Niš guide for UK visitors: the fortress, Skull Tower and Roman heritage
Some links here are affiliate links: we may earn a small fee if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
The short answerNiš is one of Serbia's oldest cities, with a fortress, the grim Skull Tower and the Roman site of Mediana nearby. It is a few hours south of Belgrade by road or train, and works as an overnight stop on a longer Serbia route.
In this guide
Niš is for travellers who want history beyond Belgrade.
Main sights
- Niš Fortress, in a park by the river
- The Skull Tower, a memorial built from skulls
- Mediana, a Roman site on the edge of town
- Old-town cafes and restaurants
1Get there
Allow a few hours from Belgrade by road, bus or train. Check current timetables. See getting around Serbia.
2See the fortress and old town
The fortress and its park are a pleasant place to walk, with cafes nearby.
3Visit Mediana and the Skull Tower
Check opening times, as some sites close on certain days.
4Plan where to stay
Details change. Check opening times, prices and official advice before you go.
Related reading
This guide is part of our complete Serbia travel guide for UK visitors. See all places to visit guides.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Niš from Belgrade?
A few hours by road or train, depending on the route and traffic.
What is the Skull Tower?
It is a memorial in Niš built from the skulls of Serbian soldiers; check opening times before you visit.
