Belgrade. Literally translated as „the white city“ (Beograd – beo=white and grad=city), because of its ancient white fortress, which used to dazzle people who came to this mighty city, Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in the whole of Europe. With almost 2 million people, Belgrade is one of the largest and most populated cities in the Balkans.
Aerial view of Belgrade with Kalemegdan park
Historically always being divided by both the east and the west, Belgrade’s and Serbia’s culture is a unique mix of two clashing cultures. And this is exactly what makes Belgrade special. It is, at the same time, a buzzing, new, European metropolis and business city, and one of the most laid back places in the world. An hour or two don’t mean much in Belgrade, as locals can sit in one of the numerous cafes, relax, chat with their friends and sip coffee for several hours.
Knez Mihajlova street, a favorite walking zone for visitors
A largely undiscovered gem of the Balkans, Belgrade has only been recently discovered by tourists worldwide. This is largely due to the Balkans’ troubled past, but much has changed. Belgrade’s rich history and architectural monuments will keep you intrigued and hungry for knowledge. Tours of the city, and it’s most important sights are organized, and you’ll be amazed at all of the things that this beautiful city has gone through.
A view of the city from Belgrade Fortress and Victor monument
Nowadays Belgrade is a place filled with friendly, amazing people that will cater to your every need. The welcome you’ll receive is one that not a lot of places in the world offer. People will be eager to have a drink or two with you, show you around the town, and invite you to their home to hang out.
One of Belgrade’s specialties is its unique cuisine. With a little bit of Ottoman, Russian, baroque and neoclassic influence, the food is unique as the city itself. Satisfy your inner gourmet with some famous sarma (minced meat wrapped in sour cabbage and boiled, often with some smoked meat like sausages) – this is somewhat a culinary specialty here in Balkans; cevapi (a small, finger-like portions of minced and grilled meat, served in large flat bun), pljeskavica (actually a hamburger with plenty of veggies and various sauces) and rakija (highly alcoholic fruit-made drink). Serbs love their food tasty, and in large portions, so don’t worry about staying hungry!
Sarma – looks strange but has heavenly taste
In recent years, Belgrade has acquired a reputation as a party city, and with good reason. Belgrade’s parties are wild, and last through the whole night. But don’t think that this town is all about partying. A wide variety of entertainment is present, and Belgrade can entertain both old and young. This has been the main reason that people are discovering all of Belgrade’s beauties. As word spread of its legendary parties, people become interested in this relatively unknown town. And don’t think that it stops at parties. Belgrade, above all, offers rich, varied entertainment. If you’re a family man, or a young, party animal, Belgrade has it all. Restaurants, cafes, discos, night clubs, theaters, museums, you name it, Belgrade has it!
Traditional cafes in old bohemian street, Skadarlija
Belgrade is also a great city to use as a base for your exploration of Serbia, and the Balkans in general. A tight budget isn’t a problem, as Belgrade is a relatively cheap city. The food, the entertainment, a myriad of accommodation, a small amount of money can get you far in Belgrade. Hotels all over Belgrade will ensure that the frustration of finding accommodation won’t ever even happen.
Hotel “Moskva” (Moscow), one of the oldest hotels in Belgrade
Reaching Belgrade is also simple, since there are many direct flights to Belgrade’s Nikola Tesla airport from places all around the world.
Honestly, after reading all this what more do you need? Belgrade almost seems too good to be true, but it’s very real. Teeming with life, and with opportunities and new friendships to be made at every corner, Belgrade is truly the place to be.
Great piece! For burger lovers, that Pljeskavica is hard to beat when they serve it as a burger. It’s grilled and they use a combination of meats and spices.
Belgrade was on the tourist map in the 80’s in comparison to years later.
And don’t be surprised if you see dishes being broken at dinner.
Thanks, Rob!
Yeah, pljeskavica is a great dish, one of my favorite grilled stuff.
There’s also “punjena pljeskavica” (stuffed with cheese, ham and mushrooms) and “gurmanska pljeskavica” (stuffed with cheese, bacon and a bit more spicy). Both are great too, I highly recommend them.