Zajecar
Izvor: ©Dragan Stojanovic from Getty Images via Canva.com
Welcome to Zajecar
Are you planning to visit Eastern Serbia but don't know which city to start from? Zajecar is our answer, and our page is where you will get answers to all your tourist questions. We'll present useful information, from the easiest way to get to the city to suggestions for the most popular activities. We will introduce you to the sights of Zajecar that you must visit, suggest restaurants with a rich offer of local food, and direct you to cafes and bars known for great nightlife. Learn about the parking lots, public transport, and important services you can rely on when visiting Zajecar, all followed by phone numbers and addresses. Find out which tourist attractions will entertain the kids if you go to the city with them, as well as which events and festivals this city hosts. Complete your virtual tour through Zajecar with a brief overview of the city's history, tradition, and culture, and you will be ready to visit it soon!
Zajecar Accommodation
Zajecar Attractions
Gamzigrad
Zajecar
Manastir Suvodol
Zajecar
Park-šuma Kraljevica
Zajecar
Spomenici u Zaječaru
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Narodni muzej Zaječar
Zajecar
Popova plaža
Zajecar
Jezera u Zaječaru
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Radul-begov konak
Zajecar
When to visit Zajecar?
Thanks to the always pleasant climate, warm weather during summer, and mild winters, Zajecar is a destination worth visiting any time of the year.
- During summer: Warm days and favorable weather conditions will allow you to visit all the famous sights of the city but also to go a little further to the famous spas, monasteries, and localities surrounding Zajecar.
- In winter: Winter idyll and New Year's decorations give Zajecar a unique charm during winter, so numerous New Year's events will enhance your stay here.
How to get to Zajecar?
Zajecar is located in the central part of Timocka Krajina, and the territory of Zajecar is bounded by the slopes of Deli Jovan mountain, Stara Planina, Laskovacka mountain, as well as the branches of Veliki Krs. On the slopes of Stara Planina, there is also a natural border with Bulgaria. The distance between Zajecar and larger cities is as follows: Belgrade 243 km, Novi Sad 341 km, Nis 100 km, Knjazevac 43 km, Kragujevac 158 km. You can get to Zajecar in several ways:
- By car: It will take you less than 3 hours to get from Belgrade to Zajecar. It is necessary to follow the E75 highway, i.e. the A1 road, until the exit for the E761 road. If you are coming from Nis, you should follow road 35, which will take about 2 hours of driving.
- By bus: Departures from Belgrade are made by bus carriers Moto Boem Trans, Nikolic prevoz, Top Tourist, and several others. All departures are from BAS station in Belgrade. Departures from Nis are organized much more often, and a one-way ticket costs around RSD 1,300, while a return ticket costs RSD 2,290.
- Railway transport: It is possible to get to Zajecar from certain cities by train, mostly from nearby cities. Organized train transport is available from Knjazevac, Majdanpek, Nis, Negotin, and Bor. For information on timetables and ticket prices, contact Zajecar Railway Station at +381(0)19 422 267.
Activities for tourists in Zajecar
The rich history and diverse culture have caused Zajecar to offer many activities today. In addition, the tourism potential of the town of Zajecar is growing day by day, so the choice for activities for tourists is much greater.
- Tour of the monasteries and temples of the Timocka region: Since Zajecar is the largest city of the Timocka Krajina, important historical, cultural, and religious events have been intertwined throughout history. This is evident today in numerous monasteries in this area. Some of the monasteries worth visiting are the Suvodol Monastery, the Monastery of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul in Grlista, and the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
- Swimming at Popova Beach: Apart from the fact that the coast of Crni Timok offers a variety of recreational activities, it is also possible to swim at Popova Beach during the hot summer months. So, in addition to walking on the health trail and playing beach volleyball, or outdoor chess, you will also be able to enjoy the beautifully landscaped beach by the river.
- Tour of the Kraljevica Forest Park: This picnic spot is located near Zajecar and is one of the most popular destinations for rest and recreation. In addition, Kraljevica has great historical significance, and many historical and cultural monuments can be found on this hill.
Events and festivals in Zajecar
Zajecar is one of the cities in Serbia that can boast a large offer of various events and festivals. From smaller, local ones, to the festivals famous around Europe, here are some of them worth visiting:
- Guitar Festival: The tradition of holding the Guitar Festival in Zajecar has been going on for more than half a century, something that only a few cities in the world can boast of. The vibrations of rock music and the guitar's familiar sounds attract tourists from around the world, so this event has acquired an almost cult following. It was founded in 1966 and is held every year during the summer months, mainly during August.
- Street of Christmas Joy: During the Christmas holidays, part of Timocka Buna Street, where the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is located, is transformed into the famous Street of Christmas Joy every year. Namely, it is a place where visitors can enjoy the songs and dances of the local culture, taste local specialties, and explore various foods at the stalls.
- The Garden of the Balkans: This event takes place not far from Zajecar, in the village of Veliki Izvor. The event is followed by a vibrant cultural and artistic program in which many folklorists participate. This festival takes place every year in September.
- Stani mi na teglu: The town of Zajecar has been hosting this festival for years. The goal of this gastronomic caravan is to promote ajvar as a true Serbian brand, with the desire to improve its sales and production itself. The festival consists of a competition of ajvar preparation, and the goal is to find the best ajvar master. The festival takes place from August to October every year.
- Hajduk Veljko's Days: It is held in Lenovac, which is about 15 km from Zajecar. They usually last two days and are organized in the second half of July. This organization represents a cultural, sports and tourist event which aims to preserve the memory of the legendary historical figure of Serbia.
- Art colony: The Gamzigrad International Art Colony was founded in 1994 and is one of the special and significant cultural manifestations in Zajecar. It is held every year in Gamzigradska Banja, not far from the site of Felix Romuliana. It is open to all artists, such as academic painters, sculptors, ceramicists, and many others.
Activities for children in Zajecar
The Timocki region has no shortage of activities and attractions intended for children. Some of them include:
- Swimming pools: As we have already mentioned, the Popova plaza swimming pool is a great place for the youngest to try swimming. In addition to that swimming pool, the Jaz swimming pool is also available.
- Skiing: During the winter months, head out to slopes near Kraljevica. The track is 650 meters long, while the track offers the possibility of skiing at night.
- Parks: Parks with props can be found in several places in Zajecar. The most famous park is in the Izvorski put neighborhood, and it has slides, swings, see-saws, and other fun spots.
What to see in Zajecar?
Zajecar is a place that abounds with social and cultural monuments, natural attractions, and other exciting things.
- National Museum in Zajecar: The building of the National Museum in Zajecar is located in the center of the city. It has been there for more than half a century, and in its collection, it keeps objects that bear witness to the history of the Timok region. Thanks to its collection of as many as 15,000 objects, the Zajecar National Museum was declared the best museum in Serbia in 2012.
- Gamzigrad: Gamzigrad is an archaeological site in eastern Serbia, near Zajecar. It represents the residence of the Roman emperor Gaius Valerius Maximian Galerius, Diocletian's son-in-law. It is believed that the palace was never completed, and it was destroyed several times. Today, it represents an authentic reflection of Roman domination in our region.
- Radul-bey's inn: It was built at the end of the 18th century and represented old Turkish architecture that has been preserved to this day. After the liberation from Turkish rule, this chardan was sold to Radul Gligorijevic, then the wealthiest man in that region.
- Lakes: There are several lakes in the Zajecar area, some of which are among the cleanest in Europe. Some of the most popular are Rgotsko jezero, Grlisko jezero and Sovinac jezero.
Accommodation in Zajecar
Accommodation facilities on the territory of Zajecar can be divided into three categories: hotels, villas, and private accommodations.
- Hotels: Hotel accommodation in Zajecar provides guests with comfort and convenience, and there are several hotels in the town. The most popular hotels in the city are Hotel Lux Salas, Hotel Srbija Tis Zajecar, and Hotel Hamburg. The price of one night starts from around RSD 3,000 and up.
- Villas: There are several villas in Zajecar that are extremely popular among tourists. Some of the most visited villas are Villa Konj, Villa Tamaris, and Villa Grinka. The average price of an overnight stay is around RSD 3,700 per night.
- Private accommodation: Private accommodation in Zajecar includes apartments and various rural households. Some of the most popular accommodation units are Joksimovic Rural Household, Room 1, Oniks Apartments, and Apartments under Kraljevica. The average price is around RSD 3,500 per night.
Phone numbers of important services
These are some of the important numbers that you may need during your stay in Pirot:
- Police 192
- Emergency 194
- General Hospital in Zajecar 019/425-881
- JP Zajecar Parking 019/420-240
- Pharmacy Lek 019/421-120
- Health center Zajecar 019/442-277
- AMSS roadside assistance in 1987
Where to eat in Zajecar?
Depending on your preferences, you can dine in the following establishments:
- Restaurants: Some of the most popular restaurants where you can enjoy great traditional food are Restaurant Beba, Restaurant Kod Mede, Restaurant Dva Brata, Restaurant Kristal, Restaurant M&S, Restaurant Roko, Restaurant Srpska kuca, and many others.
- Pizzerias: There are several establishments in Zajecar that serve delicious Italian food. Some of them are Gondolier Zajecar, Caffe Pizzeria 54 and King.
- Bakeries: If you want to eat something in a hurry, delicious treats from the bakery will be an excellent choice. The most visited bakeries in Zajecar are: Mrbin Bakery, Mitic Bakery, Kika Bakery, Dva Brata Bakery, Kod Goluba Bakery, Novi Ukus Bakery, and many others.
- Pastry shops: In Zajecar, there are only a few confectioneries where you can eat your favorite dessert, the most popular being Anci kolaci and Stella Lux.
Where to go out in Zajecar?
Thanks to the great tourism development in Zajecar, this city has also developed many catering facilities where a good time is guaranteed. From some slower-paced options to clubs, you can check out:
- Cafes: In Zajecar, a handful of cafes provide a lovely afternoon relaxation in the center or outskirts of the city. Some of the most popular cafes are Cafe Tobago, Cafe De Libre, Cafe Da Vero, Cafe DG, Jazz Cafe 019, and F Cafe.
- Discotheques: If you want to party till the morning visit Discotheque Bella and Night Club 54.
Transportation and taxi in Zajecar
You won't be having any trouble moving around Zajecar as the transportation network is well established.
- Public transport: On the territory of Zajecar, there is a well-developed network of city transport, both in the central part and on the outskirts. Buses run throughout the day, every day except Sundays.
- Taxi: The best choice for transportation in Zajecar is certainly taxi transportation. Some of the best-rated taxi services in Pirot are Taxi TREF 069/2222/806; Taxi Sweet 061/17-53-000; Z Taxi 061/11-22-277.
Parking and public garages in Zajecar
You can pay for parking in Zajecar via SMS or card.
- First (red) zone: send an SMS with the registration number to 9191. A parking ticket for 1 hour of parking is RSD 50.
- Second (yellow) zone: send an SMS with the registration number to 9192. A parking ticket for 1 hour of parking is RSD 40.
- Third (blue) zone: send an SMS with the registration number to 9195. A parking ticket for 1 hour of parking is 25 RSD.
Surroundings of Zajecar
Zajecar is surrounded by irresistible natural beauty and cultural and historical treasures, which attract tourists from all over Europe. Just some of the destinations worth visiting are:
- Gamzigradska banja: Gamzigradska banja is located about 10 kilometers from Zajecar, right next to the main road Zajecar-Paracin. The spa also has a specialized hospital with two indoor pools with warm water. In addition, the spa offers treatment with various natural and medical methods, which makes it one of the most visited locations in this region.
- Suvodol Monastery: Suvodol Monastery is one of the oldest endowments in Serbia and was demolished several times. Today it is a women's monastery, and it is believed that it heals believers from various diseases.
- Lazarev Canyon is about 40 km from Zajecar, the deepest and longest canyon in Eastern Serbia. Due to its great steepness and impassability, the canyon has not been sufficiently examined. Tourists can visit numerous caves and pits.
History of Zajecar
Although Zajecar as a place was first mentioned in sources only in 1466, there are testimonies about the town's existence even before 800. The oldest known inhabitants of this region were the Tribals, and after them, the Mezis are mentioned as inhabitants. Apart from being part of medieval Serbia, Zajecar was under Ottoman occupation for many years.
- Liberation of Zajecar after 1806: After 1806, favorable conditions were created for the Timocka region to be freed from the Turks finally. After a series of battles and attempts, the greater part of Timocka Krajina and Zajecar was liberated, and in 1833 this region was definitively annexed to Serbia.
Geography and climate of Zajecar
- Geographic features: Zajecar is located in the central part of the Timocka Krajina and includes the Zajecar Basin, the eastern part of the Crnorecka Basin, and the northern part of the Knjazevacka Basin, as well as the southern parts of the Negotinsk Krajina. According to the 2011 population census, 54,461 inhabitants live on the territory of Zajecar.
- Climate: Zajecar is located in a continental climate zone. The climate is humid and temperate, with hot and dry summers and moderately cold winters, which indicates that Zajecar has a moderately continental climate. The coldest months are January and February, and the warmest July.
Demographics of Zajecar
- About 60,000 inhabitants live on the territory of Zajecar, while the average age of the inhabitants is 45.5 years.
Tradition and culture of Zajecar
- Zajecar brands: If someone mentions the town of Zajecar, the first association with that word will definitely be Zajecar beer. The Zajecar brewery is one of the oldest in Serbia, and the first written record of beer production in Zajecar dates back to 1875. Due to its long-standing tradition, high quality, and recognizable name, Zajecar beer has become an authentic brand of this city and the entire country.
- Culture: The most significant cultural monument in this area is Felix Romuliana, which dates back to Roman times. In addition, in the central part of the city, there are several cultural sights, such as the National Museum, Radul Bey's Inn, and many others.
Frequently asked questions about Zajecar
Why visit Zajecar?
Zajecar is one of the most popular cities in eastern Serbia and has developed excellent tourist potential. In addition, Zajecar abounds with numerous natural beauties and exciting attractions.
When is the best time to visit Zajecar?
Zajecar is a great place to visit all year round. Summer months are great for sightseeing, while in the winter months it is beautifully decorated.
What are the most famous festivals and manifestations in Zajecar?
The most famous festivals and manifestations in Zajecar are Gitarijada, Outhide, Basta Balkana, and Izađi mi na tegla.
How to find accommodation in Zajecar?
You can find the best accommodation in Zajecar on the Zajecar Apartments page.
What is the average price of accommodation in Zajecar?
The average price of accommodation in Zajecar is around RSD 3,000.
What is the most famous tourist attraction in Zajecar?
The most famous tourist attractions in Zajecar are the Zajecar National Museum and Felix Romuliana.
How long do tourists stay in Zajecar on average?
Tourists usually choose an extended weekend to visit all the attractions and natural beauties in Zajecar.