Serbia: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
No, Serbia is not in the Schengen zone. Days spent in Serbia do not count toward your 90-day Schengen limit. Serbia has rapidly emerged as one of the most exciting city-break destinations in Europe, with Belgrade's legendary nightlife, thriving food scene, and complex history drawing increasing numbers of British visitors. Beyond the capital, Novi Sad, the Danube, and the country's wine regions offer plenty more to explore, all without touching your Schengen clock.
Belgrade is the star attraction. This city at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers has been conquered and rebuilt over 100 times throughout its history, and today it buzzes with energy. The Savamala creative district, the floating river clubs (splavovi), the Kalemegdan Fortress, and Skadarlija's bohemian quarter give Belgrade a character unlike any other European capital. For UK travellers, Serbia combines genuine discovery with the strategic advantage of pausing the Schengen day count.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: No
- EU Member: No
- Year Joined Schengen: N/A
- Capital: Belgrade
- Currency: Serbian Dinar
- Languages: Serbian
Serbia is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen zone. It is an EU candidate country. Days spent in Serbia do not count toward the Schengen 90-day limit.
Adding Serbia to Your European Itinerary?
Serbia is the perfect Schengen clock-pause city break. Enjoy Belgrade's nightlife and culture without using a single Schengen day. Track your travel across Schengen and non-Schengen countries with Entorii to always know where you stand.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK citizens can stay in Serbia for up to 90 days without a visa. This is entirely separate from the Schengen 90/180-day rule and is governed by Serbia's own immigration policy. You can freely combine Serbian travel with trips to Schengen countries, knowing that only the Schengen portion counts toward your 90-day limit.
Belgrade is typically visited as a long weekend or short city break of 3 to 5 days, though the country rewards a longer stay. A week to ten days allows you to combine Belgrade with Novi Sad, the Fruska Gora wine region, and the Danube valley. Serbia also works well as part of a wider Balkan itinerary, neighbouring non-Schengen countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia, as well as Schengen members Hungary and Romania.
Top Destinations in Serbia
Belgrade (3-5 days)
Serbia's dynamic capital with the Kalemegdan Fortress, bohemian Skadarlija quarter, Savamala district, Temple of Saint Sava, and legendary nightlife on the river splavovi.
Novi Sad (2-3 days)
The Petrovaradin Fortress above the Danube, the charming old town, and host city of the EXIT music festival each July.
Nis (1-2 days)
One of Europe's oldest cities with Roman ruins, the Skull Tower, and the birthplace of Emperor Constantine.
Fruska Gora (1-2 days)
A national park and wine region north of Novi Sad, dotted with Serbian Orthodox monasteries and vineyards.
Zlatibor & Tara (3-4 days)
Mountain regions in western Serbia offering hiking, the scenic Sargan Eight railway, and the Drina River house.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from London to Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport are operated by Air Serbia and Wizz Air. Air Serbia flies daily from London Heathrow with a flight time of approximately two hours and 50 minutes. Wizz Air operates several weekly flights from London Luton. Between them, there are typically 10 to 12 direct flights per week. Fares on Wizz Air can be remarkably affordable, with one-way tickets sometimes available from under 30 pounds. Connecting flights via major European hubs offer additional flexibility. From Belgrade, Novi Sad is roughly an hour's drive or a 90-minute train journey to the north.
Travel Tips
Serbia uses the Serbian dinar as its currency. Euros are not widely accepted, so exchange money on arrival or withdraw dinars from ATMs, which are abundant in cities. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping centres, but cash is necessary in smaller establishments, bakeries, and markets. Serbia is very affordable. A generous meal for two with drinks in a good Belgrade restaurant typically costs 20 to 30 pounds.
Belgrade's nightlife is world-famous and operates on a late schedule. Restaurants fill up around 9pm, and clubs do not get going until well after midnight. The floating river clubs (splavovi) along the Sava and Danube are a quintessential Belgrade experience, open from spring through autumn. For getting around, Belgrade has an extensive bus and tram network, and taxis are very cheap. When ordering a taxi, always use the Car:Go app or official city taxis to avoid unlicensed drivers. Serbian food is hearty and meat-heavy. Try pljeskavica (a spiced meat patty), karadjordjeva snicla (rolled pork or veal), and kajmak (a rich clotted cream served with grilled meats).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Serbia in the Schengen zone?
No. Serbia is not in the Schengen zone or the European Union. Days spent in Serbia do not count toward the 90-day Schengen limit for UK passport holders.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Serbia?
No. UK passport holders can stay in Serbia for up to 90 days without a visa. This is a separate allowance from the Schengen 90/180-day rule.
What is Belgrade's nightlife like?
Belgrade is widely regarded as having some of the best nightlife in Europe. The floating river clubs (splavovi) on the Sava and Danube are the signature experience, operating from spring to autumn. The Savamala district and Cetinjska Street offer bars and clubs in converted warehouses and courtyards. The scene runs late, with most venues not filling up until after midnight.
Can I combine Serbia with Hungary or Romania?
Yes. Both Hungary and Romania are in the Schengen zone and share borders with Serbia. Novi Sad is just over an hour from the Hungarian border, and Budapest is roughly four hours from Belgrade by bus or car. Remember that days in Hungary or Romania count toward your 90-day Schengen limit while days in Serbia do not.
Is Serbia safe for UK travellers?
Yes. Serbia is generally safe for tourists. Belgrade and Novi Sad are well-established tourist destinations with a growing international visitor base. Standard travel precautions apply. The UK Foreign Office advises against travel to the boundary between Serbia and Kosovo, but the main tourist areas are safe and welcoming.