Serbia's insider tips: Discover majestic Danube and old cultural treasures!

Serbia's insider tips: Discover majestic Danube and old cultural treasures!

Golubac, Serbien - Croatia and Greece are often the first vacation wishes in the Balkans, but Serbia reveals an impressive nature and rich culture. The Golubac fortress is on the Danube, which is up to 6.4 kilometers wide in some places. This is seen as one of the most splendid castles in Europe and is considered an important historical point in which knights in the Middle Ages argue for control.

The Golubac fortress, which was competitive in the late Middle Ages between Ottomans and Hungary and finally fell back to Serbia in 1876, shines in new splendor after extensive renovation work. It marks the entrance to the đerdap National Park, where the exploration of the đerdap gorge-the deepest canyon in Europe-offers a real adventure. This region is not only shaped by natural beauty, but also by rich history, presented by finds of Roman remains such as the famous Trajan panel.

historical highlights and cultural insights

The Archaeological site Lepenski Vir, which was populated over 8,000 years ago, is often referred to as the oldest city in Europe. Here you will find impressive stone sculptures that bring the past to life. A highlight for historical lovers is the largest rock sculpture in Europe, which was completed in 2004 and represents the Dakker king Decebalus. This rich history comes to life in the context of the then bank settlements.

Belgrade and Novi Sad are the two most important cities in Serbia that are located directly on the Danube. Belgrade is often referred to as the "Berlin of the East" and is changing with new cultural and leisure projects. The Kalemegdan fortress in the city has a long military -historical history, while the temple of St. Sava impresses as the second largest Orthodox church in the world.

travel tips and activities

The best travel time for Serbia extends from April to October, especially spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor activities. The journey to Belgrade is uncomplicated, with several airlines or a car ride from Berlin (approx. 1250 km) or from Munich (approx. 950 km).

Novi Sad, which was part of the Austrian-Hungarian monarchy until 1918, was appointed Capital of Culture in Europe in 2022 and offers an impressive fortress, the Petrovaradin and an urban sandy beach. Protests against President Aleksandar Vučić currently shape the image of Belgrade, which is why the Federal Foreign Office advises to avoid larger crowds. Despite these circumstances, the city remains a worthwhile goal with its diverse accommodation options, from hotels to private accommodation.

Serbia has been a candidate for the EU since 2012, but the integration process is rising more slowly than with other former Yugoslav states. This mix of nature, culture and history makes Serbia a unique travel destination in the heart of the Balkans. For travelers who are looking for adventure and historical discoveries, the Danube region offers countless opportunities with its grandiose landscape and deep history.

The reporting of Welt and Euronews offers a deep insight into the undiscovered treasures.