Overview

Golubac Fortress © Denis Barthel

Serbia is a truly unique holiday destination, with a fusion of cultural and historical influences creating a certain national charm. The picturesque country has endured the tragedies of civil war and ethnic violence, but today strives to overcome its dark and turbulent past, with a much more stable and peaceful situation attracting more and more tourists every year.

The capital city of Belgrade, still scarred by the devastation of a drawn out conflict, is lauded today mainly for its vibrant nightlife. But it is also one of Europe's most ancient capitals, having seen the rise and fall of Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and boasts plenty of interesting sites of historical significance.

Outside of its cities, Serbia is home to beautiful national parks, spa resorts and some of the best skiing in Europe. The landscape of this verdant country includes alpine meadows, impenetrable forests, mountain lakes, glittering limestone caves, hot springs and remote monasteries. The magnificent Djerdap National Park, stretching along the right bank of the Danube River between Golubackigrad and the Sip Dam, is definitely not to be missed, and the Djerdap Gorge is one of Europe's most spectacular geographic features.

During the winter months, those in the know head for the mountains along the Ibar Highway to the powdery peaks around the village of Kopaonik. Developing a reputation as one of Europe's cheapest and coolest ski resorts, it is ideal for beginners and intermediates, and also features the Josanicka Banja spa.

Once defined by its dark history, this sensational Slavic enclave is waiting to be rediscovered and explored by adventurous, fun-loving and budget-conscious travellers.

Travel Guide powered by Word Travels, copyright © 2021 Globe Media Ltd. All rights reserved. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Neither Globe Media nor Harvey World Travel can accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.