Why Serbia Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

What Makes Serbia a Must-Visit Destination?

1. Belgrade Is Wild, Real, and Unexpectedly Cool

Let’s start with the capital: Belgrade. This city doesn't try to impress you with fairy tale facades—it's raw, edgy, and full of character. One moment you’re sipping coffee at a cute riverside café, and the next you’re partying in a boat-club on the Danube at 3 a.m. (Yes, the nightlife really is that good!)

But Belgrade is also deep: explore Kalemegdan Fortress at sunset, walk the historic streets of Dorćol, and stop in tiny bakeries where flaky burek is served warm and stuffed with cheese or meat.

2. The Nature Will Surprise You

If you love being outdoors, Serbia will spoil you. I hiked in Tara National Park, a magical forest with hidden waterfalls, dramatic viewpoints, and even wild bears (don’t worry—you’ll probably just see signs, not the bears). One morning, I sat with a coffee in a tiny wooden cabin overlooking Lake Perućac, listening to silence so deep it almost echoed.

Looking for wine country vibes without the price tag? Head to Fruška Gora, a national park filled with vineyards and monasteries. You can sample local wines while chatting with the winemakers themselves.

3. The People Will Win You Over

I can’t write about Serbia without talking about the people. Serbians are warm, proud, funny, and incredibly generous. Even when language was a barrier, I always felt welcome. One family I met in Niš invited me in for rakija (the local brandy), and suddenly I was having dinner with strangers who felt like old friends.

And speaking of rakija—sip carefully. That stuff is stronger than your ex’s opinions.

4. It’s Affordable Without Feeling “Cheap”

If you’re a traveler on a budget (like me), you’ll love Serbia. You can have a full meal at a local kafana (traditional tavern) for the price of a coffee in Paris. Hostels and boutique hotels are super affordable, and transport is cheap and easy. But unlike some budget destinations, Serbia doesn’t feel overly touristy or “set up” for visitors. It’s real. And that’s rare.

5. It’s Still a Hidden Gem – But Not for Long

Let’s be honest—part of the joy of traveling is discovering places before they become “too discovered.” Serbia is still relatively off the radar for many travellers, which means fewer crowds, more authenticity, and the chance to experience a place that hasn’t been turned into a postcard.

From vibrant cities to peaceful mountains, rich history to unexpected adventures, Serbia has a little something for every traveller.

✈️ Best Time to Visit Serbia

• Spring (April–June): Perfect weather for exploring cities and hiking.

• Autumn (September–October): Fewer tourists, cosy cafes, and stunning foliage.

• Summer (July–August): Great for festivals and riverside nightlife, but expect higher temps.

• Winter (December–February): Serbia gets festive with snow-covered villages and ski resorts like Kopaonik.

🎥 Want to See Serbia for Yourself?

I’ve captured so many incredible moments from my Serbian travels on my YouTube channel — from roaming the wild forests of Tara to discovering the best street food in Belgrade. If you're curious about what Serbia really feels like, go check out the videos. It’s raw, real, and totally unfiltered.

👉 Watch the Serbia playlist on my YouTube channel here.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a trip that feels different—real, raw, and deeply rewarding—don’t sleep on Serbia. It’s not just a stopover; it’s a destination worth experiencing with all your senses. Add it to your travel bucket list now—before everyone else does.

Have questions or planning your own trip? Head over to my main page where you'll find more travel tips, exclusive videos, and the option to get your very own personalized travel guide—or feel free to reach out directly. Thanks for being part of the journey!