Welcome to Belgrade The European Friends of 3GPP (EF3) extends a warm welcome to SA4 #95 in Belgrade. Belgrade is the capital and largest city of Serbia. It is located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, where the Pannonian Plain meets the Balkans. Appropriately, we’re downstream of both Bratislava (SA4 #83 - Danube) and Ljubljana (SA4 #90 - Sava). Its name translates to White city. The city has a population of ~1.23 million.

Belgrade was again named the capital of Serbia in 1841. A little bit of history In 1521, Belgrade was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and became the seat of the Sanjak of Smederevo. It frequently passed from Ottoman to Habsburg rule, which saw the destruction of most of the city during the Austro-Ottoman wars. Belgrade was again named the capital of Serbia in 1841. Northern Belgrade remained the southernmost outpost of the Habsburg empire until 1918, when the city was reunited. As a strategic location, the city was fought over in 115 wars and raised to the ground 44 times. Belgrade was the capital of Yugoslavia (in various forms of governments) from its creation in 1918, to its final dissolution in 2006.

Belgrade – some places to see Belgrade Fortress Belgrade sightseeing should start in the place where every story, tale and myth about the city were made. Belgrade Fortress is the largest free attraction of the city with its gates open 24/7, all year round. Knez Mihailova Street Knez Mihailova Street is the favorite city promenade and lies in between Terazije Square and Kalemegdan Republic Square Republic Square is the main meeting place where you can enjoy a lazy afternoon sipping coffee in the mild autumn Sun, attend concerts, various performances or just hang around doing nothing special. The square is the site of a monument of Serbian Prince (Knez) Mihailova on a horse and two of the most important cultural buildings; The National Theater and National Museum (which is unfortunately closed for renovation). Skadarlija Skadarska Street or Skadarlija as Belgradians like to call it was, and still is, the bohemian heart of Belgrade. If you want to party in an traditionally Serbian way, with a lot of rakija, good food and live music performed by string orchestras, then you have to visit Skadarlija. It represents the spirit of socializing in bistros and vivid nightlife as it used to be.

Key Landmarks New Belgrade Old Belgrade River Danube River Sava Crowne Plaza Hotel Belgrade Fortress Republic Square River Danube River Sava Saint Sava Cathedral Nikola Tesla Museum Skadarlija District Knez Mihailova Street New Belgrade Old Belgrade

Belgrade – Practical info Here are some basic guidelines to bear in mind when out and about: Booking: In most restaurants it isn’t necessary to book a table in advance. If however, you don’t want to be disappointed book in advance. Dress code: You can visit all restaurants casually dressed and without a tie. (Even on Bowtie Wednesday! ) Non-smoking sections: All Belgrade restaurants are smoky. Some restaurants may have no-smoking sections but these are likely to be situated right next to smoking areas. Signalling waiting staff: It is perfectly acceptable to signal waiting staff with your hand (!). Tipping: Rarely will you find a restaurant in Belgrade whose bill has the item "service cost" listed on it. Tips are entirely left up to the guest. If you are unsatisfied with the service, you don't have to leave a tip; if the service has been to your satisfaction, the custom is to leave a tip between 5 – 10%. Local wines, beers & spirits: Do try the local wines, beers, spirits and juices. Serbia has on offer a wide range of quality national and local beverages. Jay Walking: The Police may fine you for crossing the road without using the pedestrian crossings or if you cross on a red light.

Meeting Information Meeting Rooms: Coffee breaks: 10:30 & 15:30 Your room rate includes breakfast, internet and VAT. Plenty of restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. Food Court on 3rd Floor of USCE Shopping Centre which is within easy walking distance. Old town: Approximately 45 min walking distance via Brankov Bridge (Under construction so use the North Side) or by taxi (~500 RSD = ~€4.5) As always, a satisfaction survey will be sent by EF3 after the meeting to collect your impressions on this venue. Exhibition hall: plenary room for 70 people (all week) Danube: break-out room for 20 people (from Monday to Thursday) Lounge: break-out room for 35 people (from Monday to Thursday)

Access to Old Town & Location of USCE Shopping Mall Crowne Plaza Hotel USCE Shopping Centre Brankov Bridge

Have a great time in Belgrade!