Europe > Serbia > Belgrade (BEG)
The Car or no Car advice for Belgrade can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Belgrade ; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Belgrade ?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Belgrade?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.Belgrade’s centre is very walkable. Areas like Stari Grad, Skadarlija, Dorćol, Savamala, and Kalemegdan are all close together, and the majority of key attractions are easy to reach on foot. Meanwhile, trams and buses fill the gaps quickly. They run frequently, they cover all the major neighbourhoods, and they connect smoothly to the riverside promenades. This makes urban travel straightforward, even for first-time visitors.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Yandex Go add yet another layer of convenience. They’re affordable compared with most European capitals, and they’re widely used by locals. Therefore, if your plan revolves around food, museums, nightlife, and walking tours, a rental car becomes unnecessary.
However, Serbia outside Belgrade tells a different story. If you want to visit Mount Avala, explore Fruška Gora’s monasteries, visit rural wine regions, or tour scattered villages, a car becomes very useful. Although trains to Novi Sad and Niš run reliably, the most scenic rural spots aren’t always well connected. A rental car unlocks the best mountain roads, hidden viewpoints, and flexible day trips.
| Your plan in Belgrade | Car needed? |
|---|---|
| Staying in the centre | ❌ No |
| Using trams, buses, taxis | ❌ No |
| Avala or Fruška Gora | ❔ Optional |
| Rural touring | ❔ Optional |
| Deep countryside exploration | ✅ Yes |
🎯 Conclusion: Should You Rent a Car in Belgrade?
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❌ Skip the car for a city-only visit.
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❔ Consider one if you want to explore countryside landscapes or monasteries outside the transport network.
