Belgrade , Serbia

NATO Bombing of Belgrade Private Tour

Active

(11 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You'll hear and understand the feelings among locals about this notorious campaign. You'll learn the other side of the story, to the one offered by the mainstream western media. You'll hear personal stories from the period of bombing and how life was in Belgrade at the time. During the tour we will take you to several sites where traces of bombing are still visible. The guide will show you original photos of the bombed sites from 1999. At the end of the tour, you can summarize impressions over a drink in a local cafe.

Tour highlights:

✅ Visit bombed sites where traces are still visible

✅ Hear personal experience of the guide about the life under NATO bombs

✅ See original photos from the 1999

✅ Learn the reasons for the campaign

✅ Hear the other side of the story

Available options

For a party between 4-7 people

Van: The tour is conducted with a 8 or 9 seater van for maximal comfort and privacy.<br/>Pickup included

For a party of up to 3 people

Car: The tour is conducted with a comfortable private car.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Private tour

Bottled water

Private guide/driver

Single-use surgical face mask if you don't have your own

Detailed itinerary

First stop after pickup is the RTS building. Here by the monument "Zašto?" (Why?) you’ll hear a disturbing story about the night when 16, mostly young people, got killed during the night shift. There is an original building still standing on the site, unrepaired, as a memorial to this disastrous event.

This is the most common site on various photos related to NATO bombing in Belgrade. The Ministry of Defense is still reminder on the night of 29th of April 1999 when many military objectives were hit. As a consequence of this action one person lost its life and many civilian buildings in the vicinity were damaged.

Former Central Committee of Communist Party of Yugoslavia is nowadays Business center Ušće. It stands today on the same skeleton of the original construction and with the same appearance of the original building of CK of Communist Party of Yugoslavia. You’ll learn why this building was NATO missile proof back in 1999 and what was the reason in the first place to be hit.

Former Chinese embassy is probably the most controversial bombing site in Belgrade from the ’99 campaign. The Embassy was allegedly bombed as a result of an intelligence mistake, but it’s suspected it had a completely different purpose. Whatever the reasons were, four Chinese citizens died on the night of 7th of May 1999.

The hotel was once the pride of Yugoslavian hospitality industry. Completed in the late 60s it was the biggest and most luxurious hotel in the region. On the same night when the Chinese Embassy was hit, Hotel Yugoslavia was bombed with three missiles in order to eliminate the seat of the paramilitary group. It eliminated one guest of the hotel.
NOTE: This site is currently under reconstruction, following the complete demolition of the old hotel in November 2024. During the tour, we'll stop at a convenient spot near the construction site, using photos and stories to bring the history of this location to life.

Air Force Command Building is the final stop on the tour. This 1935 edifice represented a pearl of Yugoslavian and Serbian architecture. As a strategic objective it was hit with two missiles on 5th of April 1999. Here you'll learn from the guide about the pilots who knowingly engaged in the fight and lost their lives defending sky above Serbia and Yugoslavia against much mightier NATO air force.

Optional Truffle Tasting: If you're looking to unwind after our thought-provoking discussion, we recommend an optional truffle tasting. Try delicious local truffle-based products, enjoy a unique white wine with truffles, and listen to fascinating stories. If this exceptional gastronomic experience interests you, simply let us know during your booking.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Personal expenses

Gratuities

Optional truffle tasting 32€ per person (paying at the spot)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.2

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Belgrade

Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia, is a city where ancient history and modern life intersect. Known for its lively nightlife, rich cultural heritage, and strategic location at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Belgrade offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western European influences. Its resilient spirit and diverse attractions make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Belgrade Fortress

The Belgrade Fortress is one of the city's most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The fortress has a rich history dating back to the Roman era and has been the site of numerous battles and sieges.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Knez Mihailova Street

Knez Mihailova Street is one of the most famous pedestrian streets in Belgrade, lined with historic buildings, shops, and cafes. It's a great place to experience the city's vibrant atmosphere and do some shopping.

Shopping/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Saint Sava Temple

Saint Sava Temple is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and a significant religious and cultural landmark in Belgrade. The temple is dedicated to Saint Sava, the founder of the Serbian Orthodox Church, and features stunning Byzantine-style architecture and intricate mosaics.

Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Skadarlija

Skadarlija is a charming, bohemian street in the heart of Belgrade, known for its traditional restaurants, live music, and artistic atmosphere. It's a great place to experience the city's vibrant nightlife and sample some delicious Serbian cuisine.

Cultural/Entertainment 1-2 hours Moderate (for dining and drinks)

Ada Ciganlija

Ada Ciganlija is a popular recreational area and artificial lake in Belgrade, often referred to as the 'Belgrade Sea'. It's a great place to escape the city's hustle and bustle, with numerous beaches, sports facilities, and picnic areas.

Nature/Recreation Half day to full day Free (some activities may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ćevapi

Ćevapi are small, grilled sausages made from a mixture of minced meats, usually beef and pork. They are typically served with flatbread, onions, and ajvar (a red pepper and eggplant spread).

Main course Contains meat

Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica is a Serbian-style burger made from a mixture of minced meats, usually beef and pork, and seasoned with various spices. It is typically served with flatbread, onions, and ajvar.

Main course Contains meat

Sarma

Sarma is a traditional Serbian dish made from cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices. It is usually served with mashed potatoes and ajvar.

Main course Contains meat

Burek

Burek is a flaky, layered pastry filled with a variety of ingredients, such as minced meat, cheese, or spinach. It is a popular street food and can be found in bakeries and fast-food restaurants throughout the city.

Snack/Dessert Can be vegetarian or vegan (cheese or spinach filling)

Popular Activities

Hiking in Tara National Park Boat tours on the Danube River Skiing in Zlatibor Picnicking in Ada Ciganlija Spa treatments in luxury hotels Wine tasting in Oplenac Visiting museums and galleries Attending traditional music and dance performances

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This period offers warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals, making it the most popular time to visit. However, it can be crowded, especially in July and August.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Serbian
Widely spoken: English, Russian, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Serbian Dinar (RSD)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1) / CEST (GMT+2, during daylight saving time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Belgrade is generally a safe city for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and insist on the meter being turned on
• Check the menu and prices before ordering in restaurants and bars

Getting there

By air

Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport • 18 km (11 miles) from city center

By train

Belgrade Central Station

By bus

Lasta Bus Terminal, Lasta Bus Terminal 2

Getting around

Public transport

Belgrade's bus network is extensive and covers most of the city. Buses are generally reliable and affordable, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Yandex.Taxi, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Stari Grad (Old Town) Savski Venac Palilula Zvezdara New Belgrade

Day trips

Novi Sad

90 km (56 miles) from Belgrade • Full day

Novi Sad is a charming city in northern Serbia, known for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to the Danube River. It's a great destination for a day trip from Belgrade, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Golubac Fortress

100 km (62 miles) from Belgrade • Half day to full day

Golubac Fortress is a stunning medieval fortress located on the banks of the Danube River, near the town of Golubac. It's a great destination for a day trip from Belgrade, offering a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Oplenac

130 km (81 miles) from Belgrade • Full day

Oplenac is a small town in central Serbia, known for its stunning Byzantine-style churches and royal mausoleums. It's a great destination for a day trip from Belgrade, offering a mix of history, architecture, and natural beauty.

Festivals

Belgrade Beer Fest • Late August to early September Belgrade International Theatre Festival (BITEF) • September Belgrade Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit the Belgrade Fortress at sunset for a romantic and breathtaking view of the city
Explore the city's vibrant nightlife in Skadarlija, a charming, bohemian street lined with traditional restaurants and live music venues
Try some local delicacies, such as ćevapi, pljeskavica, and burek, at one of the city's many street food stalls and markets
Take a day trip to Novi Sad, a charming city in northern Serbia known for its historic architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to the Danube River
Visit the Ada Ciganlija, a popular recreational area and artificial lake in Belgrade, offering a variety of beaches, sports facilities, and picnic areas.