Serbia, tucked away in the heart of the Balkans, offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty that sets it apart from other European destinations. While the country may not always make it to the top of travel lists, those who venture here will find unique experiences that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world. From ancient traditions to bizarre natural phenomena, Serbia has a special place on the world map, offering visitors once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Here are the extraordinary things you can do in Serbia that you won’t find anywhere else.
1. Visit the Country of 16 Roman Emperors, the Temple of Saint Sava, and Deliblato Sands
Serbia is the birthplace of 16 Roman emperors, including the famous Emperor Constantine the Great. Walking through its ancient cities, like Niš, you can almost feel the history beneath your feet. Serbia also boasts the Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
Finally, venture into Deliblato Sands, the largest continental sand area in Europe, offering a truly unique landscape that feels out of place in Europe but is stunningly beautiful.
2. Experience the Guča Trumpet Festival
The Guča Trumpet Festival is a wildly unique event that has become a symbol of Serbian music and cultural pride. Held annually in the small town of Guča, this festival attracts over a million visitors from around the world to experience the heart-pounding sounds of Balkan brass bands. It is the largest trumpet festival in the world, with some of the best brass musicians showcasing their skills in traditional Serbian turbo-folk and brass band music.
The festival is not just about music; it’s a celebration of Serbian food, drink, dance, and folklore. What makes it special is the sheer energy and passion of the crowd, and the opportunity to get up close to traditional Balkan music in a way that no other festival can offer. If you want to experience music in its rawest, most energetic form, Guča is the place to be.
3. Experience Unique Serbian Customs
Serbia is a country where warmth, hospitality, and unique customs are deeply embedded in the daily life of its people. One of the most distinctive aspects of Serbian culture is the hospitality extended to guests. If you visit a Serbian home, you will almost certainly be offered rakija (a traditional fruit brandy), regardless of whether you are a stranger or a longtime friend. This spontaneous generosity is part of the “Serbian warmth” that makes the country so special.
In addition, the act of kissing three times on the cheek, a custom borrowed from Eastern European tradition, is an essential greeting ritual among Serbs. It’s an unspoken sign of respect, affection, and unity. In more informal situations, the three-finger salute, a gesture representing Serbia’s historical independence, is a common sight, particularly in rural areas or at public gatherings.
One of the most touching aspects of Serbian culture is the ability to drink rakija with strangers and immediately feel welcomed into the fold of local society. Whether at a lively kafana (tavern), at a family gathering, or simply on the streets, sharing a drink with Serbs is not just about enjoying the alcohol—it’s about connecting, bonding, and experiencing the sense of belonging that Serbs are famous for. It’s a hospitality and sense of unity that you won’t experience anywhere else in the world.
4. Visit the “Devil’s Town” (Đavolja Varoš)
In southern Serbia, you’ll find an eerie and fascinating landscape known as Đavolja Varoš—or “Devil’s Town.” This surreal site consists of over 200 naturally occurring earth pyramids, created by erosion, with large stone caps that make them look like chimneys or towers. The site is unique in the world for its combination of geological phenomena and mythological legend.
Local folklore explains that the formations were created by the devil, and the site is shrouded in mystery. Whether you’re interested in the science behind these peculiar formations or the legends that surround them, visiting Devil’s Town is an experience you can’t find anywhere else on Earth. The unique rock formations combined with the mystical atmosphere of the area make it a destination like no other.
5. Explore Unique Medieval Orthodox Monasteries
Serbia is home to some of the most spectacular and historic medieval Orthodox monasteries in the world. These monasteries, many of which were founded in the 12th to 14th centuries, are renowned for their impressive architecture, stunning frescoes, and their significant role in preserving Serbian culture and spirituality during turbulent historical periods.
Some of the most famous include Studenica Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Manasija Monastery, with its fortress-like walls and peaceful surroundings. The monasteries are typically located in serene, mountainous areas, offering visitors a rare glimpse into centuries-old traditions and lifestyles that have been preserved through the centuries. These sacred sites are a testament to the resilience and faith of the Serbian people, making them an essential part of the country’s identity.
6. Hike Through the Enchanted Tara National Park
Tara National Park is one of the most untouched and biodiverse parks in Serbia. It is home to rare species of plants and animals, some of which are found nowhere else on the planet. While Serbia has a wealth of natural beauty, the Tara mountain range stands out for its tranquil atmosphere, sweeping views, and pristine nature.
One of the most unique aspects of Tara is the Drina River Canyon, which you can explore by boat or on foot, as well as the famous Tara Bear Sanctuary, which works to protect the endangered species in the area. This park offers a perfect mix of hiking, wildlife watching, and peaceful nature, making it a special destination for nature lovers.
7. Take a Scenic Boat Ride on the Danube and Sava Rivers
Serbia is one of the few places in Europe where you can experience the convergence of two mighty rivers—the Danube and the Sava—right in the heart of a bustling city. In Belgrade, the confluence of these two rivers creates breathtaking views and opportunities for boat rides, a feature that is uniquely enjoyable in Serbia’s capital.
Whether you take a relaxed boat cruise or opt for a more adventurous kayaking trip, this experience is special due to the city’s historical setting, picturesque waterfronts, and unique perspective from the water. You can also experience the vibrant floating clubs on the Sava and Danube rivers, which are a uniquely Serbian nightlife experience.
8. Join the “Slava” Celebration
Slava is an incredibly unique Serbian tradition where families celebrate the patron saint they are dedicated to, making it a deeply personal and spiritually significant festival. Slava is the only Serbian holiday that revolves around a family’s patron saint rather than national or religious observances. This practice, which is centuries old, involves a host of rituals, including the preparation of a special bread (slavski kolač), prayers, and a feast shared with friends and family.
The Slava is celebrated in almost every Serbian household, with each family hosting a ceremony to honor their patron saint. For travelers, being invited to join in a Slava celebration is an incredibly special and unique experience—one that allows you to witness Serbia’s deep-rooted spirituality and hospitality firsthand.
9. Savor Rakija in an Authentic Serbian “Kafana”
Rakija, the traditional fruit brandy of Serbia, is an essential part of Serbian culture. You can only truly understand Serbian hospitality by sitting in a kafana (a traditional Serbian tavern) and enjoying a glass of rakija with locals. Whether it’s plum rakija (šljivovica) or apricot rakija, each region of Serbia has its own variations of this iconic drink.
The experience is made unique by the warmth of the hosts, who offer you rakija as a gesture of friendship and celebration. It’s not just a drink but a symbol of Serbian generosity and a gateway into the heart of the country’s social and culinary life. Joining in a kafana celebration, complete with folk music and delicious Serbian dishes, is an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
A country full of experiences
Serbia is a country full of surprises, with many experiences that are unique to this Balkan gem. Whether you’re exploring surreal landscapes like Devil’s Town, or sharing rakija with strangers, Serbia offers a range of extraordinary experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. If you’re looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures that immerse you in culture, history, and nature, Serbia is the place to be.
