Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (IATA code: BEG) is the primary international gateway to Serbia and is located about 18 kilometers west of downtown Belgrade. Named after the famous Serbian-American inventor Nikola Tesla, this airport serves millions of passengers annually and connects Serbia with numerous European and global destinations. For first-time visitors, BEG offers a range of essential services and amenities to make your trip as smooth as possible.
General Information
Terminals and Layout: Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 (used mainly for low-cost airlines and regional flights) and Terminal 2 (serving international flights and major airlines). They are interconnected and relatively easy to navigate. Clear signage and multilingual support make it convenient for international travelers to find their way.
Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. To connect, look for the “Airport Wi-Fi” network. Charging stations for mobile devices and laptops are available in departure lounges and other key areas of the airport.
ATMs and Currency Exchange: Numerous ATMs are scattered around the airport, allowing you to withdraw Serbian dinars (RSD). In addition, currency exchange services are available at both arrivals and departures, though it’s advisable to compare rates. Global Exchange, one of the primary operators, has counters open 24/7, which is particularly convenient for travelers landing late at night or early in the morning.
Public Transport Options
Buses: Public transportation is a budget-friendly way to get from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport to the city center. The most popular option is Bus Line 72, which departs from the airport every 30 minutes and takes about 40-45 minutes to reach Zeleni Venac, a major transportation hub in central Belgrade. A ticket costs around 150 RSD (roughly €1.30) if purchased at kiosks, or 200 RSD (about €1.70) when bought from the driver.
Another option is the Mini Bus Line A1, which provides a more direct route to Slavija Square in the heart of Belgrade. The A1 bus runs every 20 minutes, and the journey takes approximately 30 minutes, costing around 300 RSD (€2.50).
Taxis: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall, but it’s essential to use the official taxi service to avoid being overcharged. A standard fare to the city center typically ranges from 1,800 to 2,000 RSD (approximately €15-17). Look for taxi companies with the official “taxi” sign, and avoid drivers offering services inside the terminal.
To avoid any misunderstandings, head to the designated Taxi Info Desk located near the exit of the terminal, where you’ll receive a voucher with the fixed price based on your destination. This service ensures transparency and avoids any unexpected fees.
Currency and Payment
While credit cards are widely accepted in Serbia, having some cash on hand is always a good idea, particularly for paying in taxis, at smaller kiosks, or for public transportation tickets. ATMs at the airport dispense Serbian dinars, the official currency of Serbia. As mentioned earlier, currency exchange booths are open 24/7, making it easy to exchange euros or other major currencies.
Serbia is not part of the Eurozone, so euros are not accepted in everyday transactions. It’s best to convert your currency to dinars before heading into the city or pay with your credit/debit card wherever possible.
Local Transport Cards
BusPlus Cards: Belgrade uses a smart card system called BusPlus for its public transportation network. The BusPlus card is a rechargeable contactless card used for buses, trams, and trolleybuses in the city. You can purchase a BusPlus card from kiosks at the airport or in the city, and a single ride typically costs about 90 RSD (€0.80).
Tourists can buy Non-Personalized BusPlus Cards and load them with a sufficient amount for their stay. These cards are convenient if you plan on using public transportation regularly.
Mobile Connectivity
For travelers needing mobile connectivity, several local telecom operators have kiosks at the airport, offering prepaid SIM cards with data, calls, and text messaging packages. MTS, Telenor, and Vip Mobile are the main operators in Serbia, and they provide affordable plans tailored for tourists.
You can purchase a local SIM card right at the airport to avoid international roaming charges. These SIM cards typically come with a range of data packages, starting from around 500 RSD (€4) for basic data plans.
Car Rentals
If you prefer to drive around the city or explore Serbia on your own, car rental services are readily available at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. Major international brands like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Budget, and Sixt have rental desks in the arrivals hall, alongside local car rental companies. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability.
Driving in Belgrade is relatively straightforward, though traffic congestion can occur during rush hours. Keep in mind that Serbia drives on the right-hand side of the road, and GPS navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze work well in the region.
Taxi and Rideshare Services
Taxis are plentiful at the airport, and official taxi services offer fixed prices to various parts of the city. As previously mentioned, it’s best to use the Taxi Info Desk to avoid overpaying. However, app-based rideshare services like CarGo (Serbia’s alternative to Uber) are also popular in Belgrade. You can download the CarGo app and book a ride directly from the airport.
Local Secrets and Tips
- Luggage Storage: If you have a long layover or want to explore Belgrade without your bags, the airport offers luggage storage facilities located in the public area of Terminal 2.
- Airport Lounges: For travelers looking for comfort, the airport has several lounges, including the Business Club Lounge and the Air Serbia Premium Lounge, offering food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. These lounges are accessible with certain airline memberships or by purchasing a one-time entry pass.
- Duty-Free Shopping: The airport has a range of duty-free shops in the departures area, offering everything from perfumes and cosmetics to liquor, tobacco, and local souvenirs. Prices are generally competitive, especially for international brands.
- VIP Services: For an additional fee, travelers can book VIP services, including fast-track security, private check-in, and access to exclusive lounges. This service is particularly useful for business travelers or those seeking a more seamless travel experience.
- Cafés and Restaurants: There are several dining options available, from fast food outlets like McDonald’s and Burger King to sit-down restaurants offering Serbian and international cuisine. Local favorites like burek (a savory pastry) or ćevapi (grilled meat) can be enjoyed at these restaurants if you want a taste of Serbia before you leave or upon arrival.