How to Plan your From Belgrade: Gems of Eastern Serbia Tour

Eastern Serbia is a fascinating destination, with its rich history, stunning scenery, and ancient monasteries. If you are planning a trip to Belgrade, then the From Belgrade: Gems of Eastern Serbia Tour is a must-see. In this one-day tour, you will be able to visit some of the most iconic and historical landmarks in Eastern Serbia.

Experience

The tour includes a visit to the Manasija Monastery, stroll through the ancient Resava cave, and discover the natural beauty of the Lisine Waterfall. You will be picked up from your hotel in Belgrade by a professional English-speaking guide and driver, who will accompany you throughout the day, providing you with fascinating information about the places you will be visiting.

Highlights

The highlights of the tour are as follows:

Visit the Manasija Monastery

The Manasija Monastery is a 15th-century Orthodox monastery, located near the town of Despotovac. It was built during the rule of Stefan Lazarevic, a prince of Serbia, and is considered one of the most significant monuments of medieval Serbian culture. The church was constructed by the most skilled builders of the time, and its walls are adorned with paintings. You can also observe the residential and defensive walls that surround the complex, constructed to protect the Church of Saint Trinity against the Ottoman Empire.

Stroll through the ancient Resava cave

Resava Cave is situated in Eastern Serbia, in a picturesque valley of the Resava River, about 20 km from Despotovac. Discovered in 1962, this is one of the most visited caves in this part of Europe. It stretches over a length of 4.5 km and consists of 8 levels which are populated with numerous interesting speleological shapes such as stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave ornaments that delight visitors. You will be walked through an 800-meter trail that is open to visitors, where you can also see the largest stalactites in Europe.

Discover the natural beauty of the Lisine Waterfall

Lisine Waterfall is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Serbia, located in the heart of the Resava River Canyon. The waterfall is situated in the beautiful gorge valley of the Ljubostinja River and falls from a height of around 25 meters. It offers a perfect place to relax and unwind in nature away from the noise of the city.

Full description

The tour lasts for approximately 10 hours, starting in Belgrade and returning there at the end of the day. The day begins with you being picked up from your hotel by your assigned guide and driver. After a short drive, you will arrive at the Manasija Monastery, where you will have around two hours of free time to explore the complex and see some of the most impressive fresco paintings in the region. The guide will provide you with detailed information about the monastery during this time.

Afterward, you will then continue on to Resava Cave, where you can enjoy a 45-minute guided tour before spending more time exploring it yourself. Finally, the guide will lead you to the stunning Lisine Waterfall, where you can relax and have your lunch surrounded by the beautiful scenery of this natural site.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Includes

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Professional driver
• Entrance fee for Resava Cave
• Souvenir/gift

Excludes

• Personal expenses
• Lunch

Book the tour here

You can book your tour by clicking the following link: book the tour here.

Make sure to book your tickets early, as this tour is a perfect opportunity to explore Eastern Serbia, and tickets tend to sell out quickly. The tour is an excellent way to spend a day out of the city and will give you a taste of the incredible culture and rich history of the area.

Insider’s Guide to Belgrade: Gems of Eastern Serbia Tour

As Serbia’s capital city, Belgrade has become a popular tourist destination. However, if you want to step off the beaten path on your tour of Eastern Serbia, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover. In this insider’s guide, we’ll introduce you to some of the best-kept secrets in this beautiful region.

Local Attractions

While Belgrade offers plenty of popular attractions, there is a wealth of lesser-known spots that deserve your attention. One such gem is the Roman Palace in Felix Romuliana, just outside Zaječar. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most well-preserved Roman palaces in the world. Another hidden gem is the Gamzigrad Spa complex, which is home to the remnants of an ancient Roman bathhouse.

For nature lovers, a visit to Deliblato Sand Dunes will be a unique experience. These dunes are the largest in Europe and have a stunning landscape that will leave you breathless.

Dining Spots

Serbian cuisine is a delightful mix of various cultures. For traditional Serbian cuisine, head to the out-of-the-way village of Rajac. There you will find Kafana Carska Bara, a restaurant that offers exceptional food and an unforgettable view of the surrounding vineyards. In the charming village of Jabučko Ravnište, Gostiljubivica restaurant is a must-visit. Here you can try authentic home-style Serbian food made from local organic ingredients.

When in Belgrade, make sure to head to Saran, a restaurant located on the banks of the Danube river. They serve excellent freshwater fish prepared in a variety of traditional ways to tantalize your taste buds.

Cultural Experiences

Serbia has a rich cultural heritage, and there’s always something to see or experience. In the village of Kladovo, take a boat ride to see the famous Tabula Traiana inscription on the Danube cliffs. The inscription dates back to the time of Emperor Traian and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. In Soko Banja, a small town located south of Serbia, you can enjoy the healing benefits of the local mineral water pools.

If you happen to be visiting in mid-August, don’t miss the annual Zaječar Guitar Festival, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy live music and atmosphere like no other.

Local History

The history of Eastern Serbia dates back over 2000 years. The imperial palace at Gamzigrad is one of the most impressive examples of Roman architecture and is a testament to the grandeur of life in the region more than a millennium ago. The village of Rajac is home to ancient wine cellars and a quaint village atmosphere that takes visitors back to a simpler time.

If you’re interested in recent history, head to the nearby town of Bor to see the famous Copper Fountain. This structure carries a message of peace, and it is made entirely out of melted-down weapons collected after the Yugoslav Wars.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, visit Manasija Monastery in Despotovac. This medieval fortress was once a strategic location in the Serbian Empire and played a key role in advancing the Christian faith. The fortress has been lovingly restored, and visitors can explore the stunning frescoes, interesting architecture, and peaceful grounds.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to visit the luxurious homestead of a Serbian royal family. The homestead, known as the Oplenac complex, is located in the town of Topola and is filled with historic artifacts, exceptional architecture, and a stunning view of the surrounding countryside.

In conclusion, the Belgrade: Gems of Eastern Serbia Tour has plenty of incredible things to see and experience. From off-the-beaten-path suggestions to local dining spots and must-see cultural experiences, this insider’s guide will help you make the most of your trip. Don’t forget to share your unforgettable experiences with others and spread the word about the many hidden gems in this remarkable region.