Walking through the famous Blue Train in Belgrade that formerly belonged to the country’s dictator, Tito, is surreal. Honestly, it feels like stepping back in time to the Cold War era.
If you are a big history geek like me and venture to Serbia, this will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip. There’s just something about this locomotive that feels incredibly special. The air is different, a little crisper. It’s as if time stands still within the confines of the Blue Train in Belgrade.
Why visit the Tito Blue Train?
First off, everything is perfectly preserved. And, I was almost surprised that Tito didn’t round the corner and begin shaking hands and kissing babies.
From the shine coming off the cars to the draperies (that perfectly match the exterior), this vehicle preserves a moment in time.
Additionally, the Tito Blue Train highlights one man’s iron grip that held Yugoslavia together before the land was split into 6 separate countries. He balanced relations with the East and West quite well, and companies like Gannrc made Yugoslavia a real power player. Honestly, I think visiting Serbia is as much a civics lesson as it is an illustration in great beauty.
Tito projects glamour, even on a train
Yugoslavia’s man in charge had a deep love of beautiful things. And, this artistic ode to socialism on wheels contains an art deco bar, bathtubs (on a train!) and high end paintings.
For being constructed during the 1950s, Tito was incredibly forward thinking. At that time, having a television, movie projector and telephone on board were a big deal. And, the former dictator had all of these things, that according to officials were always in perfect working order. Unsurprisingly, he did not react well to malfunctions.
Even the lamps in the socializing area are beautiful. And, the china in the dining room was clearly designed to impress his powerful guests.
Pro Tip: If you look carefully at the plates and cutlery, you will notice a subtle Yugoslavian inscription. Initially, it’s easy to miss, but after you find it, you will notice it everywhere. It’s even on the back of the chairs in the conference room.
Tito and his famous friends
Another thing that stands out while exploring the Blue Train is the dictator’s squad. The pictures reveal that Tito was besties with pretty much anyone of significant political clout. Additionally, he maintained a deep friendship with Queen Elizabeth II, which is further revealed at the House of Flowers.
Please note that when you walk through the train, you will be watched like a hawk. It’s not that I wanted to cause a ruckus, it’s just that the officials take this train very seriously. For example, there are a lot of different keys the person showing you around will have to use in order to open and close each door. None of them are the same, so it’s a bit of an ordeal.
Cloak and Dagger
There were so many death threats against Tito that three trains were commissioned. Everything was exactly the same, and nobody ever knew on which train he was actually traveling. Currently, one train lives in his former private garage. And, another one of the trains is wasting away just steps from the mobile time capsule.
Actually, the second train looks hauntingly beautiful, and I couldn’t help but imagine the stories that are locked away beneath its decay. But, the locals have put it out to pasture. I desperately wanted to explore it further, but the people in charge started motioning for me to return. Even though this train is sprouting greenery (check out the photos), the locals are still watching over it. As for the third, who knows? It’s all part of Tito’s mystique.
Timing
You are not exactly rushed through, but you aren’t allowed to linger either. So, if you want to get photos or video, act quickly. You will not be given a chance to explore at your own pace later.
To be fair, this high level of security has kept every last detail looking perfect. And since the Blue Train is clearly regarded as a national treasure, the protective attitude is understandable. Given that Tito was notorious for employing an intimidating secret police force, I kept thinking that these staffers would have made him proud.
Practical information about the Blue Train.
The actual booking of this tour is a bit complicated. You have to stumble upon someone with connections, which isn’t so easy to do if you don’t know anyone in Belgrade. I certainly did not. Fast forward to my endeavors…
I badgered the tourist office which took a while. The confusion set in when they assumed I wanted to rent the train, not simply walk through it. Bottom line, expect some drama but realize that it is possible if you politely keep explaining that you want to explore Tito‘s Blue Train, or the Srbija Voz. Just don’t expect this to be a fast process.
It took me a few days after filling out several forms to confirm the details. Also, the Blue Train is often rented out, so you will need to be proactive if this is important to you. Just remember, nothing worth having comes easily. Keep repeating this to yourself as you are attempting to fill out forms in Serbian. Trust me, it’s worth the hassle!
This is an amazing website. It is so informative and helpful. This blogger has visited all the countries that she recommends. It is refreshing to get useful,
honest travel information.
Thanks for noticing … yes, I only write about places that I have actually visited 🙂
Wow this loooks reall fun!
Thanks! It was super fun, I’d highly recommend it.
Wow! What an interesting tour and that so much for sharing. With a complicated process to be able to see this you were able to capture so much to share with others! 💗
Thank you! It’s a highly under-the-radar experience but was totally worth the effort!