Written By Igor Beloš
Serbian Hospitality
You can ask many people about the best things about Serbia and you will receive many different answers. But the number 1 thing will always be Serbian hospitality.
No matter where you are from, what your age or skin color is, as soon as you step on Serbian soil and mention that you are visiting Serbia, you will be warmly welcomed by everyone.
Serbs are very proud of their country and they will gladly take time to explain everything to you and help you if you experience any problems in the city.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself invited to a coffee or a drink by a stranger.
The People
Belgrade is a very big city and home to many internationals. It is tempting, therefore, to only stay in international company while you are visiting the city.
However, if you wish to experience the best of Serbia, then you should spend time with locals.
Serbian people are incredibly open and friendly. They love meeting new people, especially internationals, and showing them their beautiful country.
Okay, they will probably also complain a bit about the government and politics but that is part of the culture ;).
The Nightlife
If you are visiting Belgrade, chances are you are doing so because you heard of the amazing nightlife in the city. And if you are visiting for the second or third time, you probably loved it and want more.
The truth is: Belgrade is full of amazing bars, clubs and festivals.
Serbs love to go out and have fun. That’s why Serbia and especially its biggest cities Belgrade and Novi Sad attract millions of tourists every year.
The Food
You can’t take five steps in Belgrade without smelling something amazing from around the corner. The city is full of great restaurants, kafanas and street food spots.
Pljeskavica, ćevapčići, pileći batak are some of the best things to order at a Serbian barbeque place.
Try burek and pita with cheese or meat at any pekara (bakery).
And definitely order karađorđeva šnicla (rolled, stuffed and fried steak), teletina ispod sača (veal cooked in a ceramic pot), sarma (rice and minced meat rolled in cabbage), punjene paprike (filled peperoni) and prebranac (baked beans) when you go to a kafana.
Are you hungry already?
Rakija
No trip to Serbia is complete without a crazy night caused by rakija.
Rakija is the Serbian traditional brandy and comes in many different variations. The most popular among them is plum rakija, also referred to as šljivovica.
But watch out, it is very strong and can get you drunk more quickly than you think.
Never try to compete with locals when it comes to drinking rakija. Trust me, they will win.
The list would go on and on. But these are five of the best things to look forward to when visiting Serbia and Belgrade. Tell us in the comments what your top 5 are and what are the things you love about Serbia and Belgrade!