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Surviving as one of six republics formed by from the breakup of the former Yugoslavia, Serbia is bordered by Montenegro to the south, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the west, Bulgaria to the southeast, Croatia to the northwest, Hungary to the north, Macedonia to the south, and Romania to the northeast.

Despite the violent upheavals experienced in the mid-1990's, today Serbia has joined the ranks of top Eastern European countries enjoying a growing tourist boom, attracting visitors from around the continent — drawn here by the country's rich history, the warm hospitality of its people, and the awesome spectacle of its natural beauty.

With a long history of destruction and reconstruction, the capital of Belgrade has recovered once again from recent civil strife. A scrappy survivor proud of its place as the country's cultural capital, Belgrade is home to almost 2 million people and is usually the first stop for many visitors on holiday in Serbia.

A walk around Belgrade

Get acquainted with modern Belgrade with a ramble down the city's main drag and pedestrian mall, Knez Mihailova Street for a tour of the best shops and trendiest restaurants. Then, make your way to Stari Grad, the old part of the city for full immersion into Belgrade's past from the top of medieval Kalemegdan fortress offering sweeping views of the Sava and Danube rivers.

While in Belgrade, also don't miss a tour of St. Sava, one of the world's largest Orthodox churches, still under construction (since 1894) to imagine the colorful mosaics which will cover the interior when it is finally completed.

Throughout the country, the majority of people speak Serbian, although English is often heard in Belgrade especially by college students, who may be just as proficient in German or French thanks to the Serbian education system.

What else to see in Serbia

Farther afield from Belgrade, head for the hills to Serbia's mountain region, offering nature walks and hiking trails in several of its national parks, along with world class skiing in winter mountain resorts (photo, top) such as Kopaonik, widely considered one of Europe's best.

Day tours are also available for a trip back in time to the province of Vojvodina (photo, bottom) — rich in lush, green countryside and vineyards, and dotted by medieval monasteries, fortresses and cathedrals.

More about Serbia travel & tourism around the Web:

Serbia Travel Information and Travel Guide - Lonely Planet - Fast facts, major attractions, when to go, how to get there plus maps, typical travel costs and photo galleries, plus insider looks at Belgrade, Vojvodina, and southern Serbia.

Serbia Country Guide - Complete travel information including top things to do and see, maps, photos, travel advice and printable mini guide.

Belgrade travel guide - Wikitravel - Extensive guide to the city with detailed information on top restaurants, hotels and major attractions, with insider guides to Serbian culture, practical travel advice, safety tips, maps and photos.