Skadarlija
Скадарлија
A cobblestone street where artists and poets gathered in the late 19th century. Traditional taverns (kafana) feature live Gypsy bands, making it a great place to experience Serbian food and music.
Skadarlija is a cobblestone slope about 400 meters long on the eastern side of the old town, often called 'the Montmartre of Belgrade.' From the late 19th to the early 20th century, its taverns drew many writers, poets, painters and actors, forming a bohemian cultural circle. The poet Đura Jakšić, for example, lived here, and his former home is now an exhibition space. Today, many long-established traditional taverns (kafana) line the street, including Tri šešira (Three Hats, opened in 1864), Two Pigeons and the Golden Barrel. Murals and floral decorations on the restaurant walls create a nostalgic atmosphere. In the evenings, bands in traditional dress often play Serbian and Gypsy folk songs at the tables. Recommended dishes include čevapčići (grilled sausages), pljeskavica (Serbian hamburger patties), kajmak (cream spread), stuffed peppers and rakija, a plum brandy. Prices are slightly higher than in the city center but still reasonable. Bands playing at your table usually expect a tip, and if you don't want to request a song, you can politely decline.
Opening hours
Open all day; restaurants mostly about 11:00 to 01:00 the next day
Nearby sights
- National Museum of Serbia
- House of the National Assembly
- Knez Mihailova Street & Republic Square
- Bajrakli Mosque
- St. Mark's Church
- Dorćol & Danube Quay
- Jevremovac Botanical Garden
- Belgrade Fortress (Kalemegdan)