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Home » Travel Guides » Serbia » 15 Best Things to Do in Niš (Serbia)

15 Best Things to Do in Niš (Serbia)

Since the days of the Roman Empire the city of Niš has been at an unofficial boundary between East and West. One man who bestrode that divide was the Roman Emperor Constantine, who was born right here in ancient Naissus and went on to found a “New Rome” at Constantinople. The Ottomans had control of Niš from the middle ages to the 19th century, and left an imperious fortress that still has a 16th century mosque inside.

There are also a few eye-opening memorials to violent episodes in the city’s past, like a tower of skulls built by the Ottomans to warn against uprisings, and a Second World War concentration camp, left undisturbed as a memorial. On the lighter side there’s sumptuous nature outside Niš at river gorges, the Suva Planina mountain and the city’s hot springs.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Niš :

1. Niš Fortress

Right on the Nišava River is the daunting Ottoman fort that was completed in 1723. This encloses an ancient citadel and has been settled since a Roman camp was founded here more than 2,000 years ago.

The new fortress was a massive undertaking: It covers 22 hectares and comprises more than two kilometres of walls.

You’ll arrive via the ceremonious Stambol gate, and there are lots of intriguing old details among the parkland inside.

One is the Turkish hamam, near the gate from 1498. There’s also mosque, Bali-Behy, dating to 1521, a lapidarium with Roman tombstones, a powder magazine and a monument to the liberation of Niš from 1902.

2. Skull Tower

A grisly reminder of the bloodshed of the First Serbian Uprising is a tower literally made of rows of human skulls in quicklime.

The story goes that during the Battle of Čegar, the Serbian trenches were being overrun by attacking Ottomans.

So the commander Stevan Sinđelić personally detonated the powder magazine, obliterating his position on Čegar Hill to avoid being taken prisoner by Vizier Hurshid Pasha.

Some 952 Serbian skulls were collected from the battlefield and became the material for this tower in 1809 to deter another uprising.

After the Ottoman withdrawal in 1878, most of these were removed and buried.

But a 4.5-metre remnant of the tower is housed in a chapel and contains 54 skulls.

Niš, or Naissus, was taken by the Romans in 75 BC and became a camp on the Via Militaris, a road across southeastern Europe from what is now Belgrade to Constantinople.

As it happens, Emperor Constantine was born in Naissus in 272 AD, and you can visit his birthplace at the Mediana archaeological site.

Southeast of the city, this villa the most complete Roman vestige in Niš.

You can make out the remnants of a grand peristyle (open fountain surrounded by a colonnade). Beside the peristyle under a canopy are the ruins of marble columns, mosaics and traces of frescoes, as well as the heating system for the villa’s baths.

4. Archaeological Hall

Like Skull Tower and Mediana, the Archaeological Hall belongs to the National Museum of Niš.

Many of the artefacts unearthed in this ancient city are on show here.

These go back long before the Romans arrived, to when Niš was a Bronze Age settlement in the 6th century BC. From this time there are Celtic swords, ceramics, items of jewellery, bronze hairpins and male and female figurines.

And from the Roman days you can see sculptures discovered at Mediana, representing Dioysus and Satyr, the Greek God Asclepius and his daughter Hygia and finally Jupiter on his throne.

There’s also a life-sized statue of Emperor Constantine, which is one of three imperial portrait sculptures on show.

5. Tinkers’ Alley

On Kopitareva Street, opposite the glass facade of the Kalča shopping mall you can dive into the city’s last surviving craftsman’s quarter.

This street is from the time of Ottoman rule and was plotted in the first half of the 18th century.

The main livelihood was tinsmithing, and it’s a trade that continued here right up to the 1990s.

Since then the quaint cobblestone alley has opened up to tourists and tinkers have been replaced by the cafes and restaurants that now occupy these 18th and 19th century buildings.

6. Crveni Krst Concentration Camp

After the Second World War ended this concentration camp was preserved as a poignant memorial to the Jewish, Serbian and Romani people imprisoned here.

The Crveni Krst (Red Cross) camp has been left alone since the war and feels eerily like it has only just been abandoned.

You’ll be given an introduction to the camp at the entrance and there are information panels dotted around the site to fill you in.

After the first mass executions began in 1942 there was a breakout in which 15 prisoners managed to escape, an act met with a brutal response by the Nazis.

7. Bubanj Memorial Site

During the Second World War those mass executions took place on Mount Bubanj just to the west of the city.

It is estimated that 10,000 prisoners from the Crveni Krst camp were killed on this hilltop.

Right after the war the hill was turned into a memorial park.

And before long a sculpture was erected in the clearing at the crest.

It was the work of Yugolsav artist Ivan Sabolić and depicts three clenched fists to symbolise the defiance of the children, women and men who died here.

8. Latin Church in Gornji Matejevac

With a scenic location on Metoh Hill above the village of Gornji Matejevac is a Byzantine church that built in the 1000s.

It’s one of only a few monuments in the region to predate the Nemanjić Dynasty, which ruled Serbia and much of southeastern Europe in the middle ages.

The church has a condensed cross floor plan, and bears the classic Byzantine method of white stone alternating with red brick.

Although none of the medieval decoration remains, the church’s brick dome is marvellous from the inside.

The name “Latin Church” actually refers to merchants from Dubrovnik, known as “Latins”, who worshipped at the church in the 17th century.

9. Officers House

Facing the fortress ramparts across the Nišava is a stately building from 1890 with an interesting past.

This first opened as a restaurant but was soon purchased by the army as an officers mess, and during the First World War it became the temporary seat of the Serbian parliament.

Numerous resolutions were passed here that would have a lasting impact on Serbia and the region.

The one that would truly transform this part of the world was the Niš Declaration in 1915, more or less the birth of Yugoslavia as an idea.

It stated Serbia’s aim to unite the Serbs, Croats and Slovenes under one nation, a move that still has repercussions today.

10. Holy Trinity Cathedral

The city’s cathedral is a product of the Treaty of Paris in 1856, in which the Ottomans pledged to recognise the rights of Christians in their empire.

Construction took place over the next few decades and the church was consecrated after the liberation of Niš in 1878. The design is an engaging mishmash of Serbian-Byzantine, Neo-Renaissance and Baroque styles.

At the altar the illustrious 19th-century Realist painter Đorđe Krstić was hired to compose the 48 icons in the iconostasis.

Sadly the originals were lost in a fire in 2001, but the building and its decoration have been completely restored.

11. King Milan Square

Also just across the water from the fortress, this square came about in the 1720s during its construction.

Shops and khans (merchant inns) were set up here as the city grew along the riverbank.

A little later there was a market on this square, where the local landowners would sell the leftover goods they had accumulated from their tenants as tax.

When Niš was liberated the old Turkish-style townscape was swept aside and this square was given a fresh Central European air.

Despite the 20th-century tower blocks on the west side there’s still a pleasing row of 19th-century houses on the square’s eastern edge, with cafe terraces in front.

12. Niška Banja

A few kilometres to the southeast is the city’s spa, which has traces of Neolithic civilisation going back 3,300 years.

Naturally the Romans were fond of Niška Banja and built an ancient resort around its five springs.

The Roman bath and its two pools, clad with mosaics hark back to this time.

Thousands of years later, people still visit to bathe in the water and soak in the mineral-rich mud.

The water comes out at between 36-38°C, and is actually mildly and harmlessly radioactive due to the natural presence of radon! It is claimed to be most beneficial for coronary issues, cellulite and to rehabilitate orthopaedic injuries.

To the south is the stirring sight of the Suva Planina mountain, cresting at more than 1,800 metres and with fragments of the Via Militaris Roman road on its slopes.

13. Jelašnica Gorge

Carry on east and you’ll find yourself at a bewitching nature reserve.

You can pass through the two-kilometre Jelašnica Gorge by car on a winding road to get a good look at the walls of dolomite that culminate with jagged, teeth-like rocks.

There are few places to park up, and set up camp or just stop for picnic.

All have views of the gorge’s ghostly rock formations and abundant foliage.

There are also caves in the cliffs, the ruins of a Roman fort are still visible in beside the gorge, as well as the Ripalijka waterfall, which is enchanting.

The Sicevo Gorge on the Nišava River is also in reach, and has walking trails and two hydroelectricity plants from the early 1900s.

14. The Nišville Jazz Festival

For four days in the middle of August the city’s fortress puts on the biggest jazz festival in the Balkans.

Nišville began in 1995 and was the first music festival in Serbia to be recognised by the Ministry of Culture as a national cultural event.

The festival books leading jazz, blues and soul artists, but also has a broad church, inviting fusion bands that blend jazz with Balkan folk.

In 2017 Patti Austin, Al Foster and Candy Dulfer were in the lineup, while previous editions have welcomed Ginger Baker, Solomon Burke and Osibisa to the stage.

15. Traditional Food

Now, a meal at a kafana (typical Balkan tavern) is something you have to try at least once in Niš.

Kafanas are much more than just somewhere to eat, as meals come with live entertainment and a host of time-honoured customs.

One of these is toasts with rakija, a powerful fruit brandy and Serbia’s national drink.

Eating at a Kafana is a multi-course event, beginning with a meze and ending with coffee.

Out and about there are a few delicacies that Niš does better than anywhere else: Burek is a phyllo dough pastry filled with meat or cheese, while pljeskavica, is a grilled patty from seasoned beef, lamb and pork in a pita or a bun with a spicy cheese filling (urnebes).

15 Best Things to Do in Niš (Serbia):

• Niš Fortress
• Skull Tower
• Archaeological Hall
• Tinkers' Alley
• Crveni Krst Concentration Camp
• Bubanj Memorial Site
• Latin Church in Gornji Matejevac
• Officers House
• Holy Trinity Cathedral
• King Milan Square
• Niška Banja
• Jelašnica Gorge
• The Nišville Jazz Festival
• Traditional Food

10 Best things to do in Niš in one day

Welcome to Niš, a city known for its dark history, archaeological sites, superb jazz festival, and delicious food. One of the oldest cities in Europe, it is definitely a place I love coming back to. Both history lovers and culture vultures will immediately fall in love with Niš.  

The third-largest city in Serbia, Niš is the birthplace of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great . So, it comes as no surprise that Niš has great historical wealth. You will find archaeological sites, museums, historical buildings, and churches connected with the Roman and Byzantine periods scattered across the city.

With a stone tower embedded with human skulls and a WW2 concentration camp memorial, the city of Niš is also known for its violent past. These morbid attractions serve as reminders of the region’s dark past. But these are not the only attractions in town you can visit.

In this guide, I’ve put together a list of what I feel are the best and most important places to visit in Niš. I’ve organized it in a way that you can visit all the places in this list during a one-day itinerary in Niš.

1. Admire the beauty of Tinkers Alley

If you have one day in Niš, I recommend starting your travel adventure with a visit to the city’s last surviving craftsman’s quarter . 

A quaint little alley packed with coppersmiths and other metal workers, Tinkers Alley dates back to the first half of the 18th century. It played an important role in the city’s economy and culture. For example, tinsmithing was the most popular trade on this quaint cobblestone alley.

Nowadays, Tinkers Alley is one of the most popular places to visit in Niš. The original tinkers have been replaced by tourists who come here to eat and drink in bars and restaurants which are situated inside beautiful 18th and 19th century buildings. It will take you about an hour to enjoy Tinkers Alley.

2. Explore the Niš Fortress

Built during the 18th century by Ottoman Turks, Niš Fortress is the center of tourist life in the city. Here, both locals and tourists gather and explore a veritable maze of sights. This monumental stone structure is actually one of the best-preserved fortresses in the region. 

An interesting fact about the Niš Fortress is that Bulgarians used it as a prison during World War I.

You can see it from the outside or also visit it inside. If you choose the latter, you will need approximately 2 hours to tour this fortress. 

Built around a Roman citadel, the fortress is packed with historical remnants from the old times. Visitors will have an opportunity to see everything from a powder room and a Turkish steam bath to well-preserved walls and gates. The fortress is also a giant green park where locals like to relax in summer when the weather is nice.

3. See the Skull Tower

The Skull Tower (Ćele Kula) is one of the most morbid structures that you will find in this part of Europe. It is exactly what the name indicates- a 4-meter-high stone tower embedded with human skulls. The tower was built in 1809 right after the battle between Serbian revolutionaries and Ottoman soldiers.

You will find this morbid attraction just a short drive from the city center. Surrounded by a small park, the tower is situated inside a building that resembles a chapel. The structure was built using the skulls of 952 fallen Serbian rebels, but less than 60 of the heads remain today. The rest of the skulls are either buried somewhere or lost.

The Skull Tower (Ćele Kula) is, without a doubt, one of the most unusual things to see in Niš.

4. Learn about history at the National Museum of Niš

If you wish to learn more about the history of the city, pay a visit to the National Museum of Niš. Situated inside a charming building, the museum is on the smaller side and consists of just one room. Although you could walk through the entire museum in less than a minute, the museum is really interesting and you can easily spend an hour here.

Most of the things you will see are actually archeological exhibits. Some of these exhibits date back to the Bronze Age. The most interesting exhibits are related to a luxurious villa built by Constantine the Great called “Mediana”. My favorite exhibit at the National Museum Niš is the model of this posh villa.

Visiting the National Museum is one of the best things to do in Niš when it’s raining outside.

5. Visit the Bubanj Memorial Site

Venture outside the city gates to find the Bubanj Memorial Site. Also known as the Monument to fallen Yugoslav World War II fighters , the memorial site is another interesting place to visit in the city of Niš. 

Mount Bubanj is the place where 10,000 prisoners from the Crveni Krst camp were taken and killed. Right after the war, the hilltop was turned into a memorial park to honor the victims.

The monument has the shape of three clenched fists . If you look closely, you will notice that each fist has a different shape and size. This is because the three clenched fists symbolize the defiance of the children, women, and men who died here. The sculpture is the work of Yugoslavian artist, Ivan Sabolić.

6. Go on a tour of the Red Cross Camp

Although Serbia is definitely not the first place that comes to mind when talking about WWII concentration camps , Niš is home to one of the Nazi horror factories. 

Red Cross Camp (Crveni Krst) was named after a Red Cross station which was located nearby. The camp was initially intended to be just a transit camp, but in the end, out of 30,000 people who passed through it during the war, 12,000 were tortured and killed.

Today, you will find a memorial museum that stands right on the site of the concentration camp. The ticket booth actually served as a guard tower in the past. You will also notice a SS symbol and a Nazi swastika on the sign right above the windows.

The Red Cross Camp may be a hard place to see live, but it is an important place to visit in Niš, especially for people who are interested in historical sites.

7. Discover the ruins of Mediana

Located just outside the city gates, the Ruins of Mediana is an important archeological site in Serbia. 

Dating back to the late Roman period when Constantine the Great was the ruler of the empire, the site offers some well-preserved archeological remains of the Villa of Emperor Constantine the Great. For those who don’t know, Niš, or Naissus, is one of the oldest cities in Europe . The Romans took it in 75 BC and the city became a camp on the ancient Roman road, the Via Militaris.

The ruins of Mediana have been closed for years, but the site started welcoming visitors again in 2023. Although some sections are still in progress and you can only pay for entrance with cash, this archaeological site is a place definitely worth visiting while you are in Niš. 

You can expect to see remnants of a grand peristyle, as well as ruins of marble columns, a heating system for the baths in the villa, and traces of frescoes.  

8. See the beautiful Holy Trinity Cathedral

No one-day itinerary to Niš is complete without stopping by the beautiful Holy Trinity Cathedral. This cathedral was built in 1878, as a by-product of the treaty in Paris in 1856 when the Ottomans needed to recognize Christianity in their empire.

With a mix of Serbian-Byzantine, Neo-Renaissance, and Baroque-style designs, it is one of the most amazing historical buildings in Niš . I like the icons which were made by the illustrious 19th-century Realist painter, Đorđe Krstić. It will take you around 30 minutes to explore the church.

9. Try authentic Serbian foods

Foodies visiting Niš are in for a treat. Southern Serbia is famous for its cuisine and the city of Niš is one of the best destinations to enjoy authentic Serbian dishes . 

For breakfast, you’ll be able to choose between Anton and Rajko, two of the most famous bakeries in the city where burek is the most popular dish to order. For those who don’t know, burek is a special dough pastry filled with meat or cheese beloved all across the Balkan Peninsula.

For lunch and dinner, I recommend reserving a table at a kafana (typical old-school Serbian tavern) to try local food delicacies and drink a powerful fruit brandy called rakija. Below you will find a short list of my favorite old-school kafanas in Niš where you can have a memorable dining experience.

• Nišlijska Mehana
• Kafana Mrak
• Stambolijski
• Kafana Brka
• Kafana Galija
• Etno Kafana Biser

10. Niška Banja

Located just a short drive from the city, Niška Banja is the city’s spa center with natural springs . The Romans discovered five springs in this location and decided to build an ancient resort around them with a giant Roman bath and two pools.

Today, Niška Banja is a popular spa resort among the elderly who come here for medicinal purposes. These hot springs are known to have a natural presence of radon which is known to rehabilitate orthopedic injuries and coronary issues.

If you are looking for a relaxing time, a visit to Niška Banja is a must-do during your one-day visit to Niš.

Where to stay in Niš

You can visit Niš in one day following this itinerary, but if you will have more time, you can also sleep in the city. If you decide on this option, here are my recommendations for places to stay in Niš:

• Ambasador Hotel : the only 5-star hotel in Niš, the Ambasador is the best place to stay if you are looking for luxury and comfort at a great price! In the off-season, you can find rooms for 200 euros, which is an excellent value for the service and facilities you get.
• Garni Hotel Consul : If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, Hotel Consul is a great option place to stay as you can still benefit from a great location and service at a more affordable price.

FAQ: Popular questions about the best things to do in Niš

What is niš in serbia known for.

The city is best known for being the birthplace of Constantine the Great . It is a great historical city with a lot of things to see and do.

Personally, I would also add that Niš is home to some of the best restaurants in Serbia.

Is Niš worth visiting while in Serbia?

Being one of the oldest cities in Europe, Niš is definitely worth visiting for its historical attractions.

What is the old name of Niš?

The Romans used to call the city Naissus.

Is one day enough to visit Niš?

I think that you can visit the most popular tourist attractions in Niš in one day. But to make the most of your time there, I recommend driving your car to Niš simply because some of the attractions are located outside the city center.

If you need to rent a car for your trip, check the deals at Discover Cars . You can also read our guide about driving in Serbia as a tourist .

Niš is not always the first place that comes to mind when talking about popular tourist destinations in Serbia. However, I think that this city in southern Serbia is definitely worth a visit. 

From archaeological ruins to cool monuments and a few museums, there are enough attractions to keep you entertained for Niš one or two days. The locals are friendly, rakija is always served cold, and the food is amazing. What more can you ask for?

Other articles about Serbia

• Serbia 5-7 Days Road Trip Itinerary

3 Days in Belgrade: A Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

• 14 Free Things to Do in Belgrade – by a Local
• Visiting Novi Sad: a full guide
• Exploring Tara National Park
• The most beautiful places to visit in Serbia
• The best hiking destinations in Serbia

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Serbia, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Serbia on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.  
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.  

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Passionate traveler and long-term travel writer who enjoys translating his adventures into exciting content.

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Understand [ edit ]

Niš is an important crossroads between Central Europe and the Middle East, and assumes the central position in the Balkan peninsula, surrounded by a number of mountains, two rivers, two beautiful gorges, and numerous sites of historical importance from various periods in Niš Valley. Some approximate distances: Niš - Belgrade 240 km, Niš - Sofia 150 km, Niš - Skopje 200 km, Niš - Thessaloniki - 400 km.

The streets of this university city with 1/4 million residents are buzzing with life.

Tourist information centres [ edit ]

The Niš Tourist Organization has two tourist information centres and a website. In the tourist information centres one can get information related to tourism in Niš. They also sell maps, brochures, souvenirs and postcards. The website is quite comprehensive and detailed (available in English and Serbian).

• [formerly dead link] Tourist information centre "The Fortress" , Tvrdjava , ☏ +381 18 250222 , [email protected] .  
• [formerly dead link] Tourist information centre Niska Banja Spa , Sindjeliceva 3b, Niska Banja , ☏ +381 18 4548588 , [email protected] .  
• Tourist Organization of Nis .  

Get in [ edit ]

As with most of Europe it is usually recommended to travel by train for cost and speed. The trains are old and there have been delays. However, trains will be more comfortable and almost always more scenic.

All buses depart from the central bus station, just behind the fortress and the green market. Same is for trains, but central train station is located a bit far from the bus station, so calculate at least good 20 minutes of walking to reach one from another.

By plane [ edit ]

Weekly direct flights are available from Cologne, Frankfurt-Hahn, Istanbul and Ljubljana. Seasonal flights to Turkish, Montenegrin and Greek resorts are offered during the summer. Ryanair has flights to and from Stockholm Arlanda (ARN), Korfu, Malta, and Vienna. In July 2019 the Serbian government gave a subsidy to Air Serbia to start serving Niš out of a range of central European airports.

By train [ edit ]

Niš is on the north-south corridor connecting Belgrade with Skopje , Sofia and on to Thessaloniki and Istanbul . It's a slow but very scenic route.

As of 2023 major upgrades to the line has been announced and most services are replaced by bus or cancelled all together. Works are expected to finish in 2026-27. Updated timetables can be found on Serbian Railways website.

By bus [ edit ]

The quickest route from the bus station to the main square (Trg Kralja Milana) is to go left down the side road past all the market stalls and the covered market. This takes you to the fortress entrance from where you can cross the river and head towards the obvious Ambassador hotel.

• FLiX Prevoz ( shuttle service ), Bul. Svetog Cara Konstantina 80-86 , ☏ +38163456515 , [email protected] . Airport shuttle services to Nis, Belgrade, Sofia, Skopje, Pristina, Thessaloniki, Timisoara airports, as well as rides to tourist attractions in area by car or mini van. ( updated Jul 2020 )

By car [ edit ]

The European motorway E75 routes through Niš. From the north, you may use any highway from the Hungarian border over Novi Sad and Belgrade to Niš. From the northwest, you can travel over Austria, via Slovenia and Croatia to Belgrade and then to Niš. These are all modern highways, including the section Belgrade-Niš. It is a fast road with six lanes and 120 km/h speed limit, which locals seldom observe as the road is in a pretty good shape. Beware of the police, though. At this speed, travel time from Belgrade is usually two hours.

The highway continues for another 10 km towards the Bulgarian border, and then turns into a narrower mountainous road to Sofia. Caution is advised here, especially along the 20 km of the beautiful Gorge of Sicevo, starting just after the end of the highway on the outskirts of the city. The other extension of the highway branches to the south, towards North Macedonia and Greece. The fine motorway continues for another 60km south of Niš and then narrows down into a normal road, entering the Gorge of Grdelica, where caution is also advised.

Tolls are paid for highways Niš - Belgrade, Niš - Leskovac (south towards North Macedonia and Greece) and Niš – Sofia.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ]

Downtown area is easily accessible on foot from the bus or train stations, and most hotels and hostels.

For a walk across the whole city in any direction, be prepared to spend at least two or three hours.

Niš is in a small valley, but is surrounded by hills. It is not as bad as in Belgrade, whose central part virtually lies on a number of hills, but in Niš, too, as soon as you get away from broader downtown area, you may find yourself climbing.

Niš has well-established bus lines. Most buses have clear signs stating their directions, and almost all will at one point stop at the central city square, near the Fortress, or five minutes from it, at the King Alexander Square, near the School of Law and Army Headquarters building. There are ticket sellers in the buses. A single ticket, valid for one ride from point A to point B, inside the city zone costs 80 (as of June 2023) Serbian dinars . Weekly and monthly tickets are also available at discount prices in small ticket shops near most bus stops.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxi fares range between 150 and 300 dinars, depending on distance (start - 95 dinars + 45 dinars per km). Make sure the taxi driver turns on the taximeter, just in case. Taxis are available practically on every street, and are also reachable by phone - the local 'taxi' phone numbers cover the range from 9701 to 9721 - if you call from your cell phone, don't forget the country and area code +381 18. Pay phones with instructions in five languages are available throughout the town - a phone card must be purchased in any newspaper shop if these are to be used. Most drivers will speak at least basic English. If not, just write the name of the place, site, hotel, or street you are going to and it will be fine. Niš is relatively small and all taxi drivers know all the streets by heart and do not need to consult maps. Taxi rides out of the town (including to Belgrade airport) may be agreed on with the taxi driver (sometimes in a private arrangement, at a much reduced price), but some caution is advised here.

If you come by car, using hotel or hostel parking lots is advised. Car theft is not very common, but foreign license plates and unsecured vehicles parked downtown may be attractive to petty criminals, especially at night. Parking is charged in two zones in downtown area, at about €0.25-0.35/hour. There are clear traffic signs marking the two zones (red - Zone 1, up to 1 hour; green - Zone 2, up to 3 hours, Monday-Friday 07:00-21:00, Saturday 07:00-14:00). This can be paid with a small card purchased in any newspaper shop, where the driver is expected to tick the date and time and leave the card under the windshield of the car so that the traffic warden can see it. Alternatively, you may pay using your cellphone (send an SMS with your license plate number to 9181 for Zone 1 or 9182 for Zone 2 - for instance, NI123456). Failure to pay may result in a €12 fine.

There are a few rent-a-car services in the city. You may check out Euroturs Nis ( http://www.euroturs-nis.co.yu/english.php?page=4),Inter [dead link] Rent-a-car ( http://www.rentacarnis.rs ) or http://rentalex-rentacar.com/ Rentalex rent a car Nis. Rentalex Rent a car Nis is a young agency to rent a car from Nis. It offers cars from the Volkswagen family. Cars have gasoline engines from 1.2 liters to provide extremely low power costs to be more economical. Expect prices ranging from €20-50 a day, depending on the car type and length of lease. The cars are usually fully ensured, but make sure the clerks you talk to have made this clear prior to any arrangement. Rent-a-car is a good option for sightseeing, as there are many interesting things to visit in the 100 km vicinity of Niš in all directions. The roads are getting increasingly better, but be prepared for possible surprises outside main highways leading to Belgrade, Thessaloniki, or Sofia.

Talk [ edit ]

Young people usually speak enough English to communicate. Some speak it extremely well. Professionals, such as hotel personnel, speak English and another foreign language. As Niš is a university centre, if you run into some of its 30,000 students, you will have no problems talking to them.

Other officials, such as police officers, have had some basic English lessons, but do not expect miracles.

There can be more problems communicating with the elderly. Still, if you encounter a group of four or five persons, there is a good chance one will know enough English to help you get by.

There are many signposts all around the city in Serbian Cyrilic script followed by English translation which should help you find your way to hotels, central city institutions and sites. Familiarization with basic Cyrilic script would be a good idea, because Serbian national laws encourage traditional script, and Latin script, once all-present in the former Yugoslavia, is becoming more rare. The Latin script is dominant on advertisements and in shops, though.

Occasionally, you may encounter people who speak German, French or Russian, sometimes Italian or Spanish, but this is not very common.

See [ edit ]

Niš is packed with historical sites worth visiting, dating from various periods.

Further afield [ edit ]

• Mausoleum of Count Alexei Kirillovich Vronsky - lover of Anna Karenina ( in Gornji Adrovac (municipality of Aleksinac) ). The Holy Trinity Church near Nis was built in the 19th century in commemoration of the death of Nikolai Rayevsky. Rayevsky was celebrated as Count Vronsky in Tolstoy's famous novel Anna Karenina.  
• Villa of the "ill" Prince George ( in Gornja Toponica ). In 1926, the heir to the Serbian throne, Prince George Karadjordjevic, was committed to the mental hospital on grounds of insanity by his younger brother, Alexander, who was then crowned king. The prince was kept in the spacious villa locked within the mental hospital for 15 years. After World War II, his family were declared state enemies by the communist regime but George was allowed to retire in Belgrade as the only member of the royal family in the country.  

Do [ edit ]

• Football: FK Radnički Niš play soccer in SuperLiga, Serbia's top tier. Their home ground is Čair Stadium (capacity 18,000) 1 km southeast of town centre.
• Nisville international jazz festival is held every August on the Summer Stage of the Fortress. With numerous international participants, it has been the trademark of the city since the 1990s.
• Nis Choral Festival is an international festival of choral music, held on the Summer Stage biennially (in July).
• Nis Acting Festival is an international festival of film-acting, once the biggest film festival in the former Yugoslavia (along with the Pula festival in Croatia), with an international reputation. It is traditionally organized in the last week of August, every year. ( http://www.fsnis.org.yu/ [dead link] - in Serbian)
• Nimus is the classical music festival held in late autumn (October-November). Nis is also a centre of classical music in this part of Serbia, with the growing Academy of Arts and the second-by-size Philharmonic Orchestra in the country. The classical music festival includes performances in the Symphony Orchestra building and the National Theater building, with concerts, chamber, symphonic music, and opera.
• Nisomnia popular music international festival is organized in September.

Buy [ edit ]

• Market ( between the fortress and the bus station ). The lively market is worth a visit. You can get almost anything you can imagine, and hundreds of local smallholders sell their fruit and veg in the covered market. Also farm made soft cheese.  

• Forum shopping mall . The biggest shopping mall in Niš. It is a huge, three-storey building, with virtually all kinds of shops: clothes, shoes, music, stationery, computer equipment, unlocked mobile phones... you name it. There are also several bars, coffee shops and one or two restaurants where you can refresh yourself after your spending spree.  
• Roda Centar ( formerly Mercator Centar ) ( 2 km from the city centre: catch a taxi to get there ). A nice selection of shops and supermarket with a lot of foreign food products. Since the opening of Forum some shows had to close in Roda due to competition. ( updated Nov 2019 )
• Underground passage . another trademark of Niš, virtually an entire street under the central city promenade. It throngs with small shops of all kinds. They can be a bit cheaper since they often fail to pay VAT.  

Niš hosts a variety of grand shopping malls and hypermarkets located on all outskirts of the city, where practically all goods can be purchased. The malls are usually a bit cheaper than small shops and visiting them is advisable if you should need supplies for a longer period of time (food, clothing, stationery, equipment). Major streets contain numerous signs directing a traveler to one of these (Mercator Center, Tempo, Metro, Interex, Impex Mega Market).

Souvenirs are available in small shops in the Fortress, in the central squares of the city, or in shops near historical locations.

The local currency is the dinar . Serbian law does not allow that you pay in euros, dollars or any other currency in the shops, so, if you use cash, you must convert the money into dinars. This may be done in any bank or exchange office, and there are many in the city centre (including some automatic exchange machines in the very core of the city). In addition, a variety of credit cards are welcome in most city shops. Vendors are legally obliged to provide fiscal stubs after any transaction. In practice, many places such as hotels will accept euro notes and give change in dinars.

Eat [ edit ]

Niš is a food paradise. It is said that Niš produces the best burek , a sort of greasy, phyllo dough pastry filled with cheese or ground meat that is popular throughout the Balkan peninsula. It resembles a cheese pie, but contains more fat and has stronger flavour. Also, by general consent, it is much more delicious. Some vendors sell other varieties such as apple, spinach or pizza burek (frequently just a combination between the meat and cheese Burek). Traditionally, you eat burek with yoghurt.

The Shopska salad is another phenomenal, yet simple, dish to be found in Niš. It consists of chopped up tomato, cucumber, onion, oil, a little salt and a generous topping of a domestic feta-like cheese. The local feta is usually less sharp than feta typically found in the west by a considerable margin. Most websites with recipes simply call it a brined sheep cheese and the French are known to make a similar feta. Another local trademark is the 'Urnebes' salad, literally translated as 'chaos' or 'pandemonium' - basically cream cheese in oil mixed with ground peppers, garlic and sometimes sesame.

Pljeskavica, sometimes referred to as the "Balkans Burger," is ubiquitous. Typically it contains a concoction of spiced ground beef, pork and lamb. It may be served in a bun, pita bread or by itself on a plate depending on where you get one. It usually is accompanied by onions, a paprika based sauce and in the case of the fast-food-esque vendors you'll have a variety of sauces and toppings to accompany it.

Chevapchichi (usually spelt with accented "c" instead of "ch", i.e. ćevapčići) is similarly made from spiced ground beef, pork and lamb. The mixture is formed into a 2-to-3 inch long sausage and served with onions and a paprika based sauce. Sometimes it will be served in a pita bread for easy, "on-the-go" consumption.

Other favourites include pizza, of which the Serbs do a splendid job, and various pasta dishes.

For those who do not wish to experiment too much, there are many traditional bakeries and pastry shops, and the inevitable McDonald's on the central city square.

Most restaurants have some options for vegetarians. Vegans might encounter more problems, although most are usually solved with the help of kind local restaurant owners. During traditional fasting periods, especially in April before Orthodox Easter holidays, many restaurants offer fish and non-animal food, including some specialties.

Budget [ edit ]

In the city centre [ edit ].

• 43.319457 21.892868 1 Etno Ćumurko , Milorada Veljkovića Špaje 4 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 43.317764 21.899882 2 Ekspres Mali Vikend , Nikole Pašića 2 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 43.318849 21.899625 3 Pasta Bar 2x2 , Sinđelićev trg 25 . ( updated May 2022 )

At the Niš Fortress [ edit ]

• 43.324125 21.892491 4 Pekara TVRĐAVA , Đuke Dinić 17 . ( updated May 2022 )

Around the train station [ edit ]

• 43.315552 21.876026 5 Pekara Mićko , Dimitrija Tucovića 27 ( Opposite of the school (gimnazija) ). Small bakery specialising in burek. One of the better burek shops in Niš. The burek is less greasy than in some other bakeries. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 43.32139 21.90083 6 Restoran Riblja konoba , Kralja Stefana Prvovenčanog 5 , ☏ +381 18-257728 . 10:00 - 22:00 . Fish restaurant in the centre, where both the cooking and the interior is old-fashioned. The menus are in both English and Serbian, and the waiters speak English. They have salt and fresh-water fish, and other seafood such as squid. During the summer there are tables outside. The cheapest meal would be fried fish (girice) and a potato salad (krompir salata) for about €2 (March 2015). The other dishes are more expensive. ( updated May 2022 )

Splurge [ edit ]

Drink [ edit ].

Tap water is drinkable in Niš. Locals like to boast that, in addition to Vienna, Niš has the best water in central and southeast Europe. Although this claim can probably be contested, the water from the central supply system is drunk by most residents. More cautious visitors are advised to buy bottled water in any shop: a variety of brands are available, and Serbian mineral waters are very good, especially Knjaz Miloš, Vlasinska Rosa, Mivela and Heba. You can also try Jamnica and Jana which are imported from Croatia.

There is a throng of cafes in downtown Niš, most of which serve various coffee drinks, beers and liquors. Some specialty bars serve a more limited scope of beverages. There is also a branch of Costa Coffee on the central square.

Local wines are usually not the best of quality. The more expensive the better. International brands are offered in most bars.

Rakija, a powerful brandy made from various fruits (usually plum or apricot), is a local favorite. Attention: some kinds may be pretty strong for a newbie.

Nightclubs [ edit ]

Nightclubs in Niš are somewhat different than those typically found in Belgrade or in other larger cities. Firstly, there is relatively little dancing and most clubs don't feature a dancefloor. Instead, clubs have tables and most people stand at their table and drink, while listening to the music. Tables must be reserved beforehand, though this is usually for free.Secondly electronic dance music is quite rare, with most clubs playing folk music instead.

Most clubs have only a Facebook page, so check that to see what they're doing that day.

• 43.32131 21.89443 1 Feedback , Davidova ( Next to the defunct synagogue ). This placed is alternative, playing rock and metal and occasionally electronical dance music.  
• 43.31853 21.89409 2 [dead link] Vavilon , Nikole Pašića 36 .  
• [dead link] Simphony club , Generala Milojka Lešjanina . Unusual for playing electronical dance music. Also a somewhat "fancy" club.  
• 43.32146 21.89479 3 Cubo klub , Balkanska 2 . Lively atmosphere, and often crowded. They play mostly folk music.  
• Diamond , Prijezdina 4 .  

Sleep [ edit ]

Hotels [ edit ].

Niška Banja (the Spa) has a couple of older but decent hotels, such as Ozren , with prices from €24 for a single room incl breakfast. Alternatively, it may be possible to arrange a home-stay in Niška Banja. The spa is a few kilometers away from the town, so a bus or taxi ride to the centre is inevitable.

• The Ambassador Hotel . The tallest building on the central square, dominates the downtown area, and is one of the few options for visitors on a budget. The rooms are not as cheap as one might expect and feel a little outdated but they are comfortable enough and the hotel is in a great location. If you want a real Yugo experience , try this hotel, dark brown formica fittings, appliances that might or might not work, and an amazing restaurant with retro sculptures and chandeliers, a flashback to the 1960s. €42 for an apartment with en-suite. Expect ~€30 breakfast included .  
• My Place ( just by the Nišava rive ). In a quiet quarter in the downtown area, a couple of minutes from the central square on foot From €65.50 (2014) .  
• Niški cvet ( Nis Flower ). Expect €50 or more/night, with buffet breakfast included. .  
• Regent Club Hotel , Obrenoviceva Street . Entrance is via Gorca shopping mall in the city's main promenade street  
• Aleksandar Palace , Njegoseva 81a , ☏ +381 18 562 333 , fax : +381 18 562 056 . A hotel on the hills overlooking the city from the southern side with a small pool. around €60-80/night .  
• 43.31957 21.8975 1 Panorama , 51 Svetolika Rankovića Str, , [email protected] . A bit more remote up the hill, but also with a nice view of the city, and with a bit lower prices. Taxi needed from over here, especially upwards. Sgl/dbl €45/55 (2014) .  
• 43.32075 21.89801 2 New City Hotel and Restaurant , Vožda Karadorđa 12 ( Centre of Niš ), ☏ +381 18 504 800 , [email protected] . Accommodation, coffee bar and a restaurant with international cuisine, conference rooms with simultaneous translation. The hotel has 48 rooms and suites, two large halls for conferences and banquets and a cafe, bar & restaurant. Free internet access throughout the hotel, separate parking space. ( updated Jan 2017 )

Hostels [ edit ]

• 43.32069 21.89231 3 Sweet-Hostel Nis' , Milorada Veljkovica Spaje 11/4 ( There is a map on the website ). Another hostel in Nis. It is in the centre of town, 5 minutes from The square of King Milan (main city square). They offer comfortable rooms and welcoming, hospitable service for a small amount of money. Hot showers and free towels are there as well, as is a fully equipped kitchen and a shared room with TV, DVD & very slow Internet access. Hostel single/double 1650/2200 dinars; apartments single/double 2200/3200 dinars, including tax (2014) .  
• 43.3098 21.8626 4 Hostel Kosmopolit , Anastasa Jovanovica 15 ( in `Ledena Stena` area: taxis are cheap, or you can use a direct bus line number 1 `Ledena stena - Niska banja` exiting at the station called `MIN naselje` ), ☏ +381 63 472705 , [email protected] . Hostel `Kosmopolit` is a beautiful contemporary building with 120 m² of residential space and a spacious garden. Services and amenities include free high-speed internet, WiFi, garden barbecue grill and bar, self-service kitchen with dining room and balcony, lounge room with self-service bar, cable TV and computer with internet, air-conditioning in every room, 24 hour service and assistance. €11 per bed (8-bed dorms and private rooms) .  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Nis is a very safe city. In summer months, even late into the night, you will see people walking through its streets with no fear whatsoever. In winter months, late at night, and in suburban areas, some reasonable caution is warranted. As with any other travel, keep your money, cell phones, travel documents and other valuables in secure places. As a pedestrian, follow regulations, including zebra crossings and green lights, even when you see locals ignoring them, as traffic wardens may jump out of nowhere and fine you.

Emergencies [ edit ]

In case of an emergency, call 192 (police), 193 (fire), 194 (ambulance) or the European standard 112.

In case of injury or illness, the place to go is the Hitna Pomoc (Emergency Aid Centre) of Nis Clinical Centre. If the urgency is not total, you may ask for help in the state Clinical Centre (follow the white signs with this name in the streets) or any of the numerous small private clinics scattered downtown. Be aware that not all medical facilities are well-stocked or have personnel that speak foreign languages, including English. Cash payment on the spot will almost certainly be required for medical services. Consult the embassy of your country, if possible.

Serbia has a social insurance agreement with most European nations. If you get a form from your local health insurance you can obtain free treatment in the local hospitals. You would first need to go to the national social insurance (RZZO) branch office in Niš to hand in the form and get another form for the local hospital or health centre. Since this procedure is complicated to complete without Serbian language skills it may be easier to visit a private doctor or polyclinic. Prices are very reasonable by European standards, starting from €10 for a simple consultation with a PD.

Pharmacies are located all over the central city zone. They are marked with green crosses in front of the entrance. Their working hours are 07:00 to 21:00 or even 22:00 every day, including weekends. The central pharmacy, located in front of the National Theater building, a 2-minute walk from the central city square, is open 24/7. Serbia is still very liberal in terms of purchasing medication, so you are allowed to buy practically any basic drugs over the counter (painkillers, fever medication). However, for antibiotics a prescription is required. Prior consultation with a physician would be a good idea, though.

Go next [ edit ]

• Sofia and beyond to the east ( Buses and trains both available ).  
• Skopje . Buses and trains both available  
• Belgrade ( frequent bus and train service ).  
• Bosnia and Herzegovina , Montenegro or Croatia ( can catch a bus ).  
• Kopaonik National Park ( Take the bus from the Niš bus station to Kruševac bus station at 07:25. Then the bus to Kopaonik at 10:00. The bus stops near the Konaci complex in Kopaonik. The total trip costs around €10. ).  
• Kosovska Mitrovica , Kosovo ( twice daily going over Novi Pazar (Serbia) ). Arrive to Mitrovica there should change bus if going to Priština or somewhere else.  
• Priština , Kosovo ( only one direct bus ).  
• Germany , Swiss and France . Companies like Eurolines-Lasta, Touring, Jedinstvo or Niš-Ekspres, have long-distance buses to almost any bigger city.  

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• How To Spend 24 Hours...

How To Spend 24 Hours in Niš, Serbia

Niš deserves plenty more than 24 hours, but sometimes beggars can’t be choosers. If you’ve only got one day in Serbia’s third largest city, then it is vital you get the most of the town. Follow our guide to Niš and get all you can out of this underrated marvel.

Get the misery out of the way early The history of Niš doesn’t make for easy reading, especially when the last couple of hundred years are taken into account. The Ottomans well and truly did a number on the city, and the Nazis didn’t exactly treat it with care either. Crveni Krst Concentration Camp lies just outside the city centre and is a poignant memorial to the thousands who perished there during World War II, but visitors hoping to avoid transport will struggle to visit both the camp and the famous Skull Tower . The Skull Tower is the most iconic attraction in the city, although calling it an ‘attraction’ seems somewhat disrespectful to the 952 men whose skulls were used to build the thing. Less than 100 remain in the modern age, but the memory remains. Crveni Krst might be better preserved, but the Skull Tower is one of the most memorable spots in the region.

Explore the fortress Life in Niš revolves around King Milan Square (Trg Kralja Milana, in Serbian ), so head here following the intensity of the Skull Tower. The square is built around the Monument to the Liberators of Niš , another equestrian statue that acts as much as a meeting point as it does a memorial. The magnificent Niš Fortress is located on the other side of the Nišava river, so stroll across the bridge and give the 18th century a good bit of time before lunch. The Stambol Gate is a hugely dramatic entrance to any attraction. There is plenty to see and do within the fortress, with the remains of many old buildings found inside the complex. Shops, mosques and more once stood here, but all that remain are foundations and memories. This doesn’t make it any less impressive, and Niš Fortress is an absolute must for anyone visiting the city. If you’re looking for a souvenir, look no further.

A heavy lunch The south of Serbia is known for its magical food, so don’t even bother trying to hold back with a knife and fork in your hands. The centre of the city has plenty of excellent options, but food and geography combine to suggest that Mali Podrum is the best option for our schedule. A traditional Serbian kafana with little in the way of frills, the pljeskavica here is as good as anywhere outside of Leskovac. A stroll in the Memorial Park Who doesn’t love a long walk after lunch? The Bubanj Memorial Park may be over two kilometres away from the city centre, not to mention uphill, but the feast of lunch will give you more than enough energy to make the distance. The memorial park is one of the most immense parts of the region, and the same adjective could be given to the main spomenik in the centre of it all. Known as the ‘Three Fists’ monument, the ‘fists’ in this instance are three monumental concrete structures jutting into the sky, representing the men, women and child who were murdered here by the Nazis during World War II. It is a poignant monument to say the least, and don’t for a second think that that is lost on the many who happen to be having a picnic on the grounds.

Drinks, food and the rest You may well be exhausted after the walk up to Bubanj, but a sunset walk down the hill is every bit as mesmerising as the post-meal stroll up it. It would also help you develop an appetite for another attack of the kitchen, so head to Tinkers Alley (Kazandžijsko sokače) for another round. The street is full of cafes, so feel free to take your pick. Cafe Pleasure gets our vote (this time), the name telling you all you need to know about the quality on offer.

Live music at the Crazy Horse Niš doesn’t disappoint on the nightlife front, more than giving Novi Sad a run for its money in the quest to follow the legendary energy of Belgrade. Before you start braving the rakija at the clubs, be sure to check out Irish Pub Crazy Horse to catch any live music that may be happening. Irish Pubs are often a drag in this part of the world, but Crazy Horse is an exception to that. It’ll also instil a good amount of energy ahead of what will surely be a long night, in the bars, pubs and clubs of Serbia’s third largest city. There is more than enough to justify two days in Niš, even if the second is dealing with an almighty hangover.

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Places to Stay

The best hotels in niš, serbia.

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Top things to see and do in niš, serbia.

5 Great Day Trips From Niš, Serbia

Restaurants

The 10 best restaurants in niš, serbia.

See & Do

The most beautiful architecture in niš, serbia.

Bars & Cafes

The best coffee shops and cafés in niš, serbia.

The 7 Best Bars in Niš, Serbia

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Essential Nis

Nis Is Great For

Eat & drink.

Historical Tours

• Ambasador Hotel Nis
• Hotel Vidikovac
• My Place Hotel
• New City Hotel & Restaurant Niš
• Nislijska Mehana
• Pleasure Club
• Stambolijski
• Red Cross Nazi Concentration Camp
• Skull Tower
• Nis Fortress
• Nis Airport Shuttle Taxi
• Nis Sightseeing Tour
• Stara Plana Day Tour
• Devil's Town Day Tour
• Airport Nis Shuttle Taxi
• Monasteries and Cave Day Tour

Naslov 3 Dolor sit amet

Due to its exceptional location at the crossroads between the East and the West, the city of Niš has always been a favorite stronghold of great rulers.The Celts gave it a rather subtle name Naissus – the nymph’s city – that stands in contrast to the true power of a mighty military fortification.The height of its strength and splendor was reached during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great, who transformed this city into an administrative and trading centre of vital interest to the Roman Empire. Niš is an ideal city for history lovers. Traces of history are visible in every corner of the city, while friendly and welcoming inhabitants of Niš will be glad to introduce you to some of the most interesting historical details.

One of the oldest cities in Europe, Niš is a history lovers paradise – every corner of the city showing traces of bygone eras. The friendly, welcoming locals will delight in sharing their knowledge of the city with you.Previously named Naissus – the nymph’s city – by the Celts, it’s strategically important location at the crossroads between East and West means it has always been a favourite stronghold of great rulers. However, it was in fact during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great, that this city was transformed into an important trade centre for the Roman Empire. Early Christian tombs from the reign of Constantine the Great have been found and archaeological excavations at Bubanj and Humska Čuka have also found evidence that the area was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic period and the early Bronze age. A true melting pot of different cultures and people throughout the ages - Celts, Romans, Huns, Avars, Byzantines, Ottomans have all been known to inhabit the area which is reflected in the architectural diversity. Today, Niš is a hub for culture and art lovers and hosts a number of annual festivals such as Niš Film Festival which celebrates Serbian films and film-makers. Organised every August, this internationally important film festival has been held for more than 50 years. The city is also the setting for two music festivals, also during the summer months, the world-famous jazz festival Nišville and the Nisomnia festival.

Phone: +381 (0)18 524 877

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://visitnis.org

Accomodation

• 69 Number of rooms
• 116 Number of beds
• 22 Single rooms
• 36 Double rooms
• 11 Apartments
• 1 Number of conference rooms
• 60 Conference rooms capacity
• Coffee longue
• Parking space
• Buisness center
• Fitness room
• Room for non-smokers
• Hairdresser
• Pets in rooms allowed
• Credit card accepted
• Bathroom and toilet
• Room-service
• Airconditioned room
• Room with telephone
• Internet connection
• TV in the room

• 45 Number of rooms
• 84 Number of beds
• 42 Double rooms
• 3 Apartments
• 400 Conference rooms capacity

• 23 Number of rooms
• 46 Number of beds
• 16 Double rooms
• 17 Apartments
• Facilities for handicapped persons

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Vila Katerina – Parga

Vila Johana & Katerina – Parga

• 80m od glavne ulice, 380m od plaže

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Krf avionom – vila Terra Sole 7 noći

• 140m od mora u Ipsosu

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Vila Nataša – Platamon

• 150m od plaže, 50m od centra mesta

Vila Apostolis – Olympic Beach

• 20m od plaže, na šetalištu

Vila Psata – Nei Pori

• 80m od plaže

Vila Faeton – Paralija

• 100m od plaže, novi deo Paralije

Vila Narcis – Olympic Beach

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• 300m od centra mesta

Vila Eftimija – Nei Pori

• 150m od plaže

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KUŠADASI – Hotel Ozka 3*

• U centru Kušadasija

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• Samo 100m od Ladies Beach plaže! Odlična lokacija!

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Where to stay in Niš

Medijana City Center

While visiting Medijana City Center, you might make a stop by sights like Square of King Milan and National Museum.

• Niš Hotel Deals
• Vacation Rentals in Niš

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2023

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Reviewed on May 21, 2023

Check Niš hotel availability

Popular places to visit.

• Nis Fortress

Learn about the local history of Medijana when you take a trip to Nis Fortress. Experience the area's festivals and live music.

You can learn about the history of Medijana with a stop at Mediana. Experience the area's festivals and live music.

• Square of King Milan

You can learn about the history of Medijana with a trip to Square of King Milan. Discover the area's festivals and cathedral.

• Skull Tower

You can learn about the history of Medijana with a stop at Skull Tower. Discover the area's festivals and cathedral.

• Red Cross Concentration Camp

Rich with history, Red Cross Concentration Camp is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Niš. Experience the area's festivals and live music.

• Bubanj Memorial Park

You can learn about the history of Niš with a stop at Bubanj Memorial Park. Experience the area's festivals and live music.

Things to do

Private day tour to nis and devils town from belgrade, niš private walking tour with a professional guide, private skopje sofia transfer with city tour in nis, nis one day tour from skopje, nis - the capital of south-east serbia, nis sightseeing tour, reviews of niš.

• Cities near Niš
• Places of interest
• Tower of Skulls
• Monument to the Liberators of Nis

Niš in Central Serbia Destination Guide Serbia

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Niš in Nišava of Central Serbia, Serbia

Safety Score: 3,4 of 5.0 based on data from 9 authorites. Meaning please reconsider your need to travel to Serbia.

Travel warnings are updated daily. Source: Travel Warning Serbia . Last Update: 2024-04-27 08:23:39

Delve into Niš

Niš in Nišava (Central Serbia) with it's 250,000 habitants is a city located in Serbia about 125 mi (or 201 km) south-east of Belgrade, the country's capital town.

Current time in Niš is now 03:25 AM (Sunday). The local timezone is named Europe / Belgrade with an UTC offset of 2 hours. We know of 9 airports closer to Niš, of which 3 are larger airports. The closest airport in Serbia is Nis Airport in a distance of 3 mi (or 4 km), West. Besides the airports, there are other travel options available (check left side).

There are several Unesco world heritage sites nearby. The closest heritage site in Serbia is Gamzigrad-Romuliana, Palace of Galerius in a distance of 42 mi (or 68 km), North. In need of a room? We compiled a list of available hotels close to the map centre further down the page.

Since you are here already, you might want to pay a visit to some of the following locations: Niska Banja, Doljevac, Gadzin Han, Merosina and Zitoraga. To further explore this place, just scroll down and browse the available info.

Local weather forecast

Todays local weather conditions & forecast: 22°c / 71 °f.

Monday, 29th of April 2024

22°C (72 °F) 12°C (54 °F) Sky is clear, gentle breeze, clear sky.

Tuesday, 30th of April 2024

21°C (70 °F) 11°C (52 °F) Sky is clear, light breeze, clear sky.

Wednesday, 1st of May 2024

15°C (59 °F) 13°C (55 °F) Moderate rain, light breeze, overcast clouds.

Hotels and Places to Stay

BEST WESTERN HOTEL MY PLACE

Address 0,2 mi KEJ 29 DECEMBAR BB 18000 Nis Serbia

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00 Reception Weekday: - Weekend: closed

NEW CITY HOTEL & RESTAURANT NIŠ

Address 0,4 mi Vozda Karadorda 12 18105 Nis Serbia

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00 Reception Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00 Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Crystal Light

Address 2,9 mi Dimitrija TUCOVIĆA 186 18106 Niš Serbia

Address 0,6 mi Nikole Pasica 29 18000 Nis Serbia

ARTLOFT HOTEL

Address 0,7 mi OBLACICA RADA 8A 7 18000 Niš Serbia

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: Reception Weekday: - Weekend: closed

Hotel Aleksandar

Address 1,3 mi Njegoseva 81A 18000 Niš Serbia

Checkout: 16:00 - Checkin: 10:00 Reception Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00 Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Hotel Panorama Lux

Address 1,6 mi Svetolika Rankovica 51 18000 Niš Serbia

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 10:00 Reception Weekday: 0:00 - 23:59 Weekend: closed

Hotel Ideo Lux

Address 2,2 mi Požarevačka 5 18118 Niš Serbia

Ambasador Hotel Nis

Address 0,5 mi Trg Kralja Milana Bb 18000 Nis Serbia

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 13:00 Reception Weekday: - Weekend: closed

TAMI RESIDENCE

Address 1,5 mi DURMITORSKA PRILAZ BR.1 18000 NIS Serbia

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00 Reception Weekday: - Weekend: closed

Videos from this area

These are videos related to the place based on their proximity to this place.

Viva travel Sajam turizma Beograd 2015

Published: March 03, 2015 Length: 50:03 min Rating: 0 of 5 Author: NiskaTelevizija

http://www.ntv.rs [ Niska Televizija ]

„Made in Niš“ u sredu, 24. decembar | 19.12.2014

Published: December 19, 2014 Length: 00:00 min Rating: 0 of 5 Author: NiskaTelevizija

Istina za Niš - Uroš

Published: April 20, 2012 Length: 46:04 min Rating: 5 of 5 Author: LDP Niš TV

Uroš Jovanović - ISTINA za Niš! http://www.ldpnis.com http://www.facebook.com/ldp.nis.

Rasprave - Branko Dragaš - TV5 - Niš - 3. Deo

Published: October 07, 2012 Length: 10:09 min Rating: 5 of 5 Author: Vladislav Petrović

Rasprave - Branko Dragaš - 3. Deo - TV 5 - Niš - Srbija je bankrotirala ali to niko neće da nam kaže! Ostali delovi: 1. Deo: http://youtu.be/_Jva8tNWmJI 2. Deo: http://youtu.be/xMcTy90xEjw...

Novogodišnja predstava, Vrtić ,,KOLIBRI,, Niš, 2014.

Published: December 26, 2014 Length: 42:55 min Rating: 5 of 5 Author: Tatjana Aleksić

Predstavu su pripremila deca predškolskih grupa vrtića ,,KOLIBRI,, iz Niša sa svojim vaspitačicama, povodom predstojećih novogodišnjih praznika. U predstavi su učestvovala deca uzrasta...

VRAĆAM SE DOLE - Bjesovi ft Gandor (08.03.2002. Live @ Niš).mp4

Published: January 16, 2013 Length: 05:19 min Rating: 5 of 5 Author: Zoran Marinkovic

VRAĆAM SE DOLE - Gandor ft Bjesovi (08.03.2002. Live @ Niš) kamera: Boban Kecović montaža: Zoran Marinković Osmog marta 2002. godine, na Pravnom fakultetu u Nišu, Bjesovi su ispred...

SRS: Niš - mrtav grad | 25.02.2015

Published: February 25, 2015 Length: 13:30 min Rating: 5 of 5 Author: NiskaTelevizija

Kadetski trofej Pantelej- Osnovac Niš

Published: February 09, 2015 Length: 22:34 min Rating: 0 of 5 Author: Balkan chess

Dečiji šahovski klub „OSNOVAC“ u saradnji sa osnovnom školom „Ćele kula“, a pod pokroviteljstvom Gradske opštine Pantelej, organizovao je treći turnir iz serijala „KADETSKI...

Veridba Željka i Kaće-Niš 03.11.2014-2. deo

Published: January 09, 2015 Length: 19:43 min Rating: 1 of 5 Author: Zeljko Ristić

Pomračenje Sunca - 20. mart 2015., Niš, Srbija

Published: March 21, 2015 Length: 16:27 min Rating: 5 of 5 Author: chukIV

Zahvaljujem se Astronomsko društvo Alfa u Nišu, www.alfa.org.rs, posebno Čedomiru Stankovicu koji mi je omogućio da sa njegovim teleskopom snimim ovaj video.

Attractions and noteworthy things

Distances are based on the centre of the city/town and sightseeing location. This list contains brief abstracts about monuments, holiday activities, national parcs, museums, organisations and more from the area as well as interesting facts about the region itself. Where available, you'll find the corresponding homepage. Otherwise the related wikipedia article.

Battle of Naissus

The Battle of Naissus (268 or 269 AD) was the defeat of a Gothic coalition by the Roman Empire under Emperor Gallienus near Naissus. The events around the invasion and the battle are an important part of the history of the Crisis of the Third Century.

Located at 43.3, 21.9 (Lat. / Lng.), about 2 miles away. Wikipedia Article 268, 260s conflicts, Crisis of the Third Century, Battles involving the Roman Empire, Battles involving the Goths, Battles of the Ancient era, History of the Germanic peoples, Roman Serbia, Battles involving Germanic peoples

Čair Stadium

Čair Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium in Niš, Serbia. It is used mostly for football matches and is the home ground of Radnički Niš. After a complete reconstruction which began in 2011, the newly-renovated stadium re-opened to the public on September 15, 2012, while the complete installation of chairs (except for the west stand) is planned to be finished by May 27, 2013.

Located at 43.3155, 21.9085 (Lat. / Lng.), about 1 miles away. Wikipedia Article Football venues in Serbia, Buildings and structures in Niš, Multi-purpose stadiums in Serbia, FK Radnički Niš

Čair Sports Center

Čair Sports Center, known locally as Hala Čair is an indoor sporting arena located in Niš, Serbia. The seating capacity of the arena is for 5,000 spectators for sports events and 6,500 at concerts. It is currently home to the KK Konstantin basketball and volleyball teams.

Located at 43.3169, 21.9078 (Lat. / Lng.), about 1 miles away. Wikipedia Article Indoor arenas in Serbia, Basketball venues in Serbia, Buildings and structures in Niš, Sport in Niš, 2012 European Women's Handball Championship

Nationwide popular locations

These are the most popular locations in Serbia on Tripmondo.

Smaller cities in the vicinity

These are smaller but yet relevant locations related to this place.

What time is NFL Draft round 2 today? TV channels, how to watch 2024 draft picks Friday

The much-anticipated 2024 NFL Draft continues on Friday with the second and third rounds.

Here's what you need to know about rest of the event this week, which runs for two more days and six more rounds, including the dates and times of the rounds, location, TV channels, viewing information and streaming information and order for the second and third round on Friday.

Be sure to come back to  cardinals.azcentral.com  during the 2024 NFL Draft Friday for our  updates and analysis from the picks and news during the second and third rounds.

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Setting the stage for the 2024 NFL Draft on Friday:

2024 NFL Draft live updates: Tracker, picks, trades for Friday's second, third rounds

NFL mock draft: Arizona Cardinals' second-round projections include Kool-Aid McKinstry

What time does the NFL Draft start today?

The second round of the NFL Draft on Friday is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. PT (7 p.m. ET) and Saturday's coverage is set for 9 a.m. PT (Noon ET).

NFL Draft grades 2024: Marvin Harrison Jr. pick lands Arizona Cardinals high marks

Where is the NFL Draft?

NFL Draft 2024 will be held in downtown Detroit at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza.

More: Arizona Cardinals' Darius Robinson 'polarizing prospect' in 2024 NFL Draft grades

How can I watch the 2024 NFL Draft today?

ABC and ESPN will broadcast the event, as will the NFL Network. It can be streamed on sites that carry those stations, including FUBO TV ( click here for a free trial) .

More: Want a Marvin Harrison Jr. Arizona Cardinals jersey? You can't buy one. Here's why

What is the order for the NFL draft today?

Here's the complete order for the second and third rounds of the NFL Draft on Friday:

Second round NFL draft order Friday:

• 33. Buffalo Bills (via Carolina Panthers)
• 34. New England Patriots
• 35. Arizona Cardinals
• 36. Washington Commanders
• 37. Los Angeles Chargers
• 38. Tennessee Titans
• 39. Carolina Panthers (via New York Giants)
• 40. Washington Commanders (via Chicago Bears)
• 41. Green Bay Packers (via New York Jets)
• 42. Houston Texans (via Minnesota Vikings)
• 43. Atlanta Falcons
• 44. Las Vegas Raiders
• 45. New Orleans Saints (via Denver Broncos)
• 46. Indianapolis Colts
• 47. New York Giants (via Seattle Seahawks)
• 48. Jacksonville Jaguars
• 49. Cincinnati Bengals
• 50. Philadelphia Eagles (via New Orleans Saints)
• 51. Pittsburgh Steelers
• 52. Los Angeles Rams
• 53. Philadelphia Eagles
• 54. Cleveland Browns
• 55. Miami Dolphins
• 56. Dallas Cowboys
• 57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• 58. Green Bay Packers
• 59. Houston Texans
• 60. Buffalo Bills
• 61. Detroit Lions
• 62. Baltimore Ravens
• 63. San Francisco 49ers
• 64. Kansas City Chiefs

Third round NFL draft order Friday:

• 65. Carolina Panthers
• 66. Arizona Cardinals
• 67. Washington Commanders
• 68. New England Patriots
• 69. Los Angeles Chargers
• 70. New York Giants
• 71. Arizona Cardinals (via Tennessee Titans)
• 72. New York Jets
• 73. Dallas Cowboys
• 74. Atlanta Falcons
• 75. Chicago Bears
• 76. Denver Broncos
• 77. Las Vegas Raiders
• 78. Washington Commanders (via Seattle Seahawks)
• 79. Atlanta Falcons (via Jacksonville Jaguars)
• 80. Cincinnati Bengals
• 81. Seattle Seahawks (via New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos)
• 82. Indianapolis Colts
• 83. Los Angeles Rams
• 84. Pittsburgh Steelers
• 85. Cleveland Browns
• 86. Houston Texans (via Philadelphia Eagles)
• 87. Dallas Cowboys
• 88. Green Bay Packers
• 89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
• 90. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston Texans)
• 91. Green Bay Packers (via Buffalo Bills)
• 92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via Detroit Lions)
• 93. Baltimore Ravens
• 94. San Francisco 49ers
• 95. Buffalo Bills (via Kansas City Chiefs)
• 96. Jacksonville Jaguars (compensatory)
• 97. Cincinnati Bengals (compensatory)
• 98. Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory)
• 99. Los Angeles Rams (special compensatory)
• 100. Washington Commanders (special compensatory)

More: Arizona Cardinals fans thank kicker Matt Prater for Marvin Harrison Jr. 2024 NFL Draft pick

How many rounds are there in the NFL draft?

There are seven rounds. After the first round on Thursday, Rounds 2 and 3 are on Friday and Rounds 4-7 are Saturday.

2024 NFL Draft recap: Tracker, picks, trades, analysis from Thursday's first round

How many players will be picked in the 2024 NFL Draft?

There are 256 selections in the 2024 NFL Draft.

More: Arizona Cardinals players, fans, react to Marvin Harrison Jr. 2024 NFL Draft selection

Reach Jeremy Cluff at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter  @Jeremy_Cluff.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today .

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: What time is NFL Draft round 2 today? TV channels, how to watch 2024 draft picks Friday

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News & features, winter center, news / severe weather, high risk of tornadoes, powerful winds, hail and flash flooding for central us.

Tens of millions of people will be at risk for severe weather on a daily basis through Sunday over the central United States. The storms will pack tornadoes, large hail, high winds and torrential rainfall.

By Alex Sosnowski , AccuWeather senior meteorologist

Published Apr 26, 2024 7:49 AM PDT | Updated Apr 26, 2024 12:36 PM PDT

Storms may not have been as bad as they could have been on Thursday, but the risk for destructive weather will be higher in the days to come.

The risk to lives and property has increased over portions of the Great Plains as severe weather and the likelihood of tornadoes peaks into this weekend, AccuWeather meteorologists warn. In addition to the likelihood of tornadoes, many of the storms will bring damaging winds and large hail, as well as flash flooding.

In the first volley of severe weather during the multiday outbreak, dozens of severe thunderstorms erupted from Wyoming and South Dakota to Texas and Arkansas Thursday afternoon and night with a few of the storms producing tornadoes and hail to the size of baseballs.

Well ahead of the prime days of severe weather, AccuWeather meteorologists issued high-risk zones for severe weather into Saturday night. These zones could not only be affected by a few tornadoes, but some of the storms could evolve into strong and possibly long-track twisters in portions of well-traveled interstates 29, 35, and 44 over the central and southern Plains.

Violent storms likely into Friday night

"There could be more than a dozen tornadoes spawned into Friday night alone," AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno said. "Into Friday night, the areas most likely to be strewn with intense, discrete thunderstorms -- the type that often produces strong tornadoes -- extends from northeastern Kansas and northwestern Missouri to southeastern Nebraska and southern and central Iowa."

Major metro areas that are very close to or within the high-risk area into Friday night include Kansas City , Missouri; Omaha , Nebraska; and Des Moines , Iowa.

Another pocket where a moderate risk of severe weather risks extends from northeastern Texas to southeastern Oklahoma and southwestern Arkansas.

The AccuWeather Local StormMax™ straight-line wind gust is 80 mph into Friday night and is stronger than that of the minimum threshold for a hurricane (74 mph).

Another round of volatile storms Saturday

The overall risk of severe weather into Friday night extends for at least 800 miles from southeastern South Dakota and southern Minnesota to northeastern Texas, home to 35 million people.

On Saturday afternoon and Saturday night, the storm system responsible for Friday's severe weather will race toward Ontario, Canada. Enough energy and fuel may remain in the atmosphere to set off locally severe thunderstorms packing high winds, hail and torrential downpours from Iowa to the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Farther to the south, the high risk of severe weather will extend from central and eastern Kansas and southwestern Missouri to central and northeastern Oklahoma. The high risk of severe thunderstorms on Saturday includes the metro areas of Oklahoma City and Tulsa , Oklahoma, as well as Wichita , Kansas.

"This high-risk zone on Saturday afternoon and evening will be prime for powerful storms with damaging hail and high winds, as well as a few tornadoes," Rayno said. On Saturday, the AccuWeather Local StormMax™ straight-line wind gust is 90 mph. Gusts this strong outside of tornadoes can knock over utility poles and large trees and cause significant property damage.

More than 55 million people will be in the zone where severe weather may occur from Saturday to Saturday night.

Flash flooding risk should not be ignored

"There is also a substantial risk of dangerous flash flooding on Saturday, especially from eastern Kansas, western Missouri, eastern Oklahoma and western Arkansas," Rayno added.

The flash flood risk into Sunday night extends over a large portion of the central and southern Plains states, including all of the Ozark Mountains. People planning weekend camping trips are urged to avoid setting up in flood-prone areas along small streams. Rushing high water could block secondary access roads to and from the campsites.

Severe weather risk to continue Sunday

On Sunday, the severe weather zone will extend for more than 800 miles from eastern Nebraska and Iowa to San Antonio. AccuWeather meteorologists have raised the severe weather threat to a moderate level on Sunday for much of Arkansas and parts of northeastern Texas, eastern Oklahoma and southern Missouri. A second area with a moderate risk will include parts of southeastern Nebraska, southwestern Iowa and northwestern Missouri.

The severe weather threats Sunday will range from high winds and large hail to tornadoes and flash flooding, with more than 35 million people at risk.

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People in the severe weather threat zones each day and night are encouraged to pay attention to the weather, take alerts and warnings seriously and have a plan of action in place in case violent conditions become imminent. A method to receive audible alerts when sleeping is strongly advised.

Storm risk to simmer Monday, but not disappear

There is the potential for severe weather to continue into Monday in parts of the South Central states. Heavy, gusty thunderstorms will likely extend from northeastern Texas to Louisiana, central and northern Mississipi, western Alabama, southern Arkansas and western Tennessee. Within this zone, some storms will carry the risk of damaging wind gusts and hail. It is possible the storms could reach all the way to the northwestern and central Gulf coast.

A separate pocket of heavy, gusty, and perhaps locally severe thunderstorms may also develop in parts of the Northeast from Monday to Tuesday.

More to read:

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Middle East Crisis U.S. Won’t Suspend Aid, for Now, to Israeli Unit Accused of Abuses

• Share full article

• Israeli police detaining protesters during a demonstration by Israeli and American rabbis near the Erez crossing into Gaza. Reuters
• Palestinian children waiting for a water supply tank in Rafah, southern Gaza. Mohammed Abed/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
• Damage in the area of Nabatieh, southern Lebanon. Ramiz Dallah/Anadolu, via Getty Images
• Walking past posters in Tel Aviv of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Shannon Stapleton/Reuters
• Hanging around the apparent remains of a ballistic missile near the southern Israeli city of Arad. Amir Cohen/Reuters
• Palestinians on a hot day at a beach west of Deir al Balah in southern Gaza. Mohammed Saber/EPA, via Shutterstock

Follow live news updates on the crisis in the Middle East .

Blinken says the U.S. could take action if Israel fails to hold its troops accountable.

The Biden administration, which has been under pressure for its support of Israel’s war in Gaza, will not withhold military aid from a troubled military unit accused of human rights violations in the West Bank, so long as Israel continues with steps to hold the members of the unit accountable.

In an undated letter, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken told the House speaker, Mike Johnson, that the United States was working with Israel to address charges against the unit, the Netzah Yehuda battalion. Though the letter did not mention the battalion’s name, a U.S. official confirmed that Mr. Blinken was referring to Netzah Yehuda, which has been investigated for crimes in the West Bank predating the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack that set off the war in Gaza.

The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity to discuss delicate diplomacy, said that the Biden administration could still take action against Netzah Yehuda if it concludes that Israel has not taken sufficient steps to hold its members to account.

The letter, obtained by The New York Times, said the State Department had determined that Netzah Yehuda had committed “gross human rights violations” against Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

U.S. officials had reached similar findings about two other Israeli military units and two civilian units, the letter said, but in those cases the Biden administration had decided not to withhold military aid because Israel was already acting to “bring to justice” culpable service members.

Mr. Blinken assured Mr. Johnson in the letter, reported earlier by ABC News , that the United States “will not delay the delivery of any U.S. assistance, and Israel will be able to receive the full amount appropriated by Congress.”

Under federal statutes commonly known as the Leahy law , the U.S. government must deny aid to foreign military units found to have committed gross violations of human rights without accountability. The law allows for the targeting of individual units without cutting off entire foreign militaries.

It was not clear what practical effect any such move might have, given that funding of specific Israeli units is hard to track, and it is unclear whether the units mentioned in the letter receive American training or equipment.

Still, the news last week that U.S. officials were considering withholding aid from Israeli military units for abuses prompted a furious response from Israel and from Mr. Johnson, a strong supporter of the current Israeli government. Mr. Johnson said this week that he had called the White House in protest and had received an assurance in writing that none of the billions in additional U.S. aid to Israel approved by Congress this week would be affected.

The Biden administration has faced growing calls to restrict American aid to Israel over its military offensive in Gaza in response to the Hamas-led attacks in October. President Biden so far has declined to place conditions on U.S. aid over Israel’s devastating tactics in the Gaza war, though he has taken several steps in response to violence by Israelis in the West Bank, including placing sanctions against several Israeli settlers for what the U.S. has called “extremist” acts of violence against Palestinians.

In his letter to the Republican House speaker, Mr. Blinken said that two Israeli battalions and “civilian authority units,” none of which he named, had committed human rights abuses but that he had “determined that the Israeli government has conducted effective remediation of the units involved.” He defined remediation as a process in which a foreign government takes “effective steps to bring to justice the responsible members of the unit.”

In the case of Netzah Yehuda, which he did not cite by name, he said that “there has not been effective remediation to date” but that the Israeli government “has presented new information regarding the status of the unit, and we will engage on identifying a path to effective remediation for this unit.”

Mr. Blinken is planning to travel to Israel next week for meetings with Israeli leaders to discuss efforts to free hostages from Gaza and an impending Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, an Israeli official said on Friday. It was not immediately clear whether he would discuss Netzah Yehuda. Mr. Blinken has discussed the matter by phone with senior Israeli officials in recent days.

Under the terms of a 10-year security agreement that the United States and Israel reached in 2016, the United States must consult with Israeli officials before placing restrictions on security assistance. That consultation is ongoing, according to the U.S. official.

Netzah Yehuda, which was created to accommodate the religious practices of Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community, has been repeatedly accused of mistreating Palestinians.

In January 2022, according to witnesses, its soldiers bound and gagged a 78-year-old Palestinian American who died of a heart attack while in military custody. An investigation concluded that the two soldiers who bound the man thought he was sleeping. The soldiers faced disciplinary action but no criminal charges were brought.

The unit was transferred in 2022 from the West Bank to the Golan Heights in northern Israel, according to Mr. Blinken’s letter.

Mr. Blinken added that no other Israeli units had been found culpable of rights violations under the Leahy Law and that the administration’s deliberations “will have no impact on our support for Israel’s ability to defend itself against Hamas, Iran, Hezbollah or other threats.”

— Michael Crowley reporting from Washington

Blinken will make another wartime trip to Israel.

Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken will visit Israel next week, an Israeli official said on Friday, as talks on a cease-fire deal that would allow for the release of hostages held in Gaza appear stalled and tensions have risen between Israel and the United States over the war.

The Israeli official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of lack of authorization to speak publicly on the matter, said talks with Mr. Blinken would center on hostages and an impending Israeli military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah.

Mr. Blinken last visited Israel in March, when he warned that its plans to invade Rafah , where more than a million displaced people are sheltering, would pose severe risks to civilians. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with those plans, saying that such an operation is necessary to eliminate Hamas battalions in the city.

Still, the Biden administration has stuck by Israel as mediators have failed to broker even a temporary cease-fire in Gaza that would give Palestinians some respite and allow for the release of hostages abducted in the Oct. 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel .

The United States has proposed a deal through Egyptian and Qatari intermediaries in which Hamas would release 40 of the most vulnerable hostages in exchange for a six-week truce and the release of hundreds of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. A senior Biden administration official who briefed reporters on Thursday on condition of anonymity under official ground rules put the blame solely on Hamas for blocking the deal.

The official said that while Israel had signaled it would accept those terms, the response from Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader hiding underground in Gaza, had been “totally nonconstructive.” Hamas has since signaled that it is not completely rejecting the deal and is willing to sit down again, the official said, adding that the United States and its partners would test that in coming days.

President Biden and the leaders of 17 other nations called on Hamas on Thursday to release all the hostages in a joint statement that appeared intended to send the message that the world is not entirely against Israel and that Hamas is the main impediment to ending the war.

Peter Baker contributed reporting from Washington.

— Patrick Kingsley reporting from Jerusalem

Israel fires into Lebanon after a deadly Hezbollah missile strike.

An Israeli man was killed in an anti-tank missile attack from Lebanon, the Israeli military said on Friday, the latest in a growing string of civilian casualties on both sides of Israel’s northern border as tit-for-tat strikes intensify with the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah .

The Israeli military said in a statement that the man had been carrying out “infrastructure work” when two anti-tank missiles were fired late Thursday into the area of Har Dov in northern Israel, a disputed sliver of land where Israel, Lebanon and Syria meet. Also known as the Shebaa Farms, the area is claimed by Lebanon but occupied by Israel, and has long been a crucible for violence.

Hezbollah, Iran’s most powerful regional proxy , described the overnight attack as an “ambush,” claiming that two vehicles had been destroyed in a combined missile, artillery and rocket assault on an Israeli military base in the area. The Israeli military statement did not say whether a base had been hit.

Kan, Israel’s public broadcaster, identified the man killed as Sharif Suwayed, 35, and said that his truck had been hit while he was working to improve defenses at a military base, modifications that were being carried out at night to protect against Hezbollah attacks. The Israeli military was investigating, the broadcaster reported.

Israeli forces responded by striking Hezbollah targets across southern Lebanon, among them a weapon storage facility and military compound, according to a military statement. Lebanese state media reported on Friday that multiple towns had been targeted by heavy Israeli bombardment, damaging dozens of houses. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

The fighting between Hezbollah and Israel, the heaviest between the sides in nearly two decades, has shown no sign of subsiding. Israeli strikes inside Lebanon have begun to creep deeper into the country’s interior, though the hostilities for now have been confined largely to areas along the Israeli-Lebanese border.

In Israel, 19 soldiers and civilians have been killed in the recent violence, which began after Hezbollah launched rockets into northern Israel in support of the deadly Hamas-led attack on Oct. 7.

More than 70 civilians have been killed in Lebanon, along with roughly 270 Hezbollah fighters, the group has said, a figure that exceeds its losses in the 2006 war with Israel .

Yoav Gallant, Israel’s defense minister, said this week that its strikes had eliminated half of Hezbollah’s commanders in southern Lebanon, although experts expressed skepticism about that claim . They also have cast doubt on whether targeted killings of commanders could achieve Israel’s goal of pushing Hezbollah farther from the border, reducing the threat of attacks and allowing the tens of thousands of Israeli civilians displaced by the fighting to return to their homes.

Patrick Kingsley contributed reporting from Jerusalem.

— Euan Ward Reporting from Beirut, Lebanon

A baby born in Gaza after her mother was killed in an Israeli strike dies less than a week later.

A baby who was delivered through an emergency cesarean section after her mother was killed in an Israeli strike died on Thursday, a relative said, less than a week after news of her birth brought a glimmer of hope to war-torn Gaza.

The baby, who was born prematurely after a strike in southern Gaza that also killed her father and sister, suffered respiratory problems, and doctors were unable to save her, said her uncle, Rami al-Sheikh.

“I buried her in her father’s grave,” he said in a phone interview on Friday.

The mother, Sabreen al-Sakani, was killed along with her husband, Shukri, and their 3-year-old daughter, Malak, when an Israeli strike hit their home in the city of Rafah shortly before midnight last Saturday. Rescue crews took the bodies to the Emirati Hospital in Rafah, where doctors performed a cesarean section on Ms. al-Sakani, who was 30 weeks pregnant.

The girls’ uncle said that Malak had wanted to name her little sister Rouh, the Arabic word for soul. The extended family decided instead to name her after her mother, Sabreen.

Sabreen weighed just three pounds at birth, said Dr. Mohammed Salama, head of the neonatal intensive care unit at Emirati Hospital. Her birth was captured on video by a journalist from the Reuters news agency, who filmed doctors providing artificial respiration to her after she emerged, pale and limp, from her mother.

Instead of a name, doctors initially wrote, “The baby of the martyr Sabreen al-Sakani” on a piece of tape across her chest.

“The baby was delivered into a tragic situation,” Dr. Salama told Reuters, adding, “Even if this baby survives, she was born an orphan.”

— Hiba Yazbek Reporting from Jerusalem

Drone attack kills 4 workers in an Iraqi gas field, but no one claims responsibility.

A drone attack on a large gas field in Iraq’s Kurdistan region killed four workers and plunged much of eastern Kurdistan into darkness because it relies on gas to fuel its electrical plants, according to a Kurdistan regional government spokesman.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. While Iranian-backed armed groups have bases in the area, there are many competing interests in Kurdistan, leaving it unclear whether the attacks are part of the larger regional fight between Iran and Israel, which has intensified during the war in Gaza.

The Kurdistan region’s president, Nechirvan Barzani, condemned the attack and called on the government in Baghdad to investigate. “These attacks endanger the peace and stability of the country,” Mr. Barzani said, adding, “The representatives of the Iraqi federal government must do their duty to prevent these attacks and find the perpetrators from any side and punish them according to the law.”

Iraq’s joint command in Baghdad issued a statement calling the attack “sabotage,” confirming that a drone was used. The statement said Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al Sudani had ordered an investigation.

Friday’s drone attack was the second so far this year on the Khor Mor field in Sulaymaniyah Province. The last one, in January, did not inflict casualties.

“Four Yemeni workers have been killed, and the field has been severely damaged, which will cause electricity shortages,” said Peshawa Hawramani, a spokesman for the Kurdistan regional government.

Almost a million people in Sulaymaniyah Province were left without power, along with thousands more in adjacent provinces. It took about 24 hours to restore electricity after the last attack, but because the damage was greater this time, Kurdish authorities said it could take longer. While hospitals and security services have large generators, many ordinary residents have access only to limited power from shared generators.

Claims of responsibility were never made for previous attacks on the gas field, which is operated by Dana Gas, based in the United Arab Emirates, and a related company, Crescent Petroleum.

While the drone attack could stem from the regional conflict between Iran and Israel, there are other tensions in the region — between internal Iraqi factions and between Baghdad and Kurdistan. There has been a multiyear effort by the Iraqi federal government in Baghdad and the courts to reduce the Kurdistan region’s control over its natural resources.

At the same time, there is tension between Iran and Iraq over any efforts by Iraq to expand domestic gas production. Iran sells about $4 billion of gas to Iraq each year because Iraq does not have enough gas to fuel its electricity plants. Kurdistan and the Iraqi government had been discussing expansion of the Khor Mor field.

Kamil Kakol contributed reporting from Sulaymaniyah Province, Iraq .

— Alissa J. Rubin Reporting from Baghdad

Rabbis are arrested near the Gaza-Israel border at a rally to highlight starvation.

Police arrest group of rabbis and activists near gaza, the israeli police arrested rabbis and peace activists near the border with gaza..

[singing] You can arrest us, but we’re going to walk slowly, our way towards the crossing.

Seven rabbis and peace activists were arrested on Friday near the border with Gaza after they tried to take food supplies into the territory, according to two participants and the campaign group that organized the effort.

The detainees were among a group of roughly 30 rabbis and activists from Israel and the United States who were stopped by police officers as they tried to reach the Erez crossing, a major transit point between Israel and northern Gaza.

Organized by Rabbis for Ceasefire, a peace movement based in the United States, the effort was intended to build support for a truce and to highlight rising reports of starvation in Gaza . A global authority on food security, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification initiative, has predicted an imminent famine in northern Gaza, the area of the territory closest to Erez.

The protest was timed to coincide with the week of Passover , a Jewish festival that celebrates the biblical story of the liberation of Jews from slavery in ancient Egypt.

“We were making the point that Jewish liberation is bound up with Palestinian liberation, that we want freedom for all,” said Toba Spitzer, a rabbi from Boston who attended the protest but was not arrested.

The group had tried to drive into Gaza with a pickup truck carrying half a ton of rice and flour but was stopped roughly a third of a mile from the border, Rabbi Spitzer said. The effort was largely symbolic and the organizers expected it to fail given the restrictions along the border; the supplies will now be donated to needy Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, Rabbi Spitzer said.

The Israeli police did not respond to requests for comment.

The author Ayelet Waldman of Berkeley, Calif., was among those arrested, her husband, the author Michael Chabon, said on Instagram .

There are widespread food shortages in Gaza. Israeli restrictions on where convoys can enter the strip, Israeli bombardment and widespread damage to roads, the collapse of Gazan agriculture, and a breakdown in law and order have all made it harder to distribute aid safely.

Aid groups and United Nations officials have accused Israel of systematically limiting aid delivery. Israel denies the assertion, blaming the shortages on logistical failures by aid groups, and has recently increased the number of trucks entering the strip.

Israeli officials say that the Erez crossing, which was primarily used for pedestrian traffic before the war, is difficult to use for aid delivery because it lacks the right infrastructure and was also badly damaged during the Hamas-led raid on Israel in October.

A majority of Jewish Israelis oppose the delivery of more aid to Gaza, according to a poll conducted in February by the Israel Democracy Institute, a Jerusalem-based research group.

Israeli protesters regularly gather at another crossing point farther south, trying to block aid convoys entering Gaza .

— Patrick Kingsley and Rawan Sheikh Ahmad Reporting from Jerusalem and from Haifa, Israel

The U.S. Army has begun work on a floating pier to move aid from ships into Gaza, the Pentagon says.

Army engineers on Thursday began construction of a floating pier and causeway for humanitarian aid off the coast of Gaza, which, when completed, could help relief workers deliver as many as two million meals a day for the enclave’s residents, Defense Department officials said.

The construction on the “initial stages of the temporary pier and causeway at sea” means that the project’s timing is in line with what Pentagon officials had predicted, Maj. Gen. Patrick S. Ryder, the Defense Department’s press secretary, said. The construction is meant to allow humanitarian aid to bypass Israeli restrictions on land convoys into the besieged strip.

General Ryder said that defense officials expected the project, ordered up by President Biden early last month, to be completed early next month. The facility is meant to include an offshore platform to transfer aid from ships, and a floating pier to bring the aid to shore.

Aid organizations have welcomed the plan, which will be an addition to the airdrops of humanitarian supplies that the U.S. military has been conducting over Gaza. But aid workers say, and defense officials have acknowledged, that the maritime project is not an adequate substitute for land convoys. Such aid convoys fell sharply when the war began more than six months ago and have only partly recovered .

Some U.S. military officials have also privately expressed security concerns about the project, and General Ryder said that the military was looking into a mortar attack on Wednesday that caused minimal damage in the area where some pier work is supposed to be done. However, he said, U.S. forces had not started moving anything into the area at the time of the mortar attacks.

The floating pier is being built alongside an Army ship off the Gaza coast. Army ships are large, lumbering vessels, so they have armed escorts, particularly as they get within range of Gaza’s coast, defense officials have said.

The United Nations says famine is likely to set in within Gaza by the end of May.

Aid workers have described bottlenecks for aid at border crossings because of lengthy inspections of trucks, limited crossing hours and protests by Israelis, and they have highlighted the difficulty of distributing aid inside Gaza. Israeli officials have denied that they are hampering the flow of aid, saying the United Nations and aid groups are responsible for any backlogs.

Senior Biden administration and military officials detailed a complex plan in a Pentagon call with reporters on Thursday afternoon, explaining how the pier and causeway are being put together, and how it is supposed to work. Army engineers are constructing the facility aboard Navy ships in the eastern Mediterranean. One official said that the “at-sea assembly of key pieces” of the pier began on Thursday.

Biden officials are insistent that the Pentagon can carry out aid deliveries through the floating pier without putting American boots on the ground in Gaza. Officials described a complicated shuttle system, through which aid would be loaded onto Navy ships in Cyprus and transported to a causeway — a floating platform — at sea.

The Pentagon’s military acronym for the project is J-Lots, for Joint Logistics Over the Shore.

The causeway at sea is different from the floating pier where the aid will be offloaded into Gaza. An engineering unit with the Israeli military will anchor the floating pier to the Gaza shore, a senior military official told reporters in the Pentagon call.

Shuttle boats run by aid organizations, the United Nations or other countries are then expected to transport the aid to the floating pier, where it is to be loaded onto trucks driven by “a third party,” the official said. He declined to identify the third party.

The official said that Israel was dedicating a brigade to provide security for the American troops and aid workers working on the pier.

The operation is expected to bring in enough aid for around 90 trucks a day, a number that will increase to 150 trucks a day when the system reaches full operating capacity, the official said.

— Helene Cooper Reporting from Washington

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The ritz-carlton central park entices bleisure travelers with club lounge.

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The Club Lounge at The Ritz-Carlton Central Park meets the needs of bleisure travelers.

On a gray spring day, I sat near a large picture window inside the Club Lounge of The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park , watching tourists below filter into a leafless exapanse to wander the trails of Olmsted’s urban masterpiece. I’d been invited on business, which gave me the chance to tour the property’s rooms and amenities. A long time New Yorker, I had always thought of the city’s Ritz-Carlton properties as leaders in both tourism and business, but rarely blended. However, as I waited for the meeting to start, a colleague urged me to grab a quick lunch. I took a lap around the lounge buffet, a full spread of soups, sandwiches, salads, fruit, desserts, sodas, and Champagne, then settled in for an hour-long chat from a chartreuse-hued club chair with postcard views of the park. Naturally, I wasn’t the first to have a lightbulb moment: bleisure.

View of Central Park from The Ritz-Carlton

The Rise of Bleisure Travel

The Covid-19 pandemic impacted multiple industries in lasting ways, including travel, hospitality, and traditional work models. Though tourism numbers dropped precipitously during the pandemic, they’ve surged over the last 18 months during a time when hybrid or remote employment has been normalized and even expected. Naturally, this phenomenon has spurred various new initiatives, from countries luring digital nomads with remote work visas to hotels expanding their amenities to entice business guests.

A portmanteau of 'business' and 'leisure’, bleisure travel refers to fusion of leisure travel with business. This trend includes professionals extending their business trips to enjoy leisure pursuits, often staying at the same hotel for both work and tourism.

Research suggests that the bleisure niche is gaining in popularity and value. As GlobeNewswire reported , Allied Market Research estimates the global bleisure market was at $315.3 billion globally in 2022, but expects it to more than double to nearly $731.4 billion globally by 2032. That’s a compound annual growth (CAGR) rate of 8.9%. The growth is attributed to several factors such as a rise in demand for work-life balance, digital transformation in the travel industry, and an increase in the number of affordable hospitality services, the report states.

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La Prairie Spa at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

How The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park Meets Bleisure Needs

From the hotel’s all-day ground floor gastro lounge Contour, to elegant rooms and suites, the property has long been a magnet for tourists looking to soak up the brand’s famous hospitality at a tony New York address. Though the hotel has 206 rooms, it feels like a boutique property, starting with the friendly welcome at the front door to the intimate lobby footprint.

Guest rooms, spacious by New York standards, borrow elements from New York’s history, both in layout and architectural details, while adding a touch of French style through décor and textiles. Pre-war layouts give rooms a bigger footprint, allowing for desks and seating areas for the bleisure traveler with a laptop and extra clothes or shoes.

For guests wrapping up meetings or looking to relax after a long flight, the hotel’s La Prairie Spa offers six treatment rooms for facials and therapeutic massages. A relaxation lounge and steam room add the finishing touch.

Where the hotel’s bleisure amenities shines, however, is the Club Lounge. The lounge offers an exclusive place to rest, relax, work and network. There are five daily food presentations that can be customized to meet any dietary restrictions. Additionally, there is a dedicated concierge to take care of all guest requests and needs, such as pressing items of clothing of which two are included, complimentary.

Asked about the bleisure market, Director of Sales & Marketing Megan Ferguson noted the hotel’s ideal location for this type of clientele. “Guests can easily unwind with a stroll through the iconic Central Park or take in the breathtaking views from their room. Our club lounge is a versatile space where bleisure guests can get down to business while enjoying the luxury surroundings,” Ferguson said.

"When it comes to attracting the bleisure market, New York City has that perfect mix of work and play. At The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, we've created an environment that caters to both. Our hotel evokes the feeling of a cozy, residential townhouse making it a welcome retreat after a busy day in the city,” they said.

The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park , 50 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019

*Club Lounge costs an additional $450 per night for 2 people, on top of the room rate. During the holidays, it is an additional $650 per night for 2 people. The Club Lounge is available for all paying guests.

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Man missing in Arizona may have tried to travel through Grand Canyon in homemade raft with small dog

The National Park Service was looking for a man who went missing at Grand Canyon National Park.

Thomas Lee Robison, a 58-year-old resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico, was believed to have been attempted to travel down the Colorado River with his small dog on a wooden raft when he disappeared, the National Park Service said in a news release.

The National Park Service said Robison's vehicle was found abandoned at Lees Ferry within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area on Sunday.

Robison is described as a white male with brown hair and hazel eyes. He weighs 160 pounds and is 5 feet 10 inches tall. His dog is an 11-year-old Welsh Corgi.

Officials were conducting a missing person investigation. Anyone with information should contact the Grand Canyon Dispatch at 928-638-7805.