Strategically located at the geographical centre of the Balkan region, Serbia encompasses the characteristics and legacies of various cultures, distinguishing it as a distinct and multifaceted travel destination.
Experience the unique blend of history, tradition, and breathtaking natural scenery, set against the vibrant backdrop of Belgrade, a UNESCO-designated city with numerous national parks and cultural landmarks waiting to be explored.
Serbia has largely flown under the radar for tourists, but thanks to ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure and the latest hotel and resort projects, the country is well-positioned to entice more visitors to its capital city and beautiful unspoiled landscapes.
The bustling and lively capital city of Belgrade is primarily the main destination for international tourists, although the National Tourism Organisation aims to encourage visitors to explore other attractions in the country, including ski resorts, national parks and UNESCO-listed sites.
What are the different tourist attractions and activities available in Serbia?
According to Marija Labovic, CEO of Serbia’s National Tourism Organisation, visitors from abroad rarely explore beyond Belgrade, the country’s capital, despite the region’s abundance of natural and historic attractions.
We offer a range of travel experiences that cater to diverse tastes, with a emphasis on experiences that connect visitors with nature, according to Labovic. Our top recommendation would be eco-friendly getaways.
It is undeniable that Serbia’s natural scenery is stunning, boasting an array of features including dramatic canyons, rugged mountain ranges, unpolluted rivers, and dense woodlands.
Western Serbia’s Tara National Park is an ideal destination for nature lovers, featuring hiking trails, rushing waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas of the Drina River Canyon.
Located in the heart of the country, Kopaonik National Park is a preferred winter destination for skiing and snowboarding, and a summer haven for hiking and mountain biking excursions.
Just outside Belgrade, Fruška Gora National Park serves as a serene getaway from city stress and boasts picturesque vineyards as well as ancient monasteries dating back centuries.
Welcome to Serbia’s five fantastic national parks, where you can enjoy pristine natural surroundings throughout the year by hiking, swimming, and skiing according to the changing seasons.
Tara National Park
Situated on a vast area of approximately 220 square kilometers, the Tara National Park in western Serbia is an unspoiled haven home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna and an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Located on slopes of mountains, within dense forests and deep gorges along the meandering Drina River, Tara is greatly sought after by mountain trekkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers.
In addition to its scenic viewpoints and genuine ‘Ethno villages’, Tara offers more than 20 designated walking and climbing routes that allow you to explore diverse landscapes.
Embark on your journey at Banjska Stena, a breathtaking vantage point yielding expansive views of the Drina River Gorge.
Head out on the Banjska Stena Trail, which meanders through dense beech and fir forests, features picturesque waterfalls, and runs parallel to crystal-clear streams.
Visitors also have the option to explore Tara National Park by bicycle through the Tarocikl project, which features a network of over a hundred cycling routes that cater to different terrain levels and preferences, ranging from tranquil paths through fields of blooms to more challenging courses through mountainous regions and scenic canyons.
For a thrilling experience, consider booking a rafting adventure on the rapids of the Drina River Canyon, which boasts an impressive second-place ranking among Europe’s deepest canyons.
Fruška Gora National Park preserves its natural beauty, complemented by its significance as a location for wildlife, vineyards, and historical monasteries.
Overlooking Serbia’s vibrant capital, Belgrade, which boasts an energetic nightlife, lies a serene haven, the Fruška Gora National Park.
In the past, this region was part of a larger sea, but now it is home to Serbia’s nation’s first designated protected area, notable for its rich biodiversity, extensive vineyards, and historic monasteries.
Discover a network of hiking trails within the park, which lead to secluded monasteries, picturesque lookouts, and ancient structures that stretch back to the Roman era.
Take advantage of the chance to taste local wines at one of Fruška Gora’s numerous wineries, which offer a deeper insight into the area’s renowned wine-making traditions.
For a fascinating glimpse into the park’s rich heritage, you won’t want to miss the Krusedol Monastery, an 16th-century Orthodox monastery with a profound spiritual significance. Take a moment to appreciate its stunning frescoes, wander through its serene gardens, and allow yourself to be enveloped by the tranquil ambiance that pervades this unique site.
National Park Đerdap: A haven for river rafting, history, and boat excursions.
Located along the Danube River, Đerdap National Park boasts a picturesque landscape characterised by deep gorges, ravines, and ancient fortifications.
With an area of 636 square kilometers, it is Serbia’s largest national park. Its namesake, Đerdap Gorge, is Europe’s largest gorge and offers numerous outdoor activities for visitors.
Embark on an adventure by examining the Golubac Fortress, a 14th-century stronghold situated precariously on a craggy outcrop overlooking the Danube River. Delve into its intricate, maze-like passageways, ascend to its imposing battlements, and try to envision the conflicts that once ferociously unfolded within its walls.
To gain a deeper understanding of Đerdap’s natural wonders, consider reserving a boat tour of the Iron Gate, a collection of sweeping gorges and impressive rock formations expertly carved by the Danube River over thousands of years.
Take in the breathtaking sight of towering cliffs that soar up to several hundred metres above the river, and keep an eye out for elusive bird species and unique wildlife in this pristine and untouched natural landscape.
Kopaonik National Park: Ideally suited for skiing, trail hiking, and wildlife exploration.
Located in the very centre of Serbia, Kopaonik National Park stands as the nation’s largest mountain range, boasting exceptional conditions for skiing.
This magnificent mountain range boasts snow-covered summits, lush forests, and picturesque meadows, providing enthusiasts with a wide array of outdoor pursuits available throughout the year, such as trekking down slopes on skis or snowboards, and tackling mountain trails on roller equipment.
Hit the slopes at Kopaonik Ski Resort, which offers an array of challenging and welcoming ski runs for skiers of all abilities. Whether you are an experienced skier or a newcomer to the sport, Kopaonik’s extensive trails are a must-visit destination.
The park offers a hiker’s haven during the summer, featuring a network of trails that unfolds to breathtaking views, scenic waterfalls, and tranquil mountain lakes.
Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems and discover rare species such as the lynx, wolf, and golden eagle.
Šar Mountain National Park: A Treasured Haven for Cultural Significance, Biodiversity, and Breathtaking Terrain
The Šar Mountain National Park extends over a vast territory, constituting a natural boundary between Macedonia and Serbia.
Boasting stunning natural scenery, this park boasts an incredible array of plant and animal life, featuring over 1,500 types of flora and elusive creatures across its various ecosystems. Keep an eye out for grizzly bears, hawks and over 147 species of butterflies.
Beyond its remarkable mountainous vistas, Šar Mountain boasts a rich blend of history and cultural heritage. The area has been a residential hub for thousands of years, with archaeological findings confirming human presence dating back to ancient civilizations.
Throughout the park, you will find medieval Orthodox churches, monasteries, and fortifications, as well as traditional villages that provide a glimpse into the region’s diverse cultural legacy. It is clear why this historically significant region has been proposed for inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site programme.
