Temple of Saint Sava
A monumental 20th-century Orthodox church, the Temple of Saint Sava captivates with its Byzantine grandeur and stunning mosaics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Temple of Saint Sava
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental 20th-century Orthodox church, the Temple of Saint Sava captivates with its Byzantine grandeur and stunning mosaics.
"It is one of the most important symbols of Belgrade with its fascinating architecture."
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
Explore the Crypt
The lower level is a must-see with its unique imagery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Dome
The soaring central dome is a marvel of Byzantine-inspired architecture, visible from across the city.

Dazzling Mosaics
The interior is adorned with vast, intricate mosaics that tell stories of faith and history.

Serene Crypt
The lower level offers a peaceful atmosphere with unique visual imagery and historical context.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Modestly for Reverence
Explore Both Levels
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Code in Church’s
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
Explore the Crypt
The lower level is a must-see with its unique imagery.
Evening Illumination
The temple is stunning when lit up at night.
Paid Street Parking
Finding free parking nearby can be challenging.
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
Explore the Crypt
The lower level is a must-see with its unique imagery.
Evening Illumination
The temple is stunning when lit up at night.
Paid Street Parking
Finding free parking nearby can be challenging.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the Temple of Saint Sava's massive scale, breathtaking Byzantine-inspired architecture, and the dazzling mosaics adorning its interior. Many find the atmosphere incredibly peaceful and recommend exploring both the upper church and the serene crypt. It's hailed as a must-see symbol of Belgrade and Serbian faith.
"It is one of the top attractions in the capital. It is massive and very peaceful. A very classic Cathedral of Orthodox religion. The top floor visually is breathtaking. The bottom floor is more like visual images on the walls. Make sure that you visit. Totally recommended."
Mustafa Arikan
"The largest Orthodox church in the Balkan and one of the largest in the world. You have a detailed description with a historical text on one of my pictures. Parking in the surrounding streets is paid and it is difficult to find a free space. Worth seeing and you must visit."
milos_and_more (digital creator)
"It is one of the most important symbols of Belgrade with its fascinating architecture. It can be seen from many points of the city. It is impressive with its lighting in the evening. The huge mosaics and decorations in the interior are admirable. The lower floor of the cathedral is also a must-see.
The structure may be one of the most impressive cathedrals in Europe."
Sumeyr E.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Temple of Saint Sava (Hram Svetog Save) is centrally located in Belgrade. Many visitors find it accessible by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Taxis are also readily available. If driving, be aware that parking on surrounding streets is paid and can be difficult to find.
While specific accessibility details can vary, the main areas of the temple are generally accessible. It's advisable to check with the venue directly for the most up-to-date information on ramp access and elevator availability, especially for reaching different levels.
Yes, depending on your starting point in the city center, walking to the Temple of Saint Sava is feasible. It's a pleasant walk through the city, allowing you to see more of Belgrade along the way.
Several bus lines stop near the Temple of Saint Sava. Key stops include those on Bulevar oslobođenja and near Vračar. It's recommended to use a local transit app for real-time routes and schedules.
Typically, there is a main entrance for all visitors. It's best to follow the signs upon arrival. The grandeur of the structure makes it hard to miss!
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main areas of the Temple of Saint Sava is generally free. However, there might be charges for specific exhibitions or access to certain parts of the complex. It's always a good idea to check for any potential fees upon arrival.
The opening hours can vary, but the Temple of Saint Sava is typically open daily. It's recommended to verify the current operating hours before your visit, as they may change due to religious services or special events.
Yes, as a religious site, modest dress is required. Visitors should avoid shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. Covering your shoulders and knees is advisable to show respect.
Photography is usually permitted inside the Temple of Saint Sava, but it's important to be respectful and avoid using flash, especially during services. Some areas might have restrictions, so observe any posted signs.
To experience a more peaceful visit, try to go during weekday mornings. Evenings can also be less crowded than midday, and the temple is beautifully illuminated then.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Temple of Saint Sava is one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world and a major symbol of Serbian identity and faith. Its construction began in the 20th century and it's a testament to Serbian history and religious devotion.
The temple boasts breathtaking mosaics on its upper levels and a serene, visually rich crypt below. The sheer scale and architectural grandeur are impressive throughout.
A typical visit can last from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring both the upper church and the crypt. If you plan to linger and absorb the atmosphere, allow more time.
While official guided tours might not always be readily available, you can often find information plaques or brochures. Some visitors have found detailed historical texts accompanying their visit.
Absolutely! Visitors consistently describe it as breathtaking, stunning, and a must-see landmark in Belgrade. Its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere make it a highly recommended experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly inside the Temple of Saint Sava. However, the surrounding Vračar neighborhood offers a wide array of cafes and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets.
You'll find a diverse culinary scene near the temple, including traditional Serbian cuisine, international options, and casual cafes. It's a great area to explore for a meal after your visit.
While not a full dining experience, there might be small kiosks or cafes near the temple complex selling refreshments. It's best to check on-site for current offerings.
Eating and drinking are generally not permitted inside the main sanctuary of the Temple of Saint Sava to maintain its sanctity. Please consume any food or beverages outside the church premises.
The Vračar area, where the temple is located, is known for its vibrant food scene. You can find everything from traditional kafanas to modern bistros. Exploring local recommendations online or asking locals is a good approach.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior offers stunning views from various angles, especially at dusk when it's illuminated. Inside, focus on the grand scale of the dome and the intricate details of the mosaics. The crypt also provides unique photographic opportunities.
It's generally best to avoid using flash photography inside the Temple of Saint Sava, especially during services, to be respectful of worshippers and the sanctity of the space. Always look for signage indicating photography rules.
For exterior shots, the 'golden hour' just before sunset and the evening when the temple is beautifully lit are ideal. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for interior shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around significant landmarks due to safety and privacy regulations. It's highly unlikely that drone photography is permitted without special authorization.
Given the potentially low light conditions inside, a wider aperture (lower f-number) and a higher ISO might be necessary. Using a tripod can help achieve sharper images if permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children are dressed modestly to adhere to the dress code. The spaciousness of the temple allows for some movement, but keeping voices low is key. Consider focusing on the visual aspects, like the colors in the mosaics, to keep younger ones engaged. The crypt can be a fascinating, albeit solemn, area to explore together.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Visitors often describe the temple as an experience of serenity and reverence. Take your time to absorb the spiritual energy of the place, observe the devotion of others, and appreciate the artistry that adorns the walls. It's a place to connect with history, faith, and the enduring spirit of Serbian Orthodoxy.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Aim for the 'golden hour' for exterior shots. Inside, be mindful of lighting conditions and avoid flash photography to respect the sanctity of the space. Look for unique angles to capture the immense scale and intricate details. The contrast between the bright upper church and the dimly lit crypt can create dramatic photographic narratives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
The interior is equally spectacular, dominated by vast and intricate mosaics that cover over 15,000 square meters. These mosaics depict scenes from the life of Saint Sava and other significant figures in Serbian Orthodox history, rendered in vibrant colors and detailed artistry. The crypt, located on the lower level, offers a different, more intimate experience. It features beautiful frescoes and serves as a resting place for Patriarchs, providing a profound sense of history and spirituality.
Visitors often remark on the peaceful and serene atmosphere within the temple, despite its immense size. The combination of stunning visual elements and the spiritual ambiance makes it a deeply moving place to explore. It's not just a building; it's described as an experience of serenity and reverence.
A Symbol of Serbian Faith and Identity
Its presence dominates the Belgrade skyline, making it visible from many points in the city, a constant reminder of its importance. The temple has witnessed significant historical events and continues to be a central point for religious gatherings and national celebrations. The impressive lighting in the evening further enhances its iconic status, making it a beacon of faith and history.
For many, visiting the Temple of Saint Sava is a pilgrimage, an opportunity to connect with their roots and experience a vital part of Serbian culture. The huge mosaics and decorations are not just art but also historical narratives, preserving and celebrating the legacy of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit