Football tour: Red Star and Partizan Ultras History

Explore Belgrade’s Football Ultras with a Guided Walking Tour

This football-themed walking tour in Belgrade, Serbia offers an in-depth look into the passionate world of Red Star and Partizan ultras. Priced at $83.01 per person, this 3 to 4-hour experience is ideal for fans of football, history buffs, or anyone interested in the rivalries that define Belgrade’s sports scene. The tour is highly recommended, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on 14 reviews, and 100% of participants endorsing it.

The tour begins at Student Park in the morning at 10:00 am, and includes visits to both neighborhoods and stadiums, along with stories about the teams’ histories and fan cultures. Group discounts and a mobile ticket system make this experience accessible, and it is suitable for most travelers, with easy access near public transportation. Expect an authentic, engaging exploration of Belgrade’s vibrant football world.

Key Points

• In-depth focus on Red Star and Partizan ultras and their neighborhoods
• Visit to both stadiums, including the Red Star Museum and trophy room
• Walk through Belgrade’s iconic districts of Dorcol and Senjak
• Learn about local football history, fan culture, and graffiti art
• Enjoy a beer inside Red Star’s stadium
• Guided by knowledgeable hosts, with a flexible, group-friendly format

Starting at Student Park in Belgrade’s City Center

The tour departs from Student Park, located at Studentski trg 16 in Belgrade. It begins promptly at 10:00 am, with a group size limited to 99 travelers. The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, making access simple. The tour concludes back at the starting point, allowing easy continuation of your day in Belgrade.

Walking through the Dorcol Neighborhood: Partizan Fans’ District

The first stop takes you to Dorcol, a neighborhood famous for being the Partizan fans’ district. Here, you’ll see graffiti murals of supporters and learn about one of the city’s most fierce fan groups. Despite its passionate football culture, Dorcol remains a lively touristic area filled with bars and pubs, making it a vibrant spot for exploring local life.

This one-hour stop is free of charge and offers insight into the ultra supporters’ environment, their art, and social presence. The graffiti from the ’90s, guarded by the fans 24/7, adds an authentic touch to this neighborhood’s character.

Visiting Senjak: Red Star Fans’ Territory

Next, the tour visits Senjak, the Red Star supporters’ neighborhood. Known for its historical graffiti from the 1990s, this area remains a fierce redoubt of Red Star fans. The graffiti is guarded around the clock, symbolizing the team’s enduring fan loyalty.

This 20-minute stop provides context about Red Star’s passionate supporters and their social influence in Belgrade. It’s a quick but meaningful visit that deepens understanding of the intense rivalry between the two clubs.

Inside the Red Star Stadium: Marakana

The highlight for many is the visit to Red Star Belgrade Stadium, also called Marakana. Here, visitors access the stadium museum, which showcases a variety of trophies, flags, and important club documents. A key feature is the Champions League Trophy of 1991, one of the few such trophies in Eastern Europe and a symbol of Red Star’s football success.

The two-hour visit allows for a thorough exploration of the stadium’s history and artifacts, with the opportunity to see the interior areas. The museum’s collection offers a glimpse into the club’s achievements and cultural significance.

Walking the Pitch at Partizan Stadium

The tour then proceeds to Partizan Stadium, described as one of the last remaining ‘ghetto’ stadiums in Europe. The guide leads the group onto the pitch itself, giving a sense of the stadium’s atmosphere and history. Visitors also get to see the conference rooms, providing insight into how the club operates behind the scenes.

This 30-minute stop is included in the ticket price, allowing for an up-close experience of another legendary Belgrade stadium. It highlights the contrast between the two clubs’ fan environments and stadiums.

The Guide: Expert Narratives and Customized Experiences

All segments are led by Tihomir or other guides with a deep knowledge of ultras’ history. Reviews praise the guides for being friendly, professional, and well-informed, capable of customizing the tour to include pitch visits or additional insights. The guides’ enthusiasm enhances the overall experience, making complex fan culture accessible and engaging.

Visiting the Stadiums and Museum: Insights and Artifacts

The Red Star Museum features a display of trophies, flags, and history documents, with the Champions League Trophy as the centerpiece. Visitors can see the club’s most significant achievements and learn about its role in Serbian football history.

The Partizan Stadium, while more modest, offers a raw stadium experience. Walking on the pitch and viewing the conference rooms provide a behind-the-scenes look that complements the stadium visit.

Practical Aspects and Flexibility

The tour provides the convenience of group discounts, a mobile ticket system, and is most often booked 58 days in advance. The duration of 3 to 4 hours balances sightseeing with storytelling, with enough time to absorb each stop without feeling rushed.

In case of bad weather, the tour can be canceled for a full refund, offering reassurance. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and easy access from public transportation.

Why This Tour Stands Out for Football Fans

What sets this tour apart is its focus on ultras culture, the stadiums, and the neighborhoods that fuel the rivalry between Red Star and Partizan. The inclusion of stadium visits, museum exploration, and street art makes for a comprehensive look at Belgrade’s football scene.

The perfect rating and highly positive reviews confirm that knowledgeable guides and authentic storytelling make this a memorable experience for enthusiasts. It provides a rare glimpse into the social and cultural significance of football in Belgrade.

Final Thoughts on the Belgrade Ultras History Tour

This guided walking tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Belgrade’s football passion, combining street art, neighborhood culture, and stadium history. The $83.01 price point delivers good value, especially given the expert guides and diverse stops.

Ideal for those interested in European football, ultras supporters, or local history, this tour provides an immersive look into the city’s vibrant soccer scene. Its flexibility, comprehensive stops, and engaging narration make it a standout experience.

While not focused on general sightseeing, those keen on football or supporter culture will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s a chance to see Belgrade through the lens of its most passionate sports fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour’s physical requirements are manageable for many.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are stadium visits included in the ticket price?
Yes, the visits to Red Star and Partizan stadiums are part of the tour, with the museum and pitch experiences included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking through neighborhoods and stadiums.

Are food or drinks included?
The tour includes a beer inside the Red Star stadium but does not specify additional food or drink options.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, the walk involves visiting neighborhoods and stadiums, so mobility considerations should be planned accordingly.

What makes this tour unique?
Its focus on ultras culture, stadiums, and neighborhood graffiti provides a genuine look at Belgrade’s passionate football community.

Can I customize the tour?
Guides are known to be friendly and professional, and some reviews mention customization options like pitch visits and additional insights.