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Novi Sad is a charming city located in northern Serbia along the banks of the Danube River. It’s known for its breathtaking architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and its friendly and diverse population.
Something I love about Novi Sad is that it has something to offer everyone – whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking to soak up some sun on a lazy summer afternoon, Novi Sad will have it!
But, before you pack your bags and hop on a plane, you may be wondering: is Novi Sad a safe place to visit?
Luckily, I’ve got the answer you’re looking for! I’m here to give you the inside scoop on whether you should be worried about traveling through this Balkan country or if you can let your guard down and enjoy the sights without a care in the world.
So, let’s dive in and see if Novi Sad is a safe haven or a danger zone!
Safety Concerns for Visitors
Safety is a top concern for any traveler so it’s natural to wonder about how safe your next travel destination is. Luckily, Novi Sad has low crime rates, so it’s a very safe city to visit while in Serbia.
I’ll break down the top safety concerns for travelers in this region, and I have tips that can keep you safe in Serbia or any other country!
Pickpockets and Scams
Pickpockets, purse snatchers, and scammers are probably one of the biggest concerns that most travelers have – and with good reason! Petty thieves and scammers are the most common issues for tourists in any country. But fortunately, if you know what to look out for you can easily avoid these issues!
Pickpockets can be found in any crowded tourist area, so keep your belongings close and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re carrying a backpack, make sure it’s properly secured and not easily accessible.
You can also purchase a purse, backpack, or belt bag that is specifically designed to keep you safe from thieves as you travel. So if you really want to play it safe, buy an anti-theft bag and wallet to use on your trip. You should also keep your bag on you at all times and never leave it unattended anywhere.
Although rare, vandalism and theft from cars are a possibility. If you rent a car while in Novi Sad, always keep your doors locked, park it in a secure parking lot, and take valuables with you when you get out of the car. If you can’t take your valuables with you, make sure to keep them stashed away and out of plain sight.
Public transportation in Novi Sad is one of the best ways to get around. And while buses, trams, and trains are generally safe, you should still keep your belongings close and keep an eye out for thieves.
Read about Serbian currency (Dinars) – What Is the Currency of Serbia?
When stopping to speak to locals on the street, be wary of others nearby. A common tactic by thieves is for one person to distract an individual or group of people while another empties pockets and purses.
While pickpockets are a common concern for travelers, they are no reason to avoid a country or city. If you stay aware of your surroundings and use anti-theft travel items, you can easily avoid any of these issues and simply enjoy your trip!
ATM card fraud is also possible, especially in tourist locations. You can avoid any run-ins with scammers by only using official ATMS, banks, and money exchange offices. If you’re traveling to Serbia for the iconic EXIT festival, or you plan to buy tickets to local museums and shows, make sure you’re buying your ticket from a reputable source.
Traffic Accidents
Another safety concern in Novi Sad is traffic.
The good news is that Novi Sad has a relatively low number of road fatalities compared to other cities in the region. So you can feel safe traveling throughout the city and know that car or scooter rentals are a safe way to go.
The streets in Novi Sad are generally safe, but no matter where you are you should always be careful when walking near traffic and be aware of local traffic laws.
This is especially important if you’re planning on renting a car. Make sure you know basic road laws, and of course, always wear your seatbelt!
How Do You Get Around Novi Sad?
Safety Tips
There are some steps you can take to ensure you have a completely safe visit in any country.
As I stated before, purchasing travel-safe bags and wallets is always a good investment. I used a travel-safe backpack and wallet while in Novi Sad, and even though I didn’t encounter any problems, having these items just gave me some peace of mind.
You should also familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, and it’s never a bad idea to learn some basic Serbian phrases to help you navigate the streets.
If you really want to play it safe, invest in travel insurance! Travel insurance can cover you for so many things, including medical expenses, emergency evacuation, a canceled trip, lost or stolen baggage, and it can also cover your car rental while in a foreign country! Make sure you get insurance before you travel, and keep the information on hand in case the customs officer asks for it.
Finally, while Novi Sad is a safe city, it’s always a good idea to avoid any areas that seem sketchy or unsafe. Trust your instincts, and if something feels off, steer clear!
Travelers are subject to local laws, and foreign laws may be different from what you’re used to back home.
In some countries, you can’t take pictures of certain buildings, or you may need permission before taking a photo. So be aware of this while sightseeing and always ask if you’re not sure.
A Safe Environment for Visitors
Local government and law enforcement in Novi Sad take public safety seriously, and they work hard to create a safe environment for natives and tourists alike.
The city’s police patrol the streets and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity, ensuring that visitors can explore the city without having to worry about their safety. And if you happen to lose your way in the winding streets of Novi Sad, friendly police officers are always happy to help guide you back to your destination.
The local government also plays a crucial role in maintaining a secure environment. They invest in public safety infrastructure, like well-lit streets, surveillance cameras, and emergency response systems. This makes it easier for law enforcement to do their job and gives visitors peace of mind knowing that they’re in good hands.
Novi Sad is a delightful city to explore, and you can rest assured that both law enforcement and local government are working hard to ensure your safety.
Is Novi Sad Safe To Visit?
After spending time in Novi Sad and researching crime rates and safety measures in this city, I can confidently say that it is a safe destination for travelers!
The chance of encountering any dangerous situations is very low, and you can use the safety tips within this article to explore all that Novi Sad has to offer with peace of mind.
So pack your bags, book your flights, and get ready to experience the best of Serbian hospitality in the charming city of Novi Sad!
Hello, I’m Emma! I’ve been exploring the world since 2015. People always ask me lots of questions when I travel and come back. So, I started a blog to answer them all and share with the world. If you are curious about something, use the search bar on my site or send me an email emma@timetositback.com