Small Belgrade (shared) tour

Belgrade’s rich history, spanning over 2000 years, is deeply embedded in its heart, from Kalemegdan to Republic Square. At the heart of it all is Kalemegdan Fortress, a testament to the city’s turbulent past. Overlooking the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, this formidable stronghold has witnessed the rise and fall of empires and the lives of countless ordinary people.

During our tour, we will explore Belgrade’s storied past through the lenses of various civilizations, including the Celts, Romans, Byzantines, Serbs, Hungarians, Turks, and Austrians. The Roman legions were the first to erect the city’s walls using the “white” stones from Tašmajdan, which inspired the Slavs to call it Beograd – the White City. From the Middle Ages to modern times, notable military leaders and monarchs have left their marks on this vibrant city. Even if you think you know Kalemegdan well, this tour promises to unveil stories and surprises that will deepen your appreciation of Belgrade’s rich heritage.

Our tour begins at Studentski Trg, in front of the Captain Mišin Building (the Rectorate of the University of Belgrade), at 10:00. Our first stop is the Roman baths at Studentski Trg, followed by a walk past the remnants of Roman streets near the Rajićeva Shopping Center. We then proceed through Kalemegdan Park, passing the pavilion of Cvijeta Zuzorić, formerly the home of the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Entering through Leopold’s Gate, we reach the Barbican of Zindan Gate, a main entrance into the city. Here, we discuss the Church of Ružica, whose dome emerged from the ramparts in 1867 after the Turkish army’s withdrawal. The church is unique for its chandelier made from the weapons used by Belgrade’s defenders in 1915. As we pass through Despot’s Gate into the Upper Town, we’ll visit the only fully restored tower, now housing the observatory of the Ruđer Bošković Astronomical Society.

Our small Belgrade tour continues past Damat Ali Pasha’s Turbe, the burial site of the Turkish military leader who led the assault on Petrovaradin in 1716. Before we view the confluence of the Sava and Danube, we pass by remnants of a medieval Serbian entrance to the royal complex and learn the history of the Victor monument, including an amusing anecdote about the statue.

We’ll explore the so-called Roman Well, which is neither Roman nor a well, before heading to King’s Gate. This staircase, reconstructed in 1928, carries its own poignant history. As we stroll with a view of New Belgrade, we pass the French Embassy and reach the Belgrade Cathedral Church dedicated to Archangel Michael. The church is significant for its spiritual importance and as the resting place of two great Serbian enlighteners. Nearby, we see the residence of Princess Ljubica, built in 1830, which has served various purposes over the years, from a royal residence to the Museum of Prince Pavle.

Our refreshing tour walk concludes at Obilićev Venac, where the monument to Duke Vuk stands as a tribute to his patriotism and fight for the liberation of Old Serbia. Finally, we return to Republic Square, where we discuss the National Museum and the National Theatre. We end with the story of the central monument to Prince Mihailo, pointing to the cities he freed from Turkish rule.

For the True Belgrade Enthusiast

If you’ve fallen in love with Belgrade and want to explore further, join our Big Belgrade Tour! This 8-hour adventure takes you through Belgrade’s diverse neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and hidden treasures beyond the city center.