12 day itinerary for Serbia

Itinerary

Serbia is a beautiful country with a rich history, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. Here’s a relaxed 12-day itinerary that balances city exploration with nature and hiking, while also allowing you to soak in the local culture. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Belgrade

• Morning: Arrive in Belgrade. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Kalemegdan Park and visit the Belgrade Fortress for panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant in the Sava Mala district, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 2: Belgrade Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the famous inventor.
• Afternoon: Head to Tasmajdan Park for a leisurely walk and perhaps a picnic. Don’t miss the Church of St. Mark nearby.
• Evening: Explore the bohemian district of Skadarlija for dinner and live music.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Avala Mountain

• Morning: Take a short trip to Avala Mountain (about 30 minutes from Belgrade). Hike to the Avala Tower for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a packed lunch in the park and explore the surrounding nature trails.
• Evening: Return to Belgrade and relax at a café in the city center.

## Day 4: Novi Sad

• Morning: Travel to Novi Sad (about 1.5 hours by train or bus). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Visit Petrovaradin Fortress and enjoy the views of the Danube River. Explore the fortress grounds and its parks.
• Evening: Stroll through the city center and have dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 5: Fruška Gora National Park

• Morning: Head to Fruška Gora National Park for a day of hiking. Choose a trail that suits your pace; the Kopački Monastery trail is a lovely option.
• Afternoon: Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature. Explore the park’s beautiful landscapes and perhaps spot some wildlife.
• Evening: Return to Novi Sad and unwind at a local wine bar.

## Day 6: Sremski Karlovci and Back to Belgrade

• Morning: Visit the charming town of Sremski Karlovci, known for its wine and baroque architecture. Take a leisurely walk around the town.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local wineries. Afterward, head back to Belgrade.
• Evening: Have a relaxed dinner in Belgrade, perhaps trying some traditional Serbian dishes.

## Day 7: Niš

• Morning: Travel to Niš (about 3 hours by train). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Niš Fortress and take a stroll in the surrounding park.
• Evening: Explore the city center and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 8: Nature and History in Niš

• Morning: Visit Čegar Hill for a bit of history and a nice view. Then, head to Bubanj Memorial Park.
• Afternoon: Take a short hike in the nearby Sicevo Gorge, known for its stunning landscapes.
• Evening: Return to Niš for dinner and perhaps try some local grilled meats.

## Day 9: Tara National Park

• Morning: Travel to Tara National Park (about 4 hours by bus). Check into a cozy lodge or guesthouse.
• Afternoon: Explore the park’s beautiful landscapes, perhaps visiting Lake Peručac.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at your accommodation, surrounded by nature.

## Day 10: Hiking in Tara National Park

• All ## Day: Spend the day hiking in Tara National Park. The Drina River Canyon and Kaluđerske Bare are great spots to explore. Don’t forget your camera!
• Evening: Relax at your lodge and enjoy a hearty meal after a day of adventure.

## Day 11: Zlatibor

• Morning: Travel to Zlatibor (about 2 hours from Tara). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore the area, perhaps taking a walk around Zlatibor Lake and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
• Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying out some traditional mountain cuisine.

## Day 12: Return to Belgrade

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take a final stroll around Zlatibor.
• Afternoon: Travel back to Belgrade (about 3 hours). Spend your last afternoon shopping for souvenirs or visiting any spots you may have missed.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner in Belgrade, reflecting on your wonderful journey through Serbia.

Tips:

• Make sure to try local specialties like ćevapi, sarma, and ajvar during your meals.
• Consider using public transport for intercity travel; it’s quite efficient and a great way to see the countryside.
• Always check the weather before heading out for hikes, and pack accordingly!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic and relaxing adventure in Serbia! Enjoy every moment! 🌍✨