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Niš

Serbia's third-largest metropolis is a lively city of curious contrasts, where Roma in horse-drawn carriages trot alongside new cars, and posh cocktails are sipped in antiquated alleyways. It's a buzzy kind of place, with a high number of university students, packed-out laneway bars, a happening live-music scene, and pop-up markets and funfairs come summertime.

Niš was settled in pre-Roman times, but hit its peak during the years of the empire. Constantine the Great (AD 280–337) was born here, as were two other Roman emperors, Constantius III and Justin I. Turkish rule lasted from 1386 until 1877, despite several Serb revolts; Ćele Kula (Tower of Skulls) and Niš Fortress are reminders of Ottoman dominion. Niš also suffered during WWII; the Nazis built one of Serbia's most notorious concentration camps here.

Explore Niš

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Niš.

  • Cathedral

    Orthodox Cathedral

    Second only in size to Belgrade's St Sava Temple, this huge Orthodox cathedral, completely restored after being destroyed in a fire in 2001, was…

  • Museum

    Red Cross Concentration Camp

    One of the best-preserved Nazi camps in Europe, the deceptively named Red Cross (named after the adjacent train station) held about 30,000 Serbs, Roma,…

  • Ruins

    Mediana

    Mediana is what remains of Constantine the Great's luxurious 4th-century Roman palace. The recently unveiled 1000 sq metres of gorgeous mosaics are the…

  • Monument

    Ćele Kula

    With Serbian defeat imminent at the 1809 Battle of Čegar, the Duke of Resava kamikazed towards the Turkish defences, firing at their gunpowder stores,…

  • Memorial

    Bubanj Hill Memorial Park

    Bubanj Hill, located 3km from the city centre, is the location of one of Serbia's most recognisable Yugoslav-era spomeniks (memorials). Three gigantic…

  • Museum

    Archaeological Hall

    Though it's small, this museum is worth a gander for its collection of prehistoric, Roman and medieval artefacts, including coins, jewellery, religious…

  • Fortress

    Niš Fortress

    Though its current incarnation was built by the Turks in the 18th century, there have been forts on this site since ancient Roman times. Today it's a…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Niš.

  • Activities