Reasons why guests rent apartments in Belgrade
Belgrade, the tourist gem of Serbia, offers a variety of attractions catering to all budget categories, appealing to both foreign and domestic visitors. Families visit Belgrade year-round, particularly in summer and during the holidays when the city provides the most diverse activities for children of all ages. Solo travelers and couples find Belgrade an ideal destination for trips and long weekends, especially in summer. Business travelers also constitute a significant segment of visitors, with short-term rental apartments in Belgrade being widely available near business hubs such as New Belgrade and Dorćol. The main reasons why guests opt for short-term rentals in Belgrade include:
- Tourism: Belgrade is primarily popular among tourists. From January to October 2024, more than 1.3 million tourists visited Belgrade, with 1,133,116 being foreign visitors. Most tourists come from neighboring countries, followed by Germany, Hungary, Austria, Turkey, China, Russia, France, and Italy. Tourists are drawn to Belgrade's vibrant cultural scene, exciting nightlife, renowned hospitality, and high level of safety.
- Business travelers: As Serbia's and the region's business hub, Belgrade attracts many so-called business tourists.
- Medical tourism: Serbia is becoming an increasingly popular option for international patients seeking high-quality dental services at affordable prices, with Belgrade as the top destination for this group. Dental services in Serbia are significantly cheaper than in Western Europe or North America, with treatments like implants, prosthetics, and cosmetic procedures costing 50-70% less. Other sought-after services include cosmetic procedures like hair transplants and world-class eye clinics. Belgrade is also home to major medical centers such as the Clinical Center and VMA, which frequently cater to domestic patients and visitors from Republika Srpska and Montenegro.
- Digital nomads: Alongside Portugal, Spain, and Poland, Serbia ranks high on the list of favorite destinations for digital nomads. It is popular due to its reliable internet connection, safe environment, low cost of living, and warm hospitality. Digital nomads typically visit Serbia from April to October, with Belgrade as their preferred location. The city offers numerous coworking spaces, such as Impact Hub, Startit Center, Nova Iskra, Bizcaster, and Shared Office.
- Family visits: Belgrade has long been recognized as an excellent family-friendly destination. The city boasts numerous attractions for all age groups and a high level of safety. Families visiting Belgrade mainly come from Serbia and neighboring countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and Hungary. Suburban areas of Belgrade are also popular among newlyweds, offering venues for celebrations in locations like Palilula, Voždovac, and Čukarica, including Rakovica, Obrenovac, and Avala. Families living abroad often visit their loved ones in Belgrade and across Serbia.
- Cultural and nightlife experiences: Belgrade is famous for its rich cultural and nightlife scene, making it an unmissable destination for tourists worldwide. Popular nightclubs along the Sava River include Lasta, River, Sindikat, and Hype. In the city center, you’ll find unique club and bar atmospheres at places like Mr. Stefan Braun and Blaznavac, while traditional entertainment awaits at taverns and restaurants in Skadarlija, such as Zavičaj, Šešir Moj, and Mali Vrabac. Tourists are also drawn to sold-out performances at theaters like Atelje 212, Yugoslav Drama Theater, and National Theater in the city center, as well as Zvezdara Theater or Madlenianum in Zemun.
- Sports events: Belgrade regularly hosts tourists attending football and basketball games. The Partizan Stadium and Ratko Mitrović Stadium host league matches and the highly attended derby between the two major clubs, often featuring some of the world’s top football talent. Štark Arena in New Belgrade is the venue for the most attended sports events, such as EuroLeague matches, boxing matches, and tennis tournaments.
- Concerts and festivals: During the summer, tourists are particularly interested in accommodations in New Belgrade to attend events like Beer Fest, Music Week Festival, and various concerts featuring local and international artists. In February and March, FEST, the largest film festival in Belgrade, attracts significant attention, while October is reserved for the Book Fair and a large influx of visitors to Čukarica.
Types of accommodation in Belgrade
One of Belgrade’s main advantages is the variety of accommodation options. Whether you are visiting the capital alone, with a larger group, or just on a short business trip, finding accommodation in Belgrade will be one of the easiest aspects of your journey. When searching for accommodation in Belgrade, you can expect the following categories:
- Short-term rental apartments: Apartment rentals are the most common type of accommodation in Belgrade, available in almost every district and neighborhood of the city. Short-term rentals (known as "stan na dan") are particularly convenient for couples, but larger apartments are also available, catering to families and bigger tourist groups.
- Houses: Another popular category of accommodation in Belgrade is rental houses or cottages, ideal for family visits, longer stays, or gatherings and celebrations. This type of accommodation can be found in areas such as Surčin, Čukarica near Ada Ciganlija, as well as Zvezdara in neighborhoods like Mali Mokri Lug.
- Hotels in Belgrade: In addition to private accommodation, Belgrade offers a wide range of hotels, especially in the city center. This type of accommodation tends to be more expensive and less flexible, with a higher average nightly rate, but one of the main benefits is breakfast, which is often included in the price. Notable hotels include "Moskva," "Hyatt," "Metropol," and "Crowne Plaza."
Where in Belgrade to rent accommodation?
When searching for accommodation in Belgrade, the main factors to consider are location and price. According to available data, platforms like Booking, Airbnb, and local sites such as "Apartmani u Beogradu" and "Bookaweb" there are nearly 10,000 apartments for rent in Belgrade. Based on your budget and desired municipality, here are some recommendations:
- Stari Grad (Old Town): An excellent choice if you enjoy being in the heart of the action, plan to spend most of your time exploring the city, or are looking for more luxurious accommodations. This area includes some of the most popular parts of Belgrade for renting apartments and features iconic landmarks like Kalemegdan Fortress, Knez Mihailova Street, Rajićeva Shopping Center, the Belgrade Zoo, and numerous renowned restaurants. It’s no surprise that Stari Grad hosts the largest number of rental units, with an estimated 1,200 to 1,500 private apartments available.
- Vračar: Want a view of the Church of Saint Sava, Tašmajdan Park, or Slavija Square? This is the place for you! Vračar is an excellent option for couples or solo travelers. You’ll also find modern spa apartments offering affordable luxury. The proximity to the Clinical Center of Serbia and many private clinics makes Vračar a popular choice for medical tourists, while football fans will appreciate its closeness to Partizan and Rajko Mitić Stadiums.
- Čukarica: Home to Belgrade's green oasis and one of its most popular attractions - Ada Ciganlija. This municipality is an ideal choice for spring and summer stays, offering nature retreats, lakeside walks, Košutnjak forest, and one of the city’s most scenic viewpoints at the Aleksandar Club on the ski slope. Popular neighborhoods like Banovo Brdo and Žarkovo are well-connected to the city and close to the Ada Mall shopping center. If you opt for the outskirts, such as Rakovica or Železnik, expect a peaceful getaway.
- New Belgrade: Perfect for family visits and a favorite location for business travelers. Its proximity to the highway and airport makes it convenient, while Štark Arena makes it a top choice for sports, music, and other events. Apartments in New Belgrade are among the best equipped, primarily located in modern buildings, with nearly 500 short-term rental options available. You’ll also find three major shopping centers - Delta City, Ušće, and West 65 - some of Belgrade’s finest restaurants, riverside promenades perfect for family strolls or walks with pets, and plenty of green spaces for morning jogs or relaxation.
- Zemun: A perfect blend of old charm and modern amenities, Zemun stands out as an authentic location for accommodation in Belgrade. Here you’ll find both apartments and houses for rent, making it ideal for larger groups. Enjoy walks along the Danube Promenade, restaurants famed for their fish specialties, an authentic market, and breathtaking views from Gardoš Tower.
- Palilula: Belgrade’s largest municipality spans both banks of the Danube, making it unique. Short-term rentals in Palilula are among the more affordable options, especially in neighborhoods like Borča and Kotež. You can reach the city center in under half an hour via a single public transport line. Palilula also offers rental houses, making it a great choice for family visits.
- Voždovac: Known for its urban areas and proximity to the city center, Voždovac is also home to Mount Avala, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts. Opt for short-term rentals in Voždovac to stay near Stadion Shopping Center, numerous public transport lines for easy access to other parts of the city, football stadiums of Partizan and Red Star, and plenty of green spaces for walks.
- Belgrade Waterfront: Synonymous with luxury, accommodations in this new part of Belgrade are perfect for visitors with deeper pockets. Enjoy views of the Sava River over your morning coffee, along with additional amenities like parking spaces, pools, gyms, and private security. This area truly embodies the charm of modern living.
Average accommodation prices in Belgrade
Although many factors influence accommodation costs in Belgrade, the average price for short-term rentals ranges between €35 and €50 per night. Budget accommodations can be found for around €30 per night, while prices rarely exceed €60. Houses for rent in Belgrade come at a higher cost, averaging between €100 and €500 for luxury villas with pools.
During popular events or holidays, accommodation prices tend to rise. In central areas of the city, prices during New Year’s Eve, Christmas, or holidays like May 1st can range from €70 to €100 or more per night.
Price estimates by apartment size and occupancy
Here are approximate prices based on apartment size and the number of guests per night:
During popular events or holidays, accommodation prices tend to rise. In central areas of the city, prices during New Year’s Eve, Christmas, or holidays like May 1st can range from €70 to €100 or more per night.
Price estimates by apartment size and occupancy
Here are approximate prices based on apartment size and the number of guests per night:
- Studio or one-bedroom (2 guests): €30–€40
- Two-bedroom (living room and bedroom, 4 guests): €40–€65
- Three-bedroom or larger (4+ guests): €65+
Overnight stay in Belgrade - Renting accommodation for a night
For a short visit to the capital or perhaps a layover, the most comfortable option is to rent an overnight stay in Belgrade, which can easily be done through local online booking platforms. Many apartments in Belgrade offer the option to stay for a single night, and there are also apartments and rooms specifically suited for this type of stay. The cheapest overnight stays in Belgrade can cost less than €20 per person, though prices vary depending on the location, how far in advance you book, and the time of year.
The most convenient locations for overnight stays in Belgrade are New Belgrade, Vračar, Voždovac, and Zemun, with Zemun becoming an increasingly popular option.
On the Bookaweb website, you can simply search by the dates you need accommodation, and available options will be displayed. You can further refine your search using filters or by moving the map to your preferred location.
The most convenient locations for overnight stays in Belgrade are New Belgrade, Vračar, Voždovac, and Zemun, with Zemun becoming an increasingly popular option.
On the Bookaweb website, you can simply search by the dates you need accommodation, and available options will be displayed. You can further refine your search using filters or by moving the map to your preferred location.
Where to stay in Belgrade with kids?
Family-friendly apartments in Belgrade are available throughout the city, but alongside comfortable accommodation, the accessibility of attractions and activities for kids of all ages is key. Here are the areas that stand out:
- Banovo Brdo: An ideal distance from the city center and close to Ada Ciganlija and Košutnjak, Banovo Brdo offers plenty of reasons to consider it for a family visit. The Roda Cineplex, featuring child-friendly films, is located here, as well as the Ada Mall, which houses the Cinestar Cinema and an arcade-filled play area with virtual games.
- New Belgrade: This area is especially suited for families with younger children, thanks to its numerous playrooms where kids can enjoy hours of fun with animators. Renting a short-term apartment in New Belgrade allows you to spend mornings by the Sava River, enjoy afternoons at Ušće or Delta City shopping malls (both with playrooms and Cineplexx Cinemas), or opt for a long walk or picnic in Ušće Park. The well-maintained cycling paths are a convenient way to get around, avoiding public transportation with kids.
- Zvezdara: For a quieter escape, rent an apartment in Zvezdara and spend the weekend exploring the Zvezdara Forest. The Olimp Sports Center offers pools for family fun, and the Astronomical Observatory provides a unique opportunity to learn about the wonders of space together.
- City Center: Staying in Stari Grad puts you near Kalemegdan Fortress and the Belgrade Zoo. The nearby promenade along the Danube Quay is perfect for family strolls, while attractions like the increasingly popular Chocolate Museum, the Rajićeva Shopping Center, and various child-friendly restaurants add to the experience.
Accommodation near the best nightlife spots in Belgrade
The world capital of nightlife offers something for everyone! The most popular areas for going out in Belgrade include the city center, Savamala, New Belgrade, Vračar, and Dorćol. Here’s what you can expect when you stay in these areas:
- Downtown apartments Belgrade: (Stari Grad): Enjoy clubbing at Brankow, Drugstore, Meduza, Jazz Bašta, Lafayette, Frida, and Comunale, or catch a stand-up show at Ben Akiba. The iconic Beton Hala is located in this area, offering a variety of venues to suit every taste.
- New Belgrade apartments: Experience the unique charm of floating river clubs! Check out popular spots like River, Shake'n'Shake, Bridge, Gatsby, Regata, Šlep, as well as Gradska Kafana and Balkan Express.
Best areas in Belgrade for business travel
Whether you're looking for apartments near coworking spaces, attending a one-day conference at some of the famous hotels, or need a fully equipped apartment to join online meetings, these locations offer ideal solutions:
- New Belgrade: As the business hub of Belgrade, this area provides excellent conditions and proximity to major corporate offices in Airport City, West 65 Tower, Belgrade Arena, Navigator Business Center, and along its main boulevards. Accommodation in New Belgrade ensures a reliable Wi-Fi connection regardless of the type of lodging, easy access to highways, and proximity to coworking spaces. It’s also perfect for finding venues to host conferences or large meetings.
- City Center (Stari Grad): Get the job done, grab a coffee, and enjoy Belgrade's authentic architecture - all within the same neighborhood. This area is popular for business stays, offering proximity to key institutions like the National Bank of Serbia, the main post office, and the Serbian Business Registers Agency (APR). Many business conferences are also hosted in hotels here. Modern accommodations in Stari Grad cater to business travelers with amenities like Wi-Fi and parking, and we especially recommend apartments in Dorćol for a convenient and stylish stay.
- Zemun: A great choice for those seeking the benefits of New Belgrade but with a calmer atmosphere. Its easy access to the Novi Sad highway makes travel for work outside the city hassle-free. Zemun apartments are often more affordable than those in the city center and Dorćol, offering a blend of comfort and luxury with scenic views of the Danube.
Best restaurants near accommodation in Belgrade
Belgrade’s gastronomic scene is one of the city’s top qualities. From world-renowned pizzerias and traditional Serbian restaurants with a rich history to popular street food stands and high-end dining spots, Belgrade offers something for every type of foodie. Depending on where you are staying, make sure to visit:
- Majstor i Margarita: This critically acclaimed pizzeria will transport you straight to Italy without leaving central Belgrade. With two locations - on Boulevard Despot Stefan and Vuk Karadžić Street - it’s a must-visit if your temporary home is an apartment in Palilula, Dorćol, or near Vuk Monument or Kalenić Market.
- Bela Reka: Featured in the Michelin Guide and serving farm-to-table delicacies, this restaurant is irresistible. Located in Airport City, it’s a top choice if you book a short-term rental in New Belgrade or find accommodation in Ledine.
- Thyme Street Food: Savor flavors from around the globe served as vibrant, colorful dishes. This unique street food concept has two locations, making it convenient if you stay in Čukarica or Zemun.
- Tri Šešira: You haven’t truly experienced Belgrade until you visit the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija. A symbol of the city, this restaurant combines traditional Serbian flavors with live music. If you rent an apartment in Skadarlija, you’ll have it right in your neighborhood, but it’s also easily accessible from anywhere in Stari Grad.
- Jamie’s Italian: Jamie Oliver’s Italian recipes paired with river views - what more could you ask for? Don’t miss this spot if you stay in an apartment in Belgrade Waterfront, New Belgrade, or Stari Grad.