Serbia is a country of tumultuous history, unbelievable sports achievements, beautiful people and jaw-dropping nature.
While many travelers skip Serbia out of a misguided belief that it doesn’t have much to offer, the truth is that it’s a destination with a mystic but discreet charm that makes it hard to ignore.
1. Tara National Park
Tara National Park is one of the most beautiful mountains in Serbia, and there's plenty to see and do here. It's rich in flora and fauna, has unreal lookouts, and is still untouched in certain areas.
If you're looking to explore this beautiful mountain on your own, you should get a map of the area and take along a few hiking shoes. It's also important to be aware of the presence of brown bears in the area, so be careful!
There are 18 well-marked hiking trails in the park, each taking you to a different part of the mountains. For active tourists, there are lots of spots to try abseiling and other outdoor activities.
2. Lake Uvac
Lake Uvac is considered one of the most beautiful and natural tourist attractions in Serbia. Its pristine nature, a wide array of birds and an impressive cave system make this area a must-visit for all nature lovers.
The Uvac Special Nature Reserve is located in the municipalities of Nova Varos and Sjenica in the Zlatibor District, in Southwestern Serbia. It extends over 7,000 hectares, surrounded by four mountains: Zlatar, Muternica, Javor and Jadovnik.
During the summer season, it is possible to take a 4-hour boat tour along the reserve with visits to Ledena (Ice) cave and a viewpoint. There is also a possibility to kayak on the lake.
3. Studenica
Visit Studenica Monastery, a beautiful Serbian Orthodox church built in the 12th century. It’s the largest and richest monastery of the Serbian Orthodox Church and is one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites.
Founded by Stefan Nemanja, who was also known as Saint Simeon, this medieval monastery is the final resting place of his wife Anastasia and their sons Vukan and Stefan the First-Crowned (themselves significant Serbian rulers). Its two principal monuments—the Church of the Virgin and the Church of the King—contain priceless collections of 13th- and 14th-century Byzantine paintings.
This stunning monastery was conceived as the cultural, medical and spiritual center of the Serbian medieval state under Saint Sava’s tutelage. It’s an impressive example of a Rascian architectural style with a mix of Byzantine and Romanesque elements.
4. Davolja Varos
A unique natural monument, Davolja Varos is a very special destination that will definitely make your trip to Serbia unforgettable. It features two rare phenomena: attractive stone formations created by erosion and two springs of extremely acid water with high mineral content.
The site is located in the municipality of Kurumlija on Radan Mountain and has received state protection since 1959. In 1995, a decision by the Serbian Government declared it a natural monument of exceptional importance.
The site includes 202 exotic stone towers, also known as earth pyramids or "towers". They range in height from 2 to 15 meters and are made of sandstone and marl, topped with "caps" that protect them from further erosion.
5. Golubac
Golubac is a historic town that's known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Its medieval old town is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and traditional Serbian architecture.
- It also features a well-preserved medieval fortress, which dates back to the 14th century. It sits atop a cliff overlooking the Danube River and provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- A visit to Golubac is a must-do for visitors to Serbia. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, making it an ideal destination for families and couples alike.
- Guests can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. The town is also located near Djerdap National Park, which is known for its scenic landscape and diverse wildlife.