Serbia - Landlocked country at the Danube

Serbia is an inland country in south-eastern Europe and borders on numerous neighbouring countries. Examples are Hungary, Bulgaria, Albania and Montenegro. Besides the capital of Belgrade, the most important cities are Novi Sad, Niš and Kragujevac. The climate zones range from temperate to warm. In summer, it is very pleasant 22 °C warm, while January in winter is 1 °C cold and rich in snow.

Serbia is one of the countries at the Danube. But it also accommodates a number of other worthwhile rivers such as the Drina and the Save. Serbia has the greatest cliff area at a river and the largest mountain pastures in Europe. The country's mountain ranges are beautiful. The Tara Mountain is characterised by wonderful mountain lakes and forests which are vegetated by countless linden trees and the rare Serbian spruce. Serbia's forests are among the most native ones in the whole of Europe.

About ten percent of the country are protected. The national parks are a highlight for young visitors and grown-ups. The Djerdap National Park contains the gorge of the same name (Djerdab Gorge), which is 100 kilometres long. It is also called the "Iron Gate" by the locals. The Tara Mountain lies in the Tara National Park. It is crossed by vast forests and the Drina River. Wonderful herbs, which are used for medicine, grow in the Fruška Gora National Park. Adventurers should not miss out on the caves of Zlotska Pećina. The impressive rock formations in the south of the country are equally exciting. They are often called "Devil's Town".

Serbia is one of the Balkan states which were occupied by the Byzantines, Romans and Turks for centuries. Numerous buildings and monuments bear witness to those times. Not long ago, Serbia was part of Yugoslavia. After the breakup of Yugoslavia, it united with Montenegro. Since 2006, Serbia has been an independent republic. Serbia's ethnic groups come from all parts of the Balkan Peninsula. This colourful mix is reflected in the country's culture. What they all have in common is their warm-hearted nature. Hospitality plays a particularly important role here.

Belgrade is the country's centre. Numerous museums, a cathedral and an open-air museum make the city an extraordinary destination. One beautiful attraction is Belgrade Fortress, which was mainly built in the 18th century and accommodates the city park today. You find an interesting location in the Autonomous Province of Vojvodina. Its capital Novi Sad lies directly at the Danube. Travellers find another fortress here - Petrovaradin Fortress. Serbia generally has a great number of fortresses, ruins, monasteries and castles. Two of the best-known monasteries are Hopovo and Krusedol. Studenica Monastery is part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.

When you are in Serbia, act like the Serbians - especially when it comes to food. Meals traditionally begin with home-made liqueur. "Živeli!" means as much as "Cheers!" Afterwards, you have hearty plain dishes such as riblji paprikaš (fish goulash) or Japrak (wine leaves stuffed with meat). After the meal, it is "Živeli!" again. You can also buy or taste the Serbian liqueur in Belgrade's great shopping centre "City Passage" or on the markets. Serbia is still an insider tip as a spa destination. It is exactly the right place for relaxing. You find the most beautiful mineral and thermal springs in the spa resort of Vrnjačka Banja. Serbia's nightlife is a class of its own. In contrast to other countries, where party nights are limited to the weekend, the Serbians party every night. Belgrade is a real party hotspot with passionate and enthusiastic party-goers.

You see sailing and rowing boats on the country's great lakes. The Danube offers great conditions for these activities too. In addition, travellers will enjoy cycling tours along the country's many flowing waters. In winter, there is a lot of snow and the skiing regions are well-frequented. A great location for climbing tours is the Kopaonik mountain range. A particularly thrilling experience is a cave climbing tour.

Besides arriving by plane, you can visit Serbia as part of a river cruise on the Danube. This way, travellers have the opportunity to see a number of countries at the Danube on one journey. Serbia is a highlight on such a trip.