No matter if you are a religious person looking to experience the spirituality of Orthodox Christianity, or you are interested in medieval fresco painting and architecture, with this private tour you’ll definitely reach your goals. Monastery Studenica from the late XII century is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Monastery Zica (Žiča in Serbian alphabet) from the early XIII century with its authentic red facade is the original seat of Serbian Orthodox Church and the place of coronation of Serbian kings. If UNESCO sites are your thing, you might consider this tour UNESCO Sites in the Valley of the Kings as well.

What to Expect From the Monasteries Zica and Studenica Tour in 2023

Expect a day filled with history, spirituality and sacred arts. Scenic drives and picturesque landscapes will highlight the day. You’ll get detailed explanations about frescoes both in Studenica and Žiča, their architecture and symbolism. If you need a moment on your own to feel the spirit of these holy places, you’ll get that as well. After a fulfilling day you’ll have a chance to try local food in one the most praised traditional restaurants in Serbia.

Highlights

Tour Flow

#YourSerbiaHost will pick you up at your Belgrade address (usual pickup time is 9am) and you’ll travel to Western Serbia through the picturesque Šumadija region. On the way you’ll get a chance to hear about life in this part of Serbia from your guide.

After a two hour drive you’ll reach your first stop for the day, Monastery Zica. During the visit you’ll learn from your guide how important Žiča was in Serbian medieval life. You’ll get to explore its main church, side chapels and hear about the most valuable frescoes. But you’ll also hear about the destruction which the monastery faced during the 7 centuries long history.  You’ll hear about a belief that a king was not a king unless he was crowned in Žiča.

Along the route from Monastery Zica you’ll travel through the Gorge of River Ibar. The gorge holds a beautiful medieval Fortress Maglič, but it’s only possible to see it from the road.

After a short drive, in an isolated mountainous location the Monastery Studenica will welcome you in all its glory. Regardless of your religious beliefs the sight won’t leave you indifferent. We’ll take you through the complex starting with the main church of Holy Virgin. Here you’ll see the most beautiful frescoes from the XII century, including the most famous one Crucifixion of Christ. You’ll also get to see other parts of the monastic complex during the visit.

From Studenica Monastery we’ll take you to a well deserved lunch stop in the village Bogutovac. To a family owned restaurant “Kod Mira” which is there for over 200 years. The same family runs it for entire period and they nurture traditional hospitality. Local and homemade specialties are waiting for you to highlight the day.

After meal in “Kod Mira” we’ll take you straight to Belgrade. Usual arrival time is around 6pm.

Good to Know