Choosing the right Belgrade neighborhood can make a big difference to how you experience the Serbian capital. The city is known for its mix of history, culture, nightlife, and hospitality, and each district offers something different. Whether you want to be surrounded by tradition, modern luxury, or the energy of nightlife, Belgrade has a place that will feel just right.
Just for you, we are discovering some of the most popular areas for visitors. Each has its own character, atmosphere, and appeal.
Savamala – Nightlife and Creativity by the River
Savamala has undergone one of the most remarkable transformations in Belgrade. This Belgrade neighborhood was once a neglected industrial zone filled with crumbling warehouses. Now, it is the city’s artistic and nightlife hub. Located along the right bank of the Sava River, Savamala is packed with clubs, bars, and cultural centers.
During the day, the district has a laid-back atmosphere. You can explore street art, stop by creative spaces like KC Grad (a cultural center that hosts exhibitions and performances), or simply enjoy a coffee at one of the modern riverside cafés. But as soon as evening comes, Savamala wakes up. Famous clubs such as Drugstore or riverside “splavovi” (floating nightclubs) offer music that lasts until dawn, making the area especially attractive to younger travelers and those looking for Belgrade’s legendary nightlife.
Accommodation here ranges from hip hostels and boutique hotels to stylish apartments, often within walking distance of both the nightlife venues and the city center. For visitors who want energy, art, and long nights out, Savamala is hard to beat.
Skadarlija – The Bohemian Quarter
If you are drawn to history, tradition, and a slower pace, Skadarlija is one of Belgrade’s most charming spots. Often compared to Montmartre in Paris, this cobblestone street and surrounding area has been home to artists, poets, and musicians for more than a century.
Walking through Skadarlija feels like stepping into the past. Traditional Serbian restaurants (kafane) line the street, offering local dishes such as roasted lamb, grilled meats, and homemade rakija. Many of these restaurants feature live folk music, making dinner here a full cultural experience. During the summer months, tables spill onto the street, creating a lively but intimate atmosphere.
Skadarlija is also ideal for those who want to be centrally located. From here, you can easily walk to Republic Square, Knez Mihailova (Belgrade’s main pedestrian shopping street), and the National Museum. Accommodation tends to be smaller boutique hotels or apartments in historic buildings, often decorated with vintage or rustic charm.
For visitors who want a romantic, bohemian stay filled with culture and traditional cuisine, Skadarlija is the perfect choice.
Dorćol – Belgrade Neighborhood Blending Old and New
Dorćol, located between the city center and the Danube River, is one of Belgrade’s most diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. Historically, it has always been a meeting point of cultures – its name even comes from the Turkish word for “crossroads.” Today, Dorćol keeps that spirit alive, offering a mix of tradition and modernity.
On one side, you can explore Kalemegdan Fortress and enjoy sweeping views of the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. On the other, you’ll find narrow streets filled with independent coffee shops, craft beer bars, hidden cocktail lounges, and trendy eateries. The district is also known for its street art, alternative galleries, and community-driven cultural spaces.
Dorćol is perfect for visitors who want to feel like locals. Staying here means being within walking distance of many of Belgrade’s main attractions while also discovering hidden corners of the city. The accommodation options are varied, from modern apartments to boutique hotels, often with a youthful, creative design.
If you enjoy mixing sightseeing with café culture and a dynamic, everyday urban vibe, Dorćol will suit you well.
Belgrade Waterfront – Belgrade Neighborhood With Modern Comfort and Luxury
Belgrade Waterfront is the city’s newest and most ambitious urban project. Stretching along the Sava River, this modern development has introduced a completely new skyline to Belgrade. High-rise towers, sleek architecture, and a riverside promenade define the area, which is still expanding year by year.
Staying here offers a very different experience compared to the historic Belgrade neighborhoods. You’ll find luxury hotels, serviced apartments, shopping malls such as Galerija, and international restaurants. The riverside promenade is perfect for long walks, cycling, or evening strolls with a view of the illuminated city.
The main appeal of Belgrade Waterfront is comfort and convenience. Everything is new, modern, and designed for ease of living. While it may lack the historic charm of Dorćol or Skadarlija, it provides an excellent base for those who prefer contemporary luxury and want to be right by the river.
Luxury Villas in and Around Belgrade
In addition to these urban Belgrade neighborhoods, many visitors choose to stay in luxury villas located in and around Belgrade. These properties are often located on the outskirts of the city, in green areas that offer peace, privacy, and space. Many villas typically come with private gardens, swimming pools, modern interiors, and panoramic views. They are an excellent choice for families, larger groups, team buildings, or travelers who want a more exclusive experience.
Some villas are only a short drive from the city center, meaning you can enjoy the best of both worlds: the quiet of a private estate and easy access to Belgrade’s attractions, nightlife, and cultural sites. Others are located in nearby countryside settings, perfect for combining a city trip with a relaxing retreat.
If you’re interested in this kind of accommodation, Weekendica offers many options. All properties have with detailed descriptions and photos, and you will surely find the villa of your dreams.
Which Belgrade Neighborhood is Right for You?
You are still not sure which Belgrade neighborhood to choose for your stay? Let us help you a bit more!
Choose Savamala if nightlife and creativity are your priorities.
Stay in Skadarlija if you want tradition, history, and romantic dinners with folk music.
Pick Dorćol for a local experience, with culture, coffee shops, and vibrant everyday life.
Opt for Belgrade Waterfront if you prefer modern comfort, luxury, and riverside living.
Or, go for a luxury villa in a suburban Belgrade neighborhood if you want privacy, space, and exclusive amenities.
Belgrade is a city that thrives on contrasts – old and new, traditional and modern, calm and energetic. No matter which Belgrade neighborhood you choose, you’ll find yourself immersed in a place where history meets a lively contemporary spirit, and where hospitality is always at the heart of the experience.