From Belgrade: Ni and Devil’s Town Private Day Tour

Exploring Southern Serbia: A Day in Ni and Devil’s Town

If you’re considering a day trip from Belgrade that combines history, culture, and nature, this private tour to Ni and Devil’s Town might just tick all your boxes. It’s designed for travelers who appreciate a mix of meaningful sights and awe-inspiring landscapes, served up with the ease of a private guide making everything smooth and personalized.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances dark history with remarkable natural beauty. You’ll get a chance to walk through somber, thought-provoking sites like the Skull Tower and the Crveni Krst Concentration Camp, then switch gears to marvel at the otherworldly formations of Devil’s Town. The guide’s insights make each stop feel alive with stories, not just facts, which makes the long day fly by.

One thing to keep in mind is the day’s pacing—this is a full 13.5-hour adventure, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed morning or have mobility issues. Also, the tour involves some walking, especially at Devil’s Town, so comfortable shoes are a must. This trip is best suited for those interested in history, geology, or just wanting to see some of Serbia’s most striking sights in one go.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys a well-organized, immersive experience with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a compelling way to see southern Serbia’s highlights in a single day. It’s perfect for those who don’t mind a long day and want a mix of education and stunning visuals.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience ensures personalized attention and in-depth stories
• Combines historical sites with natural wonders for a well-rounded day
• Long duration (13.5 hours), so good for those prepared for a full-day outing
• Comfortable transportation with air-conditioning
• Dark history and somber sites like Skull Tower and Bubanj Memorial Park
• Stunning scenery at Devil’s Town with a short, scenic hike

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Tour Itself

This full-day private tour begins bright and early—your pickup from Belgrade is scheduled for 7 am, which is perfect if you want to maximize your day. The first stop is Mediana, an archaeological site dating back to the 3rd and 4th centuries. Here, we loved how the guide explained the significance of the villa’s mosaics and the site’s historical importance, giving us a tangible sense of ancient life. It’s a peaceful start that sets the tone for the day’s mix of history and natural beauty.

Next, you’ll visit Skull Tower, a stark reminder of Serbia’s struggle for independence. Built from the skulls of rebels, this site is about as raw as history gets. It’s not a cheerful stop but a powerful one, especially if you’re interested in the region’s past conflicts. The guide’s storytelling helps contextualize its meaning without feeling overly grim.

The visit to Crveni Krst Concentration Camp is perhaps the most emotionally intense part. Operated during WWII by the Nazis, it detained thousands of Jews, Roma, and Serbs. The tour includes a walk through the complex, with displays of personal belongings of prisoners and stories of escapes. One reviewer mentioned that it “speaks to the complex history of WWII-era Serbia,” which we agree helps give perspective on this difficult chapter.

Bubanj Memorial Park continues this somber theme, commemorating over 10,000 victims executed during wartime. This site is simple but profoundly moving, and it’s important that the tour includes it as part of the overall story of the area’s past.

After exploring these emotionally charged sites, the tour shifts gears with visits to Ni Fortress, King Milan Square, the Monument to the Liberators, and the beautifully preserved Cair’s Fountain. These spots showcase Ni’s resilience and architectural charm. The guide highlights their cultural and historical significance, making you appreciate the city’s layered story.

A short stop at City Hall, built in 1925, offers a taste of neoclassical architecture. Then, you’ll wander through Kazandzijsko Sokace or “Tinkers Alley,” a charming cobblestone street. Here, you can snap photos at the Stevan Sremac and Kala Monument and enjoy a coffee or lunch break, soaking in the lively but relaxed atmosphere of Ni’s old town.

After a satisfying meal and some free time, the journey continues southward through Serbia’s countryside towards Devil’s Town. This part of the trip is scenic and relaxing, with the guide sharing local lore along the way. Once there, you’ll go on a short hike through the forest, leading to the observation platform. The views of the earthen towers—formed by volcanic activity—are striking. You’ll love the sense of otherworldliness here, especially with the pools of acidic springs at the base, earning it the nickname Hell Gully.

The site’s geology is captivating: 202 towers shaped by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, each with its own character. The guide points out interesting features and shares tales from local legend, adding layers of cultural context to the stunning landscape.

Transportation and Timing

Your transportation is air-conditioned, with options for a small car or minivan depending on your group size. The long drive is broken up with scenic views and informative commentary. Starting early allows you to visit numerous sites comfortably, but be prepared for a full day—this isn’t a tour for those who prefer a slow pace or have mobility concerns.

The entire experience lasts about 13.5 hours, which includes travel, sightseeing, and free time. It’s a significant time commitment, but most reviews note that the guide and driver make the journey smooth and enjoyable. The private nature of the tour also means you can tailor the stops slightly or linger if time allows.

Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Day

• Wear comfortable shoes, especially for Devil’s Town, where a short hike is involved.
• Bring your passport or ID as some sites might require it.
• Pack some water and snacks, though a lunch break is included.
• If you’re sensitive to dark history, prepare yourself for the visits to the concentration camp and Bubanj Memorial Park—they’re powerful but necessary parts of the story.
• Keep in mind that the tour is quite structured, so if you’re looking for a more leisurely or flexible experience, this might feel a bit rushed.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers who enjoyed this tour often highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer noting that Nina and Bogdan “made the day perfect.” The stunning views at Devil’s Town also get rave reviews; people love the chance to see such a unique natural feature that’s been nominated as one of the new Seven Natural Wonders.

The emotional depth of the historical sites is appreciated, with guests remarking that the sites provide a meaningful context for understanding Serbia’s complex past. The combination of dark history, cultural landmarks, and natural beauty makes this tour stand out as a full-spectrum experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour offers a thorough, well-organized way to explore some of Serbia’s most significant and intriguing sites in one day. If you’re interested in history—both the inspiring and the painful—or love landscapes that are a little surreal, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also ideal if you prefer private, guided trips that take the hassle out of logistics.

However, be ready for a long, active day. Some sites involve walking and emotional reflection, so it’s best suited for travelers in good health and with an interest in Serbia’s layered past and striking scenery. The experience is particularly suited for those who appreciate deep, meaningful travel rather than just ticking off sights.

This tour delivers a rich, diverse snapshot of southern Serbia, expertly guided and carefully curated to show you both the resilience and natural wonder of the region. It’s a solid choice for curious travelers eager to learn and see beyond the usual spots.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves some walking and emotionally intense sites like the concentration camp, it’s generally better suited for older children and adults. It’s not specifically tailored for families or very young kids.

How long is the drive from Belgrade?
The tour starts with a pickup in Belgrade and includes a scenic drive through southern Serbia’s countryside. The entire day, including travel, lasts about 13.5 hours.

Are the sites included in the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking, especially at Devil’s Town and some historical sites. It’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, spring and early autumn offer the best weather for outdoor visits and hiking, especially at Devil’s Town.

Are meals included?
Yes, there’s roughly 1.5 hours set aside for lunch or coffee in Ni, giving you time to relax and recharge.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides eager to share stories and insights.

If you’re after a full, meaningful day exploring Serbia’s history, culture, and nature, this private tour from Belgrade to Ni and Devil’s Town offers a satisfying, immersive experience. Prepare for a long but rewarding adventure that leaves you with a deeper understanding—and plenty of stunning photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: