Things to Do in Novi Sad: A Comprehensive Guide

Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, is a vibrant and charming destination with something to offer everyone. From its stunning architecture and rich history to its lively nightlife and delicious food, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Novi Sad.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Novi Sad:

1. Visit Petrovaradin Fortress

Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River, Petrovaradin Fortress is Novi Sad’s most iconic landmark. This 17th-century fortress offers stunning views of the city and river, and its grounds are home to a variety of museums, galleries, and restaurants.

In addition to its historical significance, Petrovaradin Fortress is also a popular venue for events and festivals. The EXIT Festival, one of the largest music festivals in Europe, is held at the fortress each year.

2. Explore Dunavska Street

Dunavska Street is the main pedestrian street in Novi Sad, and it’s the perfect place to people-watch, shop, and enjoy a coffee or meal. The street is lined with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, and it’s a great place to soak up the city’s atmosphere.

Be sure to check out the Serbian National Theatre and the Matica Srpska Library, two of the city’s most important cultural institutions. The Serbian National Theatre is one of the oldest and most prestigious theaters in Serbia, and the Matica Srpska Library is the oldest and largest library in Vojvodina.

3. Relax in Dunavski Park

Dunavski Park is a large park located on the banks of the Danube River. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic. The park also has a number of playgrounds and sports facilities.

If you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day, be sure to check out the Strand beach, which is located within Dunavski Park. The beach has a number of amenities, including changing rooms, showers, and a restaurant.

4. Visit the Novi Sad Synagogue

The Novi Sad Synagogue is the largest synagogue in Serbia and one of the largest in Europe. Built in the 19th century, the synagogue is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture and is well worth a visit.

The synagogue is open to the public and offers tours. Be sure to check the website for tour times and availability.

5. Take a walk through Liberty Square

Liberty Square is the central square in Novi Sad and is surrounded by some of the city’s most important landmarks, including the Serbian National Theatre and the Matica Srpska Library. The square is also home to a number of cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Be sure to check out the Freedom Monument, which is located in the center of the square. The monument commemorates the victims of the Novi Sad Raid, which took place in 1942 during World War II.

6. Visit the Museum of Vojvodina

The Museum of Vojvodina is the largest museum in Novi Sad and houses a vast collection of artifacts from the region’s history. The museum’s exhibits cover everything from prehistoric times to the present day, and it’s a great place to learn about Vojvodina’s rich culture and heritage.

The museum is located in the Novi Sad Fortress, and it’s open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday. Be sure to check the website for admission fees and hours of operation.

7. Enjoy a night out at one of Novi Sad’s many bars and clubs

Novi Sad has a vibrant nightlife scene, with something to offer everyone. From laid-back bars to lively clubs, there’s a place to let loose and have a good time in Novi Sad.

If you’re looking for a place to start your night, be sure to check out Dunavska Street, which is lined with bars and cafes. If you’re looking for something more lively, head to the Petrovaradin Fortress, which is home to a number of clubs and bars.

8. Visit the Fruška Gora National Park

Fruška Gora National Park is located just outside of Novi Sad and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The park is home to over 17 monasteries, as well as a variety of hiking trails, biking trails, and birdwatching spots.

If you’re interested in learning more about the region’s religious history, be sure to visit some of the monasteries. The most popular monasteries include the Krušedol Monastery, the Grgeteg Monastery, and the Novo Hopovo Monastery.

9. Take a day trip to Sremski Karlovci

Sremski Karlovci is a charming town located about 30 minutes from Novi Sad. The town is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, its delicious wine, and its annual Karlovci Wine Festival.

If you’re visiting Sremski Karlovci, be sure to check out the following:

• The Patriarchate of Karlovci: This beautiful Orthodox church is the seat of the Serbian Patriarch and is a must-see for any visitor to Sremski Karlovci.
• The Four Lions Fountain: This iconic fountain is located in the center of town and is a popular spot for photos.
• The Karlovci Wine Museum: This museum tells the story of winemaking in the region and offers tastings of local wines.

10. Enjoy a meal at one of Novi Sad’s many restaurants

Novi Sad has a diverse culinary scene, with something to satisfy every taste and budget. From traditional Serbian cuisine to international fare, you’re sure to find something to your liking in Novi Sad.

Here are a few of the city’s most popular restaurants:

• Riblja Čorba: This restaurant is known for its delicious fish soup and other traditional Serbian dishes.
• Podrum: This restaurant is located in a wine cellar and offers a variety of Serbian dishes paired with local wines.
• La Cucina: This restaurant serves up authentic Italian cuisine.
• The Alchemist Garden: This restaurant is located in a beautiful garden and offers a variety of international dishes.

Novi Sad is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife, you’re sure to have a memorable time in Novi Sad.

Bonus Tip

If you’re visiting Novi Sad in July, be sure to check out the EXIT Festival. This world-renowned music festival takes place at Petrovaradin Fortress and attracts over 200,000 visitors each year.