Niš
Niš
Niš is the third largest city in Serbia, located in the southern part of the country. It's a place loaded with history, where ancient Roman ruins meet Ottoman influences and modern Serbian culture.
The city is famous for its Skull Tower (Ćele Kula), a grim but fascinating structure made from the skulls of Serbian rebels after the Battle of Čegar in 1809. Niš Fortress, built by the Ottomans in the 18th century on Roman foundations, is another major landmark where locals and visitors hang out in the park-like setting inside its massive walls.
Niš has strong Roman ties - it was the birthplace of Constantine the Great, the first Christian Roman Emperor. The archaeological site of Mediana, Constantine's luxury estate, gives a glimpse into ancient Roman life.
The food scene in Niš is outstanding, with local specialties like burek (cheese-filled pastry) and the famous Niš barbecue. The pedestrian zone around Tinkers Alley (Kazandžijsko sokače) is packed with restaurants serving traditional dishes at prices much lower than in Belgrade or other European cities.
The city has a laid-back vibe with a large student population thanks to the University of Niš. This creates a vibrant nightlife and café culture, especially along Kopitareva Street. With its rich history, affordable prices, and authentic Serbian atmosphere, Niš offers a genuine Balkan experience away from the more touristy spots.
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Things to do in Niš
Top things to do in Niš by www.thecrazytourist.com
Where to stay in Niš
Best hotels in Niš:
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Regent Club Hotel (budget hotel)
The Regent Club Hotel in Niš is close to all the main sights like the Niš Fort and the lively Kazandžijsko Promenade. The rooms are spacious and comfy, with all the essentials like AC, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Plus, there's free parking on-site, which is a huge bonus in the city center.
One of the best things about this place is the location. You're just a short walk from shops, cafes, and restaurants. The staff are friendly and helpful, and there's a nice restaurant at the hotel if you don't feel like venturing out. Breakfast is included and gets good reviews from most guests.
While some parts of the hotel might be a bit dated, it offers good value for money overall. It's a solid choice if you want a central base for exploring Niš without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind it can get busy, so booking ahead is a good idea.
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Ambasador Hotel (medium range hotel)
The Ambasador Hotel in Niš it's location puts you just steps away from the main square and fortress, perfect for exploring all the main sights. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with great views over the city from the higher floors.
The hotel has all the amenities you'd expect from a high-end place - a fitness center, spa, and a restaurant serving up tasty local and international dishes. But what really stands out is the service. The staff are super friendly and go out of their way to make sure guests have a great stay.
While it's not the cheapest option in Niš, the Ambasador offers good value considering the quality and location. The breakfast gets rave reviews for its variety and tastiness. If you're looking to treat yourself to a bit of luxury while visiting Niš, this place is hard to beat.
Best hostels in Niš:
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Bloom Inn (party hostel)
Bloom Inn is a short walk from the main square and fortress, making it super convenient for exploring the city. The rooms are clean and comfy, with air conditioning to keep you cool on hot summer days.
What really stands out is the friendly staff - they go out of their way to help with anything you need. There's a nice garden area where you can relax with a drink from the on-site bar. And if you're in the mood for some local grub, there's a restaurant serving up tasty Serbian dishes.
The hostel has a laid-back vibe that's perfect for meeting other travelers. With free Wi-Fi throughout and bike rentals available, it's a great base for seeing everything Niš has to offer. All in all, Bloom Inn hits the sweet spot between comfort and affordability in a prime location.