How to Spend 2 Days in Belgrade

Serbia’s capital of Belgrade includes much to see and do, from a river-side fortress to up-and-coming neighborhoods. With two days to explore, you can dip into local history, visit landmark museums, try classic dishes, and get a glimpse of the city’s simmering contemporary art scene. Here’s how to make the most of two days in Belgrade. 

Day 1: Discover Belgrade History

**Morning:**Catch morning light on the Danube and Sava Rivers by heading to the Belgrade Fortress, strategically located where they converge. The interior of the fortress is divided into the Upper Town, Lower Town, and Kalemegdan Park. Find the best-preserved architecture in the Upper Town, home to a Military Museum among other sites. 

**Afternoon:**Pick a Belgrade museum for a deeper dive into the side of Serbian history that interests you most, whether you’re following the story of electricity at the Nicola Tesla Museum, checking out the remnants of Soviet military might at the Military Museum, or visiting the National Museum itself.

**Night:**Folk music pours out of the cozy restaurants along Skadarlija street, a narrow cobblestone lane that’s a favorite for traditional entertainment. Visit one for a night of nostalgia—some venues even have costumed performers.

Day 2: River Cruising and Modern Culture

**Morning:**Once again, start the day by the water—this time on a sightseeing cruise that takes in riverside landmarks. Some river cruises include Great War Island, which is an uninhabited wildlife sanctuary between the Danube and the Sava Rivers that’s home to a long list of bird species.

**Afternoon:**Now that you’ve covered the old-fashioned stuff, leap ahead to Belgrade’s cutting edge in the arty neighborhood of Savamala. Here, you’ll find stylish cafés and art spaces in an area that’s still gritty—check out KC Grad, a warehouse-turned-restaurant, or opt for a guided tour that explores vintage shops and street art.

**Night:**Make your last evening count by hitting the town to experience Belgrade’s wild nightlife. In summer open-air nightclubs open up in converted boats on the Sava River; the winter scene stays cozy inside more traditional downtown spaces.