Plan your visit
Plan Your Visit to Resava Cave
Prepare for the constant 7°C underground temperatures, arrange your transport, and plan your route through eastern Serbia.
Getting there
Most visitors either drive from Belgrade or join an organized day trip.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive via the E-75 highway from Belgrade or Niš, and exit towards Despotovac. The cave is 20 km from Despotovac with clear signage. | 2 hours from Belgrade (150 km) | Fuel + highway tolls | A large free parking lot is available right at the site. |
| Tour: Book a full-day guided group or private tour from Belgrade that includes Resava Cave, Manasija Monastery, and Lisine Waterfall. | 10-12 hours for the full day | €60 - €100+ | A very popular and stress-free option for international visitors without a rental car. |
| Bus: Take a public bus from major cities to Despotovac, then hire a local taxi to the cave. | 3-4 hours | €10-€20 | There is no direct public bus to the cave entrance; a taxi for the final 20km stretch is required. |
When to go
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
QuietModerateBusyPeak
The cave is open year-round, but April to October is the main season, offering extended hours from 09:00 to 17:00. Summer is the best time to visit to escape the heat, though weekends can be busy with local tourists.
What to bring
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The cave interior stays at 7°C (45°F) with 80-100% humidity all year.
Bring a warm jacket and non-slip shoes.
How the day runs
Suggested schedules for visiting the region.
A full day exploring the Resava Valley by car.
- Depart Belgrade
Drive south on the E-75 highway toward Despotovac.
- Manasija Monastery
Stop in Despotovac to see the 15th-century fortified monastery.
- Resava Cave
Join the next available guided walk through the cave galleries.
- Lisine Waterfall
Drive to Veliki Buk for views and a late lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Practical Advice
Preparation is key for the cave. Even in July, you need a warm jacket and long pants. The concrete steps get wet and extremely slippery due to the high humidity, so sturdy, non-slip shoes are a must. If you forget a jacket, you can rent one at the entrance for 100 RSD.
Photography is allowed when standing still, but flash is strictly forbidden. Bring cash (RSD) for your entry tickets and for lunch in the surrounding area, as card payments may not always be available at smaller local spots.
Easiest way to do it
Day Trip from Belgrade: Gems of Eastern Serbia
9 h to 10 h 5.0 (517)
- Professional English-speaking guide
- WiFi on board
- Bottled water
- Hotel pick up and drop-off
From$119per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
How do I get there from Belgrade?
By car, it takes about 2 hours (150 km) via the E-75 highway, exiting toward Despotovac. If you rely on public transport, you can take a bus to Despotovac and hire a taxi for the final 20 km. The easiest option without a car is booking a full-day tour from Belgrade.
What should I wear?
Wear a warm winter jacket or fleece, long pants, and sturdy walking shoes. The temperature is always 7°C (45°F), and the paths are wet.
Is it safe for young children?
The path involves 800 meters of walking, including wet and slippery stairs descending 80 meters. While children are allowed (under 7s pay 50 RSD), parents should exercise caution with toddlers due to the cold and the slippery steps.