Belgrade: Best of East Tour (Resava Cave & Lisine Waterfall)

If you’re looking for a day trip from Belgrade that combines history, nature, and a touch of adventure, the Best of East Tour might just fit the bill. This well-reviewed excursion takes you to some of Serbia’s most captivating sites—Manasija Monastery, the Resava Cave, and the impressive Lisine Waterfall—all within a comfortable, well-organized package.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances a sense of discovery with a laid-back vibe. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience feel personal rather than just a checklist of sights. Plus, the itinerary allows enough time at each location to really soak in the atmosphere.

That said, a potential consideration is the long day’s schedule—it’s about 9.5 hours, so if you prefer more relaxed, less packed days, this might feel a little rushed, especially during the busy tourist season. Also, since tickets for the caves and waterfall are paid separately on site, it’s good to budget a little extra cash for those.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who love a mix of cultural history, natural beauty, and comfortable transportation, especially if you’re visiting Serbia for the first time and want to see some of its less touristy highlights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip that covers key historical and natural sites in Serbia’s east
• Knowledgeable guides known for their friendliness and detailed explanations
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioned vehicles and hotel pickup/drop-off
• Flexible options available for private or small-group tours
• Worth budgeting for additional costs like cave and waterfall entrance tickets
• Ideal for those interested in nature, history, and authentic local experiences—not necessarily suited for those with mobility impairments

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Best of East Tour

Starting the Day: Pickup and Travel

Your day begins bright and early with pickup from your Belgrade hotel around 8:00 AM. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a lifesaver in the Serbian summer heat, and the group size tends to be small or private, making for a more personalized experience. The two-hour drive to the first stop offers a chance to relax and get excited about the day ahead.

First Stop: Manasija Monastery

The Manasija Monastery, built in the 15th century by Serbian ruler Stefan Lazarevic, is a highlight. It’s a significant monument, both architecturally and historically, known for its stunning towers and beautiful surroundings. The guided tour lasts about 30 minutes, which is enough to get a good sense of its importance without feeling rushed.

Travelers often comment on how the guide makes the history come alive, explaining the monastery’s artistic and cultural significance. As one reviewer said, “The tour itself was quite interesting because we were shown true hidden gems of Serbia during this tour.” It’s a perfect spot to soak in Serbian medieval history and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery, especially if you’re into architecture or ecclesiastical history.

Exploring Resava Cave

Next up is the Resava Cave, which is over 80 million years old and measures roughly 4.5 kilometers in length—though you’ll only explore a portion of it during the guided part. The interior is filled with stalactites, stalagmites, channels, galleries, and flowstone waterfalls that look like they belong in a fantasy film.

The cave’s temperature sits at around 7°C (45°F), so bringing a jacket is essential. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing details about the formation of each feature, and making the experience engaging. One reviewer mentioned, “The cave was amazing,” emphasizing how the impressive formations leave a lasting impression.

While the cave tour lasts about an hour, you’ll have time to take photos and marvel at the natural artistry of millions of years of mineral deposits. It’s a cool escape from Serbia’s hot summer days and offers a fascinating look into geological processes.

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The Waterfall: Lisine

The final natural highlight is the Lisine Waterfall, over 20 meters high and one of the most impressive waterfalls in Serbia. It’s part of a natural reserve, and visiting it feels like stepping into a postcard. The waterfall is especially photogenic in good weather, and the surrounding lush landscape makes for a scenic backdrop.

You’ll have around two hours here, which includes free time for lunch and a guided tour of the area. The tour organizers suggest trying the homegrown trout at the local restaurant—certainly a highlight, according to many reviews. It’s worth noting that in some seasons, the waterfall may be smaller or less flowing, but it remains a stunning sight overall.

Lunch Break and Free Time

After the water’s spectacle, the group heads to a nearby restaurant for a well-deserved lunch. Many travelers rave about the local cuisine, especially the trout, which is freshly caught from the river. You’ll have about two hours here—plenty of time to relax, enjoy a hearty meal, and chat with fellow travelers.

This is also a good chance to reflect on the day’s sights or ask your guide additional questions if you’re curious to learn more about Serbia’s culture and landscape.

Return to Belgrade

The day wraps up with a two-hour drive back to Belgrade, allowing everyone to unwind and share their favorite moments. The organizers ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, and some reviews mention how well the schedule is thought out, with enough time at each stop.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable Guides

One of the most frequently praised aspects is the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Many reviews highlight guides like Novica, Aleksandar, Milan, and Bojan, describing them as engaging, funny, and full of interesting information. Their ability to explain Serbian history and stories clearly makes the experience more meaningful.

Stunning Natural and Historical Sights

From the medieval fortress and monastery to the spectacular cave formations and the powerful waterfall, the tour offers a rich mix of sights. Many travelers mention how impressive the Resava Cave is, with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and how the Lisine Waterfall lives up to its reputation as one of Serbia’s highest waterfalls.

Good Value for Money

While tickets for the cave and waterfall are paid separately (around 500 RSD and 100 RSD respectively), many reviewers feel the overall value justifies the cost, especially considering the transportation, guide, and access to these sites. Several mention that the experience is worth the price, particularly when compared to other tours that might be more rushed or less organized.

Flexibility and Small Group Experience

Opting for a private or small group tour makes a significant difference in comfort and interaction. The personalized attention from guides, plus the ability to adapt stops (like choosing where to eat or take photos), enhances the experience.

Some Drawbacks

The main concern for some travelers is the long day’s schedule—about 9.5 hours. For those with limited stamina or a preference for leisurely paced trips, this might feel tiring. Also, since tickets for the cave and waterfall are paid in cash on the day, it’s wise to carry some local currency.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal if you’re eager to see a mix of history, natural beauty, and authentic Serbian culture in one day. It’s especially good for those interested in medieval architecture, geology, and waterfalls, and who enjoy guided journeys with friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a more relaxed, less structured day. Since the tour involves walking through caves and uneven terrain, comfortable shoes are recommended.

Final Thoughts

The Belgrade Best of East Tour offers a chance to experience some of Serbia’s most memorable sights in a single day. The combination of historical sites like Manasija Monastery, geological wonders of Resava Cave, and the powerful Lisine Waterfall makes it a well-rounded trip for curious travelers.

Many reviews highlight the expertise and warmth of the guides, which really elevates the experience. The scheduled stops and transportation are thoughtfully arranged, giving you enough time to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Although it’s a full day, it’s packed with visual treats and storytelling that bring Serbia’s landscape and history to life.

If you’re after a well-organized, engaging day trip that balances nature and history, this tour hits the right notes. It’s best for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, learning, and scenic beauty—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to see Serbia’s lesser-known gems.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Belgrade hotel are part of the package, making it easy to start your day without stress.

How long does the tour last?
The entire trip takes about 9.5 hours, with the start around 8:00 AM, depending on availability.

What is the group size?
You can choose between private or small groups, which generally makes for a more personalized experience.

Are tickets for the cave and waterfall included?
No, tickets for Resava Cave (500 RSD) and Lisine Waterfall (100 RSD) are paid separately at the sites and are cash only.

What should I bring?
A jacket for the cave (temperature is around 7°C), comfortable shoes, and some cash for entrance fees and lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, mainly due to walking in uneven terrain and caves.

Can I customize this tour?
The schedule is fixed, but private options may allow some flexibility—check with the provider.

Is the lunch included?
No, lunch is paid separately, but many travelers recommend the local trout and traditional Serbian dishes near the waterfall.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While the tour runs regularly, summertime offers the most scenic waterfalls and warm weather for outdoor exploration.

How can I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provider’s site or platforms like GetYourGuide, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

If you’re curious about Serbia’s natural and cultural treasures, this tour offers a solid, well-reviewed way to enjoy a packed, informative day with friendly guides and stunning sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: