Požega and Užice Serbia Attractions

When it comes to West Serbia attractions, the road will lead you through Požega and Užice Serbia. If you don’t want to miss out on things to do here, make sure to read this post first—because I’ve visited them both!

FROM BELGRADE: 195 km to Užice (Požega to Užice – about 20 km)

FROM NIŠ: 240 km to Užice

Traveling from Belgrade towards Zlatibor Mountain or Montenegro, many travelers pass by road signs for these two towns but rarely stop.

Požega & Užice Serbia

When I got there, I learned that my first visit should be to the village where the great 19th-century Serbian ruler Miloš Obrenović was born. And when I heard that the first power plant in Serbia was built in Užice, designed by the famous Nikola Tesla and constructed only five years after the one at Niagara Falls, I was hooked! Make sure to come and explore!

Požega Serbia

First mentioned in 1476, the old town of Požega was burned by the Ottomans in 1805. Serbian ruler Miloš Obrenović later sent a state engineer to create settlement plans. Legend says he marked a spot with a stick, tied a rope, and drew a circle, forming the town’s iconic circular square. This square, with all the houses and shops built around it, became Požega’s landmark. After its renovation in 2012, the square gained a modern look, earning awards as the most successful architectural achievement in the area and being proclaimed the most beautiful square in Serbia.

Požega is where all the major roads and railway routes converge. According to a 2002 census, the town itself is home to over 13,000 people, while the entire municipality has around 30,000 residents.

First Stop: Gornja Dobrinja Village

Jelena from the local Tourism Organization explained that the village, Miloš Obrenović’s birthplace, features a Memorial Complex. Here, a small wooden building called Čardak, built by Miloš in 1860 and dedicated to his father Todor (or Teodor), still stands. As we drove 20 kilometers from Požega, Jelena recounted stories from the prince’s life.

Miloš’s mother, Višnja, remarried after her husband’s death. Her new husband, Todor, became Miloš’s stepfather, but Miloš eventually adopted the surname Obrenović from his elder half-brother Milan, who was a significant Serbian governor.

The Čardak was historically used during religious festivals. Nearby, the Saint Apostle Peter and Paul Church, built by Miloš in 1822 as his endowment, stands alongside his monument. Between the monument’s feet, we noticed rusted coins scattered by visitors, possibly a local custom symbolizing prosperity.

The statue is so life-like that it feels as though Miloš is still watching over the village from the hill. The school he built in 1857 is also here and remains operational to this day. We visited it, took some photos, and greeted locals who were gathered outside a charming café-post office-store—all in one! A flowerpot perched on an old yellow mailbox caught my eye—a nostalgic reminder of simpler times.

On the way back to Požega, Jelena shared that a replica of Prince Miloš’s ceremonial robe had been commissioned. The idea of a costumed guide greeting visitors at the Memorial Complex sounded enchanting—perhaps one day, it will come to life.

 

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Next Stop: Railway Museum

Our next visit was to the Railway Museum, a must-see whether you’re a train enthusiast or not. This unique museum showcases relics like an old iron press for stamping train tickets and a furnace in the waiting room. The railway tracks themselves hold treasures, including locomotives that look like they’ve stepped out of a black-and-white movie!

The museum features four tracks, the old railway station, and several historical wagons and locomotives. Among these are the famous Ćira locomotive and one named Milan, built in the Balkans in 1882 and named after Serbian King Milan Obrenović. Another standout is the Rama model from 1873, made in Germany, with only two remaining in the world—one in Japan and the other here in Požega, Serbia. The proximity of the new railway station adds an intriguing contrast, as the noise lends a sense of life to the historic setting.

The weather was perfect, so we took a break at one of the cafés overlooking Požega’s famous circular square. From there, we admired Prince Miloš Obrenović’s monument standing proudly in front of the municipality building. I visited the spot again with my fellow digital creators when I had the opportunity to lead a group on behalf of the Regional Tourism Organization of Western Serbia, as you can see below. It was a wonderful experience in a beautiful setting!

 

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Potpeć Cave

Potpeć Cave is located in the charming village of Potpeće, nestled between Požega and Užice, Serbia, just 2 km from the main road. The cave is renowned for its monumental, 50-meter-high entrance, uniquely shaped like a horseshoe. This striking feature makes it the tallest cave entrance in the Balkans. Archaeological discoveries suggest that the cave was inhabited during Neolithic times, as evidenced by the fragments of pottery and objects crafted from stone and deer antlers found within.

A 555-meter visitor trail, comprising over 700 steps, winds through the magnificent cave halls. The underground waters inside form the Petnica River, which dramatically bursts out of the immense cave entrance. With an average temperature of 9 degrees Celsius, Potpeć Cave offers a cool retreat. Visitors can explore the cave daily from April to October, between 10 am and 4 pm.

Getting to Potpeć Cave from Požega is quick and easy—it’s just a few kilometers off the main road. As you ascend slightly into the hills, you’ll know you’re close when you hear the roar of the Petnica River echoing through the enormous entrance. There’s a convenient parking area nearby. Upon arrival, I walked up 180 steps to the gate, taking in the stunning view from above and attempting (unsuccessfully!) to avoid the ever-present mosquitoes. Soon, Aleksandar, the guide, appeared, leading a previous group out of the cave. Guided tours are available hourly, and visitor numbers vary depending on the weather and season. I was lucky enough to have a private tour at noon—a rare and delightful privilege!

Aleksandar introduced me to the Upper Cave, pointing out ancient Neolithic pottery and a fascinating mammoth-shaped cavity in the rock. We then ventured into the cave’s inner corridors. The air was humid, the paths richly adorned with stalagmites and stalactites, and we occasionally had to duck under low-hanging formations to enter another grand hall. Each hall had its own character, with whimsical names inspired by the shapes of the formations. Along the way, I encountered “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” “Don Quixote,” “Eagle on the Rock,” and formations resembling a baby, alligator jaws, and even legendary dragons.

While stepping carefully through a small puddle, Aleksandar shared the story of the “Hall of Dragons.” According to legend, two dragons once guarded a magical spring within the cave, whose waters were said to cure ailments and aid women in conceiving.

“When the spring dried up, the dragons turned to stone. And there they remain—look!” Aleksandar said, gesturing to the rock formations.

It’s no surprise that Potpeć Cave has inspired such magical tales. A quick glimpse into its mysterious corridors is enough to understand why! (It’s also worth noting that the cave air is believed to have health benefits, particularly for the lungs. A place that’s both stunning and beneficial—what more could one ask for?)

Zlakusa Serbia

Located between Požega and Užice, Serbia, the village of Zlakusa is famed for its rich pottery-making tradition. Many households still practice this craft, which has been passed down through generations. The area is also abundant in forests, medicinal herbs, and fish ponds. Visitors can purchase handmade ceramic dishes or even try their hand at pottery-making. Zlakusa hosts several pottery-focused events throughout the year, including the International Colony of Art Ceramics in August and a lively cooking competition in autumn.

 

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Pottery stalls along the main road are a clear indication that you’ve arrived in Zlakusa. The same turnoff leads to Potpeć Cave, so if you visit the cave first, as I did, it’s just another kilometer back to Zlakusa. Here, atop a scenic hill, you’ll find the Ethno Park Terzića Avlija.

This was not my first visit to this charming museum, but its vibrant garden, always brimming with colorful flowers, never fails to impress. Many stop here to enjoy coffee and traditional Serbian specialties at the park’s restaurant, but the real treasures lie in its two old Serbian houses. One, over a century old, was used for everyday activities and now houses a small museum filled with traditional artifacts, including old school benches. The other served as a guesthouse and still retains its original furnishings.

The park also features smaller traditional buildings scattered throughout the garden, historically used for storing milk or household tools. Together, these elements create an enchanting glimpse into the cultural heritage of Užice, Serbia, and the surrounding region.

Užice Serbia

The town became part of the medieval 12th-century Serbian state and was first mentioned in historical records in 1329. Later, it was included in the state ruled by the famous Emperor Lazar, only to be soon occupied by the Ottomans. A striking monument from this era is the old 14th-century fortress, which stands proudly atop the highest hill overlooking the modern town, surrounded by the river on three sides. Užice Serbia was also a major rebel center during the Ottoman rule and served as an important military strategic base in various conflicts, from the Austro-Turkish wars to World War II.

In 1899, Serbian King Aleksandar Obrenović laid the foundation stone for the construction of the first hydroelectric power plant on the Đetinja River. This development brought electricity to Užice Serbia, and its streets were illuminated the following year, spurring rapid economic and cultural growth.

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It is impossible to drive along the main road through Užice Serbia without noticing the grand walls of the Old Town fortress perched on the hill. While it appears inaccessible, those who are not fond of hiking should know that the Old Town is easily reachable by car. Clear street signs throughout the city make navigation simple. Once you arrive, you’ll find the effort well worth it, rewarded with breathtaking views of the entire valley. The site evokes reflection—just imagine the fierce battles that took place here seven or eight centuries ago. What tales these ancient walls could tell, standing resolute through so much history! It’s truly awe-inspiring.

Reliable 14th-century sources reveal that the fortress initially belonged to the wealthy Vojinović family. Later, it was seized by the regional ruler Nikola Altomanović, who was defeated by Serbian Emperor Lazar and imprisoned here in 1373. The fortress was often destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries. Its upper section once housed a semicircular tower, while smaller buildings for military supplies stood at the center. The lower part featured another tower connected to the river below.

For an alternative perspective, visit the Observation Deck “At the Cross,” located on a mountain peak directly opposite the fortress. Getting there is straightforward—drive about 10 kilometers from Užice Serbia’s center towards Zlatibor, then turn left at the first gas station on your right. I had the privilege of being guided to this scenic spot by Miroslav Rađen, the former Head of the Regional Tourism Organization of Western Serbia, who shared fascinating insights and stories about the area.

The fortress also has its share of folk tales, like many other historic sites in Serbia. One legend involves a 15th-century Greek princess known as the Damned Jerina, married to Serbian despot Đurađ Branković. Her rule was said to be cruel, with legends claiming she forced pregnant women to build fortresses and threw their children into rivers. This is how the Đetinja River purportedly got its name (derived from dete, meaning “child” in Serbian). However, the Užice fortress predated Jerina’s time by centuries and had already witnessed significant historical events before her appearance on the Serbian political scene.

Now, from the fortress, you can also take a zipline ride, which we did during our digital nomads’ journey through the region. Here’s a little sneak peek of what it looks like:

 

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The Đetinja River originates from Tara Mountain and flows into the West Morava River. Just a few kilometers from the city center, you can access the river’s stunning gorge, a protected area of special natural significance, home to numerous endemic species. Notably, the gorge hosts the richest butterfly population in Serbia. Its scenic slopes teem with fish, while a section of the river closer to town forms a City Beach, bustling with swimmers in summer. This makes the Đetinja River a must-see attraction on any Užice Serbia itinerary.

Still, what truly put Užice Serbia on the map was its hydroelectric power plant! In 1898, renowned Serbian professor Đorđe Stanojević assessed the Đetinja River’s potential for hydroelectricity, following the principles of Nikola Tesla. A year later, the town’s streets were electrified, and local industries gained power for their machinery. The equipment for the plant was transported all the way from Vienna, with ox-carts navigating the final muddy kilometers. Today, the site houses the Museum of Technology, offering a fascinating glimpse into this groundbreaking achievement.

There are several other sites to explore in Užice Serbia. Jokanović’s House, dating back to the mid-19th century, was once owned by affluent merchants. The buildings of the National Museum and the renowned High School from 1838 are equally intriguing, as is the expansive City Square. And, of course, you must try the komplet lepinja—a local delicacy consisting of buns filled with eggs and kajmak, baked in the oven and topped with gravy. This dish is synonymous with Užice Serbia, and locals insist that the authentic version can only be found here. While some regional eateries serve it with pršuta or ćevapi, true connoisseurs dismiss these variations as inauthentic. You’ll likely be directed to the Šuljaga Bakery for a taste of this specialty. Be warned, though—locals admit to indulging sparingly, as this hearty dish isn’t exactly diet-friendly.

Should I mention that after indulging in all these delicious Western Serbia specialties, I returned home a kilo or two heavier? But with such hospitality and exquisite cuisine, how could I resist?

 

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Požega and Užice Hotels

These two towns offer accommodation options either in an urban setting or in the surrounding villages, immersed in nature. If you’d prefer to stay in Užice, click on this link to choose from various accommodations and hotels. Požega also provides a range of lodging options, whether in the town or its outskirts (click here). Or perhaps you’d like to experience a traditional Serbian ethno-village? That’s possible too, of course—check out this option in the village of Rasna.

Naturally, you won’t go wrong if you decide to visit Tara or Zlatibor and then stop by one of these towns for a day. Just make sure to prepare in advance—read through all the details here and plan your trip carefully so you don’t miss anything!

Next destination – KOSJERIĆ & MOKRA GORA SERBIA

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