Cobbled streets adorned with twinkling lights, the delightful aroma of mulled wine wafting through the air, and locals donned in scarves and smiles – welcome to the jolly season in Belgrade! What makes this experience even more delightful is the realization that I can savor the holiday spirit without breaking the bank.
Nestled in the heart of Central Europe, Belgrade reveals its winter secrets with a festive flair that beckons explorers seeking both enchantment and affordability. As a newcomer to this city, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the blend of old-world charm and rich tradition that define Christmas in Belgrade. From Knez Mihailova Street, adorned with sparkling lights, to the historic charm of Skadarlija, every corner of the city tells its own Christmas story.
Join me as I unwrap the festive secrets of Belgrade, explore quirky traditions, budget-friendly activities, and the infectious cheer that makes Christmas in the Serbian capital a truly magical experience. With twinkling lights adorning the historic streets to the warmth of the locals, this central European gem has captivated my heart.
How is Christmas celebrated in Serbia?
Did you know most Serbians are Orthodox Christians? This means they celebrate Christmas on January 7th and Christmas Eve on January 6th.
But the festive vibes start even earlier with Advent kicking off on November 28th, lasting a full six weeks. During this time, many locals embrace a special fasting tradition, skipping animal products like meat, milk, and eggs. Indeed, it’s not just a religious observance; it’s a cultural immersion that adds a unique flair to the Serbian holiday season.
There are lots of traditions during this period although some aren’t as common today. Many of them are from the countryside and are fading as people move to cities but some unique ones still remain.
Christmas Eve in Serbia, known as ‘Badnji dan’ by day and ‘Badnje veče’ after sunset, is a time for family gatherings and marks the end of a special fasting period where many avoid animal products.
Christmas is deeply religious here and most people attend service at church. In the past, fathers would head into the forest to cut a young oak, the ‘Badnjak’ (Christmas Eve tree), but nowadays, most people buy one. Then, much like a yule log, people burn this tree.
On Christmas Day, the celebration starts with church bells and sometimes even gunshots fired into the air! People believe the first visitor, called a položajnik, brings luck to the house and family for the year Consequently, if the family doesn’t have a good year, they might invite someone else next time!
And don’t forget about ‘cesnica’, the special round bread eaten on Christmas. They make it with “strong water” and hide a coin inside. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is said to enjoy extra luck in the upcoming year.
A local reminisces, “My favourite is the straw under the dinner table as a symbol of the stable/cave where Jesus was born.” This is another Christmas tradition although it is not as popular today.
Things to Do in Belgrade
Wander through Knez Mihailova and experience the joy of the Christmas markets
Stroll down Belgrade’s prettiest street and dive into winter’s magic! Picture this: adorable wooden huts wafting with the scent of mulled wine, brimming with sweet treats and festive finds. Stunning ornaments deck out the entire street, creating a magical atmosphere. Truly, it’s the perfect spot for everyone, young or old, to soak in the holiday spirit and make some cool memories! Also, don’t miss out on snagging a pic with Santa if you have children or by yourself if that’s what you’re into!
The markets (huts) line the street all along its length. They sell a variety of items from scarves to hot chocolate and even barbecue! Additionally, there a lots of candy stores as well for the sweet tooths.
Interestingly, I spoke to a few locals who mentioned that if I don’t do anything else, taking a stroll down this street is a must! I’ve walked this street at least 4 times over the past month. I don’t usually buy anything but walking through all the lights and markets warms my heart. Additionally, It runs from December 8th through January 8th. Lastly, I would recommend going during the week if you can as it gets pretty busy over the weekend.
Address: Knez Mihailova
Hours of Operation: Every day: 10AM-10PM
Watch Christmas Magic unfold at the Belgrade Waterfront
Magic is here! Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Christmas and New Year at the enchanting Belgrade Waterfront. Enjoy winter cinema, concerts and performances, delicious cuisine, fire pits and an outdoor ice rink! My husband and I cozied up by the fire pit, enjoyed a soothing jazz performance, as we sipped on hot chocolate from Kafeterija. So, settle into a lawn chair and snuggle up with the comfy blankets provided for the perfect lounging experience.
See you there from December 8th through January 8th!
End your evening with a peaceful walk along the Sava while admiring the stunning murals that decorate the promenade.
The Belgrade Galerija, down the road, is decorated to the nines from top to bottom. There are events for all ages at both squares of the mall. From photos with Santa, to ballet performances as well as well decorated backdrops for family photos. These events will begin on December 8th and round up on January 7th.
Address: Sava Park and Galerija
Hours of Operation: Every day: Noon-10PM
Ring in the New Year on the Sava Promenade
Make sure to catch the coolest New Year’s party in Serbia on December 31st! It usually starts at 8:30 PM near the Old Sava Bridge at the Sava Promenade, and it’s free to join!
Celebrate and welcome 2024 with great music from popular local artists. At midnight, watch an amazing light and music show from the Belgrade Tower, complete with awesome lasers and fireworks!
Address: Sava Promenade
Sip on the best hot chocolate in Belgrade at Kafeterija Gardos
Nestled in a quaint, cobblestone-lined street that instantly transports you to the heart of Europe, there lies a charming coffee shop, reminiscent of a gingerbread house straight out of a fairy tale. During the festive season, this enchanting café transforms into a Christmas wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, festive garlands, and a dusting of faux snow on its roof, creating a picture-perfect setting that captivates both the young and the young at heart. Its whimsical design, featuring candy cane-striped awnings and frosting-like trim, entices passersby to step into a world where the magic of Christmas comes alive.
Once inside, the warm, inviting aroma of the shop’s signature offering greets you: the town’s most delicious hot chocolate. Each cup, a work of art, often features a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate shavings. The cozy interior, with its snug seating and soft lights, offers a serene escape from the winter chill. You can nestle into a comfortable corner, sipping on hot chocolate while soaking up the café’s truly European ambiance. This coffee shop isn’t just a place to enjoy a beverage; it’s an experience that epitomizes the joy and warmth of the holiday season.
Address: Njegoševa 53, Beograd 11080
Hours of Operation: MTWT: 8AM-Midnight, F: 8AM-1AM, Sat: 8AM-8PM, Sun: 10AM-10PM
Uncover Smokvica Market’s hidden French charm in an unsuspecting Belgrade house
This tucked away gem is a must visit when you’re in Belgrade. It’s in the most unassuming location in what looks like a regular house. However when you walk through the doors it’s a completely different experience. It’s a cozy space with a French charm.
Enjoy a meal either in the courtyard or by the fireplace.
In December, the courtyard transforms into a holiday market offering a diverse range of treats and drinks.
At the entrance, you’ll spot a Banka Pahuljica where can you exchange cash or card payments for snowflakes. Snowflakes are the currency at the market! There’s a special corner for children to enjoy face paint and other activities. We stopped by at the mulled wine and hot chocolate spots. While I didn’t try any food, cheesy Karfiol, chestnuts, Smokvica satkis among lots others were available to indulge in.
Stop by every Saturday & Sunday in December from 11AM to enjoy the market.
Address: Molerova 33, Beograd 11000
Hours of Operation: MTWT: 8AM-Midnight, F: 8AM-1AM, Sat: 8AM-8PM, Sun: 10AM-10PM
Lace up for some ice skating at Pionir Hall
If you’re looking for some fun that’s not food related and wallet-friendly, you’ve got to check out the ice-skating at Pionir Ice Hall in Belgrade. Moreover, as a local hotspot, it’s the perfect way to mix up your city adventures with a little bit of winter magic.
Pionir Ice Hall is the go-to rink and is the biggest indoor rink in Serbia, so you know it’s good. They open in the evenings, which is perfect because you can round up your friend group or take the little ones to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
The best part? It’s affordable. We’re talking less than 3 euros for an entire day. So for all my fellow budget-conscious travelers, this is your chance to make some cool memories without freezing your bank account.
Address: Čarlija Čaplina 39, Belgrade 11000
Hours of Operation: MTTF: 6-8PM, W: 2-8PM, SS: 10AM-10PM
What to eat in Belgrade during Christmas
Heading to Belgrade? Prepare for a unique dining experience that’s central to the Serbian culture. The country is famous for its unique dishes that you simply won’t find elsewhere.
In Belgrade, the food scene is a real treat, especially for people looking for a mix of classic and modern tastes. You’ve got to try mouth-watering dishes like ćevapi, burek and sarmas which are all about big and complex flavours!
For dessert, there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy fancy cakes like plazma or reforma. Alternatively, for a more traditional sweet, try orasnica (walnut cookies) or oblanda (wafers). These are classic Serbian desserts that are simply yummy.
And if you’re into trying local drinks, don’t miss out on Rakija – it’s a famous Serbian brandy that’s a must-try. It can be made it with a variety of fruits, but beware, it’s 40% proof. I prefer sweeter alcoholic drinks, so my favorite is the apricot-flavored one.. Not into alcohol? No worries, Serbian coffee, akin to Turkish coffee, is delicious. You can also try the many different natural fruit juices made from the area’s wide range of fruits.
Tips for visiting Belgrade during Christmas
I recommend staying close to the city center or just on the other side of the river by the Belgrade Waterfront so this way you are walking distance to all the attractions!
With regards to navigating the city, if I can’t walk then CarGo! or Pink Taxi are my go-to. Christmas time is usually busy with tourists so it takes little longer to find a taxi. Be sure to call a taxi 5-10 minutes before you plan to head out for the day.
Have fun in Belgrade! Hopefully, we’ll be sprinkled with a few magical days of snow to add some festive sparkle to our Christmas season!