There are many green spaces and recreational areas in and around Belgrade when you have had enough of city life.
Ada Ciganlija
Simply known as "Ada" by Belgrade insiders, this green space is a four kilometer peninsula right in the center of Belgrade. Not only does Ada have sand beaches and swimming areas, you can bike, play golf, rent paddle boats, or challenge your friends to a game of paintball. There are also numerous fields for rugby, soccer, tennis, and baseball. There is even a small lake called Ada Safari for sport fishing.
When you are done playing sports or sunning yourself on the beach, you can visit some of Belgrade's nicest bars and cafes. Ada is crowded on sunny days so make sure you get early to reserve a spot. Some of the nicest times of year are when its colder and the island is empty.
Along the Danube
In the area of downtown Dorcol, you can find biking and walking trails that connect to the bridges and more paths in New Belgrade and Zemun. On both sides of the river there are plenty of benches and green spaces to make a day out. Companies like iBikeBelgrade offer a four hour tour of the bike paths on both sides, complete with a knowledgeable guide and a bike rental for about 15 euros per person. This is a great way to learn about the bike paths and walkways and they also include a free drink and a coupon for an ice cream for after the tour. I highly recommend this for people biking in Belgrade for the first time.
War Island
In the middle of the Danube river is an almost uninhabited island called "Veliko Ratno Ostrvo". The island can be reached by shuttle boats and during the summer and they make a temporary bridge from New Belgrade to easily reach it. There is a large forest and many species of native birds. Sun bathers flock there for the Lido sand beach.
Kosutnjak Hill
Located in the suburbs of Belgrade, Kosutnjak Hill is a park and a forest. This large green space has many trails and picnic areas for outdoor lovers. It also has one of the largest recreational facilities in the city including a sports stadium. For those who want to make a weekend in the park, you can stay at the Trim Hotel.
Dedinje
Many people enjoy walking in one of Belgrade's most affluent neighborhoods, Dedinje. You can take trolleys 41 from Studenski Trg or 40 from Knez Milosa to reach this area. Hajd Park and Tito's House of Flowers are two of the highlights in this neighborhood.
Avala
Mount Avala is a national park about 29 kilometers from Belgrade. In addition to hotels and restaurants, you will find the Monument to the Unknown Hero and a tall telecommunications tour with 360 degree views of Belgrade and the surrounding area on a sunny day. The tour is communist in design and was destroyed during the 1990 NATO bombing. It has been restored and is well worth the 150 dinar fee to get to the top. Plan a half day if you are planning to head out to Avala. It is worth the trip.
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