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In this guide, you will find out is Novi Sad worth visiting or not?
Novi Sad is home to numerous landmarks, including the Petrovaradin Fortress, which dates back to the 18th century and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Novi Sad is also home to a number of museums, including the Museum of Vojvodina, which houses a collection of art and historical artifacts from the region.
The city is known for its annual Exit Festival, one of the largest music festivals in Europe, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Honestly, Novi Sad is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in culture, history, and nightlife.
Where Is Novi Sad?
Novi Sad is the second largest city in Serbia (a country located in the Balkan region of southeastern Europe), located in the northern part of the country, in the province of Vojvodina.
This beautiful city is situated on the banks of the Danube river, about 60 kilometers northwest of Belgrade, the capital of Serbia.
Novi Sad is a major cultural and economic center in Serbia, known for its historic architecture, cultural festivals, and universities. It is also a hub for transportation, with a major railway and bus station.
Read about Serbian currency (Dinars) – What Is the Currency of Serbia?
6 Reasons for Visiting Novi Sad
Here you will learn more about the city’s landmarks, museums, and cultural events. Also, we are going to introduce you to the local cuisine and nightlife.
With its affordable prices, Novi Sad is a destination that won’t break the bank. Read this entire guide and see for yourself why Novi Sad is a must-visit destination.
1. Rich cultural history
Novi Sad has a long and fascinating history, with a mix of influences from different cultures and periods.
Visitors can explore this history through the city’s numerous museums, landmarks, and cultural events. Here are the two most important places you must visit.
Petrovaradin Fortress
Petrovaradin Fortress is a historic fortress located in the city of Novi Sad, Serbia. Built in the 18th century, the fortress sits on a hill overlooking the Danube River and the city of Novi Sad.
It was designed to protect the city from invasion and served as an important military and strategic stronghold for centuries.
The fortress is a popular tourist attraction, with many visitors coming to explore its tunnels, moats, and bastions. The fortress also features a number of museums, including the Museum of the City of Novi Sad, which contains a collection of artifacts and historical documents related to the city’s history.
The fortress is also home to the annual Exit Festival, one of the largest music festivals in Europe, which takes place each summer. Overall, Petrovaradin Fortress is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Novi Sad.
Fruška Gora
Fruška Gora is a mountain range located in the province of Vojvodina, Serbia.
It is located just outside the city of Novi Sad and is home to a number of natural attractions, including forests, lakes, and wildlife.
The mountain range is a popular destination for hikers, with a network of trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
It is also home to a number of monasteries and churches, which are popular tourist attractions. The most famous of these is the Krušedol Monastery, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a number of priceless works of art and historical artifacts.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Fruška Gora is also home to a number of wineries and vineyards, which produce some of the finest wines in Serbia. Fruška Gora is a beautiful and diverse destination that is worth a visit for anyone visiting Novi Sad.
How Do You Get Around Novi Sad?
2. Vibrant Nightlife & EXIT
Novi Sad is known for its lively nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from.
The city is also home to the annual Exit Festival, an annual music festival that takes place in the city of Novi Sad, Serbia. It is one of the largest music festivals in Europe and attracts thousands of visitors each year each summer.
The festival is held at the Petrovaradin Fortress, a historic fortress located on a hill overlooking the Danube River.
The festival features a wide range of musical acts, including both international and local performers, and covers a variety of genres, including rock, pop, electronic, and more.
In addition to music, the festival also features a number of other activities, including dance performances, art exhibits, and food and drink vendors.
The festival is known for its unique atmosphere and is a must-see event for anyone visiting Novi Sad. It is held every year in July, and tickets can be purchased online or at the festival gates.
3. Beautiful natural surroundings
Novi Sad is located on the banks of the Danube River, which provides a stunning backdrop for the city.
There are also several parks and gardens to explore, as well as the nearby Fruška Gora National Park, which is home to a variety of plant and animal species.
Strand, or the Beach, is a popular tourist destination in Novi Sad, located on the banks of the Danube River. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other outdoor activities in the summer months.
One of the main attractions of Strand is its sandy beach, which stretches for over a kilometer along the river. The beach is equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and other amenities, making it a comfortable place to relax and soak up the sun.
The water is clean and safe for swimming, and there are lifeguards on duty during the busy summer season.
In addition to the beach, Strand also features a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a range of local and international cuisine.
There are also several playgrounds and sporting facilities, making it a popular destination for families with children.
Tourists love Strand for its beautiful setting, clean facilities, and wide range of activities. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, and is a great place to spend a sunny day in Novi Sad.
4. Excellent food and drink
Novi Sad is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs that serve traditional Serbian cuisine as well as international dishes.
The city is also known for its local wines and spirits, which can be enjoyed at one of the many local bars or taverns. Traditional Serbian cuisine is a mix of Slavic and Mediterranean influences, with a focus on hearty, flavorful dishes.
One of the most popular dishes is cevapi, small grilled sausages made from a mixture of ground beef, lamb, and pork. Another popular dish is pljeskavica, a grilled patty made from ground meat, typically served in a bun with onions, sour cream, and ajvar, a red pepper spread.
Other traditional dishes include:
- sarma, a stuffed cabbage dish made with minced meat and rice
- and goulash, a hearty stew made with beef, potatoes, and spices
Serbian cuisine also features a variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables, including peppers, tomatoes, and eggplant, which are often used in dishes like ajvar and ratatouille.
Bread is also an important part of Serbian cuisine and is often served with meals.
5. Affordable prices
Novi Sad is a relatively inexpensive city to visit, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and entertainment compared to many other European cities.
This makes it an attractive destination for budget travelers.
As a budget visitor to Novi Sad, you should plan to spend around 50-80 EUR per day to cover your basic expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and activities.
Accommodation
There are a variety of budget-friendly accommodation options in Novi Sad, including hostels and budget hotels, which can cost anywhere from 15-40 EUR per night for a private room.
If you are willing to share a room or dormitory with other travelers, you can find even lower prices.
Food
Serbian cuisine is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes, many of which are quite budget-friendly.
You can find a variety of local dishes, including cevapi and pljeskavica, at street food stands and small restaurants for around 5-10 EUR. Fast food chains and international restaurants are also available, but prices will be slightly higher.
Transportation
Novi Sad has a good public transportation system, with buses running throughout the city. A single ride costs around 0.5 EUR, and a daily pass is around 3 EUR. Taxis are also readily available, but prices can vary widely.Activities
There are a variety of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in Novi Sad, including:
- visiting the city’s many parks
- taking a walk along the Danube River
- or exploring the city’s historical and cultural sites, such as the Petrovaradin Fortress or the Gallery of Matica Srpska.
You can also attend cultural events, such as concerts and festivals, which are often free or have low admission fees.
6. shopping experience
Novi Sad is a large city with a variety of shopping options, including modern malls, local markets, and independent shops.
Malls
Novi Sad has several modern malls, such as The Big and Promenada, which offer a wide range of retail stores, department stores, and fast food chains.
These malls are a good option if you are looking for brand-name clothing, electronics, and other consumer goods.
Markets
There are several local markets in Novi Sad, where you can find fresh produce, meat, and other food items at reasonable prices.
The largest market is the Futoska Pijaca (market), which is open every day. You can also find a variety of handmade crafts, clothing, and other goods at the markets.
Independent shops
Novi Sad has a thriving independent retail scene, with a variety of small shops and boutiques selling unique clothing, accessories, and other goods.
You can find a range of local and international brands at these shops, as well as handmade and artisanal products.
Overall, you can expect to find a wide range of shopping options in Novi Sad, from modern malls to local markets and independent shops.
Prices will vary depending on the type and location of the store, but you should be able to find reasonably-priced goods at most places.
2 reasons you should not visit novi sad
It is important to note that Novi Sad, like any other city, has its own unique character and culture, and may not appeal to everyone.
Some people, particularly those who are used to or prefer larger, more vibrant cities like Paris or Rome, may find Novi Sad a bit boring by comparison.
1. It can be boring for some people
Novi Sad is a medium-sized city located in Serbia, with a population of around 350,000 people.
It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and has a thriving arts and cultural scene. However, it may not have the same level of nonstop activity and excitement as some of the world’s largest cities.
That being said, Novi Sad does offer a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, including its beautiful parks, historical and cultural sites, and a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars.
It is also a popular destination for events and festivals, such as the EXIT Music Festival and the Novi Sad Jazz Festival.
Overall, it is important to keep in mind that different cities and destinations have their own unique character and charm, and what may be boring to one person may be exciting to another.
Novi Sad may not be the right destination for everyone, but it does offer a range of activities and attractions for those interested in exploring its rich history and culture.
2. You can’t brag about visiting novi sad
It is true that Novi Sad may not be as well-known or well-visited as some of the world’s larger and more well-known cities, such as Paris, Madrid, or Rome.
These cities have a long history and cultural heritage, and are known for their iconic landmarks, rich art and cultural scenes, and vibrant nightlife, which can make them more attractive to some travelers.
However, this does not mean that Novi Sad is not a worthy destination in its own right.
While Novi Sad may not be as well-known as some of the world’s larger cities, it still has a lot to offer for travelers who are interested in exploring its unique character and culture.
It is important to keep an open mind and not judge a destination solely based on its level of fame or popularity.
Best places to stay in novi sad
When visiting Novi Sad, there are a few places that we recommend.
These options offer a range of amenities and prices, and are located in convenient areas of the city.
best budget option
Hotel Fontana is a popular choice for travelers visiting Novi Sad, located a few steps from the city center.
The hotel is conveniently located near a number of popular attractions, including the Petrovaradin Fortress, which is only 1.2 miles away. The rail and bus station are also located 0.8 miles from the hotel, making it easy to explore the surrounding area.
Hotel Fontana has received a perfect score on the booking.com website, indicating that it is highly rated by previous guests. It offers a range of comfortable rooms and amenities, including a restaurant and bar.
For example, for a 3-night stay for 2 people, the price at Hotel Fontana is very reasonable, at around $174. This is a good value considering the hotel’s convenient location and high rating. Overall, Hotel Fontana is a popular choice for travelers visiting Novi Sad, offering comfortable accommodations and a convenient location.
Best Luxury Option
The Hotel President in Novi Sad is a popular choice for travelers visiting the city. Located just over 1.3 miles from the city center, it is within easy reach of many of the city’s top attractions. The rail and bus stations are also just over 2 miles away, making it easy for guests to get around the city and explore the surrounding area.
One of the standout features of the Hotel President is its safe parking and transportation options. The hotel offers a secure, on-site parking area for guests who are traveling by car, as well as a convenient shuttle service to and from the rail and bus stations.
This is particularly useful for travelers who are arriving in Novi Sad by public transportation and want to get to the hotel quickly and easily.
The Hotel President has also received excellent ratings on booking.com, with many guests praising the hotel’s comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and great location.
A three-night stay for two people at the Hotel President costs around $371, which is a very reasonable price for a hotel of this quality in Novi Sad.
The Hotel President is a great choice for travelers visiting Novi Sad. With its convenient location, safe parking and transportation options, and excellent ratings on booking.com, it is sure to provide a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests.
final words
Novi Sad is a city that is definitely worth a visit. With its rich history, cultural attractions, and beautiful natural surroundings, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
If you have any additional questions about Novi Sad, please don’t hesitate to reach out or read our other blog posts. We would be happy to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.
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