Day Trip: Along Danube, Rome & Europe’s Oldest Settlement
Belgrade
Travel east, following the Danube from Belgrade: explore a 15th-century fortress capital, a Roman city of 40,000, a medieval castle at the Iron Gates, and a 9,500-year-old prehistoric site.
This full-day Danube tour from Belgrade explores medieval fortresses, Roman ruins, and one of Europe’s oldest prehistoric settlements, ideal for history enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Explore Smederevo Fortress, one of Europe’s largest medieval fortresses
- Walk the towers of Golubac Fortress at the entrance to the Đerdap Gorge
- Visit Lepenski Vir, a 9,500-year-old Mesolithic settlement still in situ
- Trace 10,000 years of Danube river history in a single day
Description
The Danube east of Belgrade passes through significant historical sites within 200 kilometres, including the last capital of medieval Serbia, a major Roman provincial city, a medieval fortress guarding Europe’s deepest gorge, and a prehistoric settlement older than Egyptian or Mesopotamian sites.
The tour begins at Smederevo Fortress, located an hour from Belgrade, known for its extensive 15th-century walls and 25 towers built by Serbian Despots. Walking inside reveals the scale of Serbia’s medieval state before the Ottoman conquest, with views of the Danube visible through ruined towers.
Continuing east along the Danube, the landscape narrows into the Đerdap Gorge. Golubac Fortress, with its nine 14th-century towers, stands on a rocky promontory above the river. This historically contested site marks the entrance to the Iron Gates gorge. Recently restored, the fortress offers panoramic views downstream toward Romania.
Lunch is served near Golubac Fortress, featuring local Danube fish specialties such as carp, catfish, and perch prepared in traditional Serbian style.
The final visit is Lepenski Vir, a small Mesolithic settlement dating back 9,500 years, predating Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids. The site features unique stone sculptures combining human and fish traits, preserved in their original locations. The site is fully enclosed and accessible.
Includes
- Professional English-speaking guide throughout the day
- Private car (1–4 passengers) or air-conditioned minibus (5–16 passengers) with Belgrade departure and return
- Guided visits and entrance fees to Smederevo Fortress, Viminacium, Golubac Fortress, and Lepenski Vir
- Lunch near Golubac Fortress
Excludes
- Drinks with lunch (water provided, other drinks are extra)
- Personal expenses
- Tips (optional, appreciated)
Important Information
- Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to cobblestone paths and uneven archaeological terrain at all sites
- Not suitable for wheelchairs
- Sun protection is advised for Viminacium, an open-air site
- Bring a light layer for Lepenski Vir, which can be cool despite being enclosed
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your place. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection for the predominantly outdoor sites. The best time to visit is during spring to early autumn for mild weather.
