazing structure.

15. Fruška Gora National Park

Fruška Gora National Park is the oldest national park in Serbia, extending at least 80km through many hills and plains that teem with life.

Home to thirty-five monasteries that popped up from the 15th to the 18th centuries, Fruška Gora sheltered the holy people of Serbia from persecution by the Turks.

Sixteen of those original thirty-five still remain and can be visited by tourists.

Photo by Fred Pixlab on Unsplash

16. Skull Tower in Nis

The history of this important monument is one that Serbians strive to keep intact as they serve as a reminder of the destruction that can come with tyranny.

The original tower was built with 952 skulls by the violent Ottomans who ruled the land with terror.

Although less than 60 skulls still remain, the site is still in the memories of the people.

This is a great day trip destination from Belgrade!

17. Tesla Museum

In the city of Belgrade, Nikola Tesla Museum exists to honor the life and inventions of the legendary scientist and inventor, Nikola Tesla.

The museum contains almost 200,000 documents, books, and journals relating to the life and works of this great man, as well as photographs, photo plates, technical exhibits, instruments, and more than 1000 drawings and plans.

18. Learn Mythology at Đavolja Varoš

Serbia is deeply steeped in history and mythology and much of the latter surrounds the preternatural collection of more than 200 different rocks in unique formations.

Also known as the Devil’s Town, myth has it that these rocks were formed with the tears of humans that formed pacts with the devil and any of his servants and thereafter tried to betray them.

Photo by Aleksandar Popovski on Unsplash

19. Visit the prettiest town in Serbia

Sremski Karlovci may not be the biggest or wealthiest town in Serbia, but tourists are still drawn to visit based on the sheer beauty of the town alone.

As small as it is pretty, all its attractions exist in the town’s square.

From its high school which was the first in Serbia, to its fountain which is believed to be one of the most beautiful in Serbia.

accommodation in sremski karlovci

20. Go to Golubac Fortress

There are many fortresses littered all over Serbia.

Of them all, however, the fortress known as Goluac, which sits on the edge of Danube in eastern Serbia, is the most aesthetically pleasing from afar.

Popularly believed to be the most photogenic fortress in Serbia, many powers have repeatedly tried to conquer it over the centuries.

21. Visit the Village Set of Drvengrad

In Hollywood, the average director or producer dreams of being successful enough to construct their own studio facility.

However, in Serbia, Emir Kusturica was successful enough to build his own little village and he named the place Drvengrad.

Located in the west of Serbia, this little town has a chill atmosphere and many of its streets are named after famous icons.

Image by Michael Schwinge from Pixabay 

22. Žiča Monastery

For the spiritual aficionado wondering where to go in Serbia, Žiča Monastery is an esteemed place of spirituality and is linked to the developmental years of Serbia.

It was founded by the legendary St. Sava and was the head location of the Serbian Orthodox for its first three – four decades of existence.

23. Five Finger, Kosmaj

Almost all the European countries that were affected by the Second World War built monuments to pay homage to all the human beings who lost their lives in the conflict.

In Serbia there are many monuments, but the most striking is the five finger memorial that can be found at Kosmaj.

24. Oplenac

Serbia’s history is rife with conflict not only with external parties, but internally as well.

Among the ruling families of Houses Karadjordjević and Obrenović , a duel once ensued that resulted in the death of the Obrenović family.

They are buried in a magnificent crypt at Oplenac, which is a church outside Topola.

Besides the crypt, the church is worth visiting for the amazing mozaic it houses.

25. Gamzigrad

Built in the 3rd century by the Romans who had settled in Serbia, Gamzigrad has stayed relevant even till this modern age.

Also known as Felix Romuliana, this Roman compound abounds with temples and palaces and other beautiful places for contemplation.

A work of architectural and constructive art, Gamzigradis is listed among the Seven Wonders of Construction.

Serbia is a great country full of museums, palaces, temples, monuments, as well as natural attractions like mountains and rivers.

Tell us below which things you would love to do!

Other articles you will love:

• Best Tips to Prepare for a Balkan Road Trip
• 20 Valuable Balkan Tips You Need to Know!
• The Most Delicious Balkan Food You Must Try

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I’ve lived in Albania since 2018 and I have had the pleasure of trying so many different dishes from around the Balkans.

Every country has different cuisine but there is some common food which you will find in nearly all Balkan countries.

Everything can be fixed with food, it’s how many people within the Balkans show love, by feeding you!

Within the Balkans, food and family go hand and hand. 

In Albania, a meal is like an event with piles of food and good conversation.

In the Balkans, they have kept the importance of sitting down and having a meal together.

You will notice Balkan food is fresh and very flavourful. 

That’s because, in most countries within the Balkans, they grow their own vegetables and fruits.

If you stop by any market you will find the produce to be incredibly fresh. 

I have had the best-tasting fruit and vegetables in the Balkans because (most) are not filled with nasty pesticides which leave little to no taste in the fruit or vegetable.

Now if you’re vegan or vegetarian then you must know that there are ALOT of meat dishes and dairy is one of the most common ingredients in nearly all dishes so just beware that there’s not usually an abundance of choices.

So, without further ado, here are some of the most delicious food and drink that you should try during your Balkans trip!

1.Byrek/ Burek

 You are going to see Byrek/Burek in nearly every Balkan country you visit. 

This is the most popular and common Balkan food which you can find throughout the region.

Byrek is a filo pastry that is filled with white cheese (feta) usually.

 There are lots of different variations of this. 

Some are filled with meat, some are filled with onion and some with spinach and cheese.

You can even have them filled with rice and there’s a version in Albania which is made from pumpkin and is almost like a dessert. 

Byrek is a great choice for a breakfast option or a snack meal to go.

2. Chevapi/ Ćevapi/Kebapi

 You cannot go wrong with a chevapi unless you’re vegetarian of course. 

Cevapi is grilled meat, sort of like a meatball but it’s long.

Although there are lots of different versions of this depending on what Balkan country you go to!

It’s usually made with a mixture of pork, beef and lamb along with garlic, baking soda, paprika, salt and parsley. 

Sometimes white cheese (kaymak) is also mixed in.

 Most of the time this is served in a piece of bread with some onion, and sometimes ajvar (a sauce I will talk about down below!). 

It’s a popular street food in Serbia and in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It’s also considered a national dish in many Balkan countries.

In other countries like Albania, it’s usually served as a dinner with bread and salad on the side.

In Romania, they have a similar dish called mici which translates to ‘small one’.

 You really cannot come to the Balkans without trying a Chevapi!

3. Stuffed peppers/ Dolma

This is a very popular dish you find throughout the Balkans in different variations. 

Most of the peppers are stuffed with white cheese along with a mixture of other herbs and ingredients. 

Some variations are stuffed with rice and meat too which is very common. 

Stuffed peppers can be a great option if you are vegetarian, although some use meat inside so always double-check. 

I now make my variation of stuffed peppers using white cheese, lots of garlic, fresh parsley and olive oil. 

This is the perfect side dish to any meal as the flavours complement each other amazingly.

From the sweet taste of peppers to the saltiness of the white cheese, I’m drooling just thinking about it!

Another variation of dolma is what you will find commonly in Greece and Turkey. 

Instead of peppers, they will stuff vine leaves with rice or meat depending on what you prefer. 

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4. Ajvar

 In the Balkans, it’s very common, just before winter, for the people to stock up on food and make pickled jams and sauces to survive the long winter. 

The history of Ajvar goes back to when a lot of people did not have access to a supermarket.

The winters were cold, and houses may have been stuck in the snow, so this process of pickling food was very common. 

Pickling food and sauces are still a tradition these days even though most people have access to a market one way or another.

 Ajvar is made from red peppers and is sort of like a sauce. 

It can be spicy depending on what type of peppers are used but mostly it’s sweet and savoury and very delicious. 

It makes the perfect accompaniment to cevapi, a salad or just a spread over fresh bread!

 The peppers are either baked or boiled then mixed with ingredients such as chilli powder, apple cider vinegar, salt, sugar and eggplant. 

5. Kaymak/ Kajmak

This is a very popular Balkan food you will find in a lot of Balkan food dishes. 

Kaymak or Kajmak is a sort of soft white cheese, like clotted cream.

It’s a super popular breakfast accompaniment and in Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro it’s considered a national dish. 

 Kaymak is also used sometimes in cevapi and within many other Balkan dishes, you may not even realise!

6. Pasulj

Pasulj is a common Balkan food which is bean soup. 

This is the perfect winter food as it’s warming and very cheap to make. It’s sort of like baked beans which are commonly eaten in western Europe. 

You can find this dish in the likes of Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia. 

But they also have similar variations in the likes of Albania called Jani me fasule.

It’s delicious, warming, healthy and a great cheap lunch or dinner!

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7. Goulash/gulas

 Goulash originally stemmed from Hungary, but it is eaten a lot throughout the Balkans in Albania, Croatia, Serbia and Slovenia. 

It is generally eaten in the colder parts of Albania like in the north of the country.

Goulash is a type of stew with meat and vegetables. 

It’s very simple to make, rich in taste and perfect in the winter if you’re stuck in the snow!

 You will find about a 50/50 proportion of meat and onions with red wine and an array of spices such as paprika along with many other ingredients!

8. Mixed grill plate

The mixed grill plate you can find throughout the Balkans in nearly every country.

If you’re a meat-eater then you will be pleasantly surprised at this dish because, well, it’s essentially a pile of meat on a plate! 

Usually, it will include cevapi, kofte, pork and kebab (depending on where you go!) along with fries, pita, a salad and some sort of sauce, hjavar or Tzatziki.

If you’re a vegetarian this dish might be horrifying to you.

9. Seafood

Seafood is very popular, especially mussels! 

I have had the best seafood in my life in Albania! 

The coastal countries like Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Greece have an incredible quality of seafood.

If you’re in the Albanian Riviera I would highly suggest tasting the mussels. 

Most of the mussels come from the mussel farm on Lake Butrint.

These are the most delicious because they have a mixture of fresh and saltwater.

Another popular seafood to try is the octopus.  It’s fresh and delicious!

I live in the south of Albania and at my local beach, my boyfriend is always catching them!

10. Baklava

Baklava is originally a Turkish dessert and can be found throughout the Balkans. 

The best is always in Turkey, in the heart of baklava but I have had equally impressive baklava in Albania!

Baklava is a very sweet dessert made with a layer of pastry, honey and nuts. 

It’s a very rich dessert so you only need one piece of baklava otherwise it can sometimes be too much!

11. Coffee

Espresso and Turkish coffee are very popular within the Balkans. 

The Balkan people thrive off their coffee! But they do have a different culture around it. 

In Albania, they have the most coffee shops per capita in the world.

You will see in both Kosovo and Albania that cafes are on every corner and in between! 

Albanians will sit for hours having their coffee sitting with friends and talking (also using Facebook a lot!).

Or if you go on a Balkan road trip with a local, be prepared to do 2-3 coffee stops along the way!

 The most popular is espresso but in Turkey and countries like Albania and Kosovo, Turkish coffee is drunk a lot too.

Turkish coffee is very strong and rich. 

The beans are left at the bottom of the cup so whatever you do, don’t guzzle the whole cup down as you’ll be in for a nasty surprise in the bottom!

12. Rakia/ Rakija

Apart from coffee, the other most popular drink is the alcohol of Rakia.

It’s made from grapes usually but also peaches and other fruit. It’s a type of fruit brandy but is strong as hell.

It’s mostly homemade so you never know how strong it might be!

Rakia is supposed to be drunk in small sips, not shooting and will be served to you in a small glass. 

If you look at the cafes in Albania, most of the men have a glass of Rakia with their morning coffee.

They believe that this keeps them healthy and strong.

 You must know that within the Balkans the people are known for homemade concoctions when it comes to medical problems you may have. 

I have seen Rakia been used in the local hospital where I live, when some tourist fell off their motorcycles to help clean their wounds.

 They also suggest using it if you have a sore throat, sore teeth, sore anything for that matter.

But also don’t rely on Rakia to fix your medical problems, make sure you have travel insurance!

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13. Ayran/ Dhalle

This is a popular drink in Turkey as well as Albania and Kosovo. 

Ayran or Dhalle is a salty yoghurt drink! It may sound disgusting but try having it with a meat dish or something spicy and it’s delicious. 

This is a popular drink with a meal to ‘help with digestion’.

It’s mostly consumed in the summer when it’s hot and you need something super refreshing.

14. Sarma

Sarma is a quintessential Balkan food, made with cabbage or grape leaves rolled around a savory filling of ground meat and rice.

These stuffed leaves are slow-cooked in a seasoned broth, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

This traditional dish is common in countries across the Balkan Peninsula, especially in Bosnia & Herzegovina and North Macedonia.

A hearty and comforting meal, Sarma is ideal for the cooler months.

15. Shopska Salad

A refreshing salad made with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and green peppers, topped with feta cheese.

This is a light but flavorful dish, perfect for a hot day along the Adriatic Coast.

It’s often seen in local markets in Bulgaria and Serbia and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side dish.

16. Tavče Gravče

This hearty stew from North Macedonia is made from white beans, onions, and red pepper relish, often baked in an earthenware pot for that extra depth of flavour.

It’s a classic main dish throughout the Balkan states and is particularly popular in the colder months when comfort food takes center stage.

Some add smoked sausage or bacon for extra richness, but it can also be enjoyed as a vegetarian meal.

17. Pljeskavica (Balkan Burger)

This is a Balkan-style burger made from a blend of ground beef and pork, spiced and grilled to perfection.

Often served with a slice of phyllo dough or in a bun with sour cream and tomato sauce, Pljeskavica is the epitome of Balkan cuisine.

It’s found across Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, each region adding its own unique spin.

18. Kifle

A popular delicious dish for those with a sweet tooth, Kifle is a crescent-shaped pastry filled with either sweet or savoury ingredients like cottage cheese or fruit preserves.

This treat is especially popular in Central Europe and the Balkans, where it’s often enjoyed with a morning coffee.

19. Komplet Lepinja

This Serbian speciality is a fluffy bread filled with dairy products like kaymak and occasionally topped with an egg.

Komplet Lepinja is commonly found in local markets and bakeries throughout Serbia.

This satisfying breakfast or snack option is also known for its unique combination of textures and flavours, a true Balkan region delight.

20. Prebranac

A beloved Serbian bean dish, Prebranac consists of slow-cooked beans, onions, and paprika.

This traditional recipe is often baked until the beans are tender and flavours are deep.

Prebranac is a staple in Balkan cuisine, frequently served as a side but hearty enough to stand alone as a main dish.

21. Krofne

A favourite Balkan food for those with a sweet tooth, Krofne are fried doughnuts filled with jam or Nutella and dusted with powdered sugar.

They are especially popular in Bosnia & Herzegovina and Serbia.

These light and fluffy pastries are perfect with coffee and can be found at bakeries throughout the Balkan Peninsula.

22. Bakrdan

A speciality from North Macedonia, Bakrdan is a cornmeal-based dish similar to polenta, often paired with feta cheese or sour cream.

This comforting main dish is popular in rural areas and known for its simplicity and satisfying texture.

It’s a unique way to enjoy the rich, traditional dishes of the region.

23. Pindjur

Similar to Ajvar, Pindjur is another red pepper relish but with added eggplant, tomatoes, and garlic.

It has a chunkier texture and is a staple on the Adriatic Coast as well as in European countries like Bulgaria and Macedonia.

Spread it on bread or serve it as a dip alongside grilled meats for a true taste of Balkan cuisine.

24. Moussaka

Moussaka is a well-loved dish across the Balkan region, with origins reaching into the Middle East.

This layered meat dish is made with ground meat (often a blend of beef and lamb), eggplant, potatoes, and a creamy béchamel sauce on top.

While many countries have their version, the original recipe can vary with different names and slight twists across the Balkans.

A slice of Moussaka is rich, filling, and undoubtedly one of the best foods to savour if you’re a fan of layered casseroles.

25. Brodet (Fish Stew)

A classic from the Adriatic Sea coast, Brodet is a savoury fish stew traditionally made with fresh seafood, tomatoes, garlic, and white wine.

Found along the Adriatic coast in places like Croatia and Montenegro, this stew carries the region’s Mediterranean influences, blending local fish varieties into a deliciously spiced dish.

It’s a meat dish at its heart, though it’s lighter and more delicate than others, making it one of the best foods to try when visiting the coast.

There’s a collection of the most delicious Balkan food you must try during your trip. 

Tell me below which dish you would happily try and which one you wouldn’t go near!

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