Discover Serbia's Historic Railway: The Šargan Eight

The Šargan Eight

The Šargan Eight (Šarganska osmica) is one of Serbia’s most fascinating and picturesque railway journeys. Nestled in the mountainous region of Western Serbia, this historic narrow-gauge railway winds through breathtaking landscapes, charming tunnels, and scenic viewpoints, making it a must-visit for train enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

A Journey Back in Time

Originally constructed in the early 20th century, the railway was part of a line connecting Belgrade to the Adriatic coast. Known for its unique figure-eight shape, it covers just 15.5 kilometers but climbs an impressive 300 meters in altitude. The line was restored and reopened in 1999, preserving its authentic old-world charm while offering a glimpse into the region’s railway history.

The Šargan Eight and Mokra Gora became globally recognized thanks to the film “Life Is a Miracle” (Život je čudo) directed by Emir Kusturica, which was filmed in the nearby ethno village Drvengrad. A visit to Drvengrad feels like stepping into a movie set, with its traditional wooden houses and cultural atmosphere.

What to See and Do on the Journey

During the ride, passengers can enjoy:

Breathtaking Landscapes: The train snakes through lush forests, crossing 22 tunnels and passing five bridges, with the majestic Mokra Gora mountains as the backdrop.
Charming Stations: Stops include the quaint Mokra Gora station, the ethno village Drvengrad (Küstendorf), and several scenic viewpoints perfect for capturing the essence of Serbia’s rural charm.
Historic Train Cars: Some of the wagons are more than 100 years old, meticulously restored to maintain their authentic vintage look. Riding in these wooden carriages is like traveling back in time.
Old-World Locomotives: The vintage steam engines that pull the train are a nostalgic nod to Serbia’s rich railway heritage.
Unique Architecture: The railway loops back near the starting point, but at a significantly higher altitude, creating a figure-eight shape that has fascinated engineers and travelers alike.
Legend of the Eight: Local lore says that the railway’s looping design represents a serpent winding through the mountains, symbolizing persistence and resilience during the challenging construction.

Tourist Information

Operating Days: Generally from April to October, with special winter rides.
Ticket Price: Approximately 10-15 EUR for a round trip. (Prices are subject to change.)
Duration: The ride lasts about 2.5 hours, including stops.
Booking: Reserve in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Tips: Dress warmly, even in summer, as the mountain air can be chilly. Bring a camera to capture stunning panoramas from the open windows.