13 STUNNING Places in Serbia to Visit That Will Blow Your Mind

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Serbia isn’t on most travelers’ radar, which is exactly why you should go now. I spent two weeks knocking back homemade rakija with locals who insisted I eat “just one more” plate of grilled meat while telling wild stories about their country.

The Balkans‘ black sheep deserves your attention. These are the most beautiful places to visit in Serbia which made me repeatedly pull over my rental car in disbelief. My list covers 13 spots where you’ll encounter zero tourist buses but plenty of jaw-dropping monasteries, fortresses, and landscapes. Serbia is raw, real, and ridiculously underrated. Go before everyone figures it out!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Serbia

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Serbian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Belgrade for just $420 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save money by eating at local kafanas and traditional restaurants. Hearty Serbian dishes like ćevapi, pljeskavica, and sarma cost just $3-6 for large portions. The bakeries (pekare) are perfect for breakfast – try burek with cheese or meat for less than $2. Local markets like Kalenić or Zeleni Venac in Belgrade offer incredible fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats at great prices.
• Transport: I recommend using the efficient public transportation in Belgrade – a day card costs about $5 and covers all trams, buses, and trolleys. When traveling between cities, the buses are reliable and affordable. I paid about $10 for the scenic ride from Belgrade to Novi Sad.

Serbia may have a reputation for being one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, and it truly is! If you follow the strategies above, you can explore its history and beautiful landscapes while spending very little. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Serbia:

13 Stunning Places to Visit in Serbia

Serbia often gets skipped on Balkan road trip itineraries, which is why its stunning landscapes remain uncrowded. From the winding Uvac Canyon to centuries-old monasteries with incredible frescoes, this country offers natural and cultural beauty without the tourist crowds. Let me show you Serbia’s most gorgeous spots!

1. Drvengrad

• 📍 Location: Mokra Gora, Western Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Film fans 🎬, peaceful retreats 🌲, cultural travelers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through the wooden village, riding the Šargan Eight train, watching indie films at Kustendorf Festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for mild weather and scenic views 
•  🏨 Where to Stay: Mecavnik Resort – Rustic wooden lodge designed by Emir Kusturica with village views and wellness options

Drvengrad is a handcrafted wooden village built by Serbian filmmaker Emir Kusturica as a set for his movie Life is a Miracle. Instead of being torn down after filming, it was turned into a living museum and cultural retreat surrounded by the forests of Mokra Gora. Every corner reflects Kusturica’s vision, with cobblestone paths, timber houses, and street names honoring famous artists and thinkers.

This is not just a tourist stop. It hosts an annual film festival, has a working library and gallery, and serves as a hub for Serbian art and music. Travelers can explore the nearby Šargan Eight railway, a historic narrow-gauge train route that passes through tunnels and hills with excellent mountain views.

Drvengrad is best for slow travel. Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for the village’s details, and curiosity for local culture that feels both rustic and thoughtfully curated.

2. Fruška Gora National Park

• 📍 Location: Vojvodina Region, Northern Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, wine lovers 🍷, monastery hoppers ⛪
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking forest trails, visiting Krušedol Monastery, tasting Bermet wine in local cellars
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for colorful foliage and vineyard visits 🌳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Premier Aqua – Stylish wellness hotel with spa access and easy park entry

Fruška Gora is Serbia’s oldest national park, known for its rolling forested hills, serene trails, and vineyards that produce the region’s beloved Bermet wine. Located near Novi Sad, it is a perfect day trip or weekend getaway for hikers and wine enthusiasts looking to escape city crowds.

The park is also home to a string of 16 Serbian Orthodox monasteries, many dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. You can follow mapped routes that pass these historical landmarks while enjoying shaded paths, picnic spots, and lookout points. Birdwatchers will find rare species here, and locals often visit for berry picking in summer or mushroom foraging in early fall.

After a morning on the trails, visitors can relax in nearby villages like Sremski Karlovci. Most have traditional wine cellars offering tastings, meals, and a peek into the area’s slow-paced lifestyle.

3. Ivanjica & Mount Golija

• 📍 Location: Ivanjica, Western Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌲, slow travelers 🚶, mountain explorers 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Mount Golija, visiting Ivanjica’s stone bridge, exploring UNESCO biosphere forests
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for hiking trails and cultural festivals 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Park Ivanjica – Simple hotel with river views near the town center and Golija trail access

Ivanjica is a small town known for its peaceful vibe, cool mountain air, and as the gateway to Mount Golija, one of Serbia’s most biodiverse regions. The town itself is charming with old-world architecture, a historic stone bridge, and cafes where locals gather over strong Turkish coffee.

Mount Golija, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers a mix of dense forests, clear streams, and scenic lookouts. Trails vary from short nature walks to full-day hikes that take you through spruce and beech-covered ridges. Wildlife watchers may spot deer, eagles, and even the occasional lynx.

For travelers interested in local life, Golija’s scattered mountain villages offer homemade cheese, honey, and rakija. In autumn, the hills are popular for mushroom picking and photography. The area remains off the mainstream tourist radar, making it ideal for quiet adventures and meaningful cultural encounters.

4. Kućica na Drini

• 📍 Location: Near Bajina Bašta, Western Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📷, offbeat travelers 🪵, road trippers 🚗
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snapping photos of the river house, kayaking on the Drina, relaxing by the riverside
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for clear views and water activities 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kucerak na Drini – A riverside holiday home in Bajina Bašta with a terrace, barbecue area, free parking, and serene views over the Drina River

Kućica na Drini, or the “Little House on the Drina,” is a tiny wooden cabin built on a rock in the middle of a fast-flowing river. First constructed in 1968 by a group of swimmers looking for a rest spot, the house has stood against floods, storms, and time itself.

You can’t enter the house, but the view from the nearby riverbank is one of Serbia’s most iconic photo ops. Travelers often stop while passing through Bajina Bašta or visiting nearby Tara National Park. Early morning is the best time to capture the house with soft light and mist rising off the river.

Adventure seekers can rent a kayak or paddleboard to get a closer view, while others may prefer a riverside meal at a nearby guesthouse. Kućica na Drini is a small but memorable symbol of creativity, resilience, and love for nature.

5. Lake Palić

• 📍 Location: Subotica, Northern Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Architecture fans 🏛️, lakeside wanderers 🚶, birdwatchers 🐦
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking along the promenade, admiring Art Nouveau buildings, watching migratory birds over the water
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and lake activities 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Park Palic – Comfortable stay with direct lake access and a short walk to the historic promenade

Lake Palić is a peaceful escape just outside Subotica, known for its mix of natural beauty and quirky architecture. The shoreline is lined with Art Nouveau-style villas and pavilions, giving the whole area a nostalgic charm that feels straight out of a vintage postcard.

You can take a slow stroll along the lake promenade, rent a paddleboat, or just sit and enjoy the breeze. The lake is also part of a migratory bird route, so it’s a great place for spotting herons, swans, and storks during the spring and fall.

If you’re into history, the nearby Water Tower and Grand Terrace are standout architectural gems from the early 1900s. Food stalls and casual restaurants nearby serve local bites like grilled meat or goulash. It’s a relaxed place that mixes outdoor fun with cultural appeal, perfect for a quiet getaway.

6. Belgrade City

• 📍 Location: Belgrade, Central Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Urban explorers 🏙️, history lovers 📜, nightlife seekers 🎶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through Kalemegdan Fortress, bar hopping in Skadarlija, dancing on the splavovi river barges
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and music festivals 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mama Shelter Belgrade – Trendy rooftop hotel steps from Republic Square with vibrant social spaces

Belgrade hits different. This capital city mixes gritty energy with layered history, and it’s way more exciting than most people expect. One moment you’re wandering through Roman ruins at Kalemegdan Fortress, and the next, you’re sipping espresso in a vintage café down a graffiti-covered alley.

The bohemian quarter, Skadarlija, brings out the old soul of the city with cobblestones, live music, and traditional Serbian dishes served under lantern-lit terraces. Don’t miss the Nikola Tesla Museum or street markets like Zeleni Venac for a glimpse of local life.

By nightfall, Belgrade flips into party mode. The floating river clubs, called splavovi, blast Balkan beats into the early morning. This city doesn’t sleep, but you’ll find pockets of calm too. Whether you’re into culture, chaos, or cheap eats, Belgrade makes sure you’re never bored.

• Read next: Cheapest Cities to Visit in Europe

7. Petrovaradin Fortress

• 📍 Location: Novi Sad, Northern Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏰, festival goers 🎶, city explorers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the underground tunnels, visiting the clock tower, attending the EXIT music festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July during EXIT Festival or spring for fewer crowds 🎤
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Leopold I – Baroque-style hotel inside the fortress with river views and elegant rooms

Petrovaradin Fortress is one of Novi Sad’s most iconic landmarks, perched above the Danube River with panoramic views of the city. The fortress dates back to the 17th century and was once a key military stronghold, but today it’s known more for its cultural and artistic scene.

Wander through the cobbled paths to find artisan shops, galleries, and the famous clock tower whose reversed hands have become a local symbol. Beneath the surface, you can explore a labyrinth of tunnels used for defense and escape routes during past conflicts.

Each summer, the fortress comes alive as the venue for the EXIT Festival, one of Europe’s biggest music events. Outside of festival season, it’s a calm place to explore history, take river photos, and grab a drink with a view. Petrovaradin offers something interesting every time you visit, no matter the season.

8. Sremski Karlovci

• 📍 Location: Near Novi Sad, Northern Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Wine lovers 🍷, architecture fans 🏛️, history enthusiasts 📖
• 📸 Top Experiences: Tasting Bermet wine, visiting the Patriarchate Court, exploring Four Lions Fountain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for wine season and outdoor sightseeing 🌿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Premier Prezident Garni Hotel – Elegant boutique hotel with a spa near the town square

Sremski Karlovci is a small town packed with charm and known for its baroque buildings, historic schools, and deep winemaking roots. The town square is compact but filled with landmarks, including the Karlovci Gymnasium and the Patriarchate Court, both reflecting Serbia’s cultural legacy.

Locals are proud of their wine, especially Bermet, a spiced dessert wine that has been served to royalty. Many family-run wine cellars in the area offer tastings and quick tours, making it easy to explore the town on foot and stop for a glass along the way.

The Four Lions Fountain is a popular meeting point, while nearby churches and seminaries give insight into Serbia’s religious history. The vibe here is relaxed and walkable, perfect for travelers who enjoy slower sightseeing and good local food. It makes for an ideal half-day trip from Novi Sad or a quiet overnight stay.

9. Tara National Park

• 📍 Location: Western Serbia, near Bajina Bašta
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌲, wildlife watchers 🐻, hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Banjska Stena, boating on Zaovine Lake, spotting brown bears
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for open trails and wildlife sightings 🌳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Tara – Charming mountain hotel in Kaludjerske Bare with an indoor pool, spa services, restaurant, and direct access to Tara National Park trails

Tara National Park is one of Serbia’s most scenic and biodiverse areas, covering thick forests, rolling hills, and quiet lakes. It’s also home to the rare Pančić’s spruce and serves as a protected habitat for brown bears, deer, and over 100 bird species.

One of the best spots for panoramic views is Banjska Stena, a viewpoint that overlooks the Drina River canyon. Hiking trails range from easy walks to full-day adventures, with several well-marked paths leading to hidden waterfalls, caves, and lookout points.

For a more relaxing day, head to Zaovine Lake where you can swim, picnic, or rent a boat. Local eco-lodges and mountain homes give the area a rustic feel, and there’s always a chance of spotting wildlife from the porch. Tara is peaceful, well-maintained, and perfect for travelers who want to disconnect in nature.

10. The Gradac River in Valjevo

• 📍 Location: Valjevo, Western Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Nature walks 🌿, photographers 📸, peaceful escapes 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking river trails, visiting the Old Water Mill, swimming in clear pools
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for mild weather and low water levels 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Omni Valjevo – Modern riverside hotel near the old town with views and on-site café

The Gradac River winds gently through the hills around Valjevo, creating one of Serbia’s cleanest and calmest natural hideouts. With crystal-clear water, shaded walking paths, and wooden bridges, it’s a perfect place for travelers looking to slow down and reconnect with nature.

The walking trail starts from the old town and follows the riverbank, leading past cliffs, rock formations, and even caves. During summer, the shallow spots are ideal for swimming or wading, and locals often picnic by the water on weekends.

Near the start of the trail, you’ll find the Old Water Mill and rustic riverside cafes. Valjevo itself is worth exploring too, with historical sites and small museums tucked into its old streets. The Gradac River offers the kind of peaceful escape that feels both authentic and refreshing without needing to venture far from town comforts.

11. Topola

• 📍 Location: Šumadija Region, Central Serbia
• 🏆 Best For: Wine tasting 🍇, royal history 👑, cultural sightseeing 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Oplenac Mausoleum, visiting wine cellars, exploring the King’s Vineyard
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September to October for grape harvest and fall colors 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Apartmani Čalane – A top-rated guesthouse just outside Topola

Topola is a small town with a big royal past. It was once the heart of the Karađorđević dynasty, and the Oplenac Mausoleum still stands today as a monument to Serbia’s modern royal lineage. Inside the mausoleum, intricate mosaics cover nearly every surface, making it one of the most visually stunning sites in the country.

Surrounding the mausoleum is the Royal Vineyard, where you can walk among rows of grapes and learn about the area’s long history of winemaking. Wine tastings are available in local cellars, many of which are still operated by small family producers.

Topola is also home to a few museums and open-air exhibits that tell the story of the Serbian uprisings and royal life. It’s a relaxed and educational stop for travelers interested in history, wine, or seeing a quieter, culturally rich side of central Serbia.

12. Uvac Canyon

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Serbia, near Nova Varoš
• 🏆 Best For: Wildlife lovers 🦅, photographers 📷, boat trip fans 🚤
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Molitva viewpoint, taking a boat ride through the meanders, spotting griffon vultures
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for clear skies and best wildlife viewing ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Kanjon Uvac – Rustic guesthouse near the canyon with scenic views 

Uvac Canyon is one of Serbia’s most jaw-dropping natural landscapes, carved by a twisting emerald river that forms dramatic meanders through limestone cliffs. The canyon is part of a special nature reserve that protects one of Europe’s last populations of griffon vultures.

Most travelers hike up to Molitva, the most famous viewpoint, which offers a panoramic view of the canyon curves and surrounding green hills. If hiking isn’t your thing, boat rides are available and take you deep into the canyon, where you can explore caves and spot vultures soaring overhead.

The water is incredibly clean and clear, making it a refreshing place to swim or paddle during summer. Nearby villages offer simple accommodations and hearty local meals. Uvac is remote but rewarding, perfect for anyone who wants dramatic views and a close-up experience with Serbian wildlife and scenery.

13. Djerdap National Park

• 📍 Location: Eastern Serbia, along the Danube River
• 🏆 Best For: History lovers 🏺, nature fans 🌲, river cruisers 🚢
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the Iron Gates gorge, visiting Lepenski Vir, hiking forest trails above the Danube
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for river views and clear hiking paths 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Golden Inn Hotel (Majdanpek) – Friendly mid-range hotel with garden, terrace, and free parking

Djerdap National Park stretches along the Danube and protects the largest gorge in Europe, known as the Iron Gates. Towering cliffs rise dramatically on both sides of the river, offering some of Serbia’s most powerful natural views. Lookout points like Veliki Štrbac provide panoramic scenes that are perfect for photography.

History is everywhere here. The Lepenski Vir archaeological site reveals one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric settlements, with preserved stone houses and artifacts. The park also borders the ancient Roman road and fortress of Diana, making it a rare blend of natural and historical wonder.

Trails vary from short walks to steeper forest climbs, with signs marking birdwatching spots and rest areas. Small towns like Donji Milanovac are great bases for exploring the park. Visitors can take boat rides, hike to viewpoints, or just relax while watching the Danube slowly move between cliffs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Serbia

Want to learn more about Serbia’s most beautiful locations? Here are some frequently asked questions concerning the top Serbian tourist destinations.

What is the most beautiful part of Serbia?

Serbia boasts numerous stunning locations, each with its unique charm. However, many travelers and locals alike often point to the Uvac Canyon, Tara National Park, and the picturesque town of Sremski Karlovci as some of the most beautiful parts of the country. The blend of natural landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture makes Serbia a diverse and captivating destination.

Is Serbia good for tourists?

Absolutely! Serbia has been gaining traction as a tourist destination in recent years due to its rich history, diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Here are some reasons why Serbia is good for tourists:

1. Cultural Heritage: Serbia is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Studenica Monastery and the medieval monuments in Kosovo. The country’s history spans from Roman times, through Byzantine and Ottoman eras, to the modern age, all leaving their mark.
2. Vibrant Cities: Belgrade, the capital, is known for its lively nightlife, historic architecture, and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Novi Sad, another major city, hosts the famous EXIT music festival every year.
3. Natural Beauty: From the stunning landscapes of Tara National Park to the meandering Uvac River Canyon and the impressive Đerdap Gorge, Serbia offers a variety of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Affordability: Compared to many Western European destinations, Serbia offers great value for money, allowing tourists to enjoy quality accommodations, food, and attractions at a fraction of the cost.
5. Warm Hospitality: Serbians are known for their hospitality and often go out of their way to make tourists feel welcome.
6. Diverse Gastronomy: Serbian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean, Hungarian, Turkish, and Austrian influences. Local dishes like ćevapi, sarma, and ajvar are must-tries.
7. Festivals and Events: Serbia hosts numerous cultural, music, and food festivals throughout the year, showcasing its rich traditions and modern influences.

What are the top 3 cities in Serbia?

Serbia’s top cities, in terms of cultural significance and visitor attractions, are Belgrade, its vibrant capital known for its nightlife and historic sites; Novi Sad, famous for the Petrovaradin Fortress and the EXIT music festival; and Niš, one of the oldest cities in Europe with a rich history and the birthplace of Emperor Constantine.

What is the prettiest city in Serbia?

Serbia is home to many beautiful cities, each with its unique charm and historical significance. While beauty is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, Novi Sad is often regarded as one of the prettiest cities in Serbia. It boasts a mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture, scenic river views, and vibrant cultural scenes.

Where to go in Serbia for authentic local cuisine?

For a genuine taste of Serbia’s culinary delights, one should visit the traditional kafanas (taverns) in Belgrade, Niš, and other cities. These establishments serve local dishes like ćevapi, sarma, and ajvar.

Which are the must-see natural attractions in Serbia?

Apart from the already mentioned Uvac Canyon and Tara National Park, the Đavolja Varoš (Devil’s Town) rock formations and the Kopaonik mountain range are Serbia’s beautiful places that nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss.

How is Serbia’s transportation network for travelers?

Serbia’s transportation system is well-developed, with a network of buses and trains connecting major cities and tourist destinations. The country also has international airports in Belgrade and Niš, facilitating easy access for foreign travelers.

Are there any unique festivals or events in Serbia?

Serbia hosts a plethora of events throughout the year. The Guča Trumpet Festival and the Serbia’s destinations-famous EXIT music festival in Novi Sad are among the most notable. These events offer a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant spirit.

Where is Serbia famous for?

Serbia is known for a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Serbia is most famous for Belgrade, Novi Sad, Tara National Park, Studenica Monastery, and Rakija. In essence, Serbia is known for its blend of cultures, rich history, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.

Where is the most scenic place in Serbia?

Serbia, with its rich history and diverse landscapes, offers numerous scenic spots. However, if one were to pinpoint the most scenic place, many would argue in favor of Tara National Park.

Tara National Park is located in western Serbia, overlooking the Drina River and bordering Bosnia and Herzegovina. This national park is a gem of pristine nature, characterized by its thick forests, deep canyons, clear lakes, and diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to the endemic Pančić’s spruce, a relic from the ice age, and the habitat of the brown bear, among other wildlife.

The park’s viewpoints, such as Banjska Stena and Crnjeskovo, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Drina River canyon and the artificial Lake Perućac. The landscapes here, with rolling hills, deep valleys, and serene bodies of water, are truly postcard-worthy.

Apart from Tara, Serbia boasts other scenic spots like the Uvac River Canyon, the Đerdap Gorge, and the Studenica Monastery set against rolling hills. Still, Tara National Park’s untouched beauty and diverse ecosystems make it stand out as one of the most picturesque locations in the country.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Serbia

Serbia, with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a travel experience like no other. From the bustling streets of Belgrade to the serene landscapes of Tara National Park, every corner of the country tells a story waiting to be discovered. The beautiful places in Serbia beckon travelers with promises of adventure, relaxation, and a deep dive into a heritage that has shaped the Balkans for centuries.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or someone seeking the vibrant rhythms of city life, Serbia has something to offer. As you chart your journey through this enchanting land, remember that the true essence of travel lies in the memories you create and the stories you bring back. So, pack your bags, set your sights on the horizon, and embark on a Serbian sojourn that will stay with you for a lifetime.