Many people know Belgrade, but Novi Sad is another city you should not miss. As Serbia’s second largest city, it has peaceful walking zones, riverside cafés, historic spots like Petrovaradin Fortress, and modern places like art galleries and music clubs. Want freedom to move around? You can rent a car in Serbia to make your trip convenient when you land at the airport. Keep reading to see why Novi Sad deserves a top spot on your travel list.
As you explore Novi Sad, you’ll notice how well the city has old-world charm with a lively, modern lifestle. The city center features pastel-colored Austro-Hungarian buildings, cozy courtyards, and wide pedestrian boulevards. At the same time, there are bars, galleries, and street art.
You’ll see this contrast clearly when walking between Zmaj Jovina Street, which is full of local shops and cafés, and the modern riverside areas near Liman. The city isn’t large, but every corner feels distinct. Historical sites like the Name of Mary Church and Bishop’s Palace are a few blocks from contemporary cultural spots. You’ll find traditional bakeries next to urban bistros serving fusion food.
If you enjoy cities that are easy to explore and full of layers, you’ll love Novi Sad. It’s a place where culture feels alive, not locked away in museums. This is why visiting Novi Sad feels like discovering something special before everyone else.
Petrovaradin Fortress is the most iconic Novi Sad attractions. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries by the Austrians, it is located on the right bank of the Danube, directly across from the city center. Locals call it the “Gibraltar on the Danube” because of its size and strength. You can drive or walk up to the top, where you’ll find 360-degree panoramic views of the city, the river, and the Vojvodina plains.
When you visit, you’ll notice the famous clock tower, where the big hand shows the hour and the small hand shows the minutes. This was made so fishermen on the Danube could see the time from a distance. Below the surface, the fortress hides a maze of underground military tunnels stretching over 16 kilometers. Guided tours are available to explore this network.
If you enjoy scenic riverside walks, the Danube riverbank in Novi Sad will be one of your favorite spots. The stretch between Petrovaradin Fortress and the city beach, Štrand, is lined with tree-shaded paths, floating cafés, and benches where you can relax and enjoy the view. It’s one of the best places in Novi Sad to soak in the local vibe.
Štrand Beach is one of the best urban river beaches in Serbia. There’s an entrance fee of 50 dinars or $0.5. It’s quiet in May and early June but lively in summer. Even off-season, it’s a great walking area with river views and open paths. There are a few cafés and some sun loungers already out. You can also take short boat rides on the Danube. In the evening, head to the quay area, where locals gather to watch the sunset over the river as the lights from the fortress reflect on the water.
In 2022, Novi Sad became the first city outside the European Union to be named a European Capital of Culture. This title brought major investment into the city’s public spaces, arts programs, and cultural events. As a traveler, you’ll feel the impact everywhere, from revitalized buildings to regular concerts and open-air exhibitions. It’s a city that proudly lives its culture every day, not just during big events.
You’ll notice cultural landmarks like the old Synagogue, which now hosts performances and festivals. The Chinese Quarter, once an abandoned industrial area, has been transformed into a space for art studios, workshops, and galleries. Even walking through the city center, you’ll stumble across street musicians, murals, and open stages for local performers. These changes make the city feel more alive and connected to its creative roots.
What’s great is that many events are free or low-cost, especially during the warmer months. You can catch a classical music concert in the Synagogue, a jazz night by the river, or a photography exhibit in a small gallery.
Novi Sad is the perfect starting point for road trips across northern Serbia. With its central location in Vojvodina, you can reach several charming towns, nature parks, and wineries within an hour or two.
One of the best places to drive from Novi Sad is Fruška Gora National Park, which is 30 minutes away. This forested mountain is filled with monasteries, hiking trails, and viewpoints. You can also visit Sremski Karlovci, a small baroque town famous for wine tastings and historical sites. Car rental services are widely available in Novi Sad and Belgrade. You’ll need a valid license and passport, and most agencies offer automatic transmission vehicles.
In Novi Sad, you’ll find museums, galleries, theaters, and public art that rival those in much larger cities. Whether you enjoy classical music, local history, or experimental street performances, there’s always something happening in the city.
Start with the Museum of Vojvodina, where you’ll see exhibits about the region’s diverse history and ethnic mix. Nearby is the Gallery of Matica Srpska, one of Serbia’s most respected art institutions. Visit the Youth Theatre or the Novi Sad Cultural Centre for modern and alternative spaces. You’ll also notice street art and murals that add color to otherwise quiet neighborhoods.
Don’t forget that many churches and civic buildings double as cultural venues. The Synagogue hosts music festivals, and the Church of the Name of Mary is worth visiting just for its architecture. Local cafés often have poetry readings or small live shows. If you're wondering what to see in Novi Sad, the answer isn’t just in museums. It’s in the streets, parks, and people who shape the city’s pulse.
Food in Novi Sad is hearty, flavorful, varied, affordable, and authentic—perfect for every traveller’s taste and budget. You’ll discover homestle spots and modern eateries serving generous portion sizes without breaking the bank. Here are three local favourites you should try:
Start your morning or lunch at Bakino Dvorište, a beloved homestle restaurant known for dishes like sarma, goulash, and fresh daily soups. They even serve breakfast classics in a cozy atmosphere, but better prepared and under €5. For something trendier, check out Project 72 Wine & Deli. This stylish venue blends creative Serbian cuisine with a curated wine list from Fruška Gora. It’s a bit upscale, but meals still hover around €10 to 12, making it a solid pick for a well-rounded culinary experience.
If you’re craving Asian food, head to Dva Štapića Paviljon, one of Novi Sad’s most popular Chinese restaurants. Its three locations in Novi Sad offer authentic Far East flavours, from dim sum and Tom Yum to sushi and fried ice cream. Portions are generous, and dishes are well-priced. Most places accept cards, tipping about 10 % is customary, and after a day of exploring, a satisfying meal for under €12 is easy to find.
Novi Sad hosts the EXIT Festival, one of the most respected music festivals in Europe. This multi-day event is held every July at Petrovaradin Fortress, which draws over 200,000 visitors worldwide. You’ll dance under the stars, surrounded by stone walls, towers, and a panoramic view of the Danube. If you love live music and high-energy crowds, this is the city's most exciting time of year.
EXIT features various stages and various music, from techno, EDM, and hip-hop to reggae and rock. Artists like The Prodigy, David Guetta, and Wu-Tang Clan have all performed here. The main stage area holds tens of thousands, while hidden tunnels and ramparts host smaller sets and chill-out zones. Tickets start at €108, which is more affordable than other European festivals. Even if you're not a hardcore festivalgoer, the energy during EXIT week is contagious. It’s an unforgettable experience that adds even more reason to visit Novi Sad in summer.
Novi Sad is home to the University of Novi Sad, one of the largest academic centers in Southeast Europe. With over 50,000 students, the city feels youthful and energetic year-round. Cafés are buzzing, streets are active, and there's always something social happening nearby.
You’ll find clusters of students around Zmaj Jovina Street, Liberty Square, and the green areas near the university campus. These spots are filled with affordable cafés, small bookshops, and cozy bistros. Catching open-air concerts, art installations, or poetry nights is easy. Local favorites like CK13 (Cultural Centre) and The Quarter often host indie bands, movie screenings, and student-led events. English is widely spoken, so you’ll have no trouble mingling or asking questions.
Most travelers go straight to Belgrade and stay there, but Novi Sad gives a calmer and slower pace. You’ll enjoy the same cultural richness and historical depth, but in a quieter and more manageable setting. Streets are easier to navigate, attractions are never too crowded.
Even during peak season, places like Petrovaradin Fortress, Dunavski Park, and the riverside are enjoyable and peaceful. You can take your time walking through Liberty Square, enjoying a coffee, or browsing a local market without bumping into tour groups every few steps. Locals are approachable, and a sense of calm sets Novi Sad apart from larger cities. You’ll still find museums, nightlife, and good food without long waits or inflated prices.
The drive from Belgrade to Novi Sad takes around 1 hour with a distance of 101.3 kilometers. The route follows the A1 (E75) highway with a toll road.
Start in central Belgrade, heading southeast via Terazije toward Dragoslava Jovanovića. Continue onto Kralja Milana Street, then make a few city turns following signs for Kneza Miloša. Stay alert for signs pointing toward E75/Novi Sad, and soon you’ll merge onto the main highway ramp. This highway takes you out of the city and onto the faster tolled A1 road leading north.
After about 66.5 kilometers on the A1, you’ll see signs for the Novi Sad – South (Jug) toll exit. Once you pass the toll station, follow the signs for Stari Kaćki put. From here, continue through several well-marked roundabouts, exiting at Bulevar Evrope. The road will lead you directly into the city, passing local shops and cafés before reaching central Novi Sad. You should rent a car for this route, especially if you plan to visit Fruška Gora, Sremski Karlovci, or nearby wineries.
Novi Sad is full of interesting things to do. You can walk by the river, eat tasty food, visit old buildings, and listen to live music. The city is not too busy, so you can enjoy everything at your own pace. Final Rentals is a car rental company that can help you get around Serbia easily. You can book online, pick up your car in Belgrade, and drive to Novi Sad in over an hour. We have reasonable prices, flexible options, and cars for short city trips and longer drives. If you want to explore more places nearby, driving a car makes it simple.
