CITY THAT NEVER SLEEPS

River barges, "Kafane", clubs, pubs, cafes, coctail bars and many many more... With an exuberant population and its legacy as an intellectual hangout, Belgrade offers intriguingly varied nightlife, ranging from eclectic watering holes for those in the know, to the busy restaurants and bars of the Skadarlija district and the summer clubs in heaving barges on the Sava and Danube Rivers. Major international musicians hit Belgrade's Sava Center, and the summertime EXIT Festival, held an hour north in Novi Sad, is one of Europe's best.

Blaznavac - Part cafe, part bar, part wonderfully wacko gallery, this pocket-sized place is one of the city's best spots for pre-drink drinks. Plastered in murals and quirky collectables, it's used as an exhibition space for young Belgrade artists; it also hosts live music and spoken-word events. Blaznavac's appeal isn't limited to nighttime jams and cocktails, it also makes a mean coffee, and is a great spot for a snack.

Kafana Pavle Korčagin - Raise a glass to Tito at this frantic, festive kafana. Lined with communist memorabilia and packed to the rafters with revellers and grinning accordionists, this table-thumping throwback fills up nightly; reserve a table via the website in advance.

Brankow - This uber-urbane club inside one of the pillars of Brankov Most (bridge) attracts a trendy crowd for its miscellany of music (from jazz to funk to house) and sophisticated surrounds. Unlike some other popular Belgrade clubs, this one's got a sultry – rather than sleazy – feel.

Amélie Cafe - A dash of France in the heart of Belgrade, Amélie may look like a charming little Parisian bistro but it’s actually just a minute away from the main pedestrian zone of Knez Mihailova. Its homemade ice tea (served in a jar) is a delicious refreshment on hot summer days, and its cute little terrace is the perfect setting for long nights filled with chatter and drinks.

Shake 'n' Shake - Frock up for a big night on this swish splav on the Sava. The playlist is designed with dancing in mind; think R'n'B, house and '90s hits. Once the excesses of the night before have been swept up, this is a classy spot for a daytime drink or coffee.

Rakia Bar - An ideal spot for rakija rookies to get their first taste of the spirit of Serbia. English-speaking staff will gently guide you through the extensive drinks menu, but beware: this stuff is strong.

Tube - Lovers of all music electronic will have a blast in this beautifully designed former nuclear bunker. It's a big club, but does get packed: get in early to stake yourself some space.

source:lonelyplanet.com