Best Places in Serbia to Escape the Summer Heat

Best Places in Serbia to Escape the Summer Heat

6 Best Places in Serbia to Escape the Summer Heat in 2025

Summer in Serbia can be brutally hot — with temperatures easily climbing above 35°C (95°F) in major cities like Belgrade or Novi Sad. But what many travelers don’t know is that Serbia hides cool, green, high-altitude oases perfect for escaping the heat and the crowds.

If you’re a nature lover, digital nomad, or simply someone who enjoys peaceful places far from the tourist traps, these destinations will refresh your soul and your body.

Table of Contents

tara mountain

1. Tara National Park – Serbia’s Greenest Summer Retreat

With its dense pine forests, clear rivers, and cool mountain air, Tara is one of the coldest regions in Serbia during summer. Daytime temperatures rarely go above 25°C (77°F), and nights are pleasantly chilly — perfect for sleeping under a blanket.

  • Highlights: Viewpoint Banjska Stena, Drina River, hiking trails, bear sanctuary
  • Perfect for: Hikers, couples, families, remote workers
  • Bonus: Excellent 4G signal and peaceful environment for digital nomads

👉 Check the best accommodation in Tara here

📍 Map of Tara National Park

2. Zlatar Mountain – Hidden Gem for Fresh Air Seekers

Often overlooked, Zlatar is a dream for those who crave peace, clean air, and dramatic nature. The combination of coniferous forests and open meadows makes it ideal for summer refreshment.

  • Highlights: Uvac Canyon and meanders, zipline, boat rides on Uvac Lake
  • Perfect for: Nature photographers, peace seekers, solo travelers
  • Bonus: Accommodations are affordable and authentic, with views over the canyon

👉 Check the best accommodation in Zlatar here

📍 Map of Zlatar Mountain

zlatar lake

3. Stara Planina – Wild and Untamed

If you’re looking for complete immersion in raw, untouched nature, Stara Planina delivers. Bordering Bulgaria, this mountain range is known for waterfalls, high peaks, and traditional villages.

  • Highlights: Tupavica and Pilj Waterfalls, Midžor peak (highest in Serbia)
  • Perfect for: Adventurers, hikers, wild camping fans
  • Bonus: No tourist crowds, and some villages still have no mobile signal — a true digital detox

👉 Check the best accommodation in Stara Planina here

📍 Map of Stara Planina

4. Rtanj – The Mysterious Mountain

Known for its pyramid-like shape and mystical legends, Rtanj offers not only cool air but also an unusual atmosphere. The hike to the top brings stunning views and a sense of otherworldly calm.

Read more: Do Aliens Live on Rtanj?

 
  • Highlights: Rtanj peak (Šiljak), herbal meadows, alien/conspiracy theories 🤫
  • Perfect for: Curious travelers, meditation, mystics, hikers
  • Bonus: A short spiritual recharge with crisp night skies

👉 Check the best accommodation in Rtanj here

📍 Map of Rtanj Mountain

rtanj mountine serbia

5. Mokra Gora – A Village Straight Out of a Dream

This ethno-village feels like a step back in time — and a few degrees cooler than the cities. Surrounded by green hills and crossed by the nostalgic Šargan Eight train, Mokra Gora is both charming and refreshing.

  • Highlights: Drvengrad (Kusturica’s wooden town), Šargan train ride
  • Perfect for: Families, cultural travelers, photography lovers
  • Bonus: Quiet atmosphere for remote work, with good mobile signal

👉 Check the best accommodation in Mokra Gora here

📍 Map of Mokra Gora Village

sargan eight serbia

6. Divčibare – Mountain Air Just Two Hours from Belgrade

Perfect for a quick getaway, Divčibare offers fresh air, wide meadows, and forest trails — all within a 2-hour drive from the capital. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking to cool down without going far.

  • Highlights: Crni vrh viewpoint, hiking and biking trails, ski lift (open in summer for panoramic rides)
  • Perfect for: Families, weekend travelers, casual hikers
  • Bonus: Easy to reach by car or bus, great for spontaneous trips

👉 Check the best accommodation in Divčibare here

📍 Map of Divčibare

Why Serbia Is the Ideal Summer Escape

Serbia is still under the radar for many international tourists, which means:

  • Lower prices
  • Fewer crowds
  • Authentic experiences
  • Easy access to unspoiled nature

And the best part? You don’t have to travel far from major cities to find cool, quiet corners of the Balkans.

Whether you’re planning a digital detox, searching for crisp mountain air, or just want a peaceful break from the summer chaos, Serbia has a place for you. From Tara to Divčibare, these destinations offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and refreshing temperatures.

🖋️ About the Author

Born and raised in Serbia, he knows the backroads better than the highways. Passionate about nature, hidden villages, and writing guides that help travelers feel like locals. If you enjoyed this post, feel free to share it — or click one of the links below to support the blog (and maybe his next coffee).

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