From Belgrade: Ni and Devil’s Town Private Day Tour

Experience the captivating blend of history and natural wonder on the From Belgrade: Ni and Devil’s Town Private Day Tour. This 13.5-hour journey takes you from the Serbian capital to the historic city of Ni, home to significant landmarks like the Skull Tower and Crveni Krst Concentration Camp, before continuing to the stunning natural formations of Devil’s Town. Led by an English-speaking guide, this private group tour offers an intimate and flexible way to explore southern Serbia’s most compelling sights, making it ideal for travelers interested in history, culture, and extraordinary landscapes.

This tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary, providing deep insight into Serbia’s troubled past and striking geology. The only consideration is that comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for the hike at Devil’s Town, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments. With full flexibility—including free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later—this experience offers both convenience and confidence for planning your Serbian adventure.

Key Points

• Full-day private tour lasting approximately 13.5 hours from Belgrade
• Visits to Ni’s key historical sites, including Skull Tower, Mediana archaeological site, and Crveni Krst Concentration Camp
• Guided exploration of Ni Fortress, King Milan Square, and Kazandzijsko Sokace (“Tinkers Alley”)
• Afternoon trip to Devil’s Town, featuring a short hike to see unique volcanic rock formations and acidic springs
• Led by an English-speaking guide, with private transportation and pick-up from centrally located hotels
• Rated 5/5 based on 4 reviews, with high praise for guide expertise and storytelling
• Tour includes lunch/coffee break in Ni and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Begins with a Pickup from Belgrade

The day starts early with a 7 am pickup from your centrally located Belgrade hotel or address. The air-conditioned vehicle (either a car for 1-3 guests or a minivan for up to 6) transports you swiftly southward to Ni, Serbia’s third-largest city and the birthplace of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great. The convenient pickup and private group setting set a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Once in Ni, the tour begins with a visit to Mediana, an archaeological site from the Late Antiquity period. Built between the 3rd and 4th centuries, Mediana features a large villa with a peristyle and over 1,000 square meters of floor mosaics. This site offers a glimpse into elite Roman life in the region, with the central focus on a luxurious villa that showcases ancient craftsmanship.

Exploring Ni’s Darker Heritage at Skull Tower

Next, the guide leads you to the Skull Tower, a chilling reminder of Serbia’s resistance against Ottoman rule during the early 19th century. Constructed from skulls of fallen rebel fighters, this monument served as a warning against rebellion. Its stark, morbid aesthetic makes it a powerful site for understanding the region’s struggles for independence.

The tour then takes a sobering turn with a visit to the Crveni Krst Concentration Camp, operated by the Nazis during World War II. This complex housed as many as 35,000 Jews, Roma, and Serbs. Visitors can tour the three-story complex, see personal belongings of prisoners, and hear stories about the first major escape from a Nazi camp in Europe. The site’s somber atmosphere encourages reflection on the area’s difficult past.

Remembering the Victims at Bubanj Memorial Park

The Bubanj Memorial Park offers a poignant moment to mourn the victims of wartime atrocities. Here, more than 10,000 people were executed, and the memorial serves as a tribute to their memory. The park’s design emphasizes solemn remembrance, providing space for reflection amid the landscape.

Discovering Ni’s Architectural Heritage

The sightseeing continues at Ni Fortress, which offers impressive views and insight into the city’s defensive past. The tour also includes visits to King Milan Square with its central monument, the Monument to the Liberators, and the Cair’s Fountain, a well-preserved example of Ni’s architecture.

The Memorial of Constantine the Great and the City Hall, built in 1925 in a neoclassical style, highlight Ni’s blend of history and design. The tour concludes in Kazandzijsko Sokace, popularly known as “Tinkers Alley”, a picturesque cobblestone street lined with traditional shops and cafes. An iconic statue of Stevan Sremac and Kala marks the entrance, perfect for photos and a quick break before heading on.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Drive and Excursion to Devil’s Town

After a lunch or coffee break in Ni, the journey continues through the scenic southern Serbian countryside toward Devil’s Town. The drive showcases rural landscapes and volcanic terrain, setting the stage for the natural wonders ahead.

Arriving at Devil’s Town, a natural formation that has been nominated as a Seven Natural Wonder, visitors undertake a short hike through the forest to reach the observation platform. From here, the guide points out 202 earthen towers created during a period of intense volcanic activity millions of years ago. The extremely acidic springs flowing at the base of these formations, known as Hell Gully, add to the site’s otherworldly atmosphere.

The Unique Features of Devil’s Town

Devil’s Town is distinguished by its striking earthen towers that reach several meters high. These towers, formed by volcanic activity, create a landscape unlike any other in the region. The acidic springs flowing at their base contribute to the site’s name and lore, making it a must-see for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The short hike to the observation point is manageable with proper footwear, but visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain. The guides share local stories and facts about the site’s formation, enriching the experience beyond just visual appreciation.

Practicalities and Tour Logistics

The private tour includes pick-up from hotels or addresses within 5 km of the Republic Square in Belgrade, with details provided the day before via email or WhatsApp. The transportation is air-conditioned and tailored to group size. Comfortable shoes are advised, especially for the Devil’s Town hike.

The tour operates with live English guides and offers full flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. The lunch/coffee break in Ni lasts about 1.5 hours, allowing time to relax and enjoy local cuisine or refreshments.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most

This experience appeals to those interested in Serbia’s history, including medieval, Ottoman, and WWII sites, as well as geology and natural landscapes. It suits travelers who prefer a private, guided experience with flexible scheduling. Due to the walking involved, comfortable shoes are essential, and the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility issues.

Final Thoughts on the Ni and Devil’s Town Tour

The From Belgrade: Ni and Devil’s Town Private Day Tour offers a comprehensive look into southern Serbia’s historical and natural highlights. The expert guides and carefully curated stops ensure an engaging and meaningful day. The combination of historical sites like Skull Tower and Crveni Krst with the breathtaking volcanic landscape of Devil’s Town creates a balanced itinerary that educates and inspires.

This tour provides a rich, well-paced experience for those eager to explore beyond Belgrade, with the added comfort of private transportation and personalized attention. Overall, it’s a highly recommended choice for visitors seeking a deep dive into Serbia’s heritage and geology.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour in total?
The tour lasts approximately 13.5 hours, starting with a 7 am pickup and returning to Belgrade in the evening.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, guided visits to all listed sites, and pick-up/drop-off from your Belgrade accommodation. Lunch and drinks are additional.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults and older children comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

How physically demanding is the Devil’s Town hike?
The hike involves walking through forested areas to reach the observation platform, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The terrain may be uneven.

Do I need to bring my passport or ID?
Yes, bringing passport or ID card is necessary for verification and potential security checks at certain sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Is food included?
Lunch or a coffee break is available during the Ni stop, but it is not included in the tour price.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The guide speaks English and will lead the group through all stops with detailed explanations.

How many people are in a private group?
The tour is operated as a private group, meaning it is customized for your party size, typically up to 6 people.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, especially for the Devil’s Town hike, and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby