After landing at both of Serbia’s international airports more times than I can count, trust me – your choice makes a bigger difference than you’d expect. Some travelers end up confused at Belgrade’s sprawling terminals, while others discover Niš is actually closer to their intended destination.
This guide covers getting into Serbia from abroad. Once you’re here, I’ll walk you through the domestic transport maze in Part 2.
Serbia’s Two International Airports
Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) – The Main Gateway
Location: 18km west of Belgrade city center Passengers: 8+ million annually, Serbia’s busiest airport Management: Operated by French conglomerate Vinci Airports since 2018
This is where most international travelers land. Two connected terminals handle the bulk of Serbia’s air traffic, with Air Serbia using it as their hub. Recent upgrades include new eGates for faster passport control and modern facilities throughout.
Getting to Belgrade from the Airport:
A1 Minibus (Recommended)
- Route: Direct to Slavija Square (main transport hub)
- Cost: 400 Serbian dinars (€3.40)
- Time: 25-30 minutes
- Schedule: Every 20 minutes (7:20 AM – 8:00 PM)
Bus Line 72 (Budget Option)
- Route: To Zeleni Venac market area
- Cost: 89 dinars (€0.75) with city card, 150 dinars cash
- Time: 35-40 minutes
- Schedule: Every 30 minutes (5:20 AM – midnight)
Official Airport Taxi
- Fixed pricing: €25 to city center (Zone 2)
- Time: 20 minutes in light traffic
- Tip: Use official taxi desk inside arrivals – avoid street touts
Niš Constantine the Great Airport (INI) – Budget Airlines Hub
Location: 4km northwest of Niš city center
Passengers: Significantly smaller, focuses on European budget routes Specialty: Low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air
Perfect if you’re flying budget airlines from Western Europe or want to explore southern Serbia first. New terminal opened in 2024 with capacity for 1.5 million passengers annually.
Getting to Niš from the Airport:
City Bus Lines 34A/34B
- Cost: 80 dinars (€0.68)
- Time: 20-30 minutes to city center
- Schedule: Every 20-30 minutes (5:45 AM – 9:15 PM)
- Payment: Cash only, buy from conductor
Taxi
- Cost: Around 850 dinars (€7.25) flat rate to center
- Time: 10-15 minutes
- Note: No Uber/Bolt in Niš
Flight Route Strategy
European Budget Airlines: Niš often offers cheaper fares to German, Swiss, and Scandinavian cities Major International Routes: Belgrade connects to most European capitals plus Middle Eastern hubs Seasonal Routes: Summer brings additional Adriatic coast connections
Pro tip: Compare both airports for European routes – sometimes flying into Niš and taking a domestic connection or bus to Belgrade saves significant money.
Other Entry Options
Regional Trains
Belgrade connects by rail to neighboring capitals, though services can be slow and unreliable. Summer routes include Sofia (Bulgaria) and Thessaloniki (Greece). Serbian Railways: en.zeleznica.rs
International Buses
Extensive network covers all Balkan countries with frequent, affordable services. Often more reliable than trains for regional travel.
Bottom line: For first-time visitors, Belgrade’s airport offers the most convenience and connections. Budget travelers should consider Niš for European routes, especially if exploring southern Serbia.
