Eastern Serbia (Đerdap Gorge, spa towns)

Eastern Serbia is dominated by the majestic Danube River, which forms a natural border with Romania and carves out the spectacular Đerdap Gorge (Iron Gates). This region is ideal for families who love nature and ancient history. The visual highlight is undoubtedly the Golubac Fortress. Recently renovated with modern visitor facilities, its towers rise directly from the water, looking like a castle from a storybook. While some upper zones are for climbers only, the lower zones and the riverside boardwalk are accessible and safe for children, offering photo-perfect views of the river at its widest point.

Further downstream, the Lepenski Vir archaeological site provides a fascinating window into prehistory. The museum is encased in a modern glass structure preserving ancient stone sculptures that are over 8,000 years old; its interactive displays and films help explain Stone Age life to younger visitors. For a Roman-era adventure, the Viminacium archaeological park near Kostolac is a must-visit. It functions almost like an educational theme park, featuring a reconstructed Roman villa, an amphitheater, and a paleontology center housing the skeleton of a mammoth named "Vika." Kids can explore the underground tombs (with guides) and run around the spacious grounds.

Water activities are central to the experience here. Silver Lake (Srebrno Jezero) is a river arm cut off from the main flow of the Danube, creating a calm, beach-lined lake perfect for swimming, pedal boating, and camping. It has a resort-like atmosphere with plenty of restaurants and promenades. Boat tours through the Iron Gates gorge depart from places like Tekija, showing off the massive rock sculpture of King Decebalus on the Romanian side. The roads in this region can be winding as they follow the river, so allow extra time for travel. The area is generally quieter than the west, offering a peaceful retreat into nature and legends.