If you have never been to Serbia, there is no better place to start your trip than the capital. Although Belgrade hasn't been among the most popular Europian destinations in recent decades owing to some well-known turbulent events, its image is constantly and positively changing. Belgrade is a friendly and welcoming city, where any newcomer finds it easy to settle down. Only a small part of the po
pulation in the Serbian capital consists of natives of Belgrade, with the remainder of the population coming from all parts of former Yugoslavia. Belgrade is the perfect example of a city very tolerant of newcomers and visitors. The Serbian capital is one of the oldest cities in Europe and since ancient times it has been an important traffic focal point, due to its geographical position – it's located at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, where the Panonian Plane meets the Balkans. It is an energetic city with rich historical, cultural and architectural heritage and therefore rightfully boasts an effervescent cultural life and a great many attractions – the famous Belgrade fortress, The Royal Palaces, the Victor Monument, House of flowers ( the Mausoleum of Josip Broz Tito), a number of churches, including the famous Cathedral of Saint Sava, a variety of beautiful parks such as Kalemegdan Park or Kosutnjak Hill, the National Museum and the National Theatre. Here you can also enjoy one of the largest beaches on artificial lakes in Europe- Ada Ciganlija or visit Avala, a mountain that lies 15km sout from the city. Tasting some of the specialties of Serbian cuisine in numerous traditional restaurants is a must. Belgrade has been nicknamed ''the Barcelona of Eastern Europe'' due to its warmth and unusual charm. It was also selected as Southern Europe's city of the Future by ''The Financial Times'' in 2007 and it surely lives up to its worthy title, being a city with multiple identities and a surging urban dynamics, but also becoming fertile ground for foreign investments.
-If you are thinking about travelling to Serbia and Belgrade, now is the perfect moment. Set aside your prejudices, follow your heart, accept the challenge of novelty and be a genuine traveller: discover offbeat, authentic cultural and other attractions you might have never known existed. Surrender to the ebullient charms of the capital city and immerse yourself into its fascinating atmosphere. And do not worry: no one is ever quite prepared for this country!
