From Belgrade: Oplenac mausoleum Royal tour with winery

Traveling through Serbia offers a chance to explore a land rich with history, remarkable architecture, and world-renowned wines. This full-day tour from Belgrade takes you on a journey into the past, with visits to the regal Oplenac mausoleum, the stunning church of St. George, and a historic winery dating back to the 15th century. It’s a thoughtful blend of cultural insight and sensory delight, perfect for history buffs and wine lovers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to step inside the marble mausoleum of the Karaorevi royal family and admire its intricate mosaics. Second, the opportunity to taste wines from cellars with records dating back to 1432, making it a one-of-a-kind wine tasting experience. Third, the presence of a knowledgeable guide, like Jovana, who makes the history come alive with engaging stories and insights.

Of course, a potential consideration is the full-day schedule, which requires some time commitment—perfect if you want a thorough exploration, but perhaps less ideal if your time is limited. This tour suits travelers eager to understand Serbia’s royal heritage, enjoy authentic wines, and explore beyond Belgrade’s city limits.

Good To Know

• Rich history and royal heritage at the mausoleum and church of St. George
• Authentic wine experience in cellars with records from 1432
• Expert guides who share fascinating stories about Serbian royalty
• Beautiful architecture in the monumental temple of St. George
• Comfortable private transport and small group size ensure a personalized experience
• Weather readiness is important—tour takes place rain or shine, with dress code considerations

You can check if your dates are available here:

An in-depth look into the tour experience

The Journey Begins: Convenient Pickup from Belgrade

Starting with hotel pickup, this tour sets out early enough to maximize your day without feeling rushed. The private transportation ensures a comfortable ride and allows the guide to share insights along the way. The small group size, limited to ten participants, fosters an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and everyone can absorb the stories and details.

The Drive Through Umadija District

The drive from Belgrade takes about an hour, giving you a moment to settle in and get a glimpse of Serbia’s scenic countryside. The guide, such as Jovana, has been praised for her friendliness and wealth of knowledge, making this part of the journey as engaging as the stops themselves.

Holy Martyr George: The Monolithic Church and Its Mosaics

The first major stop is the church of St. George at the Oplenac complex. This building is a true marvel—monumental in size with exquisite mosaics created from over 40 million glass tiles, featuring around 1500 figures and 15,000 shades of color. The mosaics, which include 725 painted compositions, are a feast for the eyes and highlight the craftsmanship involved.

Visitors are guided through the church’s history and symbolism, gaining an understanding of why it’s considered one of Serbia’s most beautiful religious sites. The church isn’t just a place of worship but a piece of art that captures the soul of Serbian Orthodox tradition. The guide often shares how six generations of the Karaorevi family are buried within, with a total of 29 members resting here, making the mausoleum a significant symbol of national and royal pride.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Mausoleum of the Karaorevi Dynasty

The mausoleum itself is a place of reflection and admiration. The marble structure and its interiors tell stories of a dynasty marked by turbulence and controversy—details that your guide will unravel, helping you see the complex personalities like King Petar I and Pavle, and their roles in Serbian history. As one reviewer noted, the guides make history accessible and engaging, even for those less familiar with Balkan history.

Visiting the Winery: Savoring Serbia’s Oldest Vintages

After exploring the mausoleum, it’s time to indulge in Serbia’s wine heritage. The winery, where records of winemaking date back to 1432, offers a genuine taste of history. You’ll walk into cellars that have seen centuries of viticulture and taste wines produced on-site, guided by experts who explain the unique characteristics of Serbian wines.

The visit includes a tour of the cellar and tasting session, where you can sample different varieties—an opportunity to appreciate the depth and tradition behind Serbian winemaking. The experience is authentic, with a focus on quality and history, making it more than just a tasting but an insight into a centuries-old craft.

Additional Stops and the Scenic Return

The journey continues with further sightseeing, including a brief visit to another site or scenic point, then a comfortable ride back to Belgrade. The tour is designed to avoid rush, with ample time at each stop to absorb the atmosphere, take photos, and ask questions.

What We Loved About This Tour

Knowledgeable guides like Jovana elevate the experience, turning historical facts into captivating stories. Reviewers appreciated her friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge, which made the complex history of Serbia accessible and memorable.

Architectural grandeur of the church of St. George, with its mosaics, is stunning. Visiting a monument that combines religious significance with artistic mastery is a rare opportunity that enhances the cultural value of the tour.

Historical wine cellars with records from the early 15th century are a highlight. This isn’t just a tasting; it’s a journey into Serbia’s viticultural past, making it especially meaningful for wine enthusiasts.

Small group size ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, take photos, and interact with your guide. It also means less waiting and more engagement, which enhances the overall enjoyment.

A Few Considerations

The full-day nature of this tour means it requires good time management and a willingness to spend several hours exploring. Since it operates in all weather conditions, travelers should be prepared for rain or shine and dress accordingly—especially because churches require modest attire, with shoulders and knees covered.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Pickup & Drive

You’ll begin your day with a hotel pickup and a roughly one-hour drive through the countryside. This is a great time to chat with your guide about Serbia’s history, culture, or any specific interests you have.

St. George Church Visit

Once at Oplenac, the guide will take you through the church, pointing out the mosaics and discussing their artistic and symbolic importance. This site is not only a place of worship but also a national treasure—its mosaics are among the most elaborate in the region, and the details are mesmerizing. The guide elaborates on the stories behind the artwork and the significance of the figures depicted.

Mausoleum Tour

Walking into the mausoleum, you’ll learn about the royal family buried within, including King Petar I, a pivotal figure in Serbia’s modern history. As one reviewer pointed out, the guide’s storytelling made the complex history of the Karaorevi dynasty understandable, including the controversies involving the last monarchs and their relations with WWII powers.

Wine Cellar Experience

The winery’s history dating back to 1432 adds a legendary aura. You’ll walk through ancient cellars, tasting wines that carry centuries of tradition. This part of the tour offers a real taste of Serbian culture and craftsmanship, giving you a deeper appreciation for the country’s winemaking legacy.

Final Scenic or Cultural Stop

The tour typically includes a brief additional stop or sightseeing opportunity before heading back to Belgrade. The return trip also offers time to reflect on everything you’ve seen and learned.

Value and Practical Aspects

This tour is priced to reflect a comprehensive experience that covers history, architecture, and wine tasting, all with professional guidance and private transport. The inclusion of all entry tickets, hotel pickup, and a small group makes it a convenient, hassle-free option for those wanting an immersive day trip.

While it’s a seven-hour commitment, the variety of stops, the quality of the guide, and the depth of the experiences make it a worthwhile choice for those interested in Serbian royalty, art, and wine. The private transport and limited group size ensure you’ll have personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy cultural and historical insights, those fascinated by royal families, art lovers drawn to mosaics and architecture, and wine enthusiasts eager to explore centuries-old viniculture. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded day that combines storytelling, taste, and visual splendor without feeling rushed.

If you’re comfortable with a full-day itinerary and are looking for a blend of education and indulgence in a small-group setting, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate knowledgeable guides—like Jovana—who make complex histories engaging and accessible.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free.

What should I wear, especially to the churches?
Since churches require shoulders and knees to be covered, bring something to cover up if necessary. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress for the weather.

How long is the drive from Belgrade to Oplenac?
It takes approximately one hour each way, allowing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. You might want to bring snacks or plan to grab something at the winery or nearby.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through the church and mausoleum, which may pose challenges for those with mobility restrictions. It’s best for able-bodied travelers.

How many people are in each group?
The experience is limited to a small group of up to 10 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides ready to answer questions throughout.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour runs rain or shine, visiting during spring or early fall offers pleasant weather for outdoor exploration and photos.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience that combines Serbia’s royal history, stunning architecture, and a taste of its centuries-old winemaking tradition, this tour offers excellent value. The knowledgeable guides, intimate setting, and thoughtfully curated stops make it a standout choice for those eager to deepen their understanding of Serbia beyond the city.

It’s a perfect day trip for history buffs, art lovers, and wine aficionados alike, providing a balanced mix of education, culture, and leisure. While it requires a full day’s commitment, the richness of the experience and memories you’ll take home make it more than worthwhile.

For travelers looking to connect with Serbia’s regal past, marvel at exquisite mosaics, and sip on history itself, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to dress modestly for the churches and bring your curiosity—this is Serbia’s story, told with passion and expertise.

You can check if your dates are available here: