Serbia

St. Sava Temple, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, dominates the skyline with its gleaming white facade and gold-accented dome. The city’s floating river clubs, or splavovi, moored along the Sava and Danube, have made Belgrade one of Europe’s most notable nightlife destinations. The Nikola Tesla Museum honors the Serbian-American inventor with original documents and working models of his inventions. Belgrade’s blend of layered history and vibrant nightlife makes it one of the Balkans’ most energetic capitals.

The Danube riverside offers relaxed walking and cycling paths connecting the old town to the fortress across the water. Novi Sad’s Name Square and surrounding Austro-Hungarian architecture give the city a more Central European feel than Belgrade’s grittier energy. Nearby Fruska Gora National Park is dotted with Serbian Orthodox monasteries scattered through rolling, forested hills. Novi Sad’s fortress views and festival culture make it an essential stop beyond the Serbian capital.

The Mediana archaeological site, just outside the city, preserves mosaics and ruins from Constantine’s imperial residence. Nis’s pedestrian center and riverside parks give the city a relaxed, historically grounded atmosphere distinct from Belgrade and Novi Sad. Local markets and traditional restaurants serve some of Serbia’s spiciest regional cuisine, a point of local pride. Nis’s deep Roman and Ottoman layers make it a worthwhile stop for travelers interested in Serbia’s ancient history.