river-cruises
Many times, during its centuries-long history, Serbia has been at the centre of the world’s attention. It lies at the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, which has long been a meeting place for diverse cultures, trading caravans and armies on the march to war. It is landlocked but as a Danube country is connected to distant seas and oceans. Extending from the meeting point of the Serbian, Hungarian and Croatian borders to its confluence with the Timok, where the borders of Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania meet, the River Danube’s 365-mile course through this extraordinary country promises a fascinating river cruise experience.
Serbian territory was a land of Neolithic settlements, Roman emperors and medieval rulers and many sites of cultural and historical value lie along the banks of the Danube. Roman archaeological sites are a reminder that the river was for a long time the north-eastern border of the mighty Roman Empire. Unique in their architecture, sculpture, ornamentation, frescoes and icons, Serbia’s monasteries have long been pillars of the Serbian culture. The Danube flows through the national park of Fruška Gora, which has been rich in religious sites since ancient times. Serbia’s two most important cities both lie on the Danube. Its capital Belgrade is the perfect blend of contemporary and vintage, and Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina, has both architecture and a spirit that’s been shaped by many a nation.
From the picturesque Vojvodina flatlands to the impressive Djerdap Gorge, known as the Iron Gate, the River Danube takes in some of the country’s most impressive natural beauty.
Things to know
- Serbia’s capital is one of the oldest cities in Europe
- Belgrade’s Church of Saint Sava is one of the world’s largest Eastern Orthodox Church
- Novi Sad has been nicknamed ‘the Athens of Serbia’ for its remarkable history, culture and creative spirit
- 18 Roman emperors were born on the territory of modern-day Serbia
- Serbia is the largest exporter of raspberry in the world – almost 95% of raspberries sold in the world originate from Serbia
- The Serbian language was one of four official languages in the Ottoman Empire
Key Destinations
Belgrade
Lying at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, which divide the city into Old and New Belgrade, Serbia’s vibrant capital is an extraordinary mix of communist-style buildings, Ottoman relics and beautiful art nouveau architecture. In the heart of its ‘Stari Grad’, the lively pedestrianised street Knez Mihailovo, with handsome 19th century buildings, shops and cafes, stretches to the ancient Belgrade Fortress. Belgrade’s bohemian quarter ‘Skardarlija’ has amazing Kafanas, traditional Serbian tavernas serving the national cuisine.
Novi Sad
Cradled by a crook in the Danube and protected by the 17th century Petrovardin Fortress, Novi Sad is undoubtedly beautiful with dazzling churches, cathedrals and its delightful Dunavska Street with rustic street lanterns, decorations and colourful facades. Serbia’s second city is small enough to explore on foot. A cross between a public park and an arboretum, Danube Park sits right on the waterfront and is a perfect corner of the city to enjoy nature.