Like all cities, Belgrade too has those core, mainstream locations tourists are directed to when they visit. This locations are part of sightseeing tours and locals will direct you there first if you ask for their advice. On the other hand, there are those places that are still not on go to lists that tourists receive, but that are the heart of Belgrade lifestyle and spirit. Now, obviously this second category of Belgrade destinations is more appealing, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid the mainstream destinations. After all, these are mainstream for a reason.
Kalemegdan and Belgrade fortress
One of the most popular locations in Belgrade. Kalemegdan is the biggest park in the city, surrounding the the Fortress. Even if all the history of this place doesn’t impress you, the view of Sava and Danube rivers will.
„Krug dvojke“ – „The circle of no. 2“
The name refers to the route of the famous tram no 2. that encircles the city center. Within this circle are many parks, streets, and monuments you have to visit when in Belgrade! Main streets and places in the center are included, such as Kralja Milana street, Terzije, Trg republike, Skadarlija, Knez Mihailova street, all of which are the heart of the city and city life.
Dorćol i Dunav
Dorćol is one of the most popular neighbourhoods of the Old town Belgrade. It used to be considered that this is where original Belgrade citizens live. Today this is a luxurious but modern area with beautiful Danube bank and plenty of bistros and less mainstream bars.
Zemun and Zemun river promenade
Zemun has actually been a separate town throughout history, but today it’s practically a part of Belgrade. There you can visit the long promenade by the river and Gardoš, a charming park and tower in Zemun. Zemun is on Danube river, so you have to try delicious fish dishes in restaurants along the promenade.
Ada Ciganlija
Another evidence that there is so much more to Belgrade than the city center and spots that you can see on the tours. Ada Ciganlija is a city beach and recreational center. Bars by the water get extremely crowded over summer, but you can also use many different courts for different sports, or go golfing. If neither of these options are attractive to you, you can always choose to go for a walk or a bike ride on the 8 km long trail surrounding the lake. How lucky are we to have a lake and such recreational center in the middle of the city?
Košutnjak
So you’ve been all over the city and are in need of some nature? Košutnjak forest is ready for you! How incredible is it to have a park forest in the city within your reach at any time? Only minor adjustments have been made to accommodate this park to all the visitors seeking to relax or workout surrounded by nature. These adjustments have worked, because it has become a go to place for work outs and recreation. Košutnjak is also extremely popular spot for picnics during spring and a heat refuge during summer.
After this tour, you’re definitely ready for all the Belgrade’s charming hidden gems.
Photo credit: stirileprotv.ro, keywordsuggest.org, hiveminer.com, belgrade-free-walking-tour.com, expedia.com, commons.wikimedia.org