In the heart of the Balkans region, Serbia is still offbeat enough to not attract large crowds of tourists, the perfect destination for those who like to discover a new place slowly.
Throughout Serbia there is a mix of architectural styles, national parks, ski slopes, spas and wine regions.
No matter the time of year, participating in outdoor activities at Tara National Park is one of the best things to do in the country.
Producing wine since at least the 3rd century, the Negotin region is also the home of a unique complex of 19th-century stone wine cellars. With almost 200 of these well-preserved cellars, the village of Rajac is a must-visit destination.
Covered in snow from November to May, Kopaonik is one of the most famous ski resorts in Serbia. For warmer temperatures, head there in the summer for biking and hiking.
Historic and creative, the city of Novi Sad is one of Serbia's best-kept secrets. It boasts the titles of European Youth Capital (2019) and European Capital of Culture (2021).
One of the country's most beloved historical sites, the Studenica Monastery is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Famous as a year-round destination, the best time to visit Serbia depends on the types of activities visitors would like to partake in.
Go in the summer (July and August) for festival season and in the winter (December to March) for the skiing and the cultural events in the capital Belgrade.
Nationals from most countries don't need a visa for stays in Serbia under 90 days.
Most international flights to Serbia land at the Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade.
There are also regular flights to Constantine the Great Airport (Niš) from Switzerland, Italy, Slovakia, and Germany.
There are regular international trains from several European destinations to Belgrade, Subotica, Novi Sad, and Niš.
At the border, customs officials go aboard the train to check for passports and visas (if needed).
To enter Serbia by car, an International Driving Permit, proof of car ownership, registration papers, and valid car insurance are necessary.
Entering Serbia by land from Kosovo is usually not allowed.
Serbia is well-connected by long-distance buses to and from Europe and Turkey.
Border officers will board the bus and collect all passengers' passports for verification, which are then returned after processing.
In larger cities and towns, look for hotels and hostels. Check local tourist offices for private rooms or apartments if that type of accommodation is preferred.
Within large cities, public transportation consists of a typically inefficient network of local buses. In the capital city, Belgrade, it is also possible to get around by tram or trolleybus.
Trains are operated by Serbian Railways and are notoriously slower and not as reliable as buses.
The main routes include connections with Belgrade, Subotica, Novi Sad, Niš, and Užice.
The bus network is more extensive than the train network, and still the most convenient way to get around Serbia. Check the timetables for destinations outside larger towns and cities because of possible delays.
An International Driving Permit is required to rent a car in Serbia.
Although some large hotels list their prices in Euros, payment must always be made in the local currency Dinar. ATMs are widely available in most towns and cities. Credit card payments are accepted in larger businesses; pay in cash elsewhere. A one-way ticket on public transportation costs approximately 90 RSD (0.85 USD). Groceries for a couple of days can cost around 1,000 RSD (9.40 USD).