Serbia lies on the Balkan Peninsula, a geographical area in southeastern Europe. Although it’s not as globally known as other vacation hotspots in the area, such as Croatia or Montenegro, Serbia’s cultural charm, history, and key summer music festivals make it the perfect destination for your next European trip.
Read on for tips on accommodation options, where to go and where to stay in Belgrade, Nis, the Fruška Gora Mountain, and other places to visit in Serbia.
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Where To Stay In Belgrade, Serbia
Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, lies at the Danube and Sava River’s intersection and offers an eclectic mix of old and new. There’s always something interesting to see: orthodox churches, 19th-century architecture, Art Nouveau buildings, colorful facades, and quaint squares.
As well as soaking up plenty of history at the Kalemegdan Fortress, a stroll through the park provides incredible panoramic views and is one of the best places to enjoy the sunset. Then, after seeing all the best Belgrade sights, this is where to stay in Belgrade.
Belgrade Neighborhoods
Lilgrade is divided into several smaller districts and municipalities. Like any other large city, these are further divided into local communities or neighborhoods. These numerous Belgrade neighborhoods, each with a distinct character, make exploring Belgrade much more fun. Although many of them, some are more interesting to visitors than others. Below is an overview of the top neighborhoods in Belgrade you should explore.
Stari Grad (Old Town)
The Old Town is the beating heart of most if not all, historic European cities. The same goes for Belgrade. This bustling neighborhood is the location of Knez Mihailova Street, Belgrade’s main pedestrian street. Lined with shops, cafes, and galleries, it brings you to many of the city’s most significant highlights.
Start your visit to Belgrade in Stari Grad. Visit the Kalemegdan Citadel, home to many attractions, including the Belgrade Zoo, the Victor Monument, the Military Museum, and the Observatory. You’ll also have a superb view of the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers from the citadel.
Of course, it goes without saying that there are more food and drinks than you can consume in the Old Town, too.
This is the location of most of the best places to visit in Belgrade, Serbia, so if you’re a first-time visitor, we recommend looking for Belgrade accommodations here.
Savamala
A historically shabby part of town, Savamala has gotten a much-needed uplift in recent decades by establishing many bars and nightclubs. This is one of Belgrade’s hotspots for nightlife and alternative culture.
It’s also the Belgrade Waterfront development project location, a controversial project aiming to transform the neighborhood into a luxurious skyscraper-filled residential area.
Near Savamala lies Kosančićev venac, a beautiful historic quarter characterized by cobbled streets, museums, and art galleries. There’s no lack of coffee houses and taverns, including The Question Mark, Belgrade’s oldest traditional restaurant.
Dorćol
There’s no better Belgrade area than Dorćol for people-watching with a cup of coffee.
This historic neighborhood was an important crossroads and trading area when Serbia was part of the Ottoman Empire. So, it is no surprise that plenty of great food shops and coffee houses are here.
As a previously Bohemian quarter, it was frequented by writers, poets, and actors, and nowadays, you can still hang out at so-called “kafanas” or taverns. Additionally, there are several fantastic, yet often pricey, restaurants.
If you’re looking for the best hotels in Belgrade city center, this would be an excellent area to look into.
Vračar
Located in the hills just outside the Old Town, the Vračar district is one of Belgrade’s best places to stay and live. It may be the smallest of the city’s municipalities, but it’s interesting.
Here, you’ll find several top places to visit in Belgrade, including the busy Kalenić Market, the National Library, and the massive Church of St. Sava. This area is also home to the Nikola Tesla Museum, one of Serbia’s most excellent museums.
Dedinje
If you’re looking into where to stay in Belgrade, Dedinje probably won’t show up. That is because this is mainly a residential area.
As the wealthiest of all Belgrade neighborhoods, it’s full of chic villas and mansions, some of which belong(ed) to politicians, business people, and diplomats.
Although you might not stay here, it is a great place to go for an afternoon wander. While you’re there, don’t miss the Museum of Yugoslav History and the Royal Compound, which is open to the public.
Zemun
Formerly a separate town, Zemun is now officially part of Belgrade. Yet, long-term residents still consider themselves “independent” from the big city.
This is one of the most charming Belgrade neighborhoods on the city’s outskirts. This is where you’ll find excellent fish and seafood restaurants, great views of downtown Belgrade, and quaint historic streets. A beautiful waterfront along the Danube River invites visitors and locals alike to go for a walk or jog.
Novi Beograd (New Belgrade)
New Belgrade is a name that wasn’t given for no reason. This area was built on flat wetlands and is entirely different from the Old Town. A testament to the purpose-forward architectural styles that swept the Balkans after World War I consists of towering apartment buildings and sprawling residential blocks.
Although concrete and gray dominate the cityscape here, it’s also where you’ll find many of the most exceptional restaurants in the city and other modern establishments. Come summertime, the banks of the Sava River transform into all-night party scenes on river barges. Music lovers will certainly want to check this area out.
Best Hotels In Belgrade, Serbia
We’ve narrowed down the best of the best Belgrade accommodation for you.
5-Star Plush & Luxurious Hotels In Belgrade
1. Square Nine Hotel
It can’t get any more elegant than this.
Just 50 m from the popular Knez Mihailova shopping street, wooden furnishings are a prominent feature of this luxurious 5-star hotel. Large rooms and suites feature wooden panels and flooring, Treca de Paris beds, Pratesi linen, and antique furniture. Soundproofed rooms include Nespresso machines, satellite TVs, telephones, laptop safes, safety deposit boxes, tumble dryers, heating, air conditioning, hypoallergenic linen, Hermes toiletries, minibars, and free WiFi.
Suites also include separate seating areas. All of the rooms are wheelchair accessible. Onsite parking costs Eur 35 per day, and an electric vehicle charging station is present.
With Belgrade’s main spots close by, the splendid Square Nine Hotel is one of the best, if not the best, hotels in Belgrade for luxury and location. The Square restaurant on the ground floor serves delectable European cuisine, while the Ebisu on the 7th floor serves exotic Japanese cuisine.
Guests can access a spa and wellness center with an 18-meter-long pool, Offuro hot tubs, steam baths, saunas, a fitness center, and various massages and treatments.
2. Saint Ten Hotel Belgrade
Located in a cultural heritage building built by architect Stojan Veljkovic in the Vracar area in 1929, the intimate Saint Ten Hotel features unique architecture with many masonic symbols.
The onsite Trident restaurant serves fine-dining local and international cuisine and a selection of wines and cheeses.
The Nikola Tesla Museum, Temple of Saint Sava, Tasmajdan Park, and New Palace Belgrade are a short walk away. The National Museum and Republic Square are 1.8 km away.
Rooms and suites feature mattresses by Serta, Noir toiletries, “Vergnano 1882” Espresso machines, laptop safes, 40-inch flat-screen TVs, soundproofed windows, rain showers, heated flooring, free wireless internet, minibars with free non-alcoholic beverages, anti-allergic pillows, complimentary international landline calls, and open access to the fitness center and sauna.
Family suites can accommodate up to 4 guests. The Ministry Suite and Executive Suites have plush terraces overlooking Saint Sava Street. iPhone docks are available on request.
With an interior that retains its historical charm and offers modern amenities, it tops Belgrade’s list of the best hotels!
3. Hotel Metropol Palace
For a taste of luxury in Belgrade’s Palilula area, book a room at the five-star Hotel Metropol Palace. Nikola Tesla Museum, Temple of Saint Sava, Tasmajdan Park, and New Palace Belgrade are nearby. Knez Mihailova Street, Parliament Building, Church of St. Mark, and Kalemegdan Fortress are a short drive away.
Light and airy rooms and suites feature modern designs and include the best amenities and free WiFi. Suites also have separate seating areas.
Private parking is available onsite at Eur 20 per day. The hotel’s onsite spa center spans 1,200 meters and includes a sauna, hot tub, steam bath, gym, exercise room, and relaxation area. A 25-meter pool, cash machine, and souvenir shop are present onsite—two onsite restaurants, with Hotel 44 Parallel, serving French and Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast costs an additional Eur 20.
For a comfortable stay away from the touristy areas, choose the Hotel Metropol Palace.
4. Hyatt Regency Belgrade
Located in the business district of the city, this hotel is opulent and modern at the same time. Several restaurants are on site and have a luxurious spa for guests. WiFi is available throughout the building, and guests can pay a surcharge for high-speed internet if they choose.
Rooms are decorated elegantly and relaxing, with views out over the center of the city. The onsite restaurant will cater to your dining needs, and there is a tea house for refreshments and pastries.
The fitness center and spa have a steam room, gym, and sauna, with massage treatments available at an extra charge.
5. Hilton Belgrade
You know you’re getting luxury at a Hilton hotel, and here you can check out some of the best views over Belgrade at the rooftop bar. An onsite wellness center and spa include a thermal and Turkish bath.
Rooms are large; all have air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, a kettle, and a fridge, and some rooms have a kitchenette. All rooms have private bathrooms.
Several restaurants and bars are on offer, including Serbian food at the Two Kings restaurant, Asian fusion food in another restaurant, and the Sky Lounge, which offers fantastic views over the city.
6. Hotel Villa Gospava
Located just outside the city center, Hotel Villa Gospava is a modern and luxurious choice, with a large restaurant on site, free parking, a comfortable terrace, and an onsite bar. There is also a sauna on site and high-quality WiFi throughout.
Rooms are large and comfortable with flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee-making facilities, private bathrooms, and seating areas. The restaurant serves an a la carte breakfast every morning.
7. Prezident Palace Belgrade
Just 1.2km away from Republic Square, this luxury hotel offers a comfortable yet opulent spot to lay your head. The hotel has a large restaurant, fitness center, and seasonal outdoor swimming pool. There is free onsite parking and a spa center for guests to use.
Rooms are also large and modern, with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, coffee machines, and private bathrooms.
The wellness center has a sauna and hot tub, and you can also hire bicycles and cars from the hotel reception desk.
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4-Star Boutique & Chic Hotels In Belgrade
8. Boutique Hotel Museum
The luxurious 4-star Boutique Hotel Museum is a short 70 m walk from Republic Square Belgrade and within walking distance of Belgrade National Theatre, Strahinjica Bana Street, National
Assembly, New Belgrade Palace, and Belgrade Fortress. Sava River is 1.5 km away, and the Danube is 2 km away.
Located in the Stari Grad district, many restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets are within this boutique hotel’s walking distance.
Spacious rooms and suites feature tumble dryers, minibars, air conditioning, seating areas, safety deposit boxes, telephones, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, soundproofing, electric kettles, saunas, hypoallergenic linen, and free WiFi. Executive Rooms also have a private terrace with magnificent city views.
Guests can access a fitness center, massage rooms, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and onsite parking, charged at Eur 13 per day.
9. Mercure Belgrade Excelsior
The famous Mercure Belgrade Excelsior lies in the middle of the city, opposite the National Assembly and City Hall. It’s a stylish place to stay in Belgrade, featuring well-appointed rooms, suites, a bar, and a modern restaurant.
Surrounded by two city parks, it’s a short walk from many attractions, such as Kalemegdan Fortress, many eateries and bars, and the incredible old quarter of Skadarlija.
10. Belgrade Art Hotel
The sophisticated Belgrade Art Hotel is situated on the famous Knez Mihailova shopping street within walking distance of restaurants, bars, and major tourist attractions, while the Danube and Sava rivers are a km away.
The onsite Mosaic Restaurant serves Italian, French, and Mediterranean specialties and seasonal wines, while the Waffle Bar serves a range of coffees, homemade desserts, and authentic Liège waffles.
Chic rooms and suites with modern furnishings include the best of amenities, as well as minibars, refrigerators, tea/coffee makers, saunas, and free WiFi.
Guests can access the onsite spa, wellness center, and massage rooms at a charge. Pets are allowed free of charge, and all units are wheelchair accessible. Public parking is available nearby at Eur 20 per day.
For a stay in a stylish central Belgrade hotel, choose the Belgrade Art Hotel!
11. Life Design Hotel
The uniquely designed Life Design Hotel offers elegant rooms in the heart of Belgrade. Set in the Stari Grad area within walking distance of Belgrade’s top things to do, it’s a great place to start your travels.
Rooms and suites feature minibars, safety deposit boxes, telephones, air conditioning, heating, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, mosquito nets, free WiFi, free onsite parking, and open access to the Sauna World. Suites also include separate seating areas, while the Premium Suite has a dining area too.
This 4-star hotel follows a holistic approach to offer you a healthy stay. The onsite aperitif bar serves refreshing cocktails, while the Privilege Restaurant serves international and national delicacies and also has special Serbian menus.
The Five Elements Spa includes different saunas, steam baths, tropical rain showers, massage facilities, hot tubs, and heated ceramic relaxation beds. Homemade and gluten-free food are also available.
For a relaxing stay in Stari Grad, Belgrade, choose the Life Design Hotel.
12. Garni Hotel Crystal
In a chic residential area, Garni Hotel Crystal is a fantastic base to explore Belgrade. It lies near the stunning Church of St. Sava, and in its vicinity, you’ll find numerous restaurants, bars, shops, and even a beauty salon.
The hotel’s restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, while the bar serves various alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Free WiFi is available.
13. Hotel Passpartu Home Garni
Hotel Passpartu is located in the center of Belgrade, about 600 m from Republic Square.
Guests staying here have access to a spa and wellness center, onsite restaurant, bar, garden, fax machine, photocopier, complimentary continental breakfast, and free WiFi—private parking at Eur 12 per day.
Compact rooms feature marble flooring, seating areas, and the best amenities. The apartments include a balcony, dining area, kitchenette, and a living room with sofa beds. The 50 m² apartment can sleep up to 4 guests, while the 65 m² flats can sleep up to 6 guests.
With all the attractions, restaurants, and markets within walking distance, the Hotel Passpartu is convenient for tourists and business travelers.
14. Hotel Majestic
The traditional Hotel Majestic in Stari Grad was built in 1937 and featured a mix of traditional wooden furnishings and the best modern amenities.
Rooms feature free WiFi, air conditioning, and minibars, while suites also include separate seating areas. Some of the rooms also have balconies. 35 m² triple rooms and family rooms are available. Every room is uniquely designed, but the rooms facing Obilicev Venac have a much better view.
Public parking nearby costs Eur 15 per day. The top Belgrade attractions, including Knez Mihailova Street, are within walking distance.
Stay here for a taste of old-world charm with modern conveniences in the heart of Belgrade!
15. Falkensteiner Hotel Belgrade
Located in one of the most modern Belgrade neighborhoods, Novi Beograd, the 4-star Falkensteiner Hotel Belgrade sits in the city’s vibrant business district.
The Falkensteiner’s interior and rooms reflect its location’s modern vibe, featuring stylish décor and 21st-century design. All rooms have a private bathroom, seating area, and TV, while communal amenities include a spa, gym, restaurant, conference center, and executive lounge.
With its countless bars and clubs, the Danube Promenade is just a short walk away, while Belgrade Arena is about 30 minutes on foot from this hotel. The Belgrade Old Town is about 5 km away, easily reached by public transportation.
This is arguably the best place to stay in Belgrade for business travelers.
16. Public House Hotel
If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Belgrade Old Town, the Public House Hotel is a great option.
This elegant 4-star accommodation in Belgrade, Serbia, offers visitors a comfortable and convenient place to stay. Located in the attraction-filled Stari Grad, the Public House Hotel is only a kilometer from the central Trg Republike—or Republic Square.
Each room has a private bathroom with a shower and toiletries, a safe, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and air conditioning. Free WiFi is available to all guests, and there’s also a spa and daily buffet breakfast.
17. Garni Hotel Opera
Garni Hotel Opera is just 200 m from Republic Square, featuring a terrace with city views. All of the major attractions and nightlife are nearby. Guests can also spend some time at the onsite bar.
Rooms and family rooms feature minibars, air conditioning, telephones, radios, flat-screen satellite TVs, electric kettles, tumble dryers, safety deposit boxes, desks, heating, laptop safes, hypoallergenic linen, clothes racks, soundproofing, and free WiFi. Some of the rooms also have seating areas—public parking nearby costs Eur 20.
With most attractions within walking distance, the Garni Hotel Opera is an excellent choice for budget-wary travelers.
18. Garni Hotel Mint
Accommodation in Serbia does not get much better than this! Located in a quiet area about 2 kilometers from Belgrade’s historic core, Hotel Mint features modern rooms with air conditioning, free WiFi and parking, and reasonable rates.
19. IN Hotel Belgrade
Business travelers might want to check out IN Hotel Belgrade. It is located in the heart of the financial and business district and is ideal for business people. The hotel offers free WiFi, while the rooftop bar has incredible views and a wide range of drinks.
20. Hotel Constantine Belgrade
Hotel Constantine Belgrade boasts some of the best locations of any of the best Belgrade hotels. It lies near famous attractions such as Knez Mihailova Street, the Botanical Garden, Kalemegdan Park, the Belgrade Fortress, and the historic Skadarlija neighborhood.
The hotel’s restaurant, the Edict Restaurant, serves a buffet breakfast and (inter)national dishes. You can kick back at the bar or conduct business in the meeting rooms.
21. Hotel Moskva
Housed on a local landmark building in Stari Grad, Hotel Moskva has the perfect location on the city’s main street. Major highlights like the old quarter of Skadarlija, the Church of St. Sava, and Republic Square are within easy walking distance.
You can freely use the wellness center, spa, gym, and WiFi during your stay here.
A la carte restaurant provides excellent sustenance, while the hotel’s famous pastry shop will satisfy everyone with a sweet tooth.
22. Hotel City Savoy
Located only a few minutes from Republic Square and other major Belgrade sights, Hotel Savoy Belgrade is blessed with a glorious location in the Belgrade Old Town.
It features numerous amenities and facilities, from free WiFi and private parking nearby (for an extra fee) to a spa, wellness center, onsite restaurant, and car and bicycle rental services.
3-Star Comfortable Hotels In Belgrade
23. Hotel Union
The Hotel Union offers spacious rooms featuring 1920s architecture and modern amenities.
Rooms include minibars, tea/coffee makers, air conditioning, desks, safety deposit boxes, telephones, flat-screen TVs with cable channels, soundproofing, heating, electric kettles, radios, and
free WiFi. 34 m² family rooms sleeping four guests are also available.
Private parking costs Eur 10 per day.
Guests can sample local and international cuisine at the onsite restaurant or enjoy a few drinks at the Piano Bar with live music at mealtimes.
Hotel Union is the ideal choice for a comfortable stay in the Stari Grad area of Belgrade!
24. Garni Hotel Le Petit Piaf
Le Petit Piaf is a stylish family-run hotel in the center of Belgrade’s bohemian quarter of the Skadarlija area, a few minutes walk from everything you need.
The hotel is also home to the famous Mali Vrabac restaurant that serves Serbian and European cuisine prepared by an award-winning chef. Wine bar Skadarlija is also onsite, while many other cafes and nightclubs are nearby.
Tasteful, brightly colored rooms are comfortable and air-conditioned and feature free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, safety deposit boxes, heating, electric kettles, and hypoallergenic linen.
Guests also have access to a garden in summer and a lounge with plush leather sofas.
You’ll love everything during your stay at Le Petit Piaf, from the friendly staff to the fantastic location.
25. Hotel Bohemian Garni
Contrasting shades of grey, yellow, and white decorate the Bohemian Hotel in the vibrant Skadarlija quarter. The hotel is located on a pedestrian street and is close to everything you need.
Large, spacious rooms feature flat-screen satellite TVs, tea/coffee makers, kettles, minibars, safety deposit boxes, telephones, refrigerators, desks, irons, heating, laptop safes, hypoallergenic linen, baby safety gates, soundproofing, and free WiFi. Larger triple rooms and family rooms are also available.
Onsite parking costs Eur 8 per day, and pets are allowed free of charge. Guests can also enjoy meals at the onsite Velika Skadarlija restaurant.
Choose this hotel for a lively stay in Hotel Bohemian Garni!
26. Garni Hotel Vozarev
This is an ideal base if you’re interested in sightseeing and exploring the old town. It’s about 3 kilometers from the center, but a bus and tram stop is just a few minutes away.
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Best Hostels In Belgrade
If you’re backpacking Belgrade or simply looking for accommodation in Belgrade that won’t destroy your (limited) budget, consider staying in a hostel.
27. Green House Hostel
The Green House is one of the most popular cheap Belgrade hostels with an expansive terrace and great river views.
28. San Art Floating Hostel And Apartments
If you’re searching for cheap Belgrade hostels, look no further. Comfortable, inexpensive, and set in a pedestrian zone, this is an excellent option if you’re looking for a tranquil atmosphere close to the city center.
Serbia’s Climate
Serbia has varying climates depending on where you decide to venture. So, if you are planning an epic country-wide adventure, you should be ready for different weather conditions depending on the direction in which you travel.
The northern part of Serbia is known to have a continental climate, which means winters that are cold but not freezing and summers that can be very hot and humid. Rain in this part of the country is spread evenly across the year. If you head to central Serbia, you can expect a moderate continental climate, slightly less extreme than what you will experience in the north. However, heading south, you will find winters that experience snowfall, often substantial, with freezing temperatures before the mercury soars during the summer, with very little rain at this time.
What To Do In Serbia
Now that you know where to stay in Serbia (Belgrade!), let’s check out some of the country’s most fantastic attractions. We have a whole post on the top 50+ things to do in Serbia, but here are a few suggestions to get you started.
Explore Nature At Palic
Close to the town of Palic, you will find a dedicated and stunning nature park home to a natural spa on the northern section of Palic Lake. You can spot wildlife until your heart’s content here, with countless species of birds to look for.
Enjoy A Cycling Tour Of Belgrade Sights
If you want to be active and see some sights simultaneously, I Bike Belgrade organizes guided cycling tours around the city’s central areas, which means you can get some exercise, see the main highlights, and do it all with the help of a guide. You only need to grab a Belgrade sightseeing map and pedal off on your adventure.
Save Your Legs With The Hop-On Hop-Off Belgrade Sightseeing Bus
A Belgrade top 10 list is never complete without this bus. This is an excellent family-friendly trip around the city, all without giving yourself blisters and hearing the kids moan about all the walking. Use the hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus to its maximum potential. It has several routes, and you can choose the path that suits your interests, hopping off if you want to explore further before re-joining the next tour.