What makes Belgrade’s nightlife incredibly unique is the river floating parties, or splavovi. Splav for short, can typically be found near Ušće waterfront and behind the Belgrade Fair. Each splav features a different type of music, vibe, crowd; but all have spectacular views of the sunset and city lights by night.

Splavs began trending in the late 1960s as private floating boats near Ada Ciganlija – an artificial island altered into a peninsula on the Sava River where Serbs gathered during summer months. These rafts were often owned by elites in society: doctors, politicians, lawyers…etc. During the late 1980s, the first public splav opened as an outlet for locals to escape the harsh reality of civil wars in Yugoslavia. These boats became the perfect venue for criminal activities, such as shootings and fights, since the wealthy used them to compare economic powers. Even today when splavs have risen to be cool clubs drawing an attractive crowd, many Serbs remain to connect the word with a negative connotation relating to high risk of violence.

Some splavs are open year-round, while others only welcome guests during summer season. Every splav specializes in a different genre of music, but expect a good mixture: house, techno, trance, R&B, hip-hop, and even turbo-folk which has recently been popularized as a sub-genre combining folk music and Serbian pop.

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Freestyler is arguably the most glamorous nightclub in Belgrade, with a reputation of exclusivity and VIP tables. Located right on Sava River, Freestyler is on a floating boat with newly renovated sound and lighting systems. Do make a reservation since the club is always packed. After 20 years, Freestyler has made a name for itself, one as synonymous as the ultimate nightlife experience in the city. For VIP package/table, it’s 330€‎ per group which allows up to 10 people and also includes two bottles from the menu. Price may change on busier nights.

Also situated on Sava River, Klub 20/24 is renowned for techno and trance music on the waterfront. Granted, genre also expands to dubstep, house, funk and disco depending on the theme of specific nights. Klub 20/24 is known for live performances and non-stop dancing on two stages. Head there especially during summertime when you can party with the view of lights lit upon the bridge and Old Town. During winter months, soirées are hosted under the deck. This institution highlights mostly local DJs, though Peggy Gou and other international names have made appearances.

As mentioned above, the same owner as Hype also created Leto Splav which can be found at the cross of Sava River and Danube River in Central Belgrade. Since the club’s theme stems from nature, guests find themselves surrounded by greenery and plant-related décor. Leto means “summer” in Serbian, hence this floating boat party has become a favorite among posh night owls looking to dance all night to R&B and disco. Also, be sure to make reservations here since spots are limited and the space fills up quickly.

One of the hottest places for the chic crowd is Money Club, located in central Belgrade on the Sava River. Internationally-acclaimed and resident DJs spin to hip-hop and R&B hits daily, entertaining a sophisticated clientele. Since it’s the same owners as The Bank Club, expect Serbian elites and athletes glamorously indulge in VIP services at Money Club. The age limit here is 23+, and fashionable dress code is strictly enforced.

Another floating boat on the Sava River behind the Belgrade Fair, Lasta Splav pulses along to electro, house, disco and funk beats. Though on Thursdays, there are mash-ups while Sundays are reserved for hip-hop all the way. Surrounded by palm trees that take one back to Bali or L.A., Lasta Splav’s legendary parties are both lively and fancy. Make sure to reserve a table, or entering the club might be difficult. The cocktail menu is quite extensive, and sipping on a tasty mixed drink pairs even better with splendid sunset view on the waterfront.

During summertime, Splav TAG is open every night, either with theme parties, dance or house music. Since 2015, the two-story waterfront chocolate barge has been welcoming guests with comfy sofas, contemporary design, tasty food menu and a spacious dance floor; making Splav TAG a perfect and fun night out with friends. From the boat, there’s incredible view of city lights, Sava River, Belgrade Fort and the foot of Kalemegadan is lit with gorgeous illumination.

What makes Splav Kartel so unique is a spectacular stage placed at the top of the boat, making it one of the best clubs in Europe, beyond the ranks of splavs. During summer season, Wednesday is the best day to hit up Kartel, then the hype continues throughout the weekend. The best hours typically starts at midnight until 4 a.m. Despite that it fits 450 guests, it’s still better to reserve a table ahead of time.

Splav Bridge is one of the most centrally located floating boats, right behind the Belgrade Fair. Due to busy foot traffic, it is one of the most dazzling splavs architecturally, with lights beaming on the outside of the raft and the interior’s central platforms are designed so that all 500+ guests feel like they’re on center stage. In essence, Bridge feels like an indoor club experience on a floating river boat.

Since its opening, Club PORT by Community has evolved into one of the most popular splavs in Belgrade. Located at the cross of Sava and Danube, PORT encompasses the magnificent view of the Kalemegdan Fortress and The Cathedral Church of St. Michael the Archangel. The club frequently features Serbian band of the moment, the crowd is a mix of older urban and fashionable trendsetters.

Thirty years ago, Hua Hua Raft was opened and named after a Dutch ship. The boat has its own band, Hua Hua Band, often playing live folk music to cameos by Serbian celebrities, politicians and athletes. At this point, Hua Hua has become an institution. Since the space is small, reservation several days prior to your arrival is needed.

For a great vibe, casual dress code and good music; Shlep is all you need. For any given night, this friendly spot is all about people bringing positive energy without attitude. Also near Branko’s bridge, Shlep is one of many splavs along the west side of Sava River. Prices at the club are extremely affordable compared to other floating boats. It’s all about having laidback fun here.

The two best days to visit Sindikat Splav is on Fridays and Saturdays when the theme is the same on both nights: Serbian and international pop mixed with electronic music. The crowd here leans on the older side. In order to book a table, just buy a bottle. Migrated over to the Fair Quay since 2018, Sindikat is also known for its incredible light show during live performances.

It’s difficult to miss Zappa Barka on the water, simply look out for a splav plastered with black and white street art of music legends like Prince and Billy Idol. After entering the boat with a bright orange sign, the fun begins with a different type of music depending on the night: funk, jazz, ska, punk or new wave. Located near the Branko Bridge, Zappa Barka also hosts a wide variety of events, like yoga classes and film screenings.