So, you’ve packed your life in a couple of suitcases and moved to a whole new country. The new reality is exciting but also a
Sanja Markovic
January 23, 2026
When exploring Serbia, you may feel a different vibe in each city. Head south and you’ll notice things getting increasingly hectic, flavorful, and passionate compared to the more unbothered north. Once you feel like the food is spicier, people are more cordial, and you don’t understand a word anyone’s saying, congrats. You’ve reached Vranje, Serbia.
Now, you’re probably wondering why everyone is speaking so fast, and so is the rest of Serbia. But trust us when we say that this unassuming city hides an unexpected charm, amazing culinary delights, rich history, and so much more. Ready for a south-inspired journey? Join the tour with our article!
Large cities like Belgrade and Novi Sad have plenty to offer, no doubt about that. But once you get your fill of the mainstream Serbia, it’s time to zone in on the smaller places for different, local flavors, and we’re not just talking about the food.
Indeed, Vranje has a special feel with history very much alive and music more soulful than anywhere else.
As we’ve mentioned earlier, Vranje is in southern Serbia. For reference, it’s only 40 km away from the Macedonian border.
If you’re traveling by bus, it’ll take you about 2 hours to reach Vranje from Niš. A ride from Belgrade typically lasts about 4 to 5 hours.
Of course, travelling by car is faster and more comfortable. If you don’t have a car (or a friend with one), this ride-sharing platform can come in handy.
The city’s past is anything but uneventful, and it makes Vranje what it is today. Notably, it was the last Serbian city to break away from Ottoman rule, and that period left a clear mark on daily life here.
Over time, various influences mixed, shaping local habits, music, language, and traditions. Even after liberation, Vranje kept its strong southern spirit and emotional way of expression. History here isn’t locked away in museums — it’s felt in the rhythm of the city, in old streets, and in the stories people still love to tell.
If you’d like to get a taste of old Vranje, we suggest watching Bad Blood. It’s a modern adaptation of the celebrated novel by Bora Stanković, a Vranje native. Incidentally, this is the first Serbian film featured on Netflix.
Music is an essential part of everyday life in Vranje. The city is best known for sevdah, a style of music that’s slow, emotional, and a little nostalgic. This local melos with Ottoman influence focuses on strong feelings, so don’t expect any flashy performances.
But Vranje isn’t only about slow songs. At celebrations, you’ll often hear čoček, a fast and lively rhythm that instantly changes the mood. The music is energetic, matching the fast-paced dance. Since the dancers wear colorful traditional outfits with flowing trousers and embroidered vests, every performance is a treat for the eyes, not just for your ears.
Did you know? U Vranje nema laganje (There’s no lying in Vranje). At least, that’s what the locals would like you to believe anytime they say something questionable.
As you can notice from the same line, there are no cases in Vranje, either. To illustrate, instead of saying On je iz Vranja, a resident would likely say, On je iz Vranje. Simple, right? Just one case, no hassle.
Well, that’s where you’re wrong. While the one-case grammar sounds like a blessing to every Serbian learner, people in Vranje speak so fast that you’ll wonder how their tongues don’t get tied up in knots.
Seriously, even most Serbian people struggle to make sense of the local dialect.
That said, the way people in Vranje speak is so melodic and endearing that most of us try to emulate it at some point — and fail miserably.
If there’s one thing that makes travelers slow down in Vranje, it’s the food. Grilled meat is easy to find, but you can go even more traditional for that classic southern aroma.
Tepana pogača, a simple flatbread made from basic ingredients, is a must. Eat it hot with cheese, ajvar, or a fresh salad.
Visitors also look for comfort classics like tarana đuveč, mućkalica, and samsa, all hearty as can be.
Desserts keep things modest, with sweets like crvenci, made from just a handful of ingredients. Add music to the table, and you’ve unlocked true southern merak — simple pleasure.
Vranje may be small, but it packs plenty of character. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.
There’s no doubt that Vranje, Serbia, can make your Balkan travels more exciting and eventful. If this southern flavor sounds like your cup of tea, or, even better, your shot of rakija, it’s time to explore. After all, nothing beats getting lost in a new city, stumbling upon the nooks and crannies you won’t find in the guides, and interacting with locals. Don’t worry if you can’t catch a word they’re saying — we’ve all been there.
Jokes aside, if you’d like your Serbian to sound more natural, get our pronunciation course. Practice in your free time, and by the time you’re done, you’ll speak in a way that’ll make any local understand you — even with tricky words. Plus, it’ll make it easier for you to follow Serbian conversations. Happy studying!
So, you’ve packed your life in a couple of suitcases and moved to a whole new country. The new reality is exciting but also a
When exploring Serbia, you may feel a different vibe in each city. Head south and you’ll notice things getting increasingly hectic, flavorful, and passionate compared