Inland in the southeast of Europe, lies the Balkan nation of Serbia. An excellent choice for those wishing to get ahead of the curve in tourism popularity, as yet it remains relatively unspoilt. The summer months can get very hot, so spring and autumn are usually the best times to visit. A beautiful country, its lakes, rivers, UNESCO reserves, caves and mountains are stunning, as is the regal architecture in more populated areas. Belgrade is a great option for a city break, or if you want to experience village life, you can book a tour with locals to learn more about Serbian rural heritage.
Hotel Grand Kopaonik
Just metres from the Karaman Greben ski lift and slopes, this central hotel is a superb destination for those seeking winter sports, a spa break, or refined, authentic gastronomy. The 191 room property boasts indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a kids’ club and playroom, indoor basketball, football and handball courts, a bar with billiards and beautiful views of the Peak of Pancic. Guests can enjoy apres at the Gastro Ski Bar, afternoon tea by the fire at the Salon, or French cuisine fused with Mediterranean and Asian elements at Bacco. Plus you’ll often find special events hosted in the hotel’s extensive meeting spaces.
Metropol Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Belgrade
Just around the corner from the Nikola Tesla Museum, is the Metropol Palace. It first opened in 1957 (previously known as Hotel Metropol), having been renovated in 2012, with 198 air-conditioned guest rooms and 38 suites. Now the hotel facilities include a bar lounge, a restaurant – accommodating halal and kosher diets – and a gaming room. A highlight is the Limegrove Fitness & Spa Center with its stunning 25-metre artistically lit mosaic-style pool, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, relaxation area, steam bath, ice fountain and six treatment rooms. Book to stay here if you’d like a haven of tranquillity among the city action.
Hyatt Regency Belgrade
Stay in the new, quieter part of the city, at the Hyatt Regency, across the bridge from the older side of Belgrade. Built in 1990, the eight-storey building is five minutes from the Sava Convention Center. A popular business hotel, it has 302 rooms in neutral colour palettes, most of which are flooded with natural light thanks to its open outlook. An Executive Club Lounge is found on the seventh floor, available to Hyatt Globalists or for an extra fee. Guests can also unwind in the Club Olympus spa. And the dedicated concierge is always on hand to help with anything else you might need.
Nine Square Hotel Belgrade
You could also stay right in the heart of the old town, in Dorcol, beside the pedestrianised shopping area. Furnishings at this award-winning boutique establishment come from the USA and Scandinavia, with the building itself having been designed by the renowned Brazilian architect Isay Weinfeld. The wellness sanctuary (complete with Japanese Ofuru tub and sea salt lap pool) fuses retro with futuristic design aesthetics in the basement. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Square Nine also has a vintage Lobby Bar, a restaurant with a garden terrace, an eatery serving fresh sushi on the roof and 45 bedrooms.
Saint Ten Hotel Belgrade
Another boutique option, this is one of the newest additions to Belgrade’s hotel scene, each room boasting hand-picked furnishings. Air-conditioned, child and pet friendly, the sleek hotel has a spa, bar and L’Adresse Restaurant, serving modern Mediterranean dishes. Interior decor is contemporary and comfy, with rooms spread across seven categories (including family and balcony suites). Self-catering spaces with kitchenettes are ideal for those planning a longer trip to the city. The landmark building was first erected in 1929 and is found in the lively, leafy district of Vracar – free airport shuttles are included in your stay.