Planning a visit to southern Serbia? Niš is the perfect starting point for scenic escapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into riverside walks, quiet mountains, or historical spots, this city puts it all within reach. American tourists in Niš can easily get around with a rental car. There is no need to worry about bus routes or train schedules. Just rent a car, grab your keys, and follow your GPS. Our guide has rounded up the best day trips from Niš.
Public transport in Niš is reliable within the city, but it’s limited when heading toward remote natural spots or countryside attractions. Buses to rural areas often run on infrequent schedules and may not reach smaller villages or hidden nature sites.
Renting a car in Serbia gives you full control over your travel plans. You can visit mountains, rivers, and historical sites on your schedule. The roads in southern Serbia are mostly well-maintained, with scenic routes perfect for spontaneous stops. With a car, you can leave early to beat the crowds or stay late to enjoy the sunset without worrying about missing the last bus back to Niš.
American tourists in Niš need a valid U.S. driver’s license, passport, and an International Driving Permit. A credit card is usually required for the deposit. Book your rental car online in advance to secure your desired vehicles and even score discounts.
Southern Serbia is packed with natural gems, quiet trails, and dramatic landscapes just a short drive away. From gorges and lakes to ancient ruins, these outdoor adventures near Niš are worth adding to your itinerary.
Just 37 minutes from Niš, Sićevo Gorge is a natural marvel shaped by the flow of the Nišava River through rugged limestone cliffs. As you approach the gorge, steep rock walls rise on both sides. The terrain is part of a protected natural area, and due to the river cutting through the valley, it's often cooler here than in the city.
Once you arrive, there are several well-marked hiking trails ranging from easy riverside walks to more challenging climbs leading to panoramic viewpoints. These lookout spots offer clear views of the entire canyon and surrounding mountains. The area is safe for hiking year-round, though spring and early autumn are the best times for comfortable weather and rich greenery.
The region is also known for wine production. The gorge is home to small family-run vineyards that benefit from the unique microclimate created by the river and cliffs. If you're driving through in the afternoon, it’s worth stopping for a wine tasting in the village of Sićevo.
Devil’s Town, or Đavolja Varoš, is located about 89 kilometers southwest of Niš, and the drive takes roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. The final stretch winds through forested hills before reaching the site’s entrance. This place is special because it has over 200 tall stone formations shaped like towers or pillars. It's no wonder the site is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage candidate.
Once you arrive, you’ll follow a well-maintained walking path that loops through the formations. The whole walk takes about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. Before returning to Niš, make a short stop in Prolom Banja, which just 10 minutes away. This town is known for thermal springs and wellness resorts. Many travelers grab a bite at a local restaurant with views of the mountains or visit the Prolom Church, which sits on a hill nearby.
Suva Planina, meaning “Dry Mountain,” lies 33.6 kilometers southeast of Niš. The drive takes about an hour. This rugged range has steep slopes, rocky peaks, and alpine meadows. Unlike forested mountains, Suva Planina has exposed terrain that gives it a raw, untamed feel. Its highest point, Trem Peak, reaches over 1,800 meters, offering serious altitude for hikers and paragliders.
Hiking is the main draw here, with trails for all skill levels. Some routes begin in the village of Bojanine Vode, which has a small parking area and is a common starting point for day hikes. The mountain is also a top location for paragliding. The air currents along the ridge are ideal, and launch points near the peak are accessible on foot. For the best experience, plan your trip in spring or autumn. Suva Planina is less developed than other parks, so bring water, food, and proper gear.
Vlasina Lake is over 1,200 meters above sea level, making it the highest altitude lake in Serbia. It’s about 116 kilometers southeast of Niš, and the drive takes just under two hours via the A1 highway.Originally a glacial bog, the lake was expanded into a reservoir, but it still looks wild and untouched. In summer, visitors kayak across the clear water or dip along quiet inlets. The shallow shores are great for families, and the deeper parts suit stronger swimmers.
Kayak rentals are usually available in peak season, and birdwatchers will love spotting herons, storks, and rare wetland species nesting in the reeds. A dense belt of pine, beech, and birch forests surrounds the lake. These woods are crisscrossed with walking trails, many of which are easy enough for casual strolls.
Bovansko Lake is a small but charming getaway just 48 kilometers north of Niš. The drive takes around 1.5 hours. Though less known to tourists, this lake is a favorite weekend spot for locals. It’s a man-made reservoir formed by damming the Moravica River.
The lake has a modest shoreline with spots for sunbathing, paddle boating, or fishing. Anglers come here for carp, perch, and catfish, especially in the early morning. You’ll also find several family-friendly areas to rent a paddle boat or just relax on a grassy bank. There are no strong currents or deep drop-offs, so it’s safe for casual swimming when the weather’s warm. A few food stands and local cafes open during summer. One of the nicest things about Bovansko Lake is its laid-back vibe. There’s no entry fee or tourist crowd.
Rtanj Mountain stands out with its unusual pyramid-like shape and a height of 1,565 meters. Located about 83 kilometers north of Niš, it takes roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach via Route 217. Rtanj is a hike packed with myths, natural beauty, and panoramic views. Many visitors come here, drawn by the mystery surrounding it, from UFO tales to ancient energy theories.
The most popular trail starts in the village of Rtanj and leads straight up the south face. It’s a steep climb that takes around 3 hours to reach the summit. Sturdy hiking shoes, water, and layered clothing are a must, especially if planning a sunrise hike. The remains of a small stone chapel mark the summit. Local guesthouses and restaurants near Sokobanja or Boljevac offer good bases if you want to stay overnight. These towns are 13 to 30 minutes away.
Jelašnica Gorge is a quick and rewarding escape into nature. The drive takes around 20 minutes, making it one of the easiest day trips for outdoor lovers. Though the gorge is just 2 kilometers long, it packs in dramatic scenery and rare plant life, earning its status as a special nature reserve.
The towering limestone cliffs are home to some of Serbia’s rarest plant species, including Ramonda Serbica and Ramonda Nathaliae—two ancient flowers that have survived since the Ice Age. You'll also spot over 65 endemic and sub-endemic plant types growing in the cracks and ledges of the gorge. Along the way, unique rock formations appear in odd shapes, such as dolomite columns that look like sharp teeth, kneeling figures, and natural windows carved by erosion.
One of the gorge’s standout features is its rich butterfly population. During spring and summer, the air fills with color as dozens of species flutter around the wildflowers. The main trail is flat and easy, perfect for a calm walk with nature. If you're up for more thrill, the cliffs offer well-marked rock climbing routes that draw climbers from across Serbia.
Bojanine Vode is a mountain resort located about 29 kilometers from Niš. The drive takes just under an hour via Route 224. Nestled on the lower slopes of Suva Planina, this area has clean air, shaded paths, and quiet forest scenery. The name "Bojanine Vode" refers to the natural springs found here.
The area offers gentle trails through dense pine and beech forests. It’s perfect for families and beginner hikers who want to enjoy nature without climbing a mountain. Some paths lead to scenic viewpoints, while others follow streams and springs through peaceful woods. Bojanine Vode is also a common starting point for those planning to hike higher up into Suva Planina, especially toward Trem Peak.
Bubanj Memorial Park is just 3.6 kilometers from Niš, one of the best nature escapes near Niš. The drive takes less than 10 minutes via Route 35 and Vojvode Putnika Street. Set in a forested area on the city’s edge, it was built to honor the thousands of people executed here during World War II. Today, it serves as a peaceful green space and a site of remembrance.
Once you step into the clearing, you can’t miss the three giant concrete fists. They stand for men, women, and children who bravely resisted fascism in World War II. Walk around and you’ll see signs explaining the history. If you’ve got a bit more time, swing by Mediana afterward. It’s only a few minutes away. This ancient Roman estate was Emperor Constantine’s getaway. You can stroll past old mosaic floors, scattered columns, and grassy courtyards.
Niš might be known for its Roman ruins and fortress walls, but there’s so much more outside the city. The area is full of quiet lakes, deep canyons, rugged mountain trails, and even strange rock formations. Book your car with FinalRentals if you're ready to enjoy some fresh Balkan air. Need a small car for getting around town? Or maybe an SUV for those mountain drives? Whatever your plan, there’s a car that fits. Just pick what you need and get instant confirmation.
