SERBIA
SERBIA - THE COUNTRY YOU NEED TO VISIT
Surrounded by more popular neighbours such as Croatia, Hungary, or Bulgaria, Serbia is the new up-and-coming country to discover. This was my second time travelling to this hidden gem and this time, I was able to explore more of its history, culture and gastronomy. Through my pictures (@guigurui) I wanted to show you the beauty this country has to offer.
Topola, Kraljevo, Novi Sad, were just a few of the places I was able to explore on this trip.
First stop: Belgrade (Београд)
Two words, blown-away. Walking through the capital's streets, the amount of energy you feel is incredible. There is something in the city that simply makes you smile. Whether its walking through the pedestrian-friendly street of Knez Mihajlova, which the famous Trg Republike square to the Kalemegdan Park and the famous Belgrade Fortess or whether its having a coffee in one of its many terraces, the vibe is unreal.
Must visit: The Belgrade Fortress. It dates back to the 2nd century AD and it's incredibly preserved. Located on the hill of Kalemegdan Park, overlooking the Sava River and the Danube River. The perfect place to stroll while enjoying Belgrade's aged old history.
Much like the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, the Orthodox Church of Saint Sava, is not yet finished. While It's beautiful exterior gives an air of completion, don't be surprised by its unfinished work inside. Still, the Orthodox Church of Saint Sava is an impressive and beautiful building.
Urban art everywhere
Grab a drink or something to eat at "Mama Belgrade Restaurant" while enjoying these views of the city.
Grab a drink, laugh, and love life while enjoying the sunset within the fortress at the "boho bar".
Novi Sad
The contry's second largest city is located just 100km north of its capital. The Danube River splits the city between the old town and the newer part of the city. The neighbourhood of Petrovaradin is a well preserved cobblestone town with a fort overlooking the city. The newer side of the city is full of pedestrian-friendly streets, terraces and spectacular facades.
Sremski Karlovci
Close to Novi Sad, this town with a population of less than nine thousand residents, will surprise you with its picturesque city historic center. This town full of neoclassical buildings is where the peace agreement of karlovci was signed in the year 1699. It was signed by the Turks, Poles, Venetian and Austrian in a roundtable ths is known today as the Chapel of Peace.
Krusedol Monastery
This monastery was founded in the sixteenth century. Today is one of the most beautiful monasteries remaing, decorated with magnificent paintings dating from the eighteenth century.
Topola
Located in an area of vineyards, I visited the Church of St. George; the Royal Mausoleum of the Kings of Serbia. The Mausoleum of the Karadjordjević dynasty is considered one of the most important monuments of Serbias culture and heritage. Its interior, in addition to being covered by 40 million tesserae reproducing a mosaic, is decorated with antique frescoes and marble floors. An authentic gem.
Kraljevo
Located about 190km south of Belgrade, I arrived to Kraljevo. Its name is translated as "King's Town" since it was the place of the coronation church.
Žiča Monastery
This is quite a special place. The monastery of Žiča is the location where up to seven kings have been crowned. Although it has been partially restored, the main tower dates back to the year 1210 when it was established by Saint Sava, the patron saint of Serbia.
Studenica Monastery
Founded in 1190, this monastery, surrounded by fortified walls and declared a World Heritage Site, contains two churches: the Church of the Virgin and the church of the King. In addition, it is the largest and richest of the orthodox monasteries of Serbia.
Mecavnik - Drvengrad
Alright so this where one escapes from reality. Drvengrad is the village built by Emir Kusturic for the film "Life is a Miracle". A picturesque village where you can contemplate magnificent panoramas.
Zlatibor
Located at the west of the country, the region of Zlatibor in one of the most well-known natural in Serbia. Among its pine and spruce forests, lays the village of Zlatibor. A town built to focus tourism in this region and which has become one of the most popular destinations for Serbs. Restaurants, concerts, shops, bars surrounded by an artificial lagoon. and forests. A perfect place to enjoy nature.
Where to eat and party:
Serbian food is simply a 10/10
Kafeterija - can't miss this place to enjoy a delicious coffee.
Head over to the district of Savamala, full of bars and clubs. Kasina bar, Mladost/Ludost - If you are looking for the real stuff, head here. It's a crazy fun serbian party... for drinks and lounging.
Party here: Lasta - Gradski splav
This is one of the most popular "splavs" or river clubs located on the Danube River. The perfect place to have a drink with friends while listening to good music.
Need a tour guide?
I can personally recommend Maja Radović. Speaking english, spanish, french, portuguese and serbian, she can definitely give you the best tours of Belgrade and throughout Serbia. Check her out at www.turistvodic.info.
Serbia is a country with a rich history and culture, along with great food and it's capital, Belgrade is one of Europe's oldest cities. The perfect place to start your adventure in the Balkan peninsula. Serbia is waiting for you!