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Winter is perfect for skiing in Kopaonik or enjoying the festive atmosphere and Rakija in Belgrade's cozy bars.

Spring brings mild weather, making it the ideal time for hiking in national parks and exploring city streets.

Summer is the peak of Serbian energy, with world-class music festivals and lively river clubs called splavovi.

Autumn is the season of food and wine, with many festivals celebrating the harvest across the Serbian countryside.

UK citizens can enter Serbia visa-free for up to 90 days. You must ensure your passport is valid for at least the duration of your stay. Upon arrival, if you are not staying in a hotel, you are technically required to register with the local police within 24 hours. Hotels handle this automatically for you. This process is a standard administrative requirement in Serbia. Compared to the UK, the border process is generally quick and straightforward for British travelers. Always keep a digital copy of your passport and travel insurance documents. Serbia is not part of the Schengen Area, so time spent here does not count towards your 90-day Schengen limit, making it a great destination for longer European tours.

Public transport in Serbian cities is affordable but can be crowded. In Belgrade, use the 'Beograd Plus' app or buy tickets at kiosks for buses and trams. For intercity travel, buses are the most reliable and frequent option, connecting Belgrade to Novi Sad, Nis, and Subotica. The train network is improving, with a high-speed 'Soko' train now running between Belgrade and Novi Sad in just 36 minutes. Taxis are plentiful but always use reputable apps like Cargo (similar to Uber) or Pink Taxi to avoid overcharging. Driving in Serbia is on the right side of the road, similar to the rest of Europe but different from the UK. Renting a car is the best way to explore national parks like Tara or the Uvac Canyon, where public transport is limited.

Serbians are exceptionally hospitable and often welcome guests with food and drink. When entering a home, it is polite to bring a small gift like coffee or chocolate. Tipping is common in restaurants; rounding up the bill or adding 10% is standard practice. Smoking is still permitted in many indoor public spaces, which might be a surprise to UK travelers. Religion plays a significant role in culture, so dress modestly when visiting Orthodox monasteries. Learning a few basic Serbian phrases like 'Hvala' (Thank you) and 'Živeli' (Cheers) goes a long way in building rapport with locals. Serbians are proud of their history and culture, so engaging in respectful conversation about local traditions is always appreciated. Don't be surprised by the passionate and direct communication style, which is a sign of sincerity.

Serbian food is hearty and meat-heavy. Must-try dishes include Ćevapi (grilled minced meat), Pljeskavica (Serbian burger), and Sarma (stuffed cabbage leaves). For a quick snack, try Burek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or meat, usually eaten with yogurt for breakfast. Vegetarians might find fewer options in traditional kafanas, but Greek-style salads and grilled vegetables are widely available. Tap water is generally safe to drink in Belgrade, but many locals prefer bottled water in other regions. Rakija, a strong fruit brandy, is the national drink and is often served as a gesture of welcome. For a 'Don't be a tourist' tip: head to a local 'Pekara' (bakery) at 3 AM after a night out in Belgrade—it's a true local ritual. For the best photos, visit the Gardoš Tower in Zemun for a panoramic view of the red-roofed houses and the Danube.