Geography Named the “White City” by the Celtic tribes that first settled the place where the Savu and Danube rivers meet, Belgrade may well deserve the word “electric” in its name, not only for its homage to Nikola Tesla (Serbian born father of alternating current) but likewise for the sheer intensity and love for life of this up-and-coming European destination that’s still off the beaten path and by that virtue, relatively cheap. The city is nestled between its two rivers and dominated by the mighty fortress on its hilltop of Kalemegdan, while to the south rises the mountain of Avala. In almost every other direction lie the flat Balkan plains. Southeastern Europe’s fourth largest city, Belgrade is home to about 1,6 million people. airBaltic is pleased to bring cheap flights to Nikola Tesla International Airport, located just outside of the city centre. Languages The official language of Belgrade is Serbian, a south Slavic language spoken throughout the region and using the Cyrillic alphabet. Most travellers should get by with English alone, as more and more educated Serbians are choosing to remain in this blossoming city. One tip: learn the alphabet for self-sufficient navigation beyond the hotel. See and Do A sure fire way of putting a finger on the city’s pulse is to wander between the medieval gates, cafes, hotels and many statues on the always bustling pedestrian street of Knez Mihailova. At the heart of the city is Kalemegdan hill, to the rivers’ right with its very own park enclosing the city zoo. Stop by Kalemegdan Fortress and take a peek out over the city from the public observatory there. Belgrade certainly has many museums to choose from, with the mainstays being the National Museum with its superb collection of world renowned artists and the Nikola Tesla Museum honouring the life’s work of Serbia’s favourite son and with, of course, a few quirky demonstrations up its sleeve. The cathedral is a worthwhile visit and tickets to an evening performance at the National Theatre can be quite rewarding as well. The seemingly endless night life in Belgrade can seem to be, well, endless. Party on the barges at night (although these tend to be known tourist traps) or wander down the waterfront, where you’re sure to find some local flavour. Be sure along the way to get a taste of rakija, a Serbian brandy that has found its place as the national drink. To experience the underground artist scene, make way to the Skadarska district, where it’s all bohemia, all the time. There’s plenty else to do around the city too. The Balkans largest (and second largest in Europe), Belgrade Arena hosts everything from concerts to sports events. And, if the weather permits, visitors may choose to go bathing at Ada Ciganlija, one of the cities river islands and a hot spot for thousands out for a swim and to work on their tans. |
