Buses in Serbia: Timetables, Tickets & Travel Tips
Buses are a convenient and affordable way to explore Serbia. Traveling through the country by bus allows you to reach major cities and picturesque towns with ease.
This guide covers key details about bus timetables, ticket options, and helpful travel tips for your journey by bus in Serbia.
Top Domestic Bus Routes
- Belgrade to Nis
- Belgrade to Subotica
- Nis to Belgrade
- Belgrade to Novi Sad
- Subotica to Belgrade
- Novi Sad to Subotica
- Belgrade to Pirot
- Novi Sad to Nis
Top International Bus Routes
- Belgrade to Sarajevo
- Belgrade to Skopje
- Belgrade to Pristina
- Belgrade to Budva
- Belgrade to Kotor
- Belgrade to Budapest
- Belgrade to Split
- Belgrade to Podgorica
- Novi Sad to Sarajevo
- Belgrade to Sofia
- Belgrade to Ohrid
- Belgrade to Mostar
- Belgrade to Osijek
- Belgrade to Banja Luka
- Nis to Pristina
Intercity Bus Travel in Serbia
Traveling by bus between cities in Serbia is easy and convenient. The bus network connects major cities and popular destinations, allowing you to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites.
Most buses are comfortable and often come with air conditioning and Wi-Fi to enhance your travel experience. Frequent schedules and affordable ticket options make it easy to reach your destination without hassle.
Domestic Bus Travel
Domestic bus travel in Serbia is reliable and widely used. With various routes connecting cities and smaller towns, you can reach your desired destination easily. Buses run frequently, making it convenient whether you're traveling to a major city or a smaller town.
Most domestic buses provide comfortable seating and amenities like air conditioning, ensuring a pleasant journey.
International Bus Travel
International bus travel from Serbia connects with several neighboring countries and beyond, offering convenient routes to destinations across Europe. Popular international connections include routes to Hungary, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and North Macedonia, with daily departures providing flexibility for travelers.
International buses are usually well-equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, and often Wi-Fi, providing an affordable way to cross borders.
Overnight Buses in Serbia
Overnight buses are a great option for covering long distances without wasting a day of travel. Key routes like Belgrade to Istanbul or Belgrade to Sofia make it easy to travel overnight and arrive by morning. These buses often have reclining seats and air conditioning, offering a comfortable ride for longer trips.
Bus Stations in Serbia
Serbia has several major bus stations serving as hubs for local and international routes. Here’s an overview of some key bus stations in the country:
- Belgrade Bus Station: Serbia’s largest and busiest station, located near the city center. It offers domestic and international connections, with amenities like cafes, ticket counters, and waiting areas.
- Novi Sad Bus Station: Bus station in Novi Sad connects travelers to Belgrade, other major Serbian cities, and international destinations. Facilities include cafes, ticket counters, and restrooms.
- Niš Bus Station: Located near the city center, Nis bus station connects Niš with other parts of Serbia and the Balkans. Basic facilities like cafes, ticket counters, and restrooms are available.
- Subotica Bus Station: This station connects Subotica to major cities in Serbia and Hungary, featuring essential facilities like ticket counters and restrooms.
Airport Shuttle Bus in Serbia
Serbia’s main airport, Nikola Tesla Airport in Belgrade, offers shuttle services to the city center and other major towns. These shuttle buses provide a convenient option for travelers arriving by air and needing onward transport within Serbia.
Bus Companies in Serbia
Serbia has a variety of bus operators, from national carriers to regional companies. Major operators include Lasta and Niš-Ekspres, providing frequent intercity routes. Several companies also offer shuttle and airport transfer services, as well as group and charter bus rentals.
Buying a Bus Ticket in Serbia
Buying a bus ticket in Serbia is easy with the GetBy App, where you can check schedules, compare prices, and book tickets online. Tickets can also be bought at bus stations, where staff can help with routes and schedules. Many bus companies in Serbia also allow online booking through their websites.
Bus Rental Service in Serbia
For group travel, bus rental options are available across Serbia. Whether for family events, corporate groups, or tours, there are modern, comfortable buses available. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during the peak travel season.
Public Transportation in Serbia
Public transportation in larger Serbian cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad includes extensive bus networks. Tickets can often be purchased onboard, at kiosks, or through city transport apps. Each city may have slightly different options, so check ahead.
Tips for Traveling Serbia by Bus
- Plan Your Routes: Review bus schedules in advance, as some rural routes may run less frequently.
- Book Tickets Early: In peak travel months, it’s a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially for routes like Belgrade to Novi Sad.
- Arrive Early: Arrive at the bus station 20-30 minutes before departure, as larger stations like Belgrade can be busy.
- Prepare for Stops: Many buses make multiple stops along the way, so keep an eye on your belongings and listen for announcements.
- Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and entertainment for longer rides.
- Dress Comfortably: Buses may be air-conditioned, so bring a light jacket for added comfort.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Serbia offers diverse landscapes from mountains to rivers, so enjoy the views as you travel.
- Be Respectful: Keep noise levels down and be courteous to fellow passengers for a pleasant experience.
Buses in Serbia FAQs
Which is the best bus company in Serbia?
"Lasta" is recognized as the largest and one of the most reputable bus companies in Serbia and Southeast Europe. With a fleet of 900 buses and 5,300 daily departures across 500 lines, Lasta offers extensive coverage and reliable services.
Are buses free in Belgrade?
No, buses in Belgrade are not free. Passengers are required to purchase valid tickets to use public transportation services, which include buses, trams, and trolleys.
How do you pay for public transport in Serbia?
In Serbia, particularly in Belgrade, public transport tickets can be purchased through various methods:
SMS Purchase: Send a text message to a designated number to receive a digital ticket on your mobile phone.
Mobile Application: Use the "Belgrade Plus" app to buy tickets directly from your smartphone.
Paper Tickets: Available at kiosks and newsstands displaying the BusPlus sign.
How much is the bus fare in Serbia?
Bus fares in Serbia vary depending on the city and type of ticket. In Belgrade, as of May 2023, a single 90-minute ticket for Zone A costs 55 Serbian dinars (RSD). A daily ticket valid for 24 hours is priced at 120 RSD for Zone A. For intercity travel, fares depend on the distance and the bus company, so it's advisable to check with the specific operator for accurate pricing.
Buses in Serbia Overview
Domestic bus travel | Extensive bus network connecting major cities, towns, and tourist attractions across Serbia |
International bus travel | Regular routes connecting Serbia with neighboring countries like Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Hungary, and Romania |
Bus stations | Main bus stations in cities like Belgrade, Novi Sad, Niš, Subotica, and Kragujevac |
Airport shuttle | Shuttle services available from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport to the city center and other nearby areas |
Bus companies | Includes companies like Lasta, Arriva, Fudeks, and Nis Ekspres, operating intercity and international routes |
Bus rental | Private bus rental options available for group travel, tours, and events |
Public transportation | Public transport includes buses, trams (in Belgrade), and trolleybuses, with taxis widely available in major cities |