Russia and Serbia to Collaborate on Mutual Tourism Development

The Russian Economic Development Minister, Maxim Reshetnikov, and Serbian Tourism and Youth Minister, Husein Memic, have coordinated a roadmap for developing bilateral cooperation in tourism.

Serbia remains one of the key and fastest-growing destinations for Russian tourists with connecting flights from Belgrade to most European capital cities as well as Russia. It has become a key hub both for mutual tourism and onward passage for Russians visiting the EU via Belgrade. Due to sanctions, the alternatives to access the EU are either via road border crossings with EU nations, typically with long queues, or via Istanbul, several thousand km to the east.

The Russia-Serbia document, which is due to be signed this summer, envisions an increase in tourist arrivals, liberalization of settlements, and joint promotion of tourist destinations.

Reshetnikov said that “Russia-Serbia relations are based on long-standing friendship and confidence. Both sides are interested in cooperation and, importantly, have a potential for its development. We are grateful to the Serbian side for keeping the visa-free system for Russians and the clear stance on the preservation of the existing visa policy.” Over 52,000 Russian tourists visited Serbia in the first quarter of 2025.