Serbia offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant nightlife, and warm hospitality. From the dynamic capital Belgrade to medieval fortresses and stunning natural landscapes, this Balkan nation delivers authentic experiences at exceptional value.
Serbia is generally a safe country for travelers with low violent crime rates, especially in cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad. Normal precautions apply in crowded areas, and the Kosovo border region warrants caution due to ongoing political sensitivity.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions in Serbia. Most visits are trouble-free. Be aware of the politically sensitive Kosovo border area and avoid political demonstrations.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Serbia is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions. Be aware of political demonstrations and avoid the Kosovo border region. Drug-facilitated crime at Belgrade nightclubs has been reported.
Yellow - Exercise a high degree of caution
Serbia is a relatively safe country for travel. The Kosovo border area remains politically tense — exercise caution within 10km of the border. Demonstrations can occur in Belgrade.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings — tensions can escalate quickly
Be cautious during high-profile sporting events, particularly football matches between rival clubs
Keep valuables secure in crowded areas like Knez Mihailova Street, markets, and bus stations
Use only registered taxis or rideshare apps (CarGo, Bolt) — agree on price before entering unmarked cabs
Stay aware within 10km of the Kosovo border — the situation remains politically sensitive
Register with your country's embassy upon arrival for extended stays; the US Embassy is at Bulevar kneza Aleksandra Karadjordjevica 92
Nightlife in Belgrade's Savamala district is generally safe but keep an eye on drinks — drug-spiking incidents have been reported at clubs
Health insurance is strongly recommended; emergency care is available at Urgentni Centar (Pasterova 2, Belgrade) but waits can be long
Carry small denomination dinars — many smaller kafanas and market stalls do not accept cards
Dress modestly when visiting Orthodox churches and monasteries — covered shoulders and knees required for both men and women
Beware of overcharging at tourist restaurants in Skadarlija — always check the menu price before ordering
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unlicensed taxi overcharging
Unofficial taxis at Belgrade airport, bus stations, and outside nightclubs routinely charge 5-10x legitimate rates to tourists. The meters may be tampered with or drivers claim the meter is broken.
How to avoid: Use only named taxi companies (Pink Taxi, Lux Taxi, Naxi) with illuminated company signs, or use CarGo/Bolt apps which show fixed prices before you travel
Restaurant menu swap
A small number of tourist-area restaurants in Skadarlija and near Kalemegdan present one menu to attract customers and charge higher prices on the bill. Extra items may be added without ordering.
How to avoid: Always check the menu price list carefully before ordering and verify the bill against what you ordered. Ask for an itemized receipt if prices seem wrong
Counterfeit money
Counterfeit 500 and 1,000 RSD banknotes occasionally circulate, particularly in change given at busy markets or late-night kiosks.
How to avoid: Use ATMs from major banks for cash. Check for security features on larger banknotes (watermarks, security thread). Exchange at official banks or licensed exchange offices (menjačnica)
Friendly stranger drinks scam
In Belgrade nightlife areas, strangers may invite you to a bar or club where drinks cost extraordinary amounts and pressure is applied to pay. Sometimes involves a group working together.
How to avoid: Be cautious of unsolicited drink invitations in tourist areas at night. Check prices before ordering anywhere you're taken to unexpectedly
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No required vaccinations for Serbia. Routine vaccines (MMR, DTaP, flu) recommended. Hepatitis A and B recommended for some travelers. Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine if hiking in forests.
- Water
- Safe to drink in Belgrade, Novi Sad, and other major cities. Locals often prefer bottled water for taste. In rural areas, ask locally or use bottled water.
- Food
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Belgrade and Novi Sad are very safe for solo travelers. Central areas are well-lit and busy until late. Solo travelers should take standard nightlife precautions (watch drinks, use CarGo/Bolt not unlicensed taxis). The hiking areas of Tara and Kopaonik are safe but notify someone of your route for remote trails.
Female travellers
Female solo travelers are generally safe in Serbia's cities. Catcalling can occur but is usually non-threatening. In nightlife environments, watch your drink and stay with company in unfamiliar clubs. Dress modestly at religious sites. Serbian women frequently travel solo and the country's cities feel safe compared to Western European averages for harassment.
Families
Serbia is very family-friendly with excellent infrastructure for children. Cities are safe for families, public spaces have playgrounds, and restaurants genuinely welcome children. Healthcare in Belgrade (Tiršova Children's Hospital) is competent. Ada Ciganlija beach and Kopaonik are ideal family destinations. Keep children supervised around the Danube and Sava rivers.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Homosexuality is legal in Serbia and same-sex partnerships have limited legal recognition. Belgrade Pride has been held annually since 2014 with police protection. However, public affection between same-sex couples may attract negative attention outside Belgrade's central and Savamala districts. LGBTQ venues exist in Belgrade but are not always publicized openly. Exercise discretion in rural areas and smaller cities where social attitudes are more conservative.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 192
- Medical
- 194
- Embassy
- Tourist Police