Ancient city in southern Serbia with Roman and Ottoman influences. Home to Niš Fortress, old bazaar, and lively main square. Known for local wines and regional cuisine.
Niš, Serbia's third-largest city, sits at the crossroads of ancient trade routes connecting Europe and the Middle East. This city, birthplace of Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, has a rich history spanning Roman, Ottoman, and modern Serbian periods. In Niš, you can explore the well-preserved Niš Fortress, examine the unique Skull Tower, and enjoy cultural events like the Nišville International Jazz Festival. The city also offers thermal spas for relaxation and numerous archaeological sites for history enthusiasts.
Cultural Attractions and Modern Niš
Niš's cultural scene centers around the National Theatre, founded in 1887. You can watch productions of both classic and contemporary works here. If you're interested in music, plan your visit during the annual Nišville International Jazz Festival in August. The festival takes place within the Niš Fortress, filling the ancient walls with contemporary sounds.
Exploring Niš's Roman Legacy
You'll find traces of Niš's Roman past throughout the city. Visit the archaeological site of Mediana, Constantine the Great's estate, just outside the city center. Here, you can walk among the ruins of ancient Roman villas, examine intricate floor mosaics, and see artifacts from daily life in the 4th century AD. The on-site museum provides context to the excavations and displays some of the most valuable finds. For more Roman artifacts discovered in and around Niš, visit the Archaeological Hall of the National Museum.
Ottoman Influences and the Skull Tower
The Ottoman period left its mark on Niš's landscape. Visit the Skull Tower (Ćele Kula), constructed in 1809 using the skulls of Serbian rebels who fought against Ottoman rule. You can see the chapel built around the tower to protect it, where 58 skulls remain embedded in the walls. Nearby, you'll find the 18th-century Niš Fortress, one of the best-preserved Ottoman military structures in the Balkans. Today, the fortress area serves as a public park, hosting cultural events and housing several restaurants and cafes.
Relaxation at Niška Banja
A short distance from the city center, you'll find Niška Banja, a spa resort known for its thermal springs. The spa's waters contain minerals that some believe help with cardiovascular conditions. You can try treatments at the spa complex or explore the surrounding area, which includes hiking trails.
Getting Around and Practical Information
Niš is well-connected to other parts of Serbia and neighboring countries. The city's international airport, Constantine the Great Airport, serves several European destinations. Within the city, you can use a network of 13 bus lines for public transportation. Taxis are also available and affordable, but make sure the driver uses the meter. The climate in Niš is humid subtropical with continental influences. Late spring and early autumn are good times to visit, with mild temperatures and less rainfall.
