Belgrade: Best of East Tour (Resava Cave & Lisine Waterfall)

If you’re looking to escape the buzz of Belgrade and explore some of Serbia’s most captivating natural and historical sites, the Best of East Tour is a fantastic choice. This full-day adventure combines stunning natural scenery, ancient architecture, and a touch of adventure with its visit to the Resava Cave. It’s a well-balanced mix of culture, nature, and history—perfect for curious travelers eager to see Serbia’s lesser-known but equally impressive sights.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is the expert guidance. Guides like Novica and Milan not only share fascinating stories but also make the experience genuinely enjoyable with their friendly and flexible approach. The sites themselves are truly memorable, especially the Resava Cave’s impressive formations and the Lisine Waterfall’s powerful cascade.

However, a consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and outdoor exposure. The Resava Cave, with its cool 7°C temperature, requires bringing a jacket. Also, the tour is scheduled for around 9.5 hours, which can feel long if you’re not used to full-day excursions.

This experience is best suited for those who love a good mix of history, nature, and adventure—especially travelers who appreciate well-organized trips with knowledgeable guides and don’t mind a full day on the move. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a deeper look into Serbia’s scenic and historical treasures without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Includes a medieval monastery, ancient cave, and a high waterfall.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Novica and Milan are praised for their knowledge, flexibility, and friendliness.
• Full-Day Experience: Lasts approximately 9.5 hours, with time allocated for sightseeing, lunch, and travel.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles ensure a relaxing ride between sites.
• Flexible Options: Available as private or small group tours, catering to different preferences.
• Value for Money: Combining multiple sites into one trip offers a good balance of cost and experience, though entrance tickets are paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Belgrade

Your day begins with hotel pickup at around 8:00 AM, making it a smooth start to the adventure. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a blessing on a warm Serbian day, and the group size can vary from private to small groups, enhancing the experience with personalized attention.

First Stop: Manasija Monastery

Built in the 15th century by Serbian ruler Stefan Lazarevic, Manasija Monastery is an absolute highlight. Reviewers often mention how the guide, like Milan, makes this visit engaging, sharing stories about its artistic and cultural significance. The monastery is surrounded by medieval fortress towers, offering a glimpse into Serbia’s turbulent history. Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially if entering the monastery, which adds a respectful touch to your visit.

Continue to Resava Cave

The highlight for many is the visit to the Resava Cave, one of the oldest and largest caves in Eastern Europe. The journey inside is about an hour long and showcases spectacular formations: stalactites, stalagmites, flowstone waterfalls, and grand halls. The interior, dating back around 80 million years, is cool at 7°C, so a jacket is essential. As one reviewer noted, “The cave was amazing,” and many say the cool respite is a welcome break, especially on hot days.

The guided tour here is about an hour, but the real treasure is the visual spectacle of the formations and the sense of stepping into a natural cathedral carved by time. Reviewers also mention how the guides explain the geology clearly, making the experience both beautiful and educational.

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Lisine Waterfall

The final natural stop is the Lisine Waterfall, over 20 meters high and among the highest waterfalls in Serbia. The view is indeed impressive, and the roar of the water creates a soothing atmosphere. You’ll have roughly two hours here, including lunch and free time, which many reviewers find to be the perfect balance.

During this break, you can enjoy a traditional Serbian meal—most notably, the homegrown trout—which gets rave reviews from visitors. The restaurant’s own bread and baked goods add a delicious local touch. Some reviewers mentioned that this part of the trip offers a chance to relax, enjoy nature, and soak in the scenery.

Return to Belgrade

After a packed day, the return journey takes about two hours. Many travelers comment on the comfort of the transport and the engaging conversations with guides on the way back, often filled with extra stories and recommendations.

The Value of the Experience

While the entrance fees for Resava Cave (500 RSD) and Lisine Waterfall (100 RSD) are paid separately (cash only), the overall cost of the tour is considered reasonable given the length, diversity of sites, and expert guidance. Many reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and friendliness, which often elevates the experience from simply sightseeing to genuinely memorable.

The tour’s flexibility—offering private and group options—means you can tailor it to your comfort and privacy preferences. The small-group setting especially appeals to those who like a more intimate atmosphere with personalized attention.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and those wanting to get off the beaten path in Serbia. It suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences but still want some free time for photos, strolling, or a relaxed lunch. The pace is steady but not rushed, making it suitable for most fitness levels, though it involves some walking and uneven terrain at the cave and waterfall.

It’s also a great choice for first-time visitors to Serbia who prefer to explore with knowledgeable guides, ensuring they don’t miss key details or hidden gems. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a mix of cultural sites and natural scenery, this trip ticks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

In summary, the Best of East Tour from Belgrade is an engaging, well-structured day out that combines Serbia’s historical architecture, stunning natural landscapes, and fascinating underground formations. It is praised for its expert guides, comfortable transportation, and the variety of sights included.

While it’s a full day, many find the experience to be worthwhile, especially considering the value of seeing multiple sites in one trip without worrying about logistics. The tour strikes a balance between informative storytelling and leisure, making it suitable for travelers who want to learn, relax, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Serbia.

This adventure offers a genuine taste of Serbia beyond its capital, making it ideal for curious explorers eager to discover the country’s lesser-known but equally impressive treasures.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9.5 hours, starting with pickup around 8:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon.

What should I bring?
A jacket is recommended due to the cool temperature inside Resava Cave. Comfortable shoes are advised for walking around the sites.

Are there any dress code requirements?
Yes, when visiting Manasija Monastery, shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s mainly designed for able-bodied travelers; those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users might find it challenging due to walking and uneven terrain.

What is included in the price?
The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Entrance tickets are paid separately.

Can I choose between private and group options?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private experience or in small groups, depending on your preference.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included in the price; however, there is time allocated for a meal at a local restaurant where you can try fresh trout and other Serbian specialties.

This tour promises a memorable day of discovery in Serbia, combining history, nature, and the warm hospitality of local guides.

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