Best Roadside Restaurants Between Skopje and Belgrade
Driving from Skopje, North Macedonia, to Belgrade, Serbia, is a relatively short but incredibly scenic journey. Enjoying delicious, authentic Balkan food along the way significantly enhances the experience. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport can get you there comfortably, providing a reliable vehicle for your exploration – starting from just €22/day. We've compiled a list of the best roadside restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Rent a Car Skopje Airport: Your Gateway to the Balkans
Before diving into the culinary delights, securing reliable transportation is paramount. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport, operating since 2001 at Skopje Alexander the Great Airport (SKP / LWSK), offers a diverse fleet including economy, compact, SUV, and 7-seater vans. We also provide extras like CDW insurance, GPS navigation, and child seats. Picking up your vehicle is simple with our free airport shuttle – ensuring a hassle-free start to your Balkan adventure.
Top Roadside Restaurants Along the Route
The route between Skopje and Belgrade primarily follows the E75 highway, connecting these two vibrant cities. Here are some highly-rated restaurants you'll encounter, categorized by distance from Skopje:
Within the First 50km: Gostilna Stara Čaršija
Located just outside of Skopje, Gostilna Stara Čaršija (Old Bazaar) is a fantastic first stop. This traditional Macedonian restaurant offers hearty portions of local specialties like tavče gravče (baked beans) and grilled meats. Expect a rustic atmosphere and friendly service.
100-150km: Restoran Vodenica
As you enter Serbia, Restoran Vodenica appears as a welcome sight. Situated near the Timok River, this restaurant boasts a beautiful location and a menu featuring both Serbian and Macedonian dishes. Their grilled meats and fresh salads are particularly popular. The drive here allows you to appreciate the changing landscape.
200-250km: Kod Bojana
Kod Bojana is a consistently recommended stop for travelers. It's known for its excellent grilled meats, especially pljeskavica (Serbian burger) and ćevapi (grilled minced meat rolls). The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is efficient.
300-350km: Motel Relax Pirot
Motel Relax Pirot is more than just a motel; it has a surprisingly good restaurant. While the accommodation is an option, the restaurant serves up classic Serbian comfort food. It's a convenient place to refuel and stretch your legs.
What to Expect on the Road
- Speed Limits: Be aware of speed limits. Within cities, it's generally 50 km/h. On highways, the limit is 130 km/h, although it can be reduced in certain areas due to weather or road conditions.
- Toll Roads: Both North Macedonia and Serbia have toll roads. You can pay with cash or by using an electronic vignette (toll sticker) which you must purchase before entering the highway.
- Driving Conditions: The E75 is generally well-maintained, but be mindful of occasional construction zones.
- Regulations: North Macedonia is a member of the UN and a NATO candidate. Always carry your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents. A Green Card (Zone 1 & 2) is required.
Quick Reference: Driving Essentials
Here’s a handy table summarizing key driving information:
| Feature | North Macedonia | Serbia |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | MKD (Denar) | RSD (Dinar) |
| Speed Limit (Highway) | 130 km/h | 130 km/h |
| Toll Payment | Cash or Vignette | Cash or Vignette |
| Required Documents | Driver's License, Vehicle Registration, Insurance, Green Card | Driver's License, Vehicle Registration, Insurance, Green Card |
Why Choose Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport?
We understand the needs of both tourists and business travellers. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport offers competitive rates, a wide selection of vehicles, and convenient services like city-centre delivery. Our experienced team is committed to providing a seamless car rental experience, ensuring you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a second driver to the insurance?
Yes, additional driver fee is €2/day. The second driver must be present at pickup with their own driving licence and passport. They're then named on the contract and insurance applies equally to either driver. Spouses/partners often share the cost over a longer rental.
Is theft insurance separate from CDW?
No, theft protection is included in the basic free package. If the entire car is stolen, your liability is capped at €200 (same as CDW excess). If only items are stolen FROM the car (e.g., luggage), our insurance doesn't cover personal belongings — your travel insurance does.
Will my credit card travel insurance cover the CDW excess?
Some cards (Visa Signature, Mastercard World Elite, American Express Platinum) cover rental CDW excess globally. Check your specific benefit guide — most require declining the rental company's CDW upgrade entirely and paying with that card. If the card requires using its own insurance, we still offer Basic CDW free as fallback.
What's NOT covered by either insurance tier?
Tyre, windscreen, and undercarriage damage; lost keys; interior damage (smoking, spills); fuel-policy violations; intoxicated driving; driving outside the agreed border zone; and damage from off-road driving with a non-4x4 vehicle. These exclusions are standard across all rental companies in Macedonia.
What insurance is included in the daily rate for Rent a Car Skopje?
Basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is included free. It covers body damage with a €200 excess (you pay up to €200 on any claim, we cover the rest). Theft Protection (TP) and Third-Party Liability are also included automatically — both legally mandatory in North Macedonia.
