Belgrade is gritty, lively, and underrated. The Belgrade Fortress sits at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers with views over the city. The fortress and Kalemegdan Park are the heart of Belgrade. Skadarlija is the old bohemian quarter with cobblestone streets, restaurants, and live music. The Church of Saint Sava is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.

Belgrade has one of the best nightlife scenes in Europe. Clubs and bars (especially the floating river clubs called splavovi) stay open until sunrise. The city is loud, chaotic, and fun.

Belgrade is also affordable. Hostels run $8-15/night. A meal costs $5-8. A beer is $1-2.

Novi Sad north of Belgrade is quieter and more relaxed. The Petrovaradin Fortress overlooks the Danube. Novi Sad hosts the Exit Festival (a massive music festival in summer). The city is charming with a more Central European vibe.

Niš in the south has Roman ruins, a fortress, and the eerie Skull Tower (a tower made from the skulls of Serbian rebels by the Ottomans).

The countryside has medieval monasteries (UNESCO sites) with frescoes and peaceful settings. The monasteries are scattered across central and southern Serbia.

Kopaonik and Zlatibor are mountain resorts for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Serbian food is Balkan and hearty. Ćevapi (grilled minced meat). Pljeskavica (a Serbian burger). Ajvar (red pepper spread). Kajmak (creamy dairy spread). Serbian food is simple, filling, and cheap.

Serbian people are warm, proud, and welcoming. They're passionate about their history, their culture, and their country. English is common among younger people. Serbs are generous hosts and will invite you to share food and rakija (fruit brandy).

Getting around is straightforward. Buses connect cities. Trains are slower and less reliable. If you want to explore monasteries or mountains, rent a car.

Serbia is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Hostels run $8-15/night. A meal at a restaurant is $5-8. A beer is $1-2.

When to go: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are mild and less crowded. Summer (June-August) is warm and lively (Exit Festival in July). Winter (November-March) is cold, and skiing is possible in the mountains.

Serbia is gritty, lively, and incredibly affordable. If you want nightlife and value, Belgrade is one of the best cities in Europe.