Savamala, Belgrade Travel Guide

Discover Savamala, Belgrade's vibrant district where art, culture, and nightlife converge along the picturesque banks of the Sava River.

Nestled along the banks of the Sava River, Savamala is a neighborhood that pulses with life, creativity, and culture. Once a bustling industrial area, it has transformed into one of Belgrade's most vibrant districts, attracting tourists with its eclectic mix of art, history, and nightlife. As you stroll through its streets, you'll be greeted by a blend of historic architecture and urban art, embodying the spirit of old and new Belgrade. Explore the many galleries that showcase contemporary Serbian art or lose yourself in the stories told by the captivating street murals that adorn the buildings. Savamala is a haven for artists and creatives, making it the perfect destination for those looking to experience the city's artistic soul. The district is home to several cultural hotspots, including the iconic Mikser House, a multi-functional space that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. After soaking in the culture, unwind at one of Savamala's trendy cafes or bars, many of which are set in repurposed industrial buildings. The nightlife here is legendary, offering everything from live music to sophisticated cocktail lounges. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a nightlife seeker, Savamala promises a rich and diverse experience that captures the essence of Belgrade.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Savamala.

Visit Mikser House for a taste of Belgrade's contemporary art and culture scene.
Take a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the historical and architectural significance of Savamala.
Don't miss the chance to explore the street art and murals that tell the story of the neighborhood.
For a unique experience, visit one of the floating river clubs (splavovi) along the Sava River.
Try local Serbian cuisine at one of the many authentic restaurants in the area.

Explore Savamala: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Savamala

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National Museum of Serbia

Explore the National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade, home to a vast collection of art and history from prehistoric to modern times.

4.7

Museum of contemporary art

Explore the dynamic world of modern art at Belgrade's Museum of Contemporary Art, featuring a rich collection and engaging exhibitions.

4.6

The Victor

Explore The Victor, a magnificent sculpture in Belgrade, symbolizing freedom and resilience, offering stunning views and rich history.

4.8

Best landmarks in Savamala

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Belgrade Fortress

Explore Belgrade Fortress: A Historical Marvel Overlooking the Confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers, Offering Breathtaking Views and Cultural Richness.

4.8

The Temple of Saint Sava

Explore the grandeur of the Temple of Saint Sava in Belgrade, a stunning testament to Serbian Orthodox architecture and culture.

4.8

Monument to Stefan Nemanja

Discover the Monument to Stefan Nemanja in Belgrade, a powerful tribute to Serbia's heritage and a must-see historical landmark for every traveler.

4.5

Sava promenada

Experience the beauty of Sava Promenada, a serene park in Belgrade perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and vibrant local culture.

4.5

Best restaurants in Savamala

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Manufaktura Restaurant Belgrade

Experience authentic Serbian cuisine at Manufaktura Restaurant in Belgrade – where tradition meets taste.

4.2

Mama Restaurant Belgrade

Experience the vibrant flavors of Serbia at Mama Restaurant Belgrade - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

4.5

Zavičaj

Discover authentic Serbian flavors at Zavičaj in Belgrade - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.6

Savanova

Discover Savanova in Belgrade: A delightful bistro serving local flavors with a modern twist amidst a cozy atmosphere.

4.3

Best bars in Savamala

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Funk & Soul Pub

Discover Belgrade's vibrant nightlife at Funk & Soul Pub, where great drinks and lively music create unforgettable experiences.

4.7

Old London Pub

Discover Belgrade's vibrant nightlife at Old London Pub, where Belgian beers and local culture blend seamlessly for an unforgettable experience.

4.5

Bridge Pub

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and authentic Serbian cuisine at Bridge Pub in Belgrade, the perfect spot for food and drink lovers.

4.3

Rob Roy 1884

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive drink selection at Rob Roy 1884, a must-visit pub in Belgrade for every traveler.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Savamala

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Gotik

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belgrade at Gotik, a premier night club blending electrifying music, stylish ambiance, and unforgettable experiences.

3.9

Hype

Discover Hype, Belgrade's iconic night club, where electrifying music and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable nightlife experiences.

3.7

The BANK Club

Discover the pulse of Belgrade's nightlife at The BANK Club, where electrifying music and vibrant culture create unforgettable nights.

3.9

Dark Angels Gentlemen’s Club

Discover the exhilarating nightlife of Belgrade at Dark Angels Gentlemen's Club, a premier venue for entertainment and excitement.

4.3

Best shops in Savamala

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Vintage Beograd

Explore the unique charm of Vintage Beograd, a vintage store in the heart of Belgrade offering eclectic treasures and nostalgic finds.

5.0

Šmizla Vintage & Design Store

Explore Šmizla Vintage & Design Store in Belgrade for unique vintage clothing and design pieces that capture the essence of the city.

4.7

Makadam Concept Store

Discover the charm of Belgrade at Makadam Concept Store, where shopping meets relaxation in a beautifully curated environment.

4.6

Rakia & co

Explore Rakia & Co in Belgrade for unique gifts, authentic Serbian rakia, and handcrafted souvenirs that reflect local culture.

4.5

Explore Savamala on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Savamala, mapped for you.

Savamala Essentials

Savamala is conveniently located in the heart of Belgrade, easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From the city center (Terazije), you can walk to Savamala in about 15 minutes. Public transport options include trams (lines 2 and 5) and buses (lines 15, 21, and 75), which connect to Savamala. The nearest train station, Prokop, is about 1.5 kilometers away, while the main bus station is approximately 2 kilometers away, making it easy to reach Savamala by taxi or on foot.
Savamala is a walkable neighborhood, allowing visitors to explore its vibrant streets on foot. Public transport options include buses and trams that connect to other parts of Belgrade. For those who prefer cycling, bike rentals are available at various spots in the area. Taxis and rideshare services like CarGo are also widely used and relatively inexpensive for longer distances.
Savamala is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain cautious, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas and be mindful of your belongings in crowded places like markets and cafes. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic. It's advisable to stay alert, especially around the riverfront and lesser-known alleys.
In case of an emergency, dial 192 for police, 193 for fire services, and 194 for medical assistance in Serbia. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital; the Clinical Center of Serbia is a reliable option. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical situations. Pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter needs.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in religious contexts. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; when visiting churches, dress modestly. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers, and don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and handshake, and don’t interrupt when they are speaking. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food or drink offers; don’t waste food, as it’s considered disrespectful.
To experience Savamala like a local, visit the vibrant street art installations and cultural events that often take place in the area. Explore local coffee shops and bars to enjoy the lively atmosphere and engage with residents. Don’t miss the Savamala Riverfront Walk, which offers stunning views of the Sava River, particularly at sunset. For a unique experience, check out the various art galleries and creative spaces that often showcase local talent.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Savamala

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Savamala. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloЗдраво
  [Zdravo]
- GoodbyeДовиђења
  [Doviđenja]
- YesДа
  [Da]
- NoНе
  [Ne]
- Please/You're welcomeМолим/Нема на чему
  [Molim/Nema na čemu]
- Thank youХвала
  [Hvala]
- Excuse me/SorryИзвините
  [Izvinite]
- How are you?Како си?
  [Kako si?]
- Fine. And you?Добро. А ти?
  [Dobro. A ti?]
- Do you speak English?Да ли говорите енглески?
  [Da li govorite engleski?]
- I don't understandНе разумем
  [Ne razumem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseЖелео/желела бих да видим мени, молим
  [Želeo/želela bih da vidim meni, molim]
- I don't eat meatНе једем месо
  [Ne jedem meso]
- Cheers!Живели!
  [Živeli!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseЖелео/желела бих да платим, молим
  [Želeo/želela bih da platim, molim]
- Help!Упомоћ!
  [Upomoć!]
- Go away!Иди одавде!
  [Idi odavde!]
- Call the Police!Позвате полицију!
  [Pozvate policiju!]
- Call a doctor!Позвате лекара!
  [Pozvate lekara!]
- I'm lostИзгубио/изгубила сам се
  [Izgubio/izgubila sam se]
- I'm illБолестан/болестна сам
  [Bolestan/bolestna sam]
- I'd like to buy...Желео/желела бих да купим...
  [Želeo/želela bih da kupim...]
- I'm just lookingСамо гледам
  [Samo gledam]
- How much is it?Колико кошта?
  [Koliko košta?]
- That's too expensiveТо је превише скупо
  [To je previše skupo]
- Can you lower the price?Можете ли спустити цену?
  [Možete li spustiti cenu?]
- What time is it?Колико је сати?
  [Koliko je sati?]
- It's one o'clockЈедан сат је
  [Jedan sat je]
- Half past (10)Пола (10)
  [Pola (10)]
- MorningЈутро
  [Jutro]
- AfternoonПоподне
  [Popodne]
- EveningВече
  [Veče]
- YesterdayЈуче
  [Juče]
- TodayДанас
  [Danas]
- TomorrowСутра
  [Sutra]
- 1Један
  [Jedan]
- 2Два
  [Dva]
- 3Три
  [Tri]
- 4Четири
  [Četiri]
- 5Пет
  [Pet]
- 6Шест
  [Šest]
- 7Седам
  [Sedam]
- 8Осам
  [Osam]
- 9Девет
  [Devet]
- 10Десет
  [Deset]
- Where's a/the...?Где је...?
  [Gde je...?]
- What's the address?Каква је адреса?
  [Kakva je adresa?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Можете ли ми показати (на мапи)?
  [Možete li mi pokazati (na mapi)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Кад је следећи (аутобус)?
  [Kad je sledeći (autobus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Једну карту (за ...)
  [Jednu kartu (za ...)]

History of Savamala

Savamala, situated on the banks of the Sava River, has a rich history that dates back to the medieval period. The area was predominantly agricultural until the Ottoman Empire established control over Belgrade in the 16th century. During this time, Savamala began to develop as a commercial and residential neighborhood, influenced by Ottoman architecture and urban planning.
The 19th century marked a significant transformation for Savamala as Belgrade underwent rapid modernization. Following Serbia's liberation from Ottoman rule, the neighborhood became a hub for trade and commerce. The construction of the first railway line in Serbia in 1884 further stimulated growth, leading to the establishment of warehouses and businesses, which attracted a diverse population.
Savamala's strategic location has made it a cultural melting pot throughout history. The area has been home to various ethnic groups, including Serbs, Jews, and Hungarians, contributing to a rich tapestry of cultural influences. The architectural styles in Savamala reflect this diversity, with buildings showcasing Baroque, Secessionist, and modernist elements.
After World War II, Savamala experienced a period of decline as industries moved out of the city center and urban planning favored other areas of Belgrade. Many historical buildings fell into disrepair, and the neighborhood struggled to maintain its identity amidst the changes occurring in the city.
In recent years, Savamala has witnessed a renaissance, becoming a vibrant cultural and artistic district. The local government and private initiatives have focused on revitalizing the neighborhood, leading to the emergence of galleries, cafes, and creative spaces. Events such as the Belgrade Design Week and the Savamala Art District have further cemented its status as a center for contemporary culture and creativity in Belgrade.