Under $100: Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is where old world meets new, located at the meeting points of the Sava and Danube rivers, offering scenic views of the rivers throughout the city. As the capital and largest city of Serbia, Belgrade is a relatively under-rated tourist destination where crowds are seldom an issue and it’s feasible to enjoy the distinctive culture on a modest budget.

Grand coffeehouses can be found on nearly every corner alongside charming dive bars and traditional Eastern European eateries. Stroll through the old riverside Savamala quarter, the city’s creative hub, and explore the unique blend of architectural styles throughout the city for little to no cost. The oldest architecture in the city can be found in Kalemegdan Park, while other parts of the city feature more modern constructs inspired by Romantic and Neoclassical art movements. Spend a couple of hours at the beautiful Sea of Belgrade, a free public beach, or take a free, self-guided walking tour to discover the city’s downtown area.

Kalemegdan Park © Fotomania17 | Dreamstime

Visit the Kalamegdan Citadel, where 115 battles were fought throughout the region’s history, and stop in the fascinating Military Museum to glimpse the complete story of former Yugoslavia for around only a couple dollars.

For something a little different, visit The Nikola Tesla Museum, a unique presentation on the renowned inventor and face of Serbia’s 100 Dinar, after whom the Tesla unit was named. The museum features interactive sci-fi elements and quirky personal items and artifacts, including Tesla’s ashes. Museum admission is around $5.

The Museum of Contemporary Art was the first contemporary art museum in Europe, founded in 1958. It features iconic works by Andy Warhol, Joan Miró and David Hockney, free of charge.

Street Artist Pijanista in Savamala © Fotokon | Dreamstime

After a day of sightseeing, partake in a classic Eastern European culinary tradition. For some of the best and most affordable Serbian barbeque in Belgrade, visit Mala Gostionica, and for some traditional Eastern European fare, look no further than To Je To, a small, casual eatery offering delicious and authentic dishes like ćevapčići, pljeskavica and sausages. Oxalis is another hidden gem serving contemporary, gourmet-quality Eastern European and French cuisine for reasonable prices.

The public transportation system in Belgrade is easy and affordable, with several tram, trolley and bus lines. A ticket for Zone 1, which includes all major landmarks and attractions in the city, costs only a few cents per ride. Parking in Belgrade is difficult, so public transportation is the way to go for convenience and price.