Best Places to Visit in Serbia for Christmas Cheer

As the festive season approaches, Serbia transforms into a winter wonderland, offering expats and digital nomads a unique blend of traditional and modern holiday experiences. From bustling Christmas markets to serene historic towns adorned with twinkling lights, there's a multitude of places to visit in December to get into the holiday spirit. Here are some of the top destinations in Serbia where you can soak up the festive atmosphere and create unforgettable memories.

Belgrade's Knez Mihailova Street

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a hub of holiday festivities, with Knez Mihailova Street at the heart of the action. This pedestrian zone is beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere. The Christmas market here, known as the "Open Heart Street," features wooden stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional Serbian holiday treats. The scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air, while street performers add to the festive ambiance. The market typically runs throughout December, offering plenty of time to explore and enjoy the holiday cheer.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try a slice of "?esnica," a traditional Serbian Christmas bread, often sold at the market. It's not only delicious but also comes with a charming custom – a coin is hidden inside, and finding it is said to bring good luck for the upcoming year.

Novi Sad's Liberty Square

Novi Sad, known as the "Serbian Athens," is particularly enchanting during the holiday season. Liberty Square, the city's main square, hosts a delightful Christmas market where visitors can browse through a variety of festive goods. The market is usually adorned with a large Christmas tree and offers a range of handmade crafts, winter clothing, and local delicacies. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the sound of Christmas carols and the sight of children enjoying the carousel. The market typically starts in early December and lasts until the end of the month.

We Recommend: Be sure to taste the "vanilice," small vanilla cookies that melt in your mouth, a favorite at the Novi Sad Christmas market. They are a perfect sweet treat to accompany a cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine.

Subotica's Main Square

Subotica, with its art nouveau architecture, offers a picturesque setting for its Christmas festivities. The main square becomes a winter fairytale with its Christmas market, where visitors can find unique gifts and decorations. Local artisans showcase their work, and the aroma of traditional Hungarian and Serbian holiday foods permeates the air. The market is also known for its ice-skating rink, which adds to the winter joy. The festivities in Subotica usually begin in early December and continue until the New Year.

We Recommend: Try the "kürt?skalács," a Hungarian sweet spiral pastry that's a hit at the Subotica Christmas market. It's cooked over an open flame, giving it a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior.

Niš's Fortress

The historic city of Niš, with its imposing fortress, offers a unique backdrop for its Christmas market. Set within the fortress walls, the market provides a blend of history and holiday spirit. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local crafts, winter accessories, and festive foods. The fortress is beautifully lit up, and the market often features live music and dance performances, creating a lively atmosphere. The Christmas market in Niš typically starts in mid-December and lasts until the first week of January.

We Recommend: Don't leave without savoring "ajvar," a delicious roasted red pepper relish that is often found at the Niš Christmas market. It's a flavorful addition to any holiday meal or a tasty souvenir to take home.

Smederevo's Fortress

Smederevo, a town known for its medieval fortress, offers a quaint and cozy Christmas market within the fortress grounds. The market is smaller compared to those in larger cities but exudes a warm, community feel. Visitors can enjoy traditional Serbian Christmas foods, hot drinks, and a selection of handcrafted items perfect for holiday gifting. The fortress provides a historical ambiance that enhances the festive experience. The Smederevo Christmas market usually opens in mid-December and continues until Christmas.

We Recommend: Indulge in "pršuta," a type of dry-cured ham that is a delicacy in Serbia. It's a savory treat that pairs wonderfully with local cheeses, also available at the market.

Zlatibor's King's Square

Zlatibor, a mountain resort known for its natural beauty, becomes a winter paradise in December. King's Square is the center of holiday activities, with a charming Christmas market that attracts visitors from all over. The market features wooden huts selling everything from woolen goods to traditional Serbian Christmas sweets. The snowy landscape of Zlatibor adds to the magical atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a white Christmas. The market usually runs from early December until after the New Year.

We Recommend: Warm up with a glass of "rakija," a potent fruit brandy that's a staple at the Zlatibor Christmas market. It's sure to keep you toasty while you explore the winter wonders of the market.

Stari Grad in Belgrade

Stari Grad, or the Old Town of Belgrade, is steeped in history and charm, especially during the holiday season. The cobblestone streets and ancient buildings are adorned with festive lights, creating a romantic setting. The Christmas market in Stari Grad offers a mix of traditional and contemporary gifts, as well as an array of seasonal treats. Carolers and musicians often perform in the streets, adding to the holiday ambiance. The market typically begins in early December and lasts until the end of the year.

We Recommend: Experience the taste of "medenjaci," traditional honey-spiced cookies that are a holiday favorite at the Stari Grad Christmas market. These sweet treats are often beautifully decorated, making them a perfect gift or a delightful snack.