Serbia Travel Guide

Austin Mayer -
June 26, 2025

Overview

Serbia is a hidden gem in the Balkans, perfect for travelers seeking affordable adventures, vibrant cities like Belgrade, and stunning nature. From the booming nightlife of Belgrade to the medieval fortresses of Novi Sad and the serene beauty of Tara National Park, this country offers a mix of urban energy and untouched landscapes. Serbia’s affordable prices, hearty cuisine, and warm locals make it a fantastic off the beaten path destination. Whether you’re exploring medieval fortresses in Novi Sad or hiking in Tara National Park, this guide covers everything you need safety, costs, and the best time to visit Serbia.

Quick Facts About Serbia

Language

Serbian

Currency

Serbian Dinar (RSD)

Visa

Visa-free for EU/US/UK (90 days)

Power Plugs

Type F (same as most of Europe)

Religion

Predominantly Orthodox Christianity

Capital

Belgrade

Climate

Continental (hot summers, cold winters). Best months: May-June & September-October

Apps

Car:Go (local ride hailing), Moovit (public transport)

Flights Information for Serbia

Most international travelers Fly into Belgrade Airport (BEG) from major European hubs. cities like London, Vienna, and Istanbul. Smaller airports in Niš (INI) and Novi Sad (QND) mainly handle regional flights. Budget airlines like Wizz Air offer cheap flights. You can compare flight prices on Skyscanner.

Safety Information You Should Know Before Visiting Serbia

  • Is Serbia safe for tourists? Yes, but watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • English is common in cities; learn basic Serbian for rural areas.

Serbia is generally safe for tourists, with low violent crime rates. However, petty theft (like pickpocketing) can happen in crowded areas, especially in Belgrade’s busiest spots. Always keep an eye on your belongings.
The country is very hospitable, but some rural areas may have limited English speakers. Learning a few Serbian phrases (zdravo for hello, molim for please) helps.

Climate

  • Best months: Spring/Fall (avoid July/August heat).
  • Winter? Great for skiing in Kopaonik.

Serbia has a continental climate, meaning hot summers (up to 35°C / 95°F) and cold winters (often below freezing). The best time to visit is spring (May-June) and fall (September-October) when temperatures are mild.
Winter (December-February) can be harsh but magical, especially if you want to experience snowy landscapes or ski resorts like Kopaonik.

Budget & Costs

Serbia is very budget friendly, cheaper than Western Europe but slightly pricier than some Balkan neighbors. Here’s a rough breakdown:

  • Hostels: From Approx €13/night
  • Mid-range hotels: Approx 4,000–8,000 RSD (€35–€70)
  • Meals: Approx €4–€13 for local dishes like ćevapi.
  • Transport: Buses & trains are affordable (Belgrade to Novi Sad by train: Approx ~600 RSD / €5)

Cash is king in smaller towns, but cards work in most cities.

Final Tips

  • Try rakija (but carefully it’s strong!).
  • Visit EXIT Festival (July, Novi Sad).
  • Explore beyond Belgrade Zlatibor is a must see.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Serbia safe for solo travelers?
Yes, just stay alert at night.
Best time to visit?
May–June or September–October.
Do they speak English?
Mostly in cities.

Austin Mayer

Editor in Chief & General Manager

Austin Mayer covers flights and airfare for Travel and Diaries. He writes the site's guides on airline routes, booking timing, stopover strategy, and getting the most out of long-haul economy - with a particular focus on connections between South Asia, the Gulf, and long- haul destinations. Austin's articles track real route networks and fare patterns rather than recycled booking myths: when he recommends a connection through Doha or Dubai, it's because the schedules and prices actually support it. Off the page, he supports the Travel and Diaries flight desk, which helps readers turn his advice into booked tickets.

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