Belgraders call Zemun a city within the city, and it feels like a different place. Until 1918 it was a border town of the Habsburg Empire, facing Ottoman and then Serbian Belgrade across the river, and its narrow streets, low Austro-Hungarian houses, churches and market square still have the look of a small Central European town. Climb the lanes to Gardoš hill, where the remains of a medieval fortress surround the Gardoš Tower, also known as the Millennium Tower or the Tower of Janos Hunyadi, and you can step onto its balcony for one of the finest views over the Danube and Belgrade. Below, the Zemun quay runs along the river, crowded with walkers and joggers and lined with restaurants and floating terraces famous for fish dishes and traditional music. It is the perfect antidote to the bustle of the old town, and on a clear winter day the views are at their sharpest.
How to visit: Zemun is about six kilometres from central Belgrade. The most pleasant approach is to walk or cycle along the Danube from the Ušće park in New Belgrade, which takes about an hour; otherwise take a city bus or a short taxi ride. Wandering the streets and the promenade is free. The Gardoš Tower is open to visitors every day, and there may be a modest fee to climb to the balcony; the Tourist Organisation of Belgrade can confirm current details.
What to see: start at the green market and the main street, Glavna, then follow the signs uphill through the old lanes of Gardoš, with their small houses and gardens, to the tower and the old fortress walls. Look into the Orthodox and Catholic churches on the way, a reminder of Zemun’s mixed past. Then wind back down to the quay for a long walk by the water.
Making the most of it: time your visit for the late afternoon, climb the tower for sunset, then eat fish soup or grilled river fish at one of the restaurants on the quay, many with live traditional music in the evenings. It is a relaxed outing for families and couples, and a good day for your last afternoon in the city.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided wander through old streets, up to a hilltop tower viewpoint and along a Danube promenade with restaurants.
Best time
Late afternoon into sunset, and bright winter days for the clearest views.
How long
Half a day, including a meal on the quay.
Tips
Walk along the Danube from New Belgrade to get there and stay for a fish dinner by the river.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want a slower, small-town side of Belgrade with river views.
- Families
- Easy, flat walking on the quay and a tower to climb make it a good family outing.
- Couples
- Sunset from the Gardoš Tower and dinner by the Danube is a lovely evening.
- Pair with
- A riverside walk through Ušće park on the way from the centre.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How do I get to Zemun from central Belgrade?+
Walk or cycle along the Danube from Ušće park in about an hour, or take a city bus or taxi. Zemun is about six kilometres from the old town.
Can you climb the Gardoš Tower?+
Yes, the tower is open to visitors every day and has a balcony with panoramic views. A modest fee may apply.
What is Zemun known for?+
Zemun is known for its old Austro-Hungarian streets, the Gardoš Tower and its Danube promenade with fish restaurants and live music.
Is Zemun worth visiting?+
Yes, it offers a calmer, small-town side of Belgrade and one of the best river views in the city. Half a day is enough.
Where should I eat in Zemun?+
The restaurants along the Zemun quay specialise in fish dishes, often with traditional music in the evenings. The old streets also hide cosy local restaurants.
