Serbia is located on the Balkan Peninsula, has good public safety, and is a great country for tourism. Popular souvenirs from Serbia include embroidery, folk crafts, and wine. Be sure to enjoy souvenir shopping when you visit Serbia!
1. Embroidered Products
Serbia has a rich tradition of embroidery, with stunning designs seen on national costumes. Colorful scarves and handkerchiefs make delightful gifts! In the capital city, Belgrade, there are many shops that sell blouses and accessories adorned with embroidery and traditional costumes. As you explore the city, try to find your favorite shop!
2. Kilim
Kilim refers to flat-woven rugs crafted by Turkic nomads originating from the Anatolian Plateau. They are admired for their unique colors and designs, as well as their artistic quality. In Serbia, kilims are commonly used in daily life, and you’ll find many bags made from kilim fabric. Like embroidery, kilims convey the warmth of the maker and make for a truly Serbian souvenir.
3. Opanak
Opanak are traditional Serbian leather shoes. Today, they are often worn with national costumes, but they were originally used by farmers. Known for their durability, opanak are sold in a variety of sizes at markets. Be sure to try the authentic Serbian opanak at least once!
4. Serbian Wine
Serbia has been cultivating grapes for a long time and is home to many wineries. Serbian wine is hard to find, so it makes a special gift! Some wines were even served in the Serbian royal court and are known for their strong, complex flavors. Also, the village of Vinča in Serbia shares a similar latitude with Bordeaux, France, and is recognized as a notable wine-producing region. If you have time, a winery tour is highly recommended!
5. Rakija
Rakija is a distilled spirit made from fermented fruit and is popular throughout the Balkans. Its alcohol content ranges from 40% to 60%, and some types can be quite strong. Originally made from grapes, today it is available in many flavors such as plum, pear, apricot, and quince. You can easily purchase it in supermarkets. As it's considered a rare type of alcohol globally, be sure to give it a try!
6. Ajvar
Ajvar is a famous Serbian preserved food. It is a paste made from paprika, eggplant, and spices, and is widely known across the Balkan Peninsula. Traditionally, each household would make it in the autumn, resulting in unique flavors from each family. It can be enjoyed as a side with meat dishes, spread on bread, or used in rice-based stews. It’s easy to find in supermarkets, so don’t forget to grab some as a souvenir!
◎ Summary
How was that? If you weren’t familiar with Serbian souvenirs, hopefully this sparked some interest! Other great souvenirs include wooden kitchen utensils. In Belgrade, you’ll also find unique items that can’t be found elsewhere, so enjoy discovering them as you stroll through the city!