Setting Up Shop in Serbia: A Digital Nomad’s Workspace Guide

Serbia, located in the heart of the Balkans, is an emerging destination for digital nomads seeking a vibrant and affordable place to set up their remote workspace. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and growing tech scene, Serbia offers an ideal environment for work and play. In this guide, we will explore various aspects of setting up shop in Serbia, including accommodation options, coworking spaces, internet connectivity, local amenities, and more.

Accommodation Options

When it comes to finding accommodation in Serbia, digital nomads have a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you prefer the comfort of a hotel, the flexibility of an apartment rental, or the community vibe of a hostel, Serbia has something for everyone.

• Hotels: Serbia boasts a plethora of hotels ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious establishments. Some popular hotels include the Metropol Palace in Belgrade, the Square Nine Hotel in Belgrade, and the Hotel Park in Novi Sad.
• Apartment Rentals: If you prefer a home-away-from-home experience, apartment rentals are a great choice. Websites like Airbnb and Booking.com offer a wide selection of apartments in various cities across Serbia.
• Hostels: For those on a budget or looking to connect with fellow travelers, hostels are a fantastic option. The Good Hostel in Belgrade, the El Diablo Hostel in Novi Sad, and the Chillton Hostel in Niš are popular choices among digital nomads.

Coworking Spaces

Serbia’s coworking scene is rapidly expanding, providing digital nomads with a range of professional workspaces to choose from. These coworking spaces offer not only a conducive work environment but also opportunities for networking and collaboration.

• Startit Centers: Startit Centers are a network of coworking spaces located in various cities across Serbia. They provide modern facilities, high-speed internet, and a supportive community for freelancers and entrepreneurs.
• Impact Hub Belgrade: Impact Hub Belgrade is a popular coworking space known for its vibrant community and diverse events. It offers flexible membership options and a range of amenities, including meeting rooms and a café.
• Nova Iskra: Nova Iskra is a creative hub and coworking space located in Belgrade. It caters to professionals in the creative industries and provides a collaborative environment for innovation and idea exchange.

Internet Connectivity

Reliable internet connectivity is crucial for digital nomads, and Serbia offers decent internet speeds and coverage throughout the country. Most accommodations, coworking spaces, and cafes provide free Wi-Fi, but if you require a more stable connection, consider getting a local SIM card.

• Telekom Srbija: Telekom Srbija is one of the major telecommunications providers in Serbia, offering affordable mobile data plans with good coverage. You can purchase a prepaid SIM card from their stores or authorized resellers.
• Telenor Serbia: Telenor Serbia is another reliable option for mobile data services. They offer competitive packages and have widespread coverage across the country.
• VIP Mobile: VIP Mobile is a popular choice among digital nomads, offering various data plans and affordable rates. They have a user-friendly website where you can easily compare and purchase SIM cards.

Local Amenities

Serbia provides a range of amenities that cater to the needs of digital nomads. From cafes with strong Wi-Fi to gyms where you can stay fit, here are some of the local amenities you can enjoy while working in Serbia.

• Cafes: Serbia is known for its vibrant cafe culture, making it easy to find a cozy spot with good Wi-Fi to work from. Some popular cafes include Kafeterija in Belgrade, Aviator Coffee Explorer in Novi Sad, and Café Central in Niš.
• Gyms: Staying active is important, and Serbia offers a variety of gyms and fitness centers. Fitness World in Belgrade, Wellness Center Ekvilibrium in Novi Sad, and FIT House in Niš are just a few options to consider.
• Supermarkets: Stocking up on groceries is convenient with supermarkets like Maxi, Idea, and Tempo available throughout Serbia. These stores offer a wide range of products, including fresh produce, pantry staples, and household items.

Exploring Serbia

While work is important, exploring the beauty and culture of Serbia is equally essential. Take some time off to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities.

• Belgrade Fortress: Visit the iconic Belgrade Fortress, located in the heart of Belgrade. Explore the ancient architecture, enjoy panoramic views of the city, and soak in the historical significance of this landmark.
• Đavolja Varoš: Discover the unique rock formations of Đavolja Varoš (Devil’s Town) in southern Serbia. This natural wonder is a UNESCO-protected site and offers a surreal and otherworldly experience.
• Niš Fortress: Explore the Niš Fortress, a well-preserved fortress dating back to the Ottoman period. It is a significant historical site and offers a glimpse into Serbia’s past.

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Local Cuisine

One cannot visit Serbia without indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine. From hearty meat dishes to delectable pastries, Serbian food is a delight for the taste buds. Don’t miss out on these traditional dishes:

• Ćevapi: Try the beloved Serbian street food, ćevapi. These grilled meat sausages, usually served with onions and flatbread, are a must-try.
• Pljeskavica: Another popular street food, pljeskavica is a delicious Serbian burger made from a blend of ground meats and served with various toppings.
• Gibanica: Indulge in gibanica, a traditional Serbian pastry made with layers of filo dough and a filling of cheese, eggs, and sometimes spinach or meat.

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Transportation

Getting around Serbia is convenient thanks to its well-connected transportation network. Here are some options for traveling within the country:

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Serbia, and apps like CarGo and Naxis Taxi make it easy to book a ride. Make sure to check if the taxi has a meter or negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
• Public Transportation: Serbia has an extensive bus network that connects major cities and towns. The Belgrade Metro is also under construction and will provide an efficient way to navigate the capital once completed.
• Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option for exploring Serbia at your own pace. Major car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar have branches in Serbia.

Working Visa Requirements

Digital nomads from many countries can visit Serbia visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, if you plan to stay longer or engage in work-related activities, you may need to apply for a work permit or a long-term visa. It’s essential to check the specific requirements based on your country of citizenship before traveling.

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Conclusion

Serbia offers a welcoming and affordable environment for digital nomads looking to set up their workspace. With its diverse accommodation options, growing coworking scene, reliable internet connectivity, local amenities, and cultural attractions, Serbia has everything you need to thrive as a digital nomad. So, pack your bags, explore this fascinating country, and experience the best of both work and leisure in Serbia.

References

– Visit Serbia: www.visitserbia.org
– Startit Centers: www.startit.rs
– Impact Hub Belgrade: belgrade.impacthub.net
– Nova Iskra: www.novaiskra.com
– Telekom Srbija: www.telekom.rs
– Telenor Serbia: www.telenor.rs
– VIP Mobile: www.vipmobile.rs
– Kafeterija: www.kafeterija.rs
– Aviator Coffee Explorer: www.aviatorcoffee.com
– Café Central: www.cafecentral.rs
– Fitness World: www.fitnessworld.rs
– Wellness Center Ekvilibrium: www.ekvilibrium.rs
– FIT House: www.fithouse.rs
– CarGo: www.cargo.me
– Naxis Taxi: www.naxis.rs
– Avis: www.avis.rs
– Hertz: www.hertz.rs
– Europcar: www.europcar.rs