Inside the Contrasts of Belgrade - Meet the Exciting Savamala Quarter

Belgrade , Serbia

Inside the Contrasts of Belgrade - Meet the Exciting Savamala Quarter

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About this experience

Do you want an insider tour of the quarter that makes headlines? Know the coolest club of the season? Best of street art and urban creativity? Getting inside the most beautiful historic palace in Belgrade that hosts the model of the future city?

To be among the first few to see 21st century Belgrade and its contrast with the neighborhood's intriguing history, choose this tour.

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Inside the Contrasts of Belgrade - Meet the Exciting Savamala Quarter

What's included

Private tour

Professional art historian guide

Detailed itinerary

We start in front of the oldest building in the neighborhood. Its oriental shape and facade is a rare trace of how Belgrade looked like until the mid 19th century.

And its function was telling of the spirit and the future of the Savamala quarter.

We get inside the hidden yard that is full with street art, made by local and international artists.

Here we understand Savamala in 2000ies. How the local creatives revived the quarter that was neglected in the second half of 20th century.

Strolling the street further, we face the grandiose building of Belgrade Cooperative from 1907. A different view and a different story opens up for us.

We'll observe the square surrounding the building and admire its art nouveau architecture from the early 20th century. This was the quarter where the wealthiest and the most influential people of that time build their palaces.

Inside the Belgrade Loan Cooperative building you'll be amazed with its interiors, still keeping the original safe vaults and decoration.

There is another angle to this story. Inside the building, you'll also see the model of the development planned for Sava waterfront in Belgrade, that is sparking the constant debate.

We'll inspect the club street. You'll find out how the first of these clubs started some 10 years ago and see more street art.

More importantly, you'll find out where to go for which kind of party.

You'll enjoy a short walk by the river Sava.

There's more of neighborhood's history to see to your right.

Amateur fishermen and locals taking it easy by the river.

And there is a greenery and modernist architecture of New Belgrade to your left, across the river.

In the end we reach Beton Hala, the finale of our tour. Once the warehouse of the commercial port, now it is the hottest gastro zone in Belgrade.

Diverse cuisines and people meet here, both guests and locals. Brunch, lunch, coffee, cocktail, dinner, night party or just a walk by - it's all quite entertaining and tastes good.

What's not included

N/A

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Minimum age is 21 years

Meeting point

In front of Manak House, marked as a landmark.

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.