Hotels near Ada Ciganlija

Ada Ciganlija is a former Sava river island converted into Belgrade's summer beach and adventure park. In the 1960s the city dammed both channels around the island and built an artificial lake, then imported white sand for 8 kilometres of gravel-and-sand beach. Locals just call it Ada. From May to September this is the city's outdoor centre - up to 300,000 people visit on a hot weekend.

The lake is safe for swimming (regularly water-tested), with roped-off sections and lifeguards from June to August. On the shore you can rent bicycles and inline skates for around 200 RSD per hour, play tennis, football, basketball, beach volleyball or golf, and use the outdoor calisthenics parks. Adventure Park adds bungee, water skiing, kayaking and a ropes course open May-September for 800 RSD per round. In winter the lake freezes and the ski simulator on the north bank stays open year-round. Bike paths link Ada to Zemun, Dorcol and New Belgrade along the Sava.

Pro Tip: Walk or cycle to the western tip of the island (Ada Medjica) for quieter beaches with the fewest crowds. Bring your own picnic - the on-site cafes charge tourist prices - and pick up burek and yogurt from any Trznica bakery on the way in.