Going to Serbia? Avoid These 9 Common Mistakes!

Serbians are a warm and expressive people. Unlike the typical handshake culture in North America, Serbians greet each other with three kisses on the cheek—yes, even men! 

This is a common display of respect and friendship, and it might take some getting used to. If you’re not comfortable with this, a simple handshake will do, but don’t be surprised if you receive a hug after a few rounds of rakija (Serbia’s traditional fruit brandy).

In many Western countries, splitting the bill at a restaurant is a standard practice. In Serbia, however, this is uncommon and often frowned upon. Instead, it’s customary for one person to cover the bill, and the next time, someone else picks up the tab. You’ll often see friends playfully arguing over who gets to pay, rather than figuring out how to split the check. If you try to ask the waiter to divide the bill, expect some confused looks!

Many travelers worry about language barriers, but English is widely spoken in Serbia, especially among younger generations and in major cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad. English is taught as a second language in Serbian schools, so even if someone says they only know "a little," you’ll likely find that their English is quite good. While learning a few Serbian phrases is always appreciated, don’t let language concerns hold you back from visiting or relocating.

Serbians are incredibly social. Whether you’re having a casual coffee or a deep philosophical discussion, expect locals to be genuinely interested in you and where you’re from. They love sharing stories about Serbian culture, traditions, and history. However, avoid controversial topics like the NATO bombings or Serbian politics unless you’re prepared for a heated debate. Instead, discuss food, travel, or sports—especially Serbian basketball or Novak Djokovic!

Serbians are known for their honest and straightforward communication style. This might feel blunt if you’re coming from a country where politeness is emphasized over directness. In restaurants, you won’t have a waiter checking on you every five minutes to ask how your meal is—it’s simply not part of the culture. If you need something, you’ll have to call them over. Don’t take it personally; this is just the way things are done.

If someone says "Let’s meet at 1:00 PM," be prepared for them to show up at 1:10 or even 1:30 PM. Being slightly late is not considered rude in Serbia—it’s just the norm. Even some businesses don’t open exactly when they say they will. If a shop is scheduled to open at 9:00 AM, don’t be surprised if the doors are still locked at 9:15 or 9:30.

Unlike many places in North America where bars and clubs close around 1:00 or 2:00 AM, Serbian nightlife goes until sunrise. In Belgrade, it’s normal for clubs to be packed at 3:45 AM. If you’re planning a night out, pace yourself—it’s a marathon, not a sprint!

Politics in Serbia is a very passionate topic. While people love discussing world issues, Serbian politics can be divisive, and conversations can quickly escalate. If you’re new to the country and unfamiliar with its complex history, it’s best to steer clear of political discussions. Instead, ask about Serbian traditions, cuisine, or sports, which are much safer topics.

If there’s one unwritten rule in Serbia, it’s this: do not criticize Novak Djokovic. He is a national hero, and people are extremely proud of him. The same goes for Nikola Jokić, Serbia’s NBA superstar. If you say anything negative about them, be prepared for a passionate defense of their greatness.

Serbia is a welcoming and friendly country, but like any new place, it comes with its own customs and traditions. By understanding and embracing these cultural differences, you’ll have a much smoother and more enjoyable experience—whether you’re just visiting or planning to relocate.

At Relocation Serbia, we don’t just help you move to Serbia—we help you integrate into Serbian life. Whether you need residency assistance, real estate guidance, or business setup services, we’re here to make your transition as smooth as possible.

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