Roads, Trains, and Parking: An Overview of Serbia's Transport System for Drivers and Pedestrians
Serbian Roads: Motorways, Tolls, and Driving Culture
The core of Serbia's road network consists of modern motorways, the main ones being the A1 (connecting the north and south of the country) and the A2 ('Miloš Veliki'). The quality of the road surface on these highways is high, making travel fast and comfortable. These are the key toll roads in the country.
The toll payment system is organized through booths at the entrance and exit of the toll section. A driver receives a ticket upon entry and pays for the distance traveled at the exit. To save time and money, it's recommended to use the electronic TAG device, which allows you to pass through special lanes without stopping and also provides payment discounts.
The driving culture in Serbia can seem somewhat chaotic, especially in cities. It's important to be prepared for sudden maneuvers and the inconsistent use of turn signals. Parking regulations, especially in Belgrade, are enforced by the 'Oko Sokolovo' (Hawk Eye) system—cars with scanners that automatically detect violations and issue fines.
The Railway Revolution: The 'Soko' High-Speed Train
Serbia's rail transport is undergoing a real revolution thanks to the launch of the 'Soko' (Falcon) high-speed train. This modern train runs on the upgraded Belgrade–Novi Sad line, reducing travel time between the two largest cities to just 36 minutes. There are plans to extend the line to Subotica, which will further integrate the north of the country into a unified transport network.
'Soko' trains are double-decker Stadler KISS units, offering passengers a high level of comfort, including Wi-Fi and power outlets. This has made the Soko train an extremely popular alternative to cars and buses for trips between Belgrade and Novi Sad.
- View train schedules.
- Buy tickets online, avoiding queues at ticket offices.
- Receive discounts when purchasing through the app.
Tickets can also be purchased at station ticket offices or from vending machines. Buying a ticket online in advance is often more economical.
Urban Transport: Belgrade vs. Subotica
Transport systems in Serbian cities differ significantly. The capital, Belgrade, still does not have a metro, which puts a significant strain on surface transport—buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Fare payment is made via SMS or by purchasing cards, and ticket inspectors frequently operate on the lines.
Parking in Belgrade is a particular challenge for drivers. The city center is divided into several zones with time-limited parking. Parking can be paid for via SMS, a parking meter, or a special app. Violations are strictly penalized.
Unlike Belgrade, Subotica in the north of the country offers a completely different experience. It is a city of bicycles, where two-wheeled transport is the primary means of getting around for many residents, thanks to its flat terrain and extensive network of bike lanes. Public transport consists mainly of buses.
Taxis, Apps, and the Absence of Car Sharing
The taxi market in Serbia is quite developed. Alongside traditional taxi companies like Pink Taxi, mobile apps are very popular. The most well-known of these are the local service CarGo and the international Yandex Go. They offer convenient car booking and often more favorable rates compared to hailing a taxi on the street.
- CarGo: A local Uber-like service operating on a membership system.
- Yandex Go: An international service, well-known to users from the Russian Federation.
- Pink Taxi: One of the largest traditional taxi services with an option to book via an app.
Despite technological advancements, car sharing, a service common in Moscow, is virtually non-existent in Serbia. This is due to several factors, including local market specifics, the relatively low cost of taxis, and owning a used car. Therefore, for short-term trips, the best alternative is to rent a car from one of the many rental agencies.
Serbia's Air Gateways: Airports
Serbia has three main international airports, each playing its role in the country's transport system. They provide connections to European capitals as well as other regions of the world.
The country's main airports:
- Constantine the Great Airport (Niš): Located in the south of the country. It mainly specializes in serving low-cost carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair, offering budget flights throughout Europe.
- Morava Airport (Kraljevo): The newest of the three, located in central Serbia. It focuses on regional and seasonal charter flights, gradually expanding its route network.
Comparison with Russia: Pros and Cons for a Driver
For a driver accustomed to Russian realities, Serbia's transport has both its advantages and disadvantages. Moving here can bring both pleasant surprises and some disappointments.
One of the main advantages is the climate. Mild winters mean there is no need for studded tires, and the tire-changing season is much shorter. Additionally, Serbia is a compact country, and the distances between cities are incomparably smaller than in Russia, making road trips less tiring.
However, there are also significant downsides. The cost of gasoline in Serbia is noticeably higher than in the Russian Federation, which increases vehicle operating costs. The average age of the local vehicle fleet is also striking—there are many old cars on the roads, which affects the overall environment and safety.
