Southern Serbia: Full Day Private Trip to Niš from Belgrade

Belgrade , Serbia

Southern Serbia: Full Day Private Trip to Niš from Belgrade

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(9 reviews)

9h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Serbia is a relatively small country, but for sure it offers a lot of diversity. One of the best examples of that diversity is Niš, third biggest city in Serbia, with an exciting mixture of Ottoman heritage, laid-back charm, captivating history, great food, cheerful locals and music that will make you dance.

Escorted by the professional, English-speaking guide, in an air-conditioned vehicle, get to know everything about this charming city on this 10-hours exciting journey.

Available options

PRIVATE TOUR

PRIVATE TOUR<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All fuel costs, parking fees, and road tolls

Professional English-speaking guide

Tour organization and 24/7 assistance from a licensed incoming tour operator

Transport by air-conditioned minivan (4-7 pax) or private sedan car (1-3 pax)

Free hotel pick-up and drop-off

A bottle of water per person

Combined ticket for Nazi Concentration Camp, The Scull Tower, and the Archaeological Hall

Detailed itinerary

Your trip will begin with pick up from your hotel/accommodation in Belgrade, and we head toward Southern Serbia. After slightly more than two hours of driving (highway only), we will reach Niš.

The day is reserved for the born city of the famous Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. In the next three hours, you will see the most important sights in Serbia's third-biggest city, and our guide will share the stories about the city's turbulent history dating back to pre-Roman times

First of all, we are going to pay a visit to Red Cross Nazi Concentration Camp, today a museum. The German Gestapo operated the camp and held captured around 30.000Jews, Serbians, and Romas during the Second World War. Red Cross was a transit camp, so few were killed on the premises – they were taken mainly to Bubanj Hill (in Niš) to be executed there, or on to Auschwitz, Dachau, or other concentration camps. The fact that differs the camp from other Nazi camps is that on February 12, 1942. the inmates organized the first mass escape of prisoners in occupied Europe – a total of 105 managed to flee from the camp that day.

To conclude our story about WWII, we'll visit Bubanj Hill. Located 3km from the city center, it is the place where we'll find one of Serbia's most recognizable Yugoslav-era memorials. Three gigantic fists rising from the ground are the work of Croatian sculptor Ivan Sabolić, and they symbolize the resistance and suffering of men, women, and children (or, according to other interpretations, Serbs, Jews, and Roma) during WWII. This hill was the site of mass executions conducted by the Nazis, where they executed close to 10.000 prisoners from the concentration camp.

Our next stop will be the infamous Skull Tower - the monument unique in the world, erected by the Ottomans as an example to others of the folly of opposition to their rule.
Originally there were 952 skulls built into the tower, today there are 59 remaining, but they still illustrate all the horror of the original tower.
Destroying the tower was never a question. It was imperative to keep it standing as a reminder to future generations of the sacrifices made by their ancestors towards the liberation of Serbia; thus it still stands as a silent monument to struggle.

Following, we will visit the Niš Fortress, lying on the bank of Nišava River. It assumed its final shape in 1723, when the Turks built it, facing the end of their reign in this area. Its construction required that over 40 stonecutters from Constantinople and around 400 bricklayers from Niš to be hired. Though the Turks built its current incarnation, there have been forts on this site since ancient Roman times. Today, the fortress is a cultural property of great importance and a venue for frequent cultural and artistic events.

We will continue our sightseeing passing by the main sights in the city, including Banovina Building, Niš Liberators Monument at King Milan Square, and the monument of a well-known Serbian writer Stevan Sremac, considered to be one of the greatest Serbian comedy writers in history.

Concluding our tour, we'll visit the Archaeological Hall of Nis National Museum, with its numerous exhibits telling a vivid story of Nis history and culture from Neolithic Age and Roman period to the Middle Ages.

After that, you will have free time for individual activities in Niš and to try some of the traditional delicacies for which Niš is widely famous.

At the scheduled time, we will hop back into our vehicle, and after about two hours, you will be back in your hotel.

Your tour concludes with transportation back to your hotel/accommodation in Belgrade, where we'll arrive in the afternoon. End of services.

What's not included

Full traditional Serbian lunch (optional, 1.000-1.800 RSD per person)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults

We never cancel our tours, however, if you are the only person on a shared tour, a supplement of 50% will be applied. At latest 24 hours before the trip, you will be informed in the case that you are the only guest on the tour, and we will offer a choice between canceling the tour with no fees applied, or paying the supplement of 50% of the price.

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.