“Our goal has been to preserve the spirit, charm, and historical significance of the spa, to protect its springs, parks, forests, and rivers, while elevating its offerings to the level of the world’s leading destinations,” states the leader of Vrnjačka Banja proudly
Vrnjačka Banja is today synonymous with luxury, relaxation and entertainment. This remarkable transformation is attributed to the visionary leadership of municipal president Boban Đurović, whose incredible energy and dedication to development have proved that even the boldest dreams can become reality when a vision is turned into action. Under his guidance, and with strong support from the central government and the private sector, this small yet powerful spa oasis has become a beacon of innovation, attractiveness and quality of life. At the end of yet another successful year and the beginning of one that promises to be even better, we spoke with President Đurović about the incredible success and exceptional results achieved.
It’s clear that all the significant investments have paid off many times over, with visitors thrilled by what they find in Vrnjačka Banja.
— Absolutely! Every year, we achieve results that exceed all our expectations. By investing in infrastructure, accommodation capacities, diverse amenities, numerous events and natural resources, we have managed to create an environment that not only delights our guests, but also sets new standards for Serbian tourism.
This is a success not just for Vrnjačka Banja, but for everyone who believes that the synergy of tradition, modernity and sustainable development can produce lasting results. The overwhelmingly positive reactions of our visitors are reflected in the new records we’ve set for tourist numbers. The high interest in Vrnjačka Banja is a clear indication that it’s a destination that not only meets expectations but exceeds them.
Vrnjačka Banja has been among the most visited destinations in Serbia for decades, while it today offers luxury comparable to the most exclusive global destinations, catering to even the most demanding guests.
— Vrnjačka Banja is a testament to what can be achieved through the combined efforts of the state, private sector and local government. Our goal was to retain the essence of the spa – its charm and historical significance – while protecting its natural treasures, such as springs, parks, forests and rivers. At the same time, we aimed to enhance its offer to match those of the world’s leading destinations.
The gondola project, which we are implementing in partnership with the Đoković family and with substantial support from the state, represents a symbol of our aspiration to create a sustainable future
Our guests can today experience a complete offer, from top-notch hotels and services to prestigious cultural, entertainment and sporting events. We also boast an incredible range of attractions, including the largest Ferris wheel and water park in the Balkans.
We offer relaxation, entertainment and inspiration, but also, and above all, the opportunity to experience the unique charm that only Vrnjačka Banja can provide.
Considering that your season never ends and runs year-round, what have you prepared for the winter months?
— Vrnjačka Banja has successfully overcome the concept of a “tourist season”. Our success lies in continuity. We offer visitors new experiences each month. The winter months are marked by festive magic and we traditionally welcome the New Year with a grand New Year’s concert.
This time, for 2025, Sanja Vučić will ring in the New Year for all Vrnjačka Banja locals and guests. There’s also the Vrnjačka New Year’s Fairytale on the Culture Square, numerous activities for children, interactions with Santa Claus, children’s theatre performances, rock concerts and more.
Our hoteliers consistently strive to delight their guests with additional exciting contents and special packages, complemented by top-tier services and enjoyment at the most modern wellness and spa centres.
In this transformation, we’ve learned that ambition isn’t measured by the height of our goals, but by the dedication and unity with which we achieve them. All our efforts are currently directed towards maintaining the reputation we’ve earned, while our goal is to raise the bar and enhance our offer with every new project.
You wanted Vrnjačka Banja to be equally attractive to all age groups—children, young people, families, business professionals and the elderly. Do you have the right offer for all of them?
— Our activities are focused on people and their needs. We’ve created a space where generations connect by offering themed activities for children, engaging events for young people, conference facilities for business guests, romantic corners for couples and rehabilitation programmes and activities for seniors.
Our goal is for Vrnjačka Banja to be a place where people create beautiful memories, regardless of their age or interests.
Every record you break motivates you to work with even more intensity and dedication on new projects. How is your largest project – the gondola lift connecting Vrnjačka Banja to Mount Goč – progressing?
— The gondola project, which we are implementing in partnership with the Đoković family and with substantial support from the state, represents a symbol of our aspiration to create a sustainable future – one that combines the preservation of nature with innovations tailored to meet the demands of modern tourism.
We’ve completed all necessary planning phases and secured funding for its implementation. Construction will begin in 2025 and its completion will connect the two gems of Vrnjačka Banja and Mount Goč into a single, integrated entity.
We offer relaxation, entertainment and inspiration, but also, and above all, the chance to experience the unique charm that only Vrnjačka Banja can provide
The Municipality of Vrnjačka Banja has submitted an environmental impact assessment request to the relevant ministry. The gondola project includes a starting station in Vrnjačka Banja, a mid-station in Lipova and an end station on Mount Goč, with 30 tower locations.
The gondola will initially operate with 52 carriages, later increasing to a total of 84, each with a capacity of 10 passengers. With a maximum speed of 6 m/s, the gondola is designed to transport 2,400 people per hour year-round and will span approximately seven kilometres, with an elevation differential of 782.7 metres.
We are simultaneously creating new amenities on Mount Goč, such as an adrenaline park, zip lines, adventure parks, new ski runs and health trails. We will also enhance the area around Selište Lake with new walking zones and water attractions like geysers. Plans include the construction of a mini zoo featuring native wildlife species and the development of themed mountain tourist villages with additional facilities like restaurants and wellness centres, while avoiding large hotels or multistorey buildings.
We spoke last year about plans to conquer new markets, particularly in Asia. Are you entering 2025 with the same ambitions?
— We’ve intensified our promotional activities, developed offers tailored to cultural specifics and sparked interest that continues to grow each year. We will continue to promote Vrnjačka Banja through these partnerships in 2025.
We have so much to offer, and our ambition is for the beauty and uniqueness of Vrnjačka Banja to resonate across the globe, as Serbia’s most beautiful postcard.