Šargan Eight Railway, Wooden Town & House on Drina river day trip from Belgrade

Belgrade , Serbia

Šargan Eight Railway, Wooden Town & House on Drina river day trip from Belgrade

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(106 reviews)

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

Check the three most exciting sights of Western Serbia on this full-day trip from Belgrade by air-conditioned vehicle and with the help of an expert, English-speaking guide to accompany you throughout the day.

Explore stunning nature and take a ride on a scenic narrow gauge railroad train. Visit the famous Wooden village built by well-known director Emir Kusturica and admire the Drina, the most beautiful river in Serbia.

Available options

SMALL GROUP - up to 8 persons

Maximum eight passengers, but usually 5 - 7.<br/>Pickup included

PRIVATE TOUR

Enjoy the comfort of having a vehicle and a guide just for yourself on a private tour and have a more flexible itinerary.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Ticket for Sargan Eight Train Ride

Transport by air-conditioned van

Services of a professional, English-speaking tour guide

Entrance Fee for The Wood Town

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Our tour starts from your accommodation, and we head toward Western Serbia, known for its wild and untouched nature, tasty cuisine, and friendly and hospitable people. Two and a half hours ride we’ll spend enjoying the beautiful landscapes and listening to interesting stories about this part of the country.

After a relaxing ride, we’ll arrive just in time for the departure of the famous Šargan Eight scenic train. A unique narrow-gauge railway nowadays serves only for amusement. We will stop at several viewpoints during our ride, from which you can enjoy fabulous views over Mokra Gora. Authentic cars with wooden seats, wood-burning stoves, and characteristic rattling sounds will transport us back to 1925, when this railway was put into operation, establishing a connection between Belgrade and the Adriatic Sea.

After a 1.5-hour ride, we return to the departure station, where we continue our journey to the nearby Mećavnik, also known as Drvengrad (Wooden City). The renowned director Emir Kusturica, a two-time Palme d’Or winner at Cannes, decided to build it during the filming of his movie “Life Is a Miracle.” He chose to convey ruined wooden chalets from the mountain’s slopes, restore them, and equip them with luxurious facilities to form a new settlement. Here, we will make a stop to enjoy a traditional lunch featuring specialties of Western Serbia’s renowned cuisine, irresistibly delicious and piquant (not included).
After the meal, we will have some free time for relaxation, and then continue with our tour.

Shortly after, we will reach our next stop, Bajina Bašta, a small town in the foothills of Mt. Tara. Here, we will see the world-famous attraction, “The House on the Drina,” an isolated log cabin situated on a river stone. A photograph of the structure was featured in National Geographic’s ‘Photo of the Day’, and not too long after that, this charming spot became one of the most photographed sights in the Balkans.

Our final stop for the day is one of the most famous viewpoints in the area, “Kapija Podrinja.” From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains.

Finally, we’ll head back home, riding through the pristine nature of the Povlen mountains. After a ride of around two and a half hours, including one stop, we will arrive in Belgrade in the afternoon. Drop off at your hotels. End of services.

What's not included

food & drinks (optional)

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

62 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

44 reviews

5★

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking.

Remember to bring a long-sleeved shirt during summer months, as it could be cold on the Gate of Podrinje.

The minimum number for a shared tour to operate is three guests.

At least 16 hours before the trip, we will inform you in case there are not enough guests on tour, and we will offer a choice between: 1) canceling the tour with no fees applied; 2) changing the tour date; 3) moving to another available tour.

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.