Belgrade: From Filming Location to Film Capital in the Making

Belgrade has been ranked among the top five film locations in Europe in the selection for the EUFCN Location Awards 2025, a prestigious recognition awarded by the European Film Commissions Network (EUFCN). The nomination confirms what film professionals have known for years – Serbia’s capital is one of Europe’s most versatile and production-friendly cities for filming.

Alongside Belgrade, the shortlist includes La Palma in Spain, Figueira de Foz in Portugal, Inari in Finland, and Zangerhausen in Germany. The winner will be announced in February 2026 during the Berlin International Film Festival.

A City That Can Double for Multiple Eras and Cities

One of the key reasons behind Belgrade’s recognition lies in its exceptional diversity of filming locations. Within a relatively compact area, filmmakers can capture settings that evoke the 19th century, socialist modernism, brutalist architecture, as well as contemporary urban landscapes.

Central city streets, Kalemegdan Fortress, the National Theatre, Knez Mihailova Street, Zemun, and numerous industrial and residential districts allow productions to shoot both vintage and modern scenes with minimal set construction. This adaptability makes Belgrade especially attractive to international productions seeking efficiency without compromising visual authenticity.

A Nomination Built on Years of International Collaboration

According to official statements, the nomination followed the filming of the American TV series The Librarians: The Next Chapter, produced in Serbia by Balkanik Media, with the candidacy submitted by the Serbian Film Association.

Now in its ninth edition, the EUFCN Location Award recognizes not only visually striking locations but also strong institutional support, professional local crews, and effective cooperation with international productions.

Milica Božanić, representing the Serbian Film Association, emphasized that such nominations are the result of long-term partnerships rather than chance, reflecting the trust built between Serbia’s film industry and international producers.

Belgrade as a Regional Film Hub

In recent years, Belgrade has hosted numerous international film and television projects, engaging a wide network of local professionals – from actors and cinematographers to costume designers and set builders. According to Jonathan English of Balkanik Media, these productions have played a crucial role in strengthening the local film industry and positioning Belgrade as a competitive filming hub in Europe.

The growing number of international shoots, combined with the city’s architectural diversity and experienced crews, suggests that Belgrade holds strong potential to develop into a film capital of Southeast Europe, with increasing relevance on the wider European market.

Public Voting Open Until the End of January

Film lovers and audiences can support Belgrade in the race for the title of Best European Film Location by voting until January 30, 2026, via the official EUFCN website. Beyond the award itself, a potential win would further enhance Belgrade’s international visibility and reinforce its reputation as a city where film is not just a visitor, but an integral part of its urban identity.