Heapcon’s Belgrade Guide
Welcome to Belgrade! As you get ready for Heapcon, we’ve put together a guide to help you make the most of your stay in Serbia’s vibrant capital.
With lots of our attendees and speakers visiting Belgrade from all around the world joining us for our conference, we wanted to put together a simple and short guide to help you make the most out of your time in Belgrade.
Known for its lively atmosphere, rich history, and burgeoning tech scene, Belgrade is an exciting destination for both work and play.
A Bit About Belgrade
Belgrade, the spirited capital of Serbia, is a city where history meets modern energy, creating a unique cultural and urban landscape. Set at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, it has stood as a crossroads of Eastern and Western influences for centuries. Its historical layers are visible in landmarks like the Kalemegdan Fortress and the cobbled streets of Skadarlija, yet Belgrade is also known for its contemporary, vibrant side.
With its eclectic mix of architecture, buzzing nightlife, and rapidly growing tech scene, Belgrade offers a captivating experience that balances old-world charm with a progressive edge. The city’s warm, welcoming atmosphere and deep-rooted culture make it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking both excitement and a glimpse into Serbia’s rich heritage.
Some Practical Tips
The official currency is the Serbian Dinar (RSD). Most places accept cards, but it’s handy to have some cash, especially for smaller purchases.
Serbian is the official language, but most young people speak English.
There is one airport in Belgrade which is the Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. It is about 20-30 minutes from the city center, and you can get to and from it by taxi or by busses A1 (Slavija square), 72 (Zeleni Venac, Center), 600 (railway station “Beograd centar”), and 607 (Banovo brdo neighborhood).
Top Neighborhoods to Explore
1. City Center (Stari Grad)
Stari Grad is Belgrade’s historic core, known for its elegant architecture, grand squares, and lively pedestrian streets. At the heart is the Republic Square, home to the National Museum and the National Theatre. The area is a blend of old and new, where you’ll find historic buildings alongside trendy cafes, shops, and art galleries.
Knez Mihailova Street, a bustling pedestrian street, is lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers, making it the city’s main commercial hub. Walking through the center, you’ll get a sense of Belgrade’s rich history, cultural diversity, and modern pulse. It’s a great spot to explore day or night, with plenty of cafes and bars that stay lively into the evening.
2. Zemun
Zemun is a unique district with its own character, combining the charm of a riverside town with a touch of Austro-Hungarian architecture. Known for its cobbled streets, riverside promenade, and vibrant local life, Zemun feels like a town within the city.
Exploring Zemun, you’ll also find markets, churches, and quaint streets leading to Gardoš Tower. Zemunski Kej is a popular area along the Danube, where locals and visitors stroll, bike, or relax by the water. Riverside restaurants and cafes offer excellent views and delicious food, especially fresh fish.
3. Dorćol
Dorćol is one of Belgrade’s oldest neighborhoods, known for its artistic, eclectic atmosphere and welcoming vibe. It’s a neighborhood of contrasts, where centuries-old buildings stand next to contemporary bars, galleries, and boutique shops. With its tree-lined streets, colorful murals, and mix of old and new, Dorćol is the place to experience Belgrade’s vibrant, evolving culture.
Attractions To See
Kalemegdan Fortress
A must-see, offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. The fortress grounds are expansive and home to many historical monuments.
Gardoš Tower
Located in the historic neighborhood of Zemun, Gardoš Tower is one of Belgrade’s most iconic landmarks, offering panoramic views over the Danube and the city’s skyline. Built in 1896 during Austro-Hungarian rule, this red-brick tower is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. Climbing to the top is worth it for the breathtaking scenery, and the area surrounding Gardoš is filled with narrow, winding streets that exude an old-town charm.
National Museum of Belgrade
The National Museum of Belgrade, located in Republic Square, is Serbia’s largest and oldest museum, housing hundreds of thousands of artifacts spanning from prehistoric to modern times. Its collection includes notable works by international artists like El Greco, Rubens, and Monet, as well as an extensive display of Serbian medieval art and archaeological finds.
The museum’s beautifully restored interior is organized by historical periods, allowing visitors to explore the region’s cultural evolution. With a permanent exhibition and many temporary exhibitions it offers a deep dive into Serbia’s heritage and artistic achievements.
Nikola Tesla Museum
The Nikola Tesla Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and innovation. Dedicated to the life and work of one of the world’s greatest inventors, the museum showcases Tesla’s original inventions, patents, and personal belongings, including his ashes housed in a commemorative urn. And it also provides insight into Tesla’s visionary ideas for wireless energy and his influence on modern technology.
Skadarlija
Belgrade’s bohemian quarter is often compared to Paris’s Montmartre, with cobblestone streets, artistic soul and historic charm, and traditional restaurants. The cobblestone streets, lined with traditional taverns (kafanas), art galleries, and flower-adorned terraces, make it a picturesque spot for both day and night strolls.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Skadarlija became a hub for artists, poets, and musicians who gathered here, infusing it with a creative and lively spirit that persists to this day. Make sure you don’t miss dining in one of its famous kafanas (authentic Serbian restaurants) with traditional Serbian dishes and live folk music.
Church of Saint Sava
The Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches, is a monumental symbol of Serbian faith and culture. Located in the Vračar district, this stunning white-marble and granite structure is dedicated to Saint Sava. This monument stands over Belgrade and is visible from multiple points around the city.
Inside, visitors are greeted by a vast, golden mosaic dome adorned with intricate religious imagery, while the crypt below is a beautifully designed space, showcasing Orthodox frescoes and icons. The church’s grandeur and architectural beauty, combined with its tranquil atmosphere, make it a powerful experience for anyone visiting Belgrade.
Avala
Avala Mountain, located about 16 kilometers from Belgrade, is a popular retreat for locals and visitors alike, offering scenic nature trails, cultural landmarks, and sweeping views of the city. Rich with oak and pine forests, the mountain is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying Serbia’s natural beauty. Among its most notable attractions are the Monument to the Unknown Hero, a grand stone mausoleum built in 1938 in honor of Serbian soldiers who died in World War I, and the Avala Tower, a modern engineering marvel and Serbia’s tallest structure.
The Avala Tower is originally built in 1965 and reconstructed in 2010 after being destroyed during the NATO bombings, the tower reaches a height of 204.5 meters and features a distinctive tripod design. Its observation deck and café, located 122 meters up, offer stunning panoramic views of Belgrade and beyond.
Museum of Yugoslavia
Dedicated to the history of the former country of Yugoslavia, this museum houses a fascinating collection, including personal items of the former Yugoslavian President Josip Broz Tito. The grounds and the House of Flowers mausoleum are unique experiences for history lovers.
Connect with Other Heapcon Attendees
Want to link up with other conference-goers? Download the Whova app and join other attendees for Heapcon! Connect with those going for the first time or alone, or just read about the best tips on the community chats! And make sure you follow Heapcon on social media for updates!