How to Experience the Best of Belgrade in 48 Hours

Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe and capital of Serbia. Also known as “the White City”, this vibrant city is rich in culture, history and iconic architecture. With so much to experience in the Serbian capital, visitors often ask what the best way is to spend 48 hours here. In this guide, we provide a comprehensive snapshot of all the must-see attractions and things to do during a two-day stay in Belgrade.

Day 1

10:00am – Visit Belgrade Fortress

Start your journey exploring some of the most stunning sites Belgrade has to offer and the perfect place for your journey is the Belgrade fortress. Nestled by the Sava River is one of the greatest cultural complexes in Europe, and it is considered to be the oldest architectural structure of Belgrade and Serbia. Fantastic views, an amazing park, and fantastic restaurants all come together at this beautiful site. With a variety of exciting events, festivals, and monuments to explore, you are sure to have a memorable time here and can spend 2-3 hours strolling around this spectacular area.

1:00pm – Grab Lunch at Chardonnay

With your morning visit to the Fortress complete, it is time for lunch and one of the best places to eat in Belgrade is Chardonnay Restaurant. Located within reach of the Fortress, this restaurant has an extensive menu of locally-sourced, fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. Chardonnay has a warm and cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing after your morning of sightseeing. Savor dishes like trypanetz soupa, beef steak, and burek – a traditional Balkan pastry.

2:30pm – Visit Kalemegdan Park

After lunch at Chardonnay, make your way to Kalemegdan Park. The Belgrade Fortress lies within this vibrant park so you won’t be far off from the best view in Belgrade; the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The park stretches over an area of over 100 acres, with two distinct sections – the upper City Park and the lower Kalemegdan Park. There is lots to see and do here so take your time and explore some of the best attractions in Belgrade like the Monument of Victor, Roman Well, Cipiko Palace, as well as find plenty of shady spots to relax with friends and family.

5:00pm – Visit Skadarlija

Once you’ve finished your visit to the park, continue your journey walking along Skadarlija Street in Dorćol, Belgrade’s Bohemian quarter. Here you will discover a lively atmosphere of energetic bars, restaurants, museums, galleries and souvenir shops lining up this traditional cobblestone street. Take an afternoon to enjoy some live music and sip on a refreshing šljivovica (plum brandy). Skadarlija is full of culture and atmosphere – a perfect place to enjoy a pleasant evening.

7:00pm – Knez Mihailova Square

When night falls, take a walk along Knez Mihailova Street at the very center of Belgrade as one of Europe’s most impressive boulevards welcomes you into a world of night life spots, art galleries, and luxury shopping outlets. This street is full of life day and night with plenty of cafes which are well illuminated for an exciting evening for any traveler. Don’t miss some of the landmarks like Knez Mihailova Square, National Theater, and National Library Terazije.

Day 2

10:00am – Shop Along Branko’s Bridge

Start day two by visiting Branko’s Bridge or Brankova Most which connects downtown Belgrade with New Belgrade across the Sava River. This bridge is bustling with activity throughout the day but there’s a reason even more special – with plenty of charming shops and stalls selling fresh fruit, vegetables as well as hand crafted goods from furriers and leather craftsmen here you can easily find authentic souvenirs and goods from Serbia.

11:30pm – Shop Along Kneginje Zinzina Street

Adjacent to Branko’s Bridge is Kneginje Zinzina Street a quaint little street that is filled with unique boutiques like Zembal Boutique where you can find unique style clothing by some of Serbia’s most celebrated designers as well as souvenirs and pieces from Serbia’s long history as a multi-cultural region. This wonderful street is why Serbia was given the name “The White City” and it preserves the flavor and flair that brought certain tourists back again and again for more than 200 years.

1:00pm – Enjoy Street Food at Zeleni Venac

Head to Zeleni Venac Market for an adventurous afternoon sampling some of Serbia’s best street food! Not only will you find some of Serbia’s best culinary delights but also limitless souvenirs like traditional wooden puppets or painted Easter eggs (čuvara). A great spot to sample local Serbian dishes like pljeskavica or ćevapčići comes as no surprise – this particular market is considered to be one of the oldest marketplaces in Belgrade! Fight vendors flood each part of this bustling marketplace where you can also find plenty of good Balkan food deals!

3:00pm – Enjoy a Day on Ada Ciganlija Island

End your two days in Belgrade by taking a pleasant trip to Ada Ciganlija Island – a great spot for outdoor activities like kayaking or cycling but also perfect for unwinding on a beach day out with friends or family! Stop at some local eateries located around this artificial island for some authentic Serbian dishes!

Conclusion

Belgrade is well known for offering visitors with a dizzying range of cultural attractions, activities and places to eat! And no matter how much or little time you manage to spend in Belgrade you are sure find something that appeals to you! Whether you are looking for something exciting, offbeat or simply quaint there is something that will awake your interest in this amazing city – all within 48 hours! We hope this guide was helpful in discovering many great destinations in Belgrade so don’t forget to leave us questions or comments below!