The Serbian capital of Belgrade has turned into a digital nomad hotspot of sorts due to several reasons. With a low cost of living, laid-back lifestyle, and rich history, Belgrade offers everything that a remote worker could possibly need.
While this city has always been famous among tourists, it has started to gain fame among the digital nomad community as well. Nomads can enjoy its easily accessible location and explore the rest of Serbia with Belgrade as their base. Let’s discuss some main aspects of the digital nomad lifestyle in this city and see what it’s like to live there.
Where is Belgrade located?
Belgarde, the capital city of Serbia, is located on the Balkan peninsula. This city is situated in south-eastern Europe, at the confluence of the Sava rivers and Danube rivers.
Fact: Did you know that Belgrade is the largest city in Serbia and the third-largest in all of Southeastern Europe?
Why Choose Belgrade as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Much like any other city, Belgrade has its fair share of flaws. Before you make any permanent commitments, make sure to weigh the pros and cons of living in this city. Let’s delve into some major details and see if Belgrade is a good place for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Unique culture | Hostility towards lgbtq+ community |
| Rich history | Underdeveloped public transit |
| Low cost of living | Cold winters |
| Friendly locals | |
| Central location | |
| Fewer language barriers | |
| Very safe | |
| Stunning architecture |
Apart from these pros, Belgrade also has a great and well-developed digital infrastructure. Digital nomads are guaranteed to appreciate the fast internet speeds, good coverage, and coworking spaces. If you are willing to look past some flaws, Belgrade will offer you a great living experience.
While the public transportation system is pretty questionable at this point, relevant authorities are working on it. With growing popularity, the city will resolve this problem soon.
How to Get to Belgrade?
You can get to Serbia as per your desired means but air travel is the most recommended option (especially for people traveling from abroad). We suggest you take connecting or direct flights and land at the Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport.
Once you have landed there, you can get to the city through different options.
Car rentals
Since the airport is located 18km away from the city, car rentals are a great way of traveling to the center. There are plenty of car rental companies that provide on-spot service at the airport. Car rentals allow you to drive at your own pace, make stops, and explore the surroundings on your way. However, please note that Belgrade’s narrow roads can be difficult for people who are not used to them!
Taxi
Taxis are undoubtedly the best way of getting to the city after a long and tedious flight. You can find taxis at the airport terminal after landing or pre-book a car through taxi services. It only takes 20-30 minutes and ensures comfortability.
Bus
You can also access the public transport system to travel to the city. The A1 line runs 24/7 and allows an affordable way for visitors. You can find the bus stop just outside the arrivals area and buy tickets from the driver. Bus travel takes 30-40 minutes on average.
Transportation and How to Get Around Belgrade?
Once you have made it to the city, here’s how you can travel on a day-to-day basis.
Walking
Belgrade’s old town is very walkable and allows the public to travel on foot. Mostly everything is located within walking distance and streets are safe as well. However, please note that walking is not a logical option in new Belgrade, especially in the city center.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available and easily accessible in the city. You can hail local taxis on the main streets or use ride-sharing apps. While Uber doesn’t operate in the city, CarGo is a great alternative. Beware of taxi scams and illegal drivers while making sure the taxi driver has a functional meter.
Driving
You can also get a car rental or buy a second-hand car (if you are planning a longer stay) to get around on a daily basis. However, keep in mind that roads can get congested and traffic is hectic pretty often. Parking is also difficult during peak traffic hours.
Buses
Buses are also a viable way of getting around on a daily basis. While public transport is not as reliable and efficient as preferred, it is still pretty decent. You can buy a “Bus Plus” car to access this form of transportation. Buses are certainly one of the most affordable ways of getting around.
Trams
With 11 lines available in the city, the tram system is also a great option. While they are slower than buses, they offer reliability and convenience.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Belgrade
There are plenty of good neighborhoods in the city and each offers a unique experience. Once you know what you are looking for, you can find accommodation in that area. Here are some of the best options.
Dorcol
Located downtown, Drocol is one of the best neighborhoods for digital nomads. Not only does it have a convenient location but it’s well developed as well. Since it has a central location, numerous bars, and restaurants are situated within a short walking distance.
Stari Grad
Stari Grad is a great place, perfect for people who wish to live in a bustling environment. This is the city’s center where most of the action happens. This area houses a ton of tourist attractions and has easy access to public transportation. However, it can be more expensive than some other areas.
New Belgrade
Built after World War II, the new Belgrade is a modern and contemporary neighborhood. There is a wide scope of outdoor activities in this region with plenty of green spaces and parks. New Belgrade is also quieter than other neighborhoods, allowing you a chance to avoid tourist crowds.
Internet Connectivity in Belgrade
Remote workers would be happy to learn that Belgrade has high internet speeds and great coverage. You can maintain a good work-life balance and meet those tight deadlines! The modern telecommunication infrastructure is also pretty good in the city. In fact, Belgrade was ranked 69th in the world for mobile speeds and 71th for fixed broadband speeds.
Other than that, there are a bunch of good providers in the city. You can get a local SIM card after arriving to ensure extra reliability. Make sure to compare data packages and prices before making a decision.
Most cafes and coworking spaces offer free wi-fi as well!
E sim
If you want an extra reliable internet connection, consider opting for an E SIM. They allow you to digitalize SIMs and avoid the trouble of a physical SIM card. Here are some packages.
Holafly
| Data validity | Days | Price |
| Unlimited data | 7 days | 34$ (31.13€) |
| Unlimited data | 10 days | 37$ (34.21€) |
| Unlimited data | 15 days | 47$ (43€) |
| Unlimited data | 20 days | 54$ (49€) |
| Unlimited data | 30 days | 79$ (72€) |
Airalo
| Data validity | Days | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ (4.16€) |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ (6.47€) |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ (8.78€) |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 13.00$ (12.01€) |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 21.00$ (19.40€) |
3 Best Places to Work from in Belgrade
As mentioned earlier, Belgrade has an amazing digital infrastructure! This means that there are a ton of good coworking spaces available. Remote can look around and find one that suits their needs.
In Centar
In Centar is a great coworking space that offers various facilities including but not limited to business incubation and mentorship programs. You can enjoy their creative working environment and have a productive work day. It is a perfect place for the startup community and business-minded people in Belgrade.
Smart Office Coworking
Smart Office Coworking Belgrade is undoubtedly one of the best coworking spaces in the city. With community building as their main goal, they offer a lot of networking opportunities and give you a chance to connect with like-minded individuals. You can go to their social gatherings and even enjoy the “no work zone”.
ICT Hub Playground
ICT Hub Playground is another great option for remote workers and digital nomads, especially those who are involved in the tech industry. ICT Hub Playground offers a productive working environment and a range of modern amenities. You can work here for hours and remain innovative.
Cost of living in Belgrade
One of the main reasons for Belgrade’s popularity is its affordable cost of living. Digital nomads can enjoy a high standard of living and enjoy modern facilities while paying half of what they would in other developed cities. Belgrade is one of the most affordable European capitals and it’s a great digital nomad destination. Here is a rough breakdown of general expenses.
| Meal | 7.63$ (€6.99) |
| Coffee | $1.79 (€1.64) |
| Beer | $2.12 (€1.94) |
| Apartment in the city center (one-bedroom apartment) | $478/month (€437) |
| Fitness club | $28.17/month (€25.79) |
| Utilities | $142/month (€130) |
| Internet | $21 (€19.23) |
| Local transport | $0.76/trip (€0.70) |
As you can see, Belgrade is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food in Belgrade
Belgrade is nothing short of a cultural tapestry in Serbia. The city has a vibrant culture that attracts digital nomads from all over the world. The culture is depicted in the traditions, festivals, art, literature, and even buildings. You can expect to see a prominent appreciation from the locals! As for the cultural heritage, it is best displayed in Belgrade’s numerous museums.
Belgrade is a perfect destination for nature lovers. There is a wide scope of outdoor activities and tons of opportunities for adventures. You can engage in water sports at the beautiful beaches, admire wildlife at the national park, visit the green spaces, and admire the picturesque landscape.
As for the food, you’d be happy to learn that there are plenty of good coffee shops and restaurants all over the city. While you can easily find famous franchises such as McDonald’s, local restaurants and food chains are also pretty good. The local cuisine is rich, flavorful, and unique but there is also a sense of diversity.
Best Time to Visit Belgrade
Since Belgrade has a European continental climate, it experiences very cold winters and scorching hot summers. Winter months can have temperatures below freezing point while summer months experience 30 degrees Celsius+ temperatures normally.
Naturally, the best time to visit Belgrade is during the spring and autumn i.e. the shoulder season that lasts from April to October. The rainy season lasts for 145 days and June is the wettest month. Other than that, the weather is usually pleasant and suitable for exploring.
However, it is important to note that summer is the most-visited time due to the cultural festivals, events, and vacations. If you want to enjoy the lively and bustling side of Belgrade, summer will be a great time.
12 Best Things to Do in Belgrade
There is plenty to do in Serbia and here are the 12 best things.
1. Take a city tour
Belgrade is a relatively small city but it’s filled with attractive spots and popular destinations. If you want to make the best of your trip and explore as much as possible, consider taking a city tour. Professional guides can provide essential information and interesting facts as well.
2. Attend a cultural festival
The best way to enjoy the rich culture is by attending one of Belgrade’s culturally rich festivals. From the Belgrade Beer Fest and Guitar Art Festival to the Belgrade Jazz Festival and Lovefest, each is joyful in its own way. You can also participate in local activities and enjoy immersing with Serbian people.
3. Visit the Kalemegdan Park
If you want to be surrounded by refreshing nature and a tranquil environment then visit the famous Kalemegdan Park. Known for its natural beauty, this park is the perfect place to escape the chaos of the city. You can go here for a walk, picnic, or simple people-watching.
4. Visit the Zeleni Velac Market
To further immerse yourself in the culture, make sure to visit the famous Zeleni Velac market (commonly referred to as the “Queen of the Markets”. This large and traditional marketplace lets you shop for fruits and fresh produce while enjoying sweet treats from nearby bakeries.
5. Visit the museums
If you want to learn more about Belgrade’s rich history then make sure to visit some of its museums. The city houses a variety of historical museums, each unique and significant in its way. Here are some of the best options.
- The Military Museum
- Museum of Yugoslavia
- Museum of the ’90s
- House of Jevrem Grujic/ Dom Jevrema Grujica
- Jewish Historical Museum
6. Visit the art galleries
Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, make sure to visit the popular art galleries in Belgrade. This city is a creative hub filled with unique talent and innovation! You can visit the art galleries to appreciate art, support artists, and see some of the best exhibitions. Here are some great options:
- Art for All Gallery
- Galerija ŠTAB
- Eugster
- Belgrade City Museum
- FAB Living by Una
- Legacy Of Petar Lubarda
- Blatobran Gallery
- Gallery And Antiques D&B
7. Experience the nightlife
Belgrade is famous for several reasons and its vibrant nightlife is one of the main ones. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs in the city that offer an amazing time. You can dance the night away, go bar hopping, and enjoy with your friends. Nightlife is one of the best ways to enjoy local culture and interact with the locals.
8. Visit the Saint Sava Temple
Built in 1935, the Saint Sava Temple is a real ancient beauty. Not only is it the largest Balkan temple in the region but also a beautiful Orthodox church. When in Belgrade, make sure to visit this piece of perfection and appreciate the stunning architecture.
9. Go to the Republic Square
One of the best things to do in Belgrade is people-watching. The evenings are filled with bustling crowds and there is nothing better than walking in the republic square and people-watching along the way.
10. Appreciate the street art
Belgrade is a creative hub filled with unique and rising talent. While exploring, stay aware of your surroundings and appreciate the beautiful street art.
11. Go bar hopping
Another interesting thing to do in Belgrade is going bar hopping. There are tons of good cocktail bars and wine bars in the city and each offers a good experience. For a fun night out, consider visiting them and enjoying the lively environment!
12. Connect with the digital nomad community
One of the best things you can do in any destination is to connect with fellow digital nomads. They can provide a sense of community and companionship, making your trip much more fulfilling. You can meet digital nomads the old-school way (at co-working spaces and cafes) or you can also join Facebook groups.
Is Belgrade safe?
Yes, Belgrade is considered a very safe city overall. Serbia has a low crime rate and its capital city is no exception. While petty crimes and scams are not unheard of, they are very rare. Taxi scams, on the other hand, are very common so make sure to be careful about that. Solo digital nomads and female travelers can visit Belgrade with ease of mind and feel safe during their time here. As long as you remain cautious, you’ll be sure to have a safe time.
As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighborhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Belgrade
While Serbia doesn’t have a digital nomad visa as of now, it offers plenty of good alternatives. For those of you who intend on staying for more than 90 days, there is a minimum income requirement of 3500$. You’ll also need to get a temporary residence permit for up to a year in this case. It can be renewed annually without having to leave the country.
Other than that, you can look into Serbia’s transit visa, short-stay and long-stay visa, and even permanent residency. Digital nomads and entrepreneurs who plan on working remotely must register their businesses and get a work permit beforehand.
All visitors should get themselves registered at a local police station within 24 hours of arrival.
Some typical requirements include:
- Valid passport
- Photo
- Invitation letter (for some visas)
- Filled out visa application form
It is best to consult an embassy or consulate in your home country to understand the application process and best options more properly.
Conclusion
Upon evaluating all the relevant details about Belgrade, it is safe to say that this city is a great place for digital nomads and remote workers. You can enjoy a high quality of life, modern amenities, and a beautiful culture while remaining on a budget.
Belgrade offers a great deal to its visitors and promises a great living experience. If you have decided to pack your bags and move here, we wish you good luck on your journey. We hope this ultimate guide helped you understand what it’s like to live in Belgrade as a digital nomad. If you have any more questions or doubts, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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