Fun facts about Serbia
- Raising three fingers—the thumb and its two neighbors—is a cherished Serbian tradition. If you want to show your love for Serbia, this is a great way to connect with the locals. Don’t be surprised when people pose like this in photos with you—just join in! It’s a friendly, symbolic gesture that won’t offend anyone.
2. Rakija, Serbia’s most famous homemade drink, is a must-try. While the first sip might feel intense, by the third you’ll be completely relaxed (perhaps even too relaxed!). Made primarily from plums, it’s also crafted from other fruits like apricots, pears, or quinces. Besides being delicious, it’s loved for not causing headaches the next day.
3. A word of advice: never tell a Serbian man that Hungarian, Bulgarian, or any other women are more beautiful than Serbian women. Just don’t!
4. Fun fact: Many Roman emperors were born in what is now Serbia.
5. Coffee is more than a beverage in Serbia; it’s a way of life. A proper coffee session starts with preparing a warm domestic cup (often Turkish coffee) and can lead to hours of meaningful conversation. Offering coffee to guests is a deeply rooted tradition and a mark of hospitality.
6. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Serbia, with incredibly passionate fans known worldwide for their dedication. Serbia also excels in other sports, including basketball, volleyball, and water polo. Of course, tennis is a national pride, thanks to Novak Djokovic, one of the greatest players in history.
7. Visitors often notice that coffee shops, pubs, and restaurants in Serbia are always bustling. It’s so lively that many tourists jokingly ask, “Do these people ever work?”
8. While Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Croatia, and Macedonia are separate countries, their people can understand each other perfectly. Serbian, Croatian, Montenegrin, and Bosnian share 95% of the same language.
9. Serbia is more relaxed about smoking regulations compared to most European countries, so you’ll find plenty of places where smoking is still allowed.
10. The Saint Sava Temple in Belgrade is a stunning landmark. As the largest Orthodox temple in the world and among the top 10 biggest Christian temples, it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Serbia.