Destination Belgrade
For many years the Croatian coastline has been a destination for Austrian tourists heading east for their holidays, but neighbour Serbia is now fast becoming a popular alternative.With up to five flights a day departing from Vienna to Belgrade, as well as night trains and international bus services, getting to Serbia from Austria has never been easier.The city of Belgrade offers a range of attractions in the areas of history, architecture, culture and cuisine.The main sights of the centre include the Republic Square, the Knez Mihailova pedestrian street, the Kalemegdan Fortress and the bohemian Skadarlija district – often compared to Paris Montmartre.The Danube and Sava rivers meet in Belgrade, and the city makes the most of its water with numerous floating restaurants, cafes and nightclubs which keep the city buzzing until the early hours.The Cathedral of St Sava, with its stunning white marble façade, can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. It is the biggest Orthodox Church in Europe, and its impressive dome and gleaming gold crosses give the building a total height of 82 metres.As well as this 20th century cathedral, Belgrade is home to many other historic religious sites, such as medieval monasteries with rare fresco paintings, many of which are under UN cultural protection.Belgrade also offers the perfect opportunity to try Serbian food. The countrys traditional cuisine is hearty and tasty, featuring lots of meat, but also vegetable salads and excellent wine. Those with a strong stomach can try Slivovitz, a potent plum brandy.A stroll through one of the citys beautiful parks provides the opportunity to observe the local pace of life, as in fine weather tourists can see elderly men playing chess together, and youngsters enjoying a game of cricket.A visit to the Kalemegdan fortress at dusk will start off a night out in the city with style, as it is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the Sava river.Although Belgrade’s 7,000 year history makes it one of the oldest cities in Europe, the Serbian capital has its eyes firmly fixed on the future, and is working to become an international hub in southern Europe, with much to offer for both visitors and inhabitants.The historic Hotel Excelsior right in the city centre of Belgrade offers affordable luxury for guests who want the highlights of the city right on their doorstep. The 90-year-old building has been lovingly maintained and stylishly decorated, and offers all modern amenities to its guests along with a good helping of local Serbian charm.See here for more information on Hotel Excelsior. www.hotelexcelsior.co.rsFor a review of Hotel Excelsior, please follow this link: http://www.austriantimes.at/news/Panorama/2011-01-31/30170/Hotel_Excelsior%2C_Belgrade_