Small Belgrade Tour

The heart of Belgrade has been densely populated for over 2000 years, with the life of the city unfolding from Kalemegdan, along Knez Mihailova Street, to Republic Square under various rulers. Kalemegdan Fortress, perched above the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, bears witness to the city’s tumultuous history. Stories of great empires and ordinary people alike have woven through the fabric of this formidable stronghold.

During our walk, we’ll hear tales from the Celtic, Roman, Byzantine, Serbian, Hungarian, Turkish, and Austrian periods of Belgrade. The Roman legions first erected walls from the “white” blocks of Tašmajdan, which led the Slavs to name the city Beograd – the White City. Significant military leaders and kings from the Middle Ages to modern times have left indelible marks on this ever-vibrant city. Even if you’ve traversed Kalemegdan a hundred times, this tour will reveal stories you’ve likely never heard before, offering new surprises and insights.

Our small, walking tour Belgrade Tour, starts at Studentski Trg (in front of the Captain Mišin Building – the Rectorate of the University of Belgrade) at 12:00. Our first stop will delve into the history of the Roman baths located on Studentski Trg, followed by a walk past the remnants of Roman streets near Rajićeva Shopping Center.

We continue through Kalemegdan Park, passing by the pavilion of Cevijeta Zuzorić, formerly the home of the Museum of Contemporary Art. The first gate we’ll enter through is Leopold’s Gate, leading to the Barbican of Zindan Gate, one of the main entrances into the city. Here, we’ll learn about the Church of Ružica, whose dome emerged from the Kalemegdan ramparts in 1867 after the withdrawal of the Turkish army. The church is unique for its chandelier made from the swords and bullets of Belgrade’s defenders in 1915. As we pass through Despot’s Gate, we enter the Upper Town, where the only fully restored tower now houses the observatory (Rudjer Bošković Astronomical Society).

Our Small Belgrade tour continues past the Damat Ali Pasha’s Turbe, the burial site of a great Turkish military leader who led 200,000 soldiers in the assault on Petrovaradin in 1716, which was defended by Prince Eugene of Savoy with far fewer men. Before viewing the confluence of the Sava into the Danube, we’ll pass by the visible remnants of a Serbian medieval entrance to the royal complex, and learn the history behind the monument of The Victor. This nude male figure with an eagle and sword has a story connected to a victory many visitors and locals alike are unaware of, including a humorous anecdote related to the statue.

We’ll also explore the so-called Roman Well, which is neither Roman nor a well, and hear its story before proceeding to King’s Gate. A large staircase reconstructed in 1928 during a major celebration carries its own sad tale. As we stroll with a beautiful view of New Belgrade, we’ll pass by the French Embassy and reach the Belgrade Cathedral Church dedicated to Archangel Michael. Beyond its significant spiritual importance, the church is noteworthy as the resting place of two great Serbian enlighteners who shaped the educational landscape of the Serbian nation. Near the church stands the beautiful residence of Princess Ljubica, constructed immediately after the receipt of the Hatisheriff in 1830. This residence served dual purposes: as a residential space for the ruling family and a state building for diplomatic receptions. It has changed its purpose many times, serving as a Lyceum, the first Belgrade Gymnasium, an Appeals Court, and the Museum of Prince Pavle.

We conclude our walk along the historic streets of Belgrade to Obilićev Venac, where we find a monument to Duke Vuk erected in 1936 as a thank you from the Serbian people to this great patriot and fighter for the liberation of Old Serbia. Our tour ends back at Republic Square, where we’ll discuss the National Museum and the National Theatre located across the street. A final tale about the central monument to Prince Mihailo, who still points to cities newly freed from the Turks, whose keys he received, will round off our tour.

If you’re already in love with Belgrade and want to make your relationship more serious, check out our Big Belgrade Tour! This 8-hour tour explores Belgrade’s vibrant neighborhoods, historical landmarks, and hidden gems outside the city center. Explore beyond the beaten path and experience the full richness of Belgrade!