Belgrade is a surprisingly good base for exploring Serbia’s natural wonders. Its central location makes it easy to visit stunning parks and scenic spots without long drives every day. Whether you’re after majestic mountains, river vistas, or rare birdwatching, Belgrade offers multiple tour options that suit different interests and schedules. We’re especially fond of the Full-Day Trip from Belgrade: Tara National Park & The Drina River Valley, thanks to its mix of scenic highlights, small-group intimacy, and knowledgeable guides. This tour is a great way to see some of Serbia’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of planning.
Below, we’ve rounded up the three best national park tours around Belgrade, each bringing its own unique flavor. From the classic beauty of Tara to the wild heights of Uvac, these options cover a range of interests, budgets, and time commitments.
1. Full-Day Trip from Belgrade: Tara National Park & The Drina River Valley
For around $144, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of Serbia’s western landscapes. Starting early at 8 a.m., you’ll avoid the driving hassle by joining a small group that handles all navigation, parking, and logistics. The trip covers approximately 200 kilometers from Belgrade to the scenic Tara National Park and the Drina River Valley, with stops that highlight the area’s most breathtaking sights, such as Banjska Rock and the House on the Rock.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on a personalized experience. Your guide will share rich background stories and local insights, making the visit more than just a photo op. Highlights include the “Gate of Podrinje”, a viewpoint that marks the entrance into the Drina River Valley, and a stop at Bajina Basta to see the famous House on the Rock, featured on the cover of National Geographic. The tour also visits Tara’s Zelenika viewpoint, overlooking Bajina Basta and Perucac Lake, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Guests consistently praise the guide Nina for her enthusiasm and knowledge, and the small group size ensures a more intimate, relaxed vibe. You’ll make multiple stops, enjoy stunning vistas, and return to Belgrade by early evening. Bottom line: a compact, well-organized day trip with maximum scenery and storytelling—ideal for nature lovers who want hassle-free logistics.
2. From Belgrade: Tara National Park & Drina River Valley Tour
This tour offers a similarly comprehensive experience with a slightly different itinerary and a focus on panoramic views. In about 11 hours, you’ll visit the “Gate of Podrinje,” see the House on the Rock, and enjoy vistas from viewpoints like Zelenika and Banjska Stena. The trip is popular for its scenic stops and relaxed pace, making it perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with some photo opportunities.
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Belgrade before a 2.5-hour van ride into the region. Highlights include the Kucica na Drini (the river house) — a unique attraction showcased in many photos — and the scenic Banjska Stena viewpoint, where you can walk or hike if you wish. The guide and driver—rated highly by reviews—are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the long day feel comfortable and engaging.
Guests appreciate the flexibility of this tour, and many note that while the drive is long, the spectacular views and interesting stops make it worthwhile. The trip is best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day on the road. The only challenge might be the lengthy bus ride, but if you’re eager to see Serbia’s natural highlights without renting a car, this tour delivers excellent value.
Bottom line: a reliable, scenic trip perfect for those wanting a rich overview of Tara and the Drina River Valley in a single day.
3. From Belgrade: Uvac Nature Reserve Tour
For travelers craving something a little more adventurous and less traveled, the Uvac Nature Reserve offers an incredible 15-hour journey into Serbia’s wilderness. Known for its winding canyon, spectacular river views, and griffon vultures, Uvac stands out as a top birdwatching and hiking destination.
This tour begins with a 3.3-hour van ride from Belgrade, followed by a boat cruise on the Uvac River. A highlight is the visit to Veliki Vrh Viewpoint, where you can take panoramic shots of the meandering Uvac Canyon, famous for its surreal, twisting landscape. The tour also includes a guided walk through the reserve, with chances to observe griffon vultures in their natural habitat—an experience that bird enthusiasts especially love.
Guests have called this trip “a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” praising the guide Jelena for her enthusiasm and knowledge. The tour also involves hiking, river boat rides, and scenic viewpoints, making it a more active option suited for those who enjoy outdoor activity. The long day is well worth it for the unspoiled scenery and the chance to see one of Serbia’s most beautiful natural sites.
Bottom line: ideal for travelers eager for a full day of hiking, wildlife watching, and stunning photography — perfect for nature lovers who want a deeper dive into Serbia’s remote wilderness.
How to Choose the Right National Park Tour in Belgrade
When selecting the best tour for your trip, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a quick, scenic overview with storytelling, the Full-Day Trip to Tara and Drina offers great value in a manageable schedule. Those seeking a slightly more flexible itinerary with panoramic viewpoints might prefer the Tour from Belgrade. For wildlife enthusiasts and hikers looking for a unique experience, the Uvac Nature Reserve gives a more active, immersive day.
Booking early is recommended, especially for tours with limited availability or specific dates. Consider the season—spring and early autumn often provide the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities. Think about your physical fitness level — the Uvac trip involves hiking and boat rides, whereas the Tara and Drina tours are more about scenic stops and easy walks.
Final Thoughts
Belgrade offers a great starting point for exploring Serbia’s national parks with options ranging from classic scenic drives to active wildlife adventures. For travelers pressed for time, the full-day Tara and Drina tour delivers iconic views with minimal fuss. For those wanting to venture further into Serbia’s wilderness, the Uvac Nature Reserve promises memorable photo ops and a chance to see rare vultures.
No matter your choice, these tours provide a chance to see Serbia beyond the city—its mountains, rivers, and wildlife are waiting. Book early, pack your camera, and enjoy the natural beauty that makes Serbia such a special destination.