Travel around Valjevo with Bobby
I chose to visit Valjevo because it offers a perfect blend of nature and history, which are the things I value most when traveling. Exploring historic areas like Tešnjar and hiking in the Divčibare Mountain really piqued my interest. The city is also far from the usual tourist crowds, offering a peaceful getaway. Experiencing local food and culture is always a big bonus for me. Valjevo’s charm lies in its untouched beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it feel like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Day 1Discovering the Hidden Gems of Tešnjar
As soon as I arrived in Valjevo, I could feel the laid-back atmosphere of this historic town. My accommodation, Hotel Grand Valjevo, was centrally located, giving me easy access to all the key sites. After settling in, I decided to start my journey by exploring Tešnjar, the old Ottoman district. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets felt like stepping back in time, with stone houses and small shops selling traditional crafts. It’s the kind of place where every corner holds a story. I spent hours just wandering around, taking photos of the intricate architectural details.
Lunch called for something traditional, so I headed to Restoran Kod bake, a cozy spot known for its authentic Serbian dishes. I ordered ćevapi, a delicious grilled meat dish served with onions and soft bread. The flavors were rich and hearty, perfect after a morning of exploring. With a full stomach, I continued my afternoon by visiting the Valjevo National Museum, where I immersed myself in the city’s fascinating history. From ancient artifacts to displays about the First Serbian Uprising, the museum provided a thorough insight into the region’s past.
I wrapped up the day by strolling along the Kolubara River, a peaceful end to an eventful day. I decided to have a quiet evening at Café Divino, sipping coffee as the sun set over the river. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day filled with history and culture.
Tešnjar is a must-visit for history lovers, and I highly recommend spending time just wandering its streets. The Valjevo National Museum is also a great stop if you want to get to know the city’s deep historical roots.
Day 2Hiking at Divčibare and a Taste of Valjevo’s Culinary Scene
After a hearty breakfast at my hotel, I set off for Divčibare Mountain, which is just a short drive from Valjevo. Renting a car made the journey easy and convenient, and the scenic drive through the countryside was breathtaking. Divčibare is well-known for its hiking trails and ski resorts, but in the summer, it’s a hiker’s paradise. I took one of the easier trails, which led me through pine forests and up to a viewpoint that offered stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.
By midday, I was ready to head back to the city for lunch. I opted for Restoran Plato, which came highly recommended for its traditional Montenegrin and Serbian dishes. I couldn’t resist trying the Karađorđeva šnicla, a breaded veal schnitzel stuffed with cheese. It was served with a side of potatoes and fresh vegetables, and every bite was incredibly flavorful.
In the afternoon, I visited the Lelić Monastery, a serene and spiritual place just outside Valjevo. The peaceful surroundings made it the perfect spot to reflect and unwind. The monastery itself is beautifully preserved, and the monks are friendly, welcoming visitors to learn about the history of the place. It felt like stepping into a sacred part of Serbian history.
For dinner, I decided to treat myself to some Italian cuisine at Sicilia, a local favorite. Their pizza and pasta were just what I needed to end the day on a high note. Full and satisfied, I returned to my hotel for a good night’s rest.
Lunch at Restoran Plato was a highlight, especially with the Karađorđeva šnicla. The combination of flavors in the schnitzel, stuffed with cheese and ham, was delicious. The fresh ingredients and hearty portion sizes made it a meal to remember.
Food
Another comfortable night at Hotel Grand Valjevo, with helpful staff and a relaxing atmosphere. While not overly luxurious, it offers everything needed for a good stay in Valjevo, especially if you want easy access to the main attractions.
Accomodation
Hiking at Divčibare Mountain was the perfect outdoor escape. The trail I took was well-marked, and the views from the summit were stunning, offering a peaceful break from the city. Pairing this with a visit to the Lelić Monastery provided a serene and spiritual experience.
Activity
Divčibare Mountain is an absolute must for nature lovers, and the drive alone is worth it for the views. Lelić Monastery offers a calm and peaceful retreat, perfect if you’re looking for a more spiritual experience.
Day 3 Local Flavors and the Heart of Valjevo’s Culture
My last day in Valjevo started with a visit to the Brankovina Complex, a historical site dedicated to Serbian poet Desanka Maksimović. The complex includes a church, school, and cemetery, all nestled within a beautiful natural setting. Learning about the poet’s life and her contributions to Serbian literature was both moving and inspiring. It’s one of those hidden gems that history buffs should not miss.
For lunch, I chose Restoran Dvor, a charming restaurant known for its traditional Serbian pastries. I couldn’t leave without trying their gibanica, a flaky pastry layered with cheese and eggs. It was the perfect blend of savory and rich, and I could easily see why this dish is a local favorite.
In the afternoon, I wandered through King’s Park, a relaxing green space in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a peaceful walk or sit with a coffee and watch the world go by. To finish off my trip, I stopped by Restoran Letnji Raj for dinner, where I indulged in sarma, a traditional dish of cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice. The slow-cooked flavors were a comforting end to my journey in Valjevo.
As the evening set in, I decided to experience a bit of Valjevo’s nightlife at Buda Bar, a lively spot in the city center. The atmosphere was laid-back, and I enjoyed a couple of drinks while chatting with locals, who were more than happy to share stories about their city.
The gibanica at Restoran Dvor was one of the best traditional pastries I’ve ever had. It was perfectly flaky, with just the right balance of cheese and eggs. Dinner at Restoran Letnji Raj didn’t disappoint either—sarma was rich and flavorful, cooked to perfection.
Food
Another pleasant stay at Hotel Grand Valjevo, where the staff continued to be helpful and accommodating. The comfort and convenience of the location make it a solid option for anyone visiting the city.
Accomodation
Visiting Brankovina Complex was a moving experience, especially learning about Desanka Maksimović's life. The walk through King’s Park offered a relaxing close to my trip. The evening at Buda Bar was a great way to wrap up the day, with a friendly atmosphere and good drinks.
Activity
Brankovina is a beautiful, lesser-known spot that’s perfect for those interested in Serbian literature and history. King’s Park is a great place to relax after exploring the city, and make sure you try local dishes like gibanica and sarma—they’re a true taste of Valjevo’s culinary heritage.
Summary of My Trip
Valjevo exceeded my expectations in every way. The historical charm, especially while walking through the narrow streets of Tešnjar, was truly captivating. It’s one of those rare places where culture and natural beauty coexist seamlessly. Hiking at Divčibare Mountain was the perfect escape for anyone seeking peace and tranquility. The food in Valjevo was another highlight; traditional dishes like gibanica and Karađorđeva šnicla were simply outstanding. The fact that it’s away from the crowded tourist spots made my explorations feel more intimate and special. Visiting cultural sites like Lelić Monastery and Brankovina gave me a deeper connection to Serbian history. The nightlife was more vibrant than I expected, with Buda Bar providing a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Valjevo offered a well-rounded travel experience, and I’d definitely come back. Its peaceful nature and rich history make it a standout destination.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Valjevo offers visitors a peaceful and enriching experience, blending cultural depth with natural beauty. Its calm atmosphere and historical sites make it an appealing destination for those looking to escape the usual tourist crowds. Whether you're keen on trying traditional Serbian cuisine or spending time in nature, Valjevo provides an ideal balance.
Lunch at Restoran Plato was a highlight, especially with the Karađorđeva šnicla. The combination of flavors in the schnitzel, stuffed with cheese and ham, was delicious. The fresh ingredients and hearty portion sizes made it a meal to remember.
Food
Another comfortable night at Hotel Grand Valjevo, with helpful staff and a relaxing atmosphere. While not overly luxurious, it offers everything needed for a good stay in Valjevo, especially if you want easy access to the main attractions.
Accomodation
Hiking at Divčibare Mountain was the perfect outdoor escape. The trail I took was well-marked, and the views from the summit were stunning, offering a peaceful break from the city. Pairing this with a visit to the Lelić Monastery provided a serene and spiritual experience.
Activity