Autumn in central Serbia brings a warm palette of colors, cool mornings, and that soft silence you can never find in the city. If you’re longing for a short getaway, these five nearby destinations are perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip — all within about an hour to an hour and a half from Belgrade.

1. Kosmaj – A Mountain of Peace and Autumn Colors

Distance: ~45 min

In autumn, Kosmaj turns into a soft watercolor of golden and rusty shades. The hike to the iconic monument offers a wide panorama and absolute calm.

Kosmaj Memorial Complex, ID 371852965 | Kosmaj Serbia © Artem Onoprienko | Dreamstime.com

What to do:

  • hike to the Kosmaj Monument
  • visit Tresije and Pavlovac monasteries
  • enjoy a traditional lunch in local villages

Perfect for a low-effort nature escape.

2. Bukulja & Aranđelovac – Forest Trails and Spa Relaxation

Distance: ~1 h 10 min

Mount Bukulja becomes a vibrant mosaic of fall colors, with dense beech and oak forests. The view from the top is one of Šumadija’s best panoramas, while Aranđelovac brings spa relaxation and art-filled walks through Bukovička Banja Park.

Staro Zdanje in Aranđelovac

What to do:

  • hike to the Bukulja viewpoint
  • stroll through Bukovička Banja Park
  • explore the “Marble and Sounds” open-air sculpture museum
  • relax in Aranđelovac’s spa centres

For those who want nature, culture, and wellness in one weekend.

3. Obedska Bara – A Misty Autumn Fairytale in the Lowlands

Distance: ~1 hour

Obedska bara is one of Europe’s oldest protected wetlands and it becomes magical in autumn. Think fog floating above the water, ancient oak forests, and flocks of migrating birds.

Obedska Bara, photo: Miljana Djukic, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

What to do:

  • birdwatching (among the best in Serbia)
  • walk the educational nature trails
  • visit the visitor centre

A peaceful, atmospheric escape for nature lovers.

4. Sremska Mitrovica – Ancient Sirmium in Autumn Light

Distance: ~1 h 15 min

Sremska Mitrovica is historic city on the Sava River and it becomes especially charming in autumn. The river calms, the promenades empty out, and the Roman ruins gain a poetic, nostalgic feel.

Sremska Mitrovica

What to do:

  • explore the Sirmium Archaeological Park
  • walk along the Sava promenade
  • visit the Museum of Srem
  • enjoy local food and wine

Ideal for lovers of history and riverside walks.

5. Smederevo Fortress – Autumn on the Danube

Distance: ~1 hour

The massive medieval Smederevo fortress looks even more impressive when surrounded by autumn mist. The Danube gets deeper colors, and the atmosphere becomes wonderfully dramatic.

The ruins of the Smederevo Fortress

What to do:

  • explore the vast Smederevo Fortress
  • walk the Danube promenade
  • taste local wines in the surrounding hills

A perfect mix of history, scenery, and relaxation.

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