Looking for a city where you can experience completely different worlds – legendary nightlife on splavovi (floating clubs) and peaceful riverside moments at the same time? Welcome to Belgrade, a city that never slows down yet also offers the perfect retreat by the Danube and Sava Rivers.
Visitors are often charmed by these contrasting aspects of the city, which translates into increased tourism in this region. But did you know there’s another way to discover Belgrade and its culture? Take a culinary journey and explore local kafanas (traditional taverns), serving authentic Serbian food with excellent coffee. In this article, our Spotters selected a few places you should definitely add to your travel list. Enjoy!
Zemun: A Riverside Retreat with Charming Views
Zemun is a charming district of Belgrade, located on the right bank of the Danube River. Locals describe it as a city of its own, with a small-town feel, a vibrant central area, and prominent local bars. Beyond its lively local life, the area is also known for some of the best views over the Danube and its nature. Its proximity to the water lets you spend a whole day kayaking or taking boat rides along the river.
If you’re exploring Zemun and looking for a place to relax, visit Dušan’s spot, Balkan Express. The place is located on a hilltop, more than 50 meters above the Danube River. The greenery and quiet surroundings offer visitors the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy one of the most wonderful views in all of Belgrade. Locals recommend coming here, especially on sunny days, when you can sit on the terrace, soak up the sun, and listen to the murmur of the river.
But there’s more to this place than simply the beauty of the landscape. The interior of the Balkan Express is set in an authentic Yugoslav Railways wagon, decorated with wooden railway-style benches and red curtains. This vintage design creates a historic atmosphere, making guests feel as if they are traveling on an old train and allowing them to step back into Serbian history.
When it’s lunchtime, and you’re craving delicious fish at a good price, check out Radecki Club. Dušan, “It’s a great spot for dinner with the stunning view of the river and anchored boats along the shore”. The restaurant also sells a variety of drinks, including beers and local wines, which go perfectly with the dishes served here. Nevertheless, if you still need more energy to walk around the city, order a cup of delicious Turkish coffee. Its aromatic and rich flavor will recharge you for the rest of the day.
For those seeking to discover Belgrade’s culture, head to Restoran Reka, a riverfront restaurant with decades of tradition. The place first started as a typical fish restaurant, serving freshly caught fish from the Danube. However, over the years, it gained massive popularity among locals and became an integral part of their lives. Residents often come here to celebrate or simply enjoy the live music. Don’t be surprised if you see diplomatic meetings, student gatherings, birthday celebrations, and wedding parties, all happening on the same day. As Spotter Nedeljko says, “If you’re visiting Belgrade for more than a day, Reka is a must-see. You will save a lot of time by experiencing the real Belgrade in one place.”
Čukarica: A green corner of Belgrade
On the other side of the Sava River lies a quiet residential area with lots of green space, known as Čukarica. Its name derives from a historic tavern, “Čurkara”, built around 1850, which back then served as a resting place for travelers and merchants. This area still attracts many visitors, charmed by its greenery and natural beauty.
If you’re visiting this part of town with friends or family and are looking for a perfect place for social gatherings, definitely go to Na Kraj Sveta. This tavern is set in one of the city’s best green areas, Ada Ciganlija, right next to the beautiful lake. Its unique location on the very banks of the Danube and its relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among locals during summer. Here you can also taste authentic river cuisine, like freshly caught fish served by Danube fishermen, and try regional dishes. Locals recommend ordering Šaran on the grill and Som čvarci for an ultimate experience!
Belgrade’s Kafanas: A Taste of Local Flavors
Looking for traditional and delicious Serbian food? There is no better place in Belgrade to try local specialties than Čačanin. This restaurant has been operating for almost 5 decades and has become a go-to spot for locals. It is well-known for its delicious dishes, like karadjordjeva (rolled schnitzel), mućkalica (meat and vegetable stew), and pljeskavica (spiced meat patty). One of our Spotters, Nedeljko, recommends trying the delicious ćevapi here, a grilled sausage made from minced meat that is popular in Southeast Europe.
Another fantastic spot for local food is Šabački Slatinac, a small restaurant that represents the real Belgrade. The place strongly reflects a typical Serbian kafana, from local food, people, prices, drinks, and service to the interior design. It serves a variety of traditional Serbian specialties, such as beef or lamb soup, roast meat, tripe, and cold meat aspic. Nedeljko mentions that Šabački Slatinac offers a common, everyday atmosphere that Belgrade’s citizens enjoy whenever they feel like it.
So, are you ready to discover Belgrade through its food and culture? To experience the city like a local, check out Spotted By Locals and its hidden gems in Belgrade.
Spotted by Locals is what travel content looks like when locals are in charge. Across 86 cities, 504 contributors share the places they love, without ads, without algorithms, and without a hidden agenda. Just the city, as it really is.
