Once a year, the sky above Serbia transforms into a stage for one of nature’s most magical shows – the Perseid meteor shower. In mid-August, when the warmth of the day gives way to the coolness of night, countless streaks of light cross the dark sky, creating a spectacle to remember. It’s the perfect time to pause, look up, and surrender to the wonder of the cosmos.
What Are the Perseids?
The Perseids are one of the most stunning meteor showers of the year. Named because they appear to radiate from the constellation Perseus, these meteors are actually remnants of the Swift-Tuttle comet. As Earth passes through the trail of debris left behind, the particles burn up in our atmosphere, creating brilliant streaks of light across the sky.
This year, the peak of the Perseids is expected on the night of August 12 to 13, when skywatchers may see up to 100 meteors per hour – provided they’re in a dark enough location, away from city lights.
Where to Watch the Meteor Shower in Serbia
To truly enjoy the experience, it’s best to escape urban light pollution. Serbia offers several breathtaking locations perfect for stargazing:
⭐ Fruška Gora
Just an hour from Belgrade or Novi Sad, Fruška Gora is full of meadows and hills that provide wide open skies. Whether near a quiet monastery or on a scenic hiking trail, this national park creates a serene atmosphere for a starlit night.
⭐ Rtanj Mountain
With its mystical, pyramid-shaped peak, Rtanj is one of Serbia’s most beloved spots for watching the stars. Famous for its energy and silence, Rtanj offers a unique setting for camping and stargazing.
⭐ Divčibare
Located on Mount Maljen, Divčibare is a popular highland resort ideal for summer getaways. Its gentle slopes and open fields make it perfect for families and anyone wanting a peaceful meteor shower picnic.
⭐ Zlatar Mountain
Known for its pure air and peaceful surroundings, Zlatar offers wide horizons above valleys and lakes – a pristine and quiet escape for watching the sky light up with shooting stars.
⭐ Avala – Special Program on August 9 and 10
For those in Belgrade looking for a nearby location – Avala Mountain is the perfect choice. Just 30 minutes from the city center, Avala’s dark slopes and the area around the Avala Tower offer great visibility for stargazing.
On the evenings of August 9 and 10, a special stargazing program will be organized on Avala, including guided observation, telescopes, educational content, and a cozy nighttime atmosphere for all ages. It’s a perfect warm-up before the peak night of August 12–13.
How to Prepare for a Night of Stargazing
- Bring a blanket, mat, or reclining chair, warm clothes, and a thermos with tea – nights on mountains can be chilly even in August.
- Avoid artificial light and phone screens – give your eyes time to adjust to the dark.
- Be patient – the best moments often come after midnight.
- You can bring binoculars or a camera, but the best thing to take with you is wonder.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Watching the Perseids is more than an astronomical event – it’s a moment of connection with nature, a chance to breathe, to dream, and to feel the vastness above us. One shooting star, one wish, one memory – and a summer you’ll never forget.
📌 Let the Stars Guide You
Pick a mountain, pack a blanket, bring a friend or just your thoughts – and witness a sky transformed into a celestial fairytale.
The peak meteor shower will light up the night between August 12 and 13, but the magic begins earlier – on August 9 and 10 at Avala’s organized stargazing events.
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