In the morning, your tour guide will pick you up from your accommodation.
Departing from Belgrade, we head south along the Morava Valley. After approximately 2.5 hours, including a short break, we arrive in the Niš area. Before exploring the city, we make a short detour to the nearby village of Sićevo, where we visit a scenic viewpoint overlooking the spectacular Sićevo Gorge. Carved by the Nišava River, this impressive gorge features steep rocky cliffs, forested slopes, and beautiful landscapes.
Our first stop in Niš is Mediana, an archaeological site representing one of the best-preserved remains of the Roman city of Naissus. Known as the birthplace of Constantine the Great, Naissus became home to Mediana, an imperial residence built on the outskirts of the city during Constantine's reign. Here, we discover the remains of this luxurious complex, including impressive floor mosaics and other architectural features.
Moving forward to the early 19th century, we explore the First Serbian Uprising, a revolutionary movement that marked a turning point in Serbia's struggle for independence from Ottoman rule. Our next stop is the Skull Tower, a grim monument constructed by Ottoman authorities using the skulls of Serbian rebels killed following the Battle of Čegar in 1809. Today, it stands as a reminder of the Serbian struggle for freedom.
We then visit the Red Cross Concentration Camp, a former Nazi German detention and transit camp from World War II. Operated by the German occupation authorities, it held approximately 30,000 prisoners, including Serbs, Jews, and Roma. Most were eventually deported to other camps or executed at nearby Bubanj Hill. One of the most significant events in the camp's history was the mass escape on February 12, 1942, when 105 prisoners managed to break out.
Another major attraction is Niš Fortress, originally established in Roman times and substantially rebuilt by the Ottomans in the early 18th century. Its walls and structures reflect the many civilisations that shaped the city. Today, it serves as both an important historical monument and a pleasant public park in the heart of Niš.
Our exploration continues through the city centre, concluding with a gastronomic experience featuring the renowned cuisine of Southern Serbia. The region's distinctive flavours, accompanied by local wine and rakija, are an essential part of the experience. As we enjoy traditional dishes and soak up the stories and atmosphere of Niš's bohemian culture, we bring our visit to a close before beginning the return journey to Belgrade, where we arrive in the evening.