Serbia recorded continued growth in tourism activity in May, supported by stronger international demand and increased aviation capacity. The country registered approximately 470,000 tourist arrivals, representing a 7.4% year-on-year increase, while overnight stays reached 1.209 million, up 5.5% compared with the same period. Foreign visitors accounted for the largest growth contribution, with international overnight stays increasing faster than domestic demand.
International Arrivals Lead Overnight Stay Growth
Domestic tourists generated 629,000 overnight stays in May, an increase of 2.2% year on year. Foreign visitors recorded 581,000 overnight stays, representing growth of 9.3%. The largest foreign visitor markets included Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia, China and Germany.
Among urban destinations, Belgrade, Novi Sad and Niš remained the leading locations for visitors. In the spa and mountain tourism segments, the most visited destinations included Vrnjačka Banja, Sokobanja, Banja Vrdnik, Zlatibor, Kopaonik and Tara.
Belgrade Airport Prepares for Higher Summer Traffic
Passenger growth is also being supported by expanding air connectivity. Belgrade Airport is expected to exceed one million monthly passengers for the first time during July, provided traffic increases by at least 2.7% compared with the July 2025 level. Airline capacity at the airport is increasing, with scheduled seat availability approximately 5.9% higher year on year.
Air Serbia is adding 43,416 seats, representing a 7.5% increase, supported by around 420 additional flights. Wizz Air is expanding capacity by 37,035 seats, or 20.5%, with approximately 50 additional flights.
Tourism Infrastructure Faces Higher Seasonal Demand
The expansion of air traffic is expected to support business activity for Belgrade hotels, airport retail operators, ground transport providers and short-stay accommodation businesses. At the same time, higher passenger volumes during the peak summer season increase operational demands on airport infrastructure, including airport access, baggage handling systems, ground handling services and connections between the airport and the city centre.
