Diversity stands as a cornerstone in Serbia's narrative. Throughout the centuries, distinct regions of our country have thrived under various cultural and historical influences, contributing to the intricate mosaic that defines Serbia. Nowhere is this diversity more visible than in Niš, the third-largest city in Serbia and the largest in Southern Serbia. Positioned at a crossroad, the fate of this ancient city was shaped by the footsteps of numerous conquerors and nations.
Niš was a birthplace of Constantine the Great—one of history's most important Roman emperors, it also served as a meeting point for Serbian ruler Stefan Nemanja and crusaders led by Friedrich Barbarossa, it’s story is marked by numerous glorified battles in earlier history and the tragic events of WWII. Yet, amidst its historical weight, Niš is also the vibrant and lively epicenter of Serbia's music and culinary scene—a cheerful place where every guest is cherished, and no one departs without a smile.
Places of visit
Mediana archeological site
Ćele Kula (Scull Tower)
Red Cross - Nazi concentration camp
Niš Fortress
Niš city center
Tour Includes
Private transport per itinerary
Licensed tour guide services during whole tour
All entrance tickets
Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation
Duration of the tour
12h
Tour does not include
Personal expenses
Meals
In the morning your #destinationserbia tour guide will pick you up from your accommodation. Departing from Belgrade, our journey heads south along the Morava valley.
After approximately 2.5 hours, we arrive to our first stop, Mediana, an archaeological site and the best-preserved segment of the Roman city Naissus. Birthplace of Constantine the Great, Naissus witnessed the construction of Mediana—a luxurious royal palace on its outskirts—during Constantine's rule. Exploring the site, we encounter mosaics and remnants of this palace used by Constantine the Great and his successors.
Transitioning to the early 19th century, we delve into the time of the First Serbian Uprising—a revolutionary period that laid the groundwork for modern-day Serbia. Our next stop is the Skull Tower, a poignant symbol built by Ottomans using the skulls of fallen Serbian soldiers. A testament to resistance and the Serbian people's pursuit of freedom.
Following this, we visit the Red Cross concentration camp from WWII. Operated by the German Gestapo, the camp detained around 30,000 individuals, primarily Jews, Serbians, and Romas. While serving as a transit camp, few were directly killed on-site; instead, many were transported to Bubanj Hill in Niš for execution or to other concentration camps. Notably, this camp distinguished itself with a historic event—the first mass escape of prisoners in occupied Europe on February 12, 1942, where 105 individuals successfully fled.
A core attraction of Niš is its Fortress, initially built by the Romans and later shaped by the Ottomans in the 18th century. The fortress encapsulates traces of numerous historical periods and stands as both a historical monument and a picturesque park in the heart of Niš.
Our exploration continues through the city center, concluding with a gastronomic indulgence in the world-class cuisine of Southern Serbia. The unique flavors of the South, accompanied by local wine and rakija, offer an essential experience. As we savor the culinary delights and immerse ourselves in the stories of the local bohemians, our palate satisfied, we embark on our return journey to Belgrade, where we’ll arrive in the evening.
Price
1pax
$100
2pax
$100