Architecture of New Belgrade - Brutalism Decoded

Belgrade , Serbia

Architecture of New Belgrade - Brutalism Decoded

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About this experience

You'll have a close up on 5 exemplary buildings of Yugoslav socialist architecture. Find out why this architecture recently created a hype at exhibition at MoMA in New York and world-wide. Hear about it from the art historian guide who has not just studied it, but actually lived in it.
You’ll discover the buildings for the socialist elites, buildings for socialist business, buildings to impress the non aligned comrades and social housing blocks for the classless society.
You'll see how and why the architecture changed from the Soviet-like to modernism to brutalism. In 2 hours you'll understand 50 years of Yugoslavian utopia.

Available options

For 1 - 3 persons

What's included

Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

You'll meet the guide in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art at Ušće. You'll explore its modernist 1960-ies volumes and find out why its precious marble facades contradict the stereotypical expectations from socialist architecture.

This is our spot do touch upon the Non-Aligned Movement of 120 countries. It was founded in 1961 in Belgrade, when the heads of states planted the trees in the Park as the symbol of peace.

Next, we'll drive by the huge Government Building, a telling monument of an earlier phase of YU politics, a building that experienced the switch away from Stalin while under construction.

You’ll have a close up of Genex Tower, aka Western City Gate of Belgrade, a 30 floor structure that has won instagrams and hearts of many Belgrade visitors. Built 40 years ago, it was the first smart building in the Balkans and entered the international architecture reviews as a fine example of brutalism.

Your final stop is a gigantic congress center, built at the end of 1970s in record times. It was the first building of that sort in this part of Europe. It’s still in function and includes some surprisingly well designed interior solutions that seem fresh even after 40 years.

Inside the Block no. 23, the most representative public housing project, again in style of concrete expressionism, you'll discover the concept that provided everything for the inhabitants. The apartment buildings, school, the kindergarten, the sport courts, the mini shopping mall. You’ll hear the guide's personal stories of life in the blocks in their golden decades of 60s, 70s and 80s. And the stories of living not so great in 90s.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

3 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.6

16 reviews

5★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of the stairs leading to the main entrance.

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.