Belgrade: 3-Hour Walking Local Rakija Brandy Tasting Tour

If you’re heading to Belgrade and looking for an authentic experience that combines local culture, delicious drinks, and a bit of sightseeing, this 3-hour walking rakija tasting tour might just be what you’re after. As someone who’s seen a lot of guided tours, I can say that this one offers a genuine glimpse into Serbia’s beloved national spirit — rakija — along with some memorable moments in the city’s lively streets.

What draws us to this experience? First, the chance to taste 9 different Serbian brandies, each with its own character and flavor profile. Second, the opportunity to explore some of Belgrade’s best rakija venues, learning about their history and production methods from knowledgeable guides. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite focused on sampling and storytelling, so if you’re not a fan of spirits or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might not be your ideal outing. Still, for curious travelers eager to dive into local traditions while enjoying a walk through Belgrade, this tour tends to hit the spot.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a spirit enthusiast, a foodie, or simply curious about local traditions and culture, you’ll probably enjoy this tour. It’s also great for those who want a small-group, intimate experience rather than a large bus tour. Keep in mind that this is primarily a tasting and sightseeing walk, so travelers comfortable on their feet and interested in cultural stories will get the most out of it. It’s an especially good pick for those who want to meet new people from around the world while enjoying authentic Serbian drinks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Rakija Experience: The tour focuses on Serbian brandy, tasting 9 varieties made from local fruits like plum, apple, raspberry, and more.
• Visits to Top Venues: You’ll explore 3 of the best rakija venues in Belgrade, each known for their quality and atmosphere.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the history and culture behind rakija, including traditional tasting methods.
• Gourmet Bites Included: Enjoy cheese, aperitifs, and gourmet bites alongside your drinks — a perfect pairing.
• Social Atmosphere: Meet travelers from all over the world as well as local hosts, making it more than just a tasting.
• Flexible and Accessible: The tour lasts around 3.5 hours with flexible timings; private or custom options are available.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour kicks off in Studentski Park, a central location easy to find, where your guide will be waiting with a friendly wave. From there, the walking begins — but don’t worry, it’s a relaxed pace, blending sightseeing with tasting stops, each one revealing a new side of Serbian spirits.

Stop 1: Studentski Park — The Starting Point

This is your meeting point, and it sets the tone for the tour: friendly, informal, and centered around local life. The guide will introduce you to rakija as Serbia’s official drink — a spirit that’s as much about tradition as it is about flavor. You’ll probably get a quick rundown on what makes Serbian rakija unique, especially its extensive variety with over 269 flavors.

Stop 2: Hidden Gem Venue — Learning and Tasting

This first venue is carefully chosen for its good reputation and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you’ll taste a variety of rakijas, including 24K Gold Flakes Rakija, which stands out as a luxurious variation. The guide explains the tasting techniques and shares stories about the origins of each fruit brandy. We loved the way the guide combined knowledge with friendliness, making everyone feel comfortable asking questions.

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Stop 3: Another Top Venue — More Flavors & Pairings

The second venue continues the exploration, possibly with a focus on fruit-specific rakijas like apricot or raspberry. Expect to sample seven glasses of different types, each offering distinct tastes and aromas. The group tends to be diverse, with people from all over the world, which adds a lively, international flair. As Seda from past reviews mentions, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both educational and fun.

Stop 4: Final Venue & Wrap-up — Savoring the Spirit

The last venue allows you to relax, soak in the local atmosphere, and maybe even snap some photos of the city views. At this point, most guests have found a favorite flavor or two, and the guide might share some local pairings, such as cheeses or smoked meats, that complement the rakija perfectly.

End Point: Studentski Park

The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with a new appreciation for Serbia’s liquor tradition and perhaps some new friends to share stories with over the rest of your trip.

What Makes This Tour Special?

What sets this experience apart is the combination of tasting, storytelling, and sightseeing. Most importantly, the guides are well-versed in the history and cultural significance of rakija, making each stop more meaningful than just a tasting. The inclusion of gourmet bites elevates the experience, giving you a chance to enjoy local cheeses and appetizers that balance out the spirits.

The value lies in the variety: sampling 9 different rakijas from the best venues in the city, all included in the tour price. Plus, the relaxed, social atmosphere makes it easy to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.

Who Will Love It?

This tour is ideal for adventurous drinkers, cultural explorers, or anyone interested in authentic Serbian traditions. If you’re a fan of spirits or curious about how local drinks are made and enjoyed, you’ll find this experience both enjoyable and informative. It’s also suitable if you prefer walking and exploring rather than sitting on a bus, as the entire experience is a paced stroll through Belgrade’s vibrant neighborhoods.

Practicalities & Tips

• The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, so come prepared for a leisurely walk.
• Tours start at various times; check availability for your preferred slot.
• Everything is included — tastings, bites, and your guide — so you don’t need to worry about extra costs unless you want more drinks.
• The tour is accessible for those comfortable on their feet, and private or custom bookings are available.
• Guides speak Dutch, English, Russian, and Turkish, making it accessible to a diverse group of travelers.
• Reservations can be made with flexible payment options — you can book now and pay later.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an authentic, engaging way to experience Belgrade, this Rakija tasting tour offers a blend of local culture, delicious drinks, and friendly storytelling. It’s perfect for those who love a good drink and want to understand the stories behind it, all while strolling through the city’s lively streets.

For anyone curious about Serbia’s drinking traditions or eager to meet fellow travelers over a glass (or nine), this tour delivers on both fun and education. It’s a fantastic way to get a taste of Belgrade that stays with you long after the last sip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for those who don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is centered around tasting rakija, so if you don’t drink alcohol, it might not be the best fit. However, the focus is on cultural storytelling, so non-drinkers can still enjoy the sightseeing aspect.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including walking and tasting stops.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tastings, bites, and related experiences are included unless you decide to have more drinks beyond the offered options.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Dutch, English, Russian, and Turkish.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Studentski Park in front of the middle statue and ends back at the same location.

Can I book a private or custom tour?
Yes, private and custom dates/times are available upon request.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adults who enjoy spirits and walking; there’s no specific mention of child-friendly options.

What makes the venues special?
They are some of the most rated venues in Belgrade, known for quality and ambiance, and are carefully selected for this experience.

How many different rakijas will I taste?
You’ll sample 9 glasses of different types, each representing various fruits and flavors.

Can I buy additional drinks?
Additional drinks are not included but can be purchased separately at the venues if offered.

If you’re ready to explore Belgrade’s spirits and streets in one relaxing walk, this tour promises a memorable and tasty experience. Cheers!

You can check availability for your dates here: