The 8 Best Ecotourism Experiences In Serbia

Serbia isn’t exactly a sustainable paradise, to say the least. Recycling is still a fairly novel concept in Belgrade, and the less said about environmental worries outside the capital the better. Despite the pessimism, there remain a handful of truly eco-friendly tourist experiences to embrace in this magnificent country.

Stay at a Salaš in Fruška Gora

One concept that has well and truly been embraced by the Serbs in Vojvodina is that of the tourist farm (or salaš, in this part of the world), although it obviously still comes with something of a caveat. If you’re enjoying yourself in Fruška Gora (or even a smaller town such as Sremski Karlovci), why not check out a salaš or two? Locally sourced food, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques are the name of the game, along with a morning view that quite simply can’t be touched.

Organic farming in Vojvodina

Combine harvester sews wheat grain in the fields of Sombor city, Serbia

Visit Serbia’s Ramsar sites

Serbia currently has 10 wetlands of international importance (known as Ramsar sites), most of which are found in the northern province of Vojvodina. The most interesting site is a little further south however, and Zasavica provides a natural habitat for an impressive number of rare and endangered species. The largest peat bog in Europe is also found in Serbia, at Vlasina.

Check out the little House on the Drina

One of the most adorable and curious sites in the entire country, the House on the Drina is a great example of the beautiful merging of nature and the ingenuity of man. The stretch of the famous river near the small town of Bajina Bašta had long been a popular swimming spot, but a group of friends decided to build a small cabin on a rock in the water in 1968. The river is fine for swimming these days, and there aren’t many more delightful sights than that of the little house in the monumental Drina.

Riding horses from north to south

Not literally riding them from Subotica to Leskovac, but there are plenty of chances to get on the saddle in Serbia. The country has a rich history of equestrianism after all. The Hippodrome in Belgrade might be facing an uncertain future in the face of rampant capitalism, but there are plenty of stud farms dotted across the delightful countryside.

Find peace at the monasteries

The Serbian Orthodox Church plays a huge role in the day to day life of many Serbs, and nowhere is this more true than in the tranquil monasteries that can be found across the country. The complexes are figuratively drowning in history and tradition, and the continued survival of the monasteries is more important than the state seems to believe. By visiting places like Studenica, Krušedol and the rest, you are going to have a fascinating time and do your bit for the good of the community at the same time.

Orthodox monastery on Ovcar mountain, Serbia

Camping in Zlatibor

Zlatibor is one of the most majestic mountains in the country, and arguably the finest spot to pitch up and enjoy a spot of camping in Serbia. The main campsite at Zlatibor is hidden within acres of pine forest, and there is even a spot of sustainable fishing available for those hoping for a day of lazing by a lake waiting for a catch.

You can also camp alongside the Uvac river

Embrace the alternative markets of Belgrade

Serbia is fast falling under the thrall of the shopping centres and 24-hour supermarkets, but sustainable produce is still available at the various green markets around the country. What’s more, the capital is home to a number of alternative weekend markets full of recycled materials, second-hand clothing, offering the charm of the flea market with an eye of sustainability and none of the morning drunks. Dorćol Platz is just one great example.

Get yourself down to Dorćol Platz on a Sunday afternoon

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.