What is your opinion of Europe? France? Germany? Expensive? A lot of tourists?
What about the Balkans? Does the thought of traveling here sound a little strange, or does it make you feel unsure as there are not too many Muslim-friendly stories about it?
If you’re ever in a situation where you’re stuck on deciding “where to go”. Like dealing with the many options 👆 we have today in this tech travel-savvy world, the only realistic travel question one could have is… “where should I go next that is easy on my travel bank and, is not too crowded?”
If this is you, The Balkans might be a good answer.
Last Winter, I had the opportunity to travel to some Balkan countries. So in this article, I will share with you more about Serbia—where to explore and what’s interesting about each place. So here we go!
Did you know that Balkan countries are part of Eastern Europe. If you want to know what are the countries that are part of the Balkans, have a look at this map.
Is Serbia Safe for Muslimah who Solo Travels?
Serbia is a country that is full of complex history, especially when it was part of Yugoslavia.
And because there’s not much out there about Serbia from Muslimahs who have previously, it might be difficult for one to decide on should one visit this place.
Belgrade is famous for its nightlife. There are a lot of bars, nightclubs, and red districts in Belgrade. According to Numbeo, Belgrade is relatively safe at number 45 and Novi Sad at 51 with a safety index of more than 50%.
Even though Belgrade is generally safe, please always keep your belongings with you, as pickpocketing is a typical crime in Europe.
Regardless, don’t let this scare you as there are pockets of safe places, safety is subjective to one’s experience and you too – can have a safe experience here!
I spent two weeks in Serbia and went to many places. If you’d ask me how to plan to go here, and where to go, I’d recommend these top cities that I’ve personally visited in Serbia!
Belgrade: Start With The Capital for 7 Days! & My Experience With The People (Friendly or Not?)
Belgrade, Serbia’s capital, has a population of 1,411,000, a 0.21% increase from 2023.
I have found the people in the city center to be extremely friendly and helpful. Why?
When I was in Belgrade, I got lost on the bus because I took the wrong one (is it because of language barrier or there’s no English sign, I have no idea!).
Feeling uneasy on the ride, I asked the girl sitting beside me for directions, and she not only told me the right way but, also accompanied me to find the correct bus!
Regardless of what the statistics above or in the news say, safety can be cultivated if you believe that you’ll bump into people who will help you along the way!
Disclaimer
Whenever I saw the people there, they always smiled and said “Zdravo,” which means hello. That’s why I would say that the people of Belgrade were so lovely.
It is not only the people; there are also many beautiful places to explore.
Some Muslim-friendly Things To Do In Belgrade
I spent 7 days in Belgrade, which was enough time to explore. I had a lot of fun here. Even with just 3-4 days, you can create lasting memories in Belgrade.
Here are some of the Muslim-friendly Things To Do in Belgrade that I’d highly recommend!
1. See the Danube (river) at Kalamegdan Fortress
This fortress has a beautiful park where you can see the Danube (river in Latin).
It is near the city center so you can walk for 10 minutes.
You can also visit the military museum located within the fortress.
The museum showcases an extensive collection of military artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and historical documents. If you’re into defenses and history, the military museum is a great place as it provides insight into Serbia’s military history and the significance of the fortress!
The entrance is free, but if you bring a specific camera, security might get you in trouble because photography requires a special permit.
2. Experience Serbian Culture at Skadarlija
Skadarlija is the bohemian quarter of Belgrade, Serbia! This car-free zone is one of the most famous streets in Serbia.
Skadarlija is one must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and enjoy the delicious national cuisine such as gibanica (a savoury pastry made from layers of thin dough and a filling of cheese, eggs, and sometimes spinach or other greens or grilled fish (freshwater fish, like trout, often grilled and served with a side of salad or vegetables)
If you are lucky you can see some festivals around Skadarlija, such as :
- Cultural Festivals: Various cultural events and festivals take place in Skadarlija throughout the year, celebrating Serbian traditions, music, and food.
- Folk Performances: You might encounter live performances featuring Serbian folk dances and music, which highlight the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Local Crafts: You can find shops and galleries selling traditional Serbian crafts, including handmade pottery, textiles, and artwork, which often reflect Serbian folk traditions and styles.
Can I Find a Halal Restaurant in Belgrade?
There are some halal restaurants in the city center.
I went to a couple of halal restaurants in Belgrade and here are my suggestions:
- A famous restaurant is YXZlandz doo (location), a Chinese halal restaurant with a significant portion.
- Afifa Halal Food (location), also near the city center. When I went to this restaurant, there were some halal stickers on the products. So, I will say that it’s not hard to find something halal in Belgrade.
MST Tip: The portion is for two people, so ensure you can eat it all.
3. See Ottoman Architecture at Bajrakli mosque
Yes, Belgrade has a mosque near the city centre! Subhanallah 😍
Even though Muslims are a minority in Serbia, this doesn’t mean they don’t have a mosque. Initially built in 1575 during the Ottoman Empire, the Bajrakli Mosque is a fine example of Turkish Islamic architecture.
It is open 24 hours a day, so you can pray and see the only active mosque in Belgrade.
- You can easily walk around 15 minutes from the city center. Location here.
4. Shop / Stroll Along The Busy Knez Mihailova
This pedestrian street has coffee shops, restaurants, and shopping centers. In the city center, you can see the most famous Landmark, “TRG Republike.”
Throughout the street, you can see:
- Historical buildings such as Republike Square
- Immerse in local arts at Art of All art gallery
- Have a cup of coffee at Coffeedream (the most popular)
- Go to the oldest bookstore called “Geca Kon”
Because of how famous it is, you can expect the streets to be lively with street buskers!
4. Feel The Cool River Breeze at Belgrade waterfront
Enjoy your evening walking or running on the Belgrade Waterfront. Many coffee shops, shopping centers, and the Danube River are nearby.
There’s a giant shopping centre called Galerija in Belgrade Waterfront.
- Location here
If you want to cycle, run or just enjoy the view, it’s better to come in the evening because is not as crowded as the afternoon.
Beyond Belgrade: The More Laid Back Novi Sad (3 Days)
If you have extra time and want to explore more than just Belgrade, Novi Sad is a great place to visit anytime.
It is located in Vojvodina province, Novi Sad, the second biggest city in Serbia. Novi Sad is beautiful and not as crowded as Belgrade.
How To Get To Novi Sad?
The best way to get there is to take the fastest train. I’ve been there two times. For the first one, I took the fast train for 45 minutes from Belgrade Center Station to Novi Sad Train Station, which cost (USD 5.11) for a long trip.
- If you want to get the ticket quickly, go to this website and book the fast train.
- How do you get to the train station? Firstly, you can take bus number 41 from TRG Republike; it goes directly to Railway Station Beograd Center.
- You can also book a bus as an alternative!
- Another option is to take a one-day tour from Belgrade to Novi Sad. However, if you look online the majority of generic one-day trip include wineries tour as that is what the city is known for. Our tip? Go for a private trip if you’re willing to spend extra or take the train and join a tour in the city.
- Or if you want to drive like I did on the second visit, the self-drive that I did with my friend took about one and a half hours’ journey.
Muslim-friendly Things To Do In Novi Sad
Here are some Muslim-friendly places where you can visit in Novi Sad.
1. Check Out Petrovaradin Fortress
The most prominent clock tower is visible from far away. It’s the Landmark of Petrovaradin Fortress. Work on the fortress commenced in 1682 and concluded almost a century later in 1780, with significant disruptions caused by the ‘war’.
In the evening, I walked through the bridge and the Danube/river. There are many coffee shops, souvenir shops, and parks for relaxation.
- Petrovaradin Fortress location
2. Stroll around Liberty Square
Liberty Square is the city center of Novi Sad. A big church is a landmark. Near Liberty Square, there are many restaurants and a shopping center.
Liberty Square is a hidden gem in Novi Sad. You can stroll around the city centre and enjoy the nightlights around Liberty Square.
Novi Sad’s history is fascinating. Originally a small settlement of artisans and traders, the city was crowdfunded for city status by the Austrian Empress. The central market, Trg Slobode (Liberty Square), remains a bustling hub.
The tallest buildings, quaint cafes, boutiques, and the impressive City Hall are adorned with sculptures of eight Greek goddesses.
3. Try Ćevapi in a Bosnian Halal Shop
If you’re wondering what or where to eat in Novi Sad, the options are limited, considering how the Halal restaurants are spread throughout Novi Sad. However, one right in the city centre is so delicious Ćevapi of Bosnian heritage dishes.
I walked through the city centre; I saw a halal shop that sells Ćevapi (which looks like a kebab with minced meat). It is Uma Halal Restaurant. You can easily find it on the corner of the road.
If you have more time, I highly suggest you visit Subotica, the second most beautiful city in Vojvodina. I spent three days in Novisad, but unfortunately, I didn’t explore more cities in Vojvodina.
Explore Mountain Town on A Daytrip of Divčibare If You Love Skiing/Hiking!
It is a town and mountain resort located in the western Serbia. This place is a place for skiing professionals to stay during the winter.
My friend and I drove to Divčibare. It took me 2 hours to get there from the city center of Belgrade because there is no direct transportation unless you book a one-day trip or take a bus from Belgrade station to Valjevo Lasta bus station then go to Divčibarebus station.
This place is fantastic, but when I was there in February, it seemed like the winter was ending, but it was still okay; we could still see the breathtaking Divčibare.
It took me 1 hour to walk to reach the mountain. Do bear in mind that you will need to go on a soft hike for a while, but getting to the peak is difficult at all!
How I Did I Meet My Friend? Here are some tips:
Before traveling to another country, I always make sure to have a friend in the country I plan to visit and ask if I can stay with them. This way, I don’t have to pay for a hotel; they can show me around if they have the time.
For example, I have a friend from Indonesia who married a Serbian and now lives there. She graciously allowed me to stay at their house for a while. Another option is to connect with the sub-Facebook group Connect with Muslimah Solo Travelers. It’s a great way to find a Muslim friend from another country.
BONUS: Visit Novi Pazar To Meet Muslim Communities (1-2 Days)
Welcome to Serbia’s largest Muslim population. Muslim people there are mostly Bosnian.
Novi Pazar is located in southwestern Serbia, on the border between Kosovo and Serbia. It takes 5 hours to reach Novi Pazar from the capital city, Belgrade. But it’s nice to explore the only Muslim town in Serbia where you can hear the Adhaan MashaAllah.
You can stroll around Novi Pazar for a walk and it takes 30-60 minutes. What a small Novi Pazar is!
How to get to Novi Pazar from Belgrade
You can take a bus from Belgrade station to Novi Pazar. It costs (11-30 USD) and takes 5 hours. The bus operates 4 times a day.
Because Novi Pazar is not that big city, you can stay for 1-2 days.
Wrap Up: Four Cities To Visit in Serbia As a Muslimah Traveler
In my experience, Serbia is an excellent and affordable country for any Muslimah Traveler.
It’s safe, and the people are friendly. However, it’s advisable not to walk alone at night, which is common when you travel solo. Returning to the hotel before the day turns dark is better as we are not familiar with the area.
I visited Serbia twice. With the 30-day visa-free period for Indonesians, I didn’t need to struggle with obtaining a visa if I wanted to travel to Europe. It was a fantastic experience because the Balkans, in my opinion, was a calmer destination than Western Europe.
After reading this article, would you consider adding Serbia to your travel bucket list? Share in the comments!
