It’s really easy to love spending time in Novi Sad, Vojvodina, with its great cafes and pretty streets. But there’s so much more to see on day trips from Novi Sad that make visiting Serbia a great experience for travelers.
This is a guide to the best day trips from Novi Sad!
For a long time, I didn’t fully appreciate the wonderful places in my own country.
We often don’t see the value of our own home places. Recently, I started to travel around Serbia to find the best spots to show to visitors and even people who live here.
The thing that’s great about Serbia, especially Vojvodina, is how easy it is to take day trips from Novi Sad, its capital.
These trips from Novi Sad have some really special things you won’t find elsewhere.
The cool places around Novi Sad make this city a perfect starting point for discovering new things.
In this guide, you’ll learn about places with important history, beautiful views, and exciting spots to explore. Every place we talk about is a short drive from Novi Sad, and I’ll tell you why you should go there.
You can get to many of these places by bus, your own car, or with a tour that doesn’t cost too much.
If you know other good day trips from Novi Sad, feel free to email me or leave a comment below.
The Petrovaradin Fortress
The centuries-old Petrovaradin Fortress witnessed many historical events, including the founding of Novi Sad. You can’t go wrong with an organized tour because the guides are knowledgeable with stories and information, so the hour of walking goes by quickly.
If you decide to visit this historic and somewhat mystical destination as part of an organized tour, you will discover what lies beneath Petrovaradin and whether the tunnel leads under the Danube to Novi Sad. These are tours that require advanced notice of arrival and have limited capacity.
Bac Fortress
Bac Fortress, the best-preserved medieval fortress in western Vojvodina. It is located in the city of Bač, which was once a famous city, after which the plain between the Danube and the Tisza was named Backa.
The circular tower and the balcony will especially attract you to the view. I invite you to climb the tower from which there is a wonderful view. If you have the chance, visit the castle in the afternoon where you can enjoy the sunset and look around the Vojvodina fields.
During your visit, don’t forget to visit the Franciscan monastery from the 12th century. century, Bodjani Castle, Lake Provala in Vajska, and you can finish the whole trip by boat on the Berava River.
Belgrade
Belgrade is full of sights and each of them has a special story and great significance, no matter whether you’re visiting Belgrade in winter or summer. I will single out some of the most important sights that you should not miss during your visit to Belgrade.
Kalemegdan is the best witness of the long culture and history of Belgrade. This sprawling park is full of hidden corridors, mazes, bridges and beautiful locations. Kalemegdan offers an unreal view of New Belgrade. The famous Belgrade Fortress is also located here.
The fortress is located at the confluence of two rivers, so the very nature of Kalemegdan is something that is really worth seeing and feeling firsthand. On Kalis there is the Military Museum, Pobednik monument, the beautiful Church of Saint Ruzica, which is the perfect place for all tourists and couples, as well as the Natural History Museum Gallery.
The Gardos Tower is an impressive and powerful castle 36 meters high in the settlement of Zemun. A few meters from the beautiful bank of the Danube is the Gardos Tower, built as a cultural and historical monument of great importance.
This tower was built by the Hungarian government, and its construction began during the Hungarian government. The architecture of Gardos Tower is truly unique and impressive. By the way, the architecture of Zemun is quite different from the rest of Belgrade, but that is what gives this city its unique and unrepeatable charm.
A visit to the House of the National Assembly, one of the most important institutions of the state, is inevitable during your stay in Belgrade. Apart from that, the Parliament Building is an impressive architectural building.
The construction of the building took a long time, and the first works began in 1907. This beautiful building, located in the center of the capital, close to Tasmajdan, is of great importance for the culture, history and development of the entire country, and I hope you will enjoy your visit.
The National Museum is located in the center of the capital, on the famous Trg Republike, and represents a true wealth of Serbian culture, tradition and history. It is one of the most valuable tourist attractions and must-see places in Belgrade.
The permanent exhibition is divided into different categories, and its main goal is to collect and preserve the rich heritage of the Balkans and Europe. Heritage lives on from ancient times to today.
Right across the street from the National Museum, there is also the oldest theater in Belgrade, the National Theatre. This theater was founded in 1868 according to the decision of Prince Mihailo Obrenovic and as necessary for Belgrade to have a permanent professional theater. Today, here you can enjoy quality settings of the most famous works of our and world literature and choose between Drama, Ballet and Opera.
Belgrade On The Water is elite and the newest neighborhood in Belgrade aspires to become the very center of all the most current happenings in the capital. With its modern and new ideas, buildings, shopping centers, business premises and residential facilities, Belgrade on the water has become the most visited and sought-after place in this city.
One of the beautiful locations of Dedinje is Topciderski Park, a place that is ideal for relaxing in nature. This park is one of the oldest parks in Belgrade, and with its greenery, forest, meadows and horses, it has become an ideal place for rest and relaxation. The residence of Prince Milos is a popular place for tourists and is located within this park, as is the famous Topcider Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul.
The biggest and certainly unmissable attraction during your vacation in the Serbian capital is the magnificent temple of St. Sava. Over time, this church became a true architectural marvel and grew into one of the leading symbols of the entire Belgrade. Its central position, stunning frescoes and size amaze a huge number of domestic and foreign tourists.
Zrenjanin
I can testify that this city is one of the most beautiful cities in Vojvodina, known for its quality facilities, natural beauty and beautiful views.
When walking through this city and its suburbs, don’t miss Tsarska Bara, Lake Peskara and the Ecka settlement. In addition, Zrenjanin is also known for its developed cultural centers and numerous events.
Bela Crkva’s Lakes and Vrsac
Bela Crkva is a town in southern Banat, only 120 kilometers from Novi Sad and 35 kilometers from Vrsac, and it is known for the complex of lakes that enrich it in the right way. The Bela Crkva’s Lakes consist of seven lakes, among which are Big Lake or City’s Lake, Vracevgajsko
Vracevgajsko Lake, Saransko lake and Sljunkara Lake.
If I had to choose which lake is the most beautiful, I would not be able to because I found that all the lakes represent the beauty of tourism in Vojvodina. The first thing you will notice when visiting these lakes is that the water in these the lakes are transparent green in color, which will remind you of sea water, and the only way to convince yourself is to take a bath and see that there really is no salt in it.
As the name suggests, Big Lake is the most interesting and most visited. There are also different types of beaches, from concrete to beaches created for pebble lovers. It is the main place for bathing, swimming and boating in the summer months and is a good indicator of where tourism is located.
Lake Vracevgaj is surrounded by pebble beaches and bungalows where you can spend the night.
Shljunkara is the largest lake near Bela Crkva, and it is interesting because in he finds an island of untouched nature.
However, Saransko Lake is for those who are looking for peace and quiet. If you were to ask any fisherman, he would certainly recommend you to come here.
Speaking of Banat, it’s time to talk about the place that is considered the most beautiful the city of Banat.
We are talking about Vrsac, a fairy-tale city with a large number of interesting things. Therefore, if you come to Vrsac, do not think that you will rest, but you will constantly wander somewhere, in order not to absorb and write in your memory all the beauty that you will see. City Museum of Concordia, Vrsac Hill and its peak, Vrsac Tower.
Deliblat Sandstone
Located in Banat, the Deliblat sandstone is one of the most popular hikes from Belgarde. It is the largest sandstone in Europe and covers an area of 35,000 hectares. This unique natural beauty of Vojvodina is an ecosystem of unique species of flora and fauna.
Plants such as the Banat peony, Pancic’s paper, hops, almonds and the only wild juniper in the Pannonian Plain abound. Of the animal species, some of which are very rare, the most common are the desert ants, the ant lion, and the golden eagle.
A tour of this sandstone will not only be interesting, but also educational.
Golubac Fortress
The Golubac Fortress is a bit further away, a two-hour drive from Novi Sad, but it is definitely worth a visit.
A fortified city that has stood the test of time for centuries. This monumental building on the Danube’s bank is surrounded by dense forest and tells the story of the region’s turbulent history.
Golubac Fortress is the source of numerous stories and legends about its construction and turbulent history. Many fought for their freedom on its ramparts, and many wished to seize it and rule the region. In the Middle Ages, the Golubac fortress was an essential point on the roads connecting Serbia and Hungary, and as a result, it was frequently attacked and conquered.
Today, the Golubac Fortress attracts visitors from all over the world. Its breathtaking beauty, as well as its cultural and historical significance, make it one of Serbia’s most popular tourist destinations. Every stone in the fortress exudes history, inviting you on an unforgettable journey through time.
If you want to have an unforgettable experience, go to Golubac Fortress. Visit and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of a fortified city that has stood the test of time, as well as the allure of the untouched natural surroundings.
Sremski Karlovci
If you’ve never been to Sremski Karlovci, now is the time to go. The park that surrounds all of the most beautiful buildings is in full bloom, so the views of this famous town are truly breathtaking.
Most agencies offer building tours and wine tours, but I recommend that they also include a visit to the Danube restaurants “Danube” or “Pasent”, where you can not only enjoy the most beautiful Danube views, but also a great selection of local wines.
In addition to the first Serbian high school, the Four Lion Fountain, and the Peace Chapel, you can visit the Oldest Pharmacy in Karlovci, which opened in 1890 and is still in operation today.
This historic gem is only 10 kilometers from Novi Sad and can be reached by car in 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The National Park “Fruska Gora”
The mountain Fruska Gora, located near Novi Sad, is a must-see destination.
Fruska Gora is the only mountain in this mostly flat area. Fruska Gora’s tourism industry has seen significant growth in recent years. The declaration of a part of this mountain as a national park of the highest value speaks of its importance and abundance of natural beauty.
Fruska Gora National Park offers a relaxing environment for all ages and seasons. Pristine, abundant nature, clean air, a beautiful viewpoint, diverse fauna, and peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life are just a few of the benefits that this Vojvodina mountain in northern Serbia can provide to its many visitors.
Fruska Gora offers a variety of fascinating sights and opportunities for exploration. This mountain also has a designated camping area, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to enjoy nature’s beauty.
Camping in the company of family and friends, as well as the beautiful nature of this place, always make my vacation on Fruska Gora one of the truly unforgettable experiences.
Monasteries of Fruska Gora
Fruska Gora’s monasteries are a vital component of Serbian culture and tradition, and hold immense significance. The attractiveness of Fruska Gora and its monasteries is enhanced by stunning landscapes, forest complexes, and unique flora and fauna.
This mountain is home to seventeen monasteries, each of which is distinctive and special in its own right. Each one contributes significantly to the country’s cultural character and rich traditions. If you decide to visit these monasteries, it is hard to see them all in one day, so I recommend that you extend your holiday on this mountain for a few days. You’ll see that it’s worthwhile.
Novo Hopovo Monastery
Novo Hopovo is likely the most well-known monastery in the region, and it is located on the mountain’s southern slopes, near the route to Irig. The monastery, founded by Serbian tyrant Maksim Brankovic in the late 15th century, is a stunning example of architecture. Novo Hopovo is a cultural monument of great significance to Serbian culture and heritage.
One of the distinguishing features of Novi Hopovo is the rustic use of gold in the wall frescoes, which can be seen as soon as you enter the monastery. That approach and shade were unique, unusual, and original at the time they were developed.
The relics of Saint Theodore Tyrone, which are housed in the church, are unquestionably the greatest treasure and shrine of this monastery, which has stood the test of time for centuries. Saint Theodore was a Christian saint and martyr who was cruelly imprisoned, tortured, and executed. His sacred remains have been in this monastery since the sixteenth century.
Rakovac Monastery
Rakovac Monastery, built at the end of the 15th century, is an endowment of the great despot Jovan Branković. Unfortunately, during the church’s restoration, its oldest frescoes were destroyed and erased from the walls, but the church received a richly carved iconostasis and new frescoes painted using the most modern artistic techniques of the time.
This monastery suffered significant suffering and destruction during World War II, but in the years that followed, they were able to restore it and imbue it with new life and appearance, and it is still one of the most prominent buildings of Serbian culture, worth visiting today.
Velika Remeta Monastery
Fruska Gora’s sights include the Velika Remeta Monastery. It is located on its southernmost side, deep within the mountain.
It is dedicated to Saint Demetrius, the same name as the monastery church. The monastery also includes two spacious stone chapels and a baroque bell tower dedicated to St. John the Baptist.
Even today, the monastery is in excellent condition, with the main church surrounded on all sides by beautiful lodgings. Another interesting fact is that this monastery has the highest bell tower in all of Srem on its grounds.
A source “Ubavac”
The Saint Demetrius source was established in 1899. According to legend, the people highly valued it for its various medicinal properties, the most notable of which is the treatment of vision. This source is owned by the monastery, and a chapel was built above it by the Velika Remeta monastery brotherhood.
A macadam road begins at the village’s first major intersection and leads to the source.
This source, surrounded by nature, is a destination I enjoy visiting and would recommend to you.
Popovica
Popovica is not a large picnic area, but it is large enough to be used for camping and an active outdoor stay with a barbecue and company. There are well-trodden mountain paths that lead to several viewpoints, including the magnificent Orlovo Bojište and a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of Novi Sad and the Danube.
Popovica is the name of a town in Sremska Kamenica as well as a mountain top on Fruska Gora. There is a camping area in the hamlet, near the Retirement Home. From here, you can visit other locations on Popovica, including a lake, a spring, and a viewpoint with a stunning view of the Danube and Novi Sad.
Two hiking trails begin at this picnic area. If you take the first path in the north direction, you will reach Iriski venac. At the beginning of the path, there is a turn to the left, which leads to the landscaped Orlovo Bojiste viewpoint. A little later, a turn to the right leads to “Perina Pecina”. If you take the second path, which is my favorite because of the stunning views, you will pass by Popovica’s Lake and arrive at the viewpoint above the Ledinci settlement.
If you need a break from walking, the Society of Nature Lovers “Gorski smesko” cafe on Popovica is available. To help preserve the environment, the cafe’s chairs and tables are made from natural and recycled materials such as wooden pallets and old car tires. If you want to lie down, there are several deckchairs hung from the tree for you to rest and lounge on.
Also, Popovica serves as the starting point for the Fruskogorski Marathon, held annually in the spring. It can be reached via city line 74.
Iriski Venac
Irig’s popular picnic spot, Iriski Venac, is located on top of Fruska Gora, and thus a popular day trip destination.
Greenery, a landscaped camping area, and a large parking lot make it an ideal location if you like to barbecue and take leisurely walks. Iriski venac is ideal for an active vacation in nature, with a stunning view of Belgrade’s Avala.
When you’re here, I recommend visiting the “Sloboda” Monument (“Freedom” Monument), which was erected in 1951 to honor the fallen fighters of the National Liberation War.
Also, in the immediate vicinity there is a park conifer, and walking tours with information boards with the aim of getting to know the flora and fauna of Fruska Gora are also very fun.
The Hotel “Norcev” is located there, where you can spend the night or just rest.
Vrdnik Ethnic Village and Vrdnik Tower
Vrdnik’s ethno-village has evolved to be one of the most popular attractions in the area. Its untouched nature, rich forests of Fruka Gora, and proximity to the healing spa Vrdnik are all excellent reasons to visit this popular settlement.
Vrdnik Ethnic Village, an ethnic settlement on Fruska Gora, is named after the nearby Vrdnicka Kula (The Vrdnick Tower), built by the Romans in the 12th century.
The Vrdnika Kula tourist complex includes a restaurant where you can enjoy local specialties, a wine cellar where the best drinks from this region are served, and bungalows for accommodation.
The ethnic settlement Vrdnicka Kula offers luxurious bungalows made of natural materials (wood and stone).
You can walk through the forest from the ethnic settlement to the Vrdnicka Kula in less than 20 minutes.
A winding and steep forest path leads to the tower, taking you through the region’s rich and untouched forest landscapes.
In addition to the magnificent view, you can descend from the top of the tower into its interior, and the oldest residents of Vrdnik firmly believe that there are still undiscovered underground labyrinths beneath the tower.
The view from the top of the tower will leave you speechless. You can see all of Fruska Gora’s beauty and benefits if you climb to the top of the tower. From the top of the tower, you can see Fruska Gora and enjoy the fresh air and diverse nature.
Sremska Mitrovica, Sirmium and Zasavica
An hour from Novi Sad is one of Vojvodina’s and Serbia’s oldest cities, built on the ruins of the former Roman city of Sirmium. That’s why, after visiting Mitrovica and drinking coffee, you can headed to the Imperial Palace.
This ancient site, with its mosaic floors, fresco remnants, and stone ornaments brought from around the world for the event, transports me back to the time of the Roman Empire. To complete your journey, you can headed to the well-known Zasavica Special Nature Reserve, which is only 20 minutes from Sremska Mitrovica.
In Zasavica, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the view of different flora and fauna, go on a boat trip, and visit a donkey farm, where I tried donkey milk cheese and other delights for the first time, which I recommend you try if you visit.
Subotica and Palic
Thanks to the highway, you can quickly reach the far north of the country, and this is important if you want to get to know Subotica, a charming town in the north of Backa. However, if you want to enjoy it even more, be prepared to make some detours! For example, to the Fantast castle near Becej – about an hour’s distance from Novi Sad.
In the palace complex, you can saw a horse stable, a chapel and a park with a lake, after which you can take a break and had lunch in a restaurant. After lunch, you can continue to Subotica and Palic.
If you come to Subotica, my advice is to visit the Synagogue and the Town Hall, and then heads to Lake Palic and Zvonka Bogan Winery, where non-drivers can participate in wine tasting.
Before getting ready to return to Novi Sad, I suggest a visit to the Lipizzaner stud in Kelebija – a fifteen-minute drive from the center of Subotica – where you can visit the carriage museum, take a carriage ride, or even ride one of the beauties.
Sombor, Bezdan, Backi Monostor
Northwest of Backa, about an hour and a half from Novi Sad, is the free royal city of Sombor, which acquired that status in the eighteenth century. Walk through the streets in the shade of Bodjos and stop near the city with the famous sundial at the city market with a magnificent sign.
In Bezdan, visit the damask weaving factory, which supplies the best hotels and restaurants in the country and abroad with damask fabric, hand-made using ancient methods.
Do not miss the ethnic house with numerous exhibits about life in the valley. Another ethnic house awaits you in Backi Monostor together with local specialties. Enjoy a Vojvodina lunch in one of the restaurants overlooking the Danube or at one of the farms you pass along the way.
Smederevo
Smederevo is a two-hour drive from Novi Sad and is known for the castle built in the 15th century by despot Djuradj Brankovic for the needs of the capital. The small town and the big town with 25 towers are part of the Smederevo town, one of the largest medieval fortresses.
In the vicinity of Smederevo, I recommend visiting Villa Zlatni breg (The Golden Tower), the summer residence of the Obrenovic dynasty, where King Milan and Queen Natalija hosted artists and writers and held parties.
Take advantage of the opportunity and view exhibits the History Museum and the Museum of Applied Art in Belgrade. While you are here, be sure to walk through the center of Smederevo and take a break for lunch before returning to Vojvodina.
Lakes Around Novi Sad
Borkovac lake is located near Ruma, and the locals refer to it as the “lungs of the region” due to its beautiful scenery and lush vegetation. This picnic area is well-known for Borkovac Lake, which also serves as the primary destination for excursions.
There are many cafes and restaurants, and the hotel is situated in a pine forest. The hotel has a variety of amenities, including a spa center with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam bath, tepidarium, and Finnish sauna.
All of this in a beautiful setting that will not leave you indifferent, such as the wellness program and detox, and for those who enjoy food, the hotel’s national restaurant has 100 seats. The halls are connected to the terrace, allowing them to host up to 250 people during the summer months.
The hotel’s location makes it ideal for active vacations, sports, fishing, and exploring Fruska Gora’s monasteries and wineries. In the picnic area, you can walk by the stream or lake, ride a bicycle, or run on a trim track equipped with exercise machines.
Lake Besenovo is a popular tourist attraction in Frusko Gora. Few places can have a lake that is both warm and deep while remaining crystal clear. It was formed when the cement factory in Beocin ran out of pit, was abandoned, and started to fill with water about 40 years ago.
It is surrounded by rocks and does not provide much shade or places to sunbathe, so I recommend that you bring serious sun protection and patience, as there isn’t much storage space. Besenovo beach has a unique charm and appeal, despite its “wild” appearance.
Lake Medjes also known as Satrinacko jezero, is becoming increasingly popular for swimming. This lake, which is only a few minutes’ drive from Irig, frequently provides me with an escape from the heat. It is adorned with an impressive amount of warm accumulated water, ideal for swimming, as well as the typical plant diversity of this type of lake.
Access to the lake is limited to one landscaped beach with a cafe and volleyball court. I recommend that you bring an umbrella because there isn’t much shade here.
What I must warn you about is that entering the lake can be tricky at times, but with a little caution, you will be in warm water in no time. Because the lake is large enough, one of my favorite things to do is to bring an inflatable mattress and float far enough away to be alone and listen to nature.
Special nature reserve “Koviljsko-Petrovaradin rit”
The area is ideal for tourist tours at any time of year. It is located in a very convenient location, near the international road between Novi Sad and Belgrade. It covers 5,895 hectares along the Danube River’s right and left banks.
The ridge’s richness is reflected in its abundance of flora and fauna, forests, meadows, rare birds, and protected animal species. This gem and untouched nature lies along the Danube, just 25 kilometers from Novi Sad.
Activities and visits are planned, with a capacity for up to 25 visitors. The visit will include a presentation about the reserve, a walk along the educational paths accompanied by a professional guide-keeper from the protected area, a motor boat ride, and bird watching.
The trails are suitable for all levels of fitness because the terrain is flat and allows all visitors, including children, adults, and the elderly, to move freely. All visitors, regardless of age, are welcome.
For information on programs and visits, contact the “Vojvodina sume – tourist” agency at Preradoviceva no. 2.
Farmsteads around Novi Sad
In addition to the beauties of Fruska Gora and its surroundings, as well as the famous monasteries, which are well worth a visit and promise a well-spent time and relaxation, there are also the widely known Vojvodina farmsteads. Salaš 137 is probably the most famous one.
A farm stay includes traditional Vojvodina cuisine and good wines. These authentic rural households continue to thrive in these lowland areas, and their owners work tirelessly to maintain and preserve their rustic, traditional style.
This one-of-a-kind location near Novi Sad provides everything you need to immerse yourself in Vojvodina’s authentic atmosphere. You can spend the night in the hotel or select a living room, and the restaurant has both an outdoor and indoor area. Tambourine music will enhance your stay as you enjoy homemade noodle soup, turkey with minced meat, or knee in horseradish sauce. You can wash it all down with homemade wine or brandy, and the atmosphere is enhanced by delicious strudel and baked apples.
Pajin Salas. You shouldn’t overlook Pajin when it comes to Cenej farms. Isolated from noise and tucked away in a pine forest, it exudes a romantic atmosphere that transports you back to a more beautiful time. Here, you can have a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience that combines traditional and modern cuisine. I recommend that you try the veal under the sach or the Vojvodina snack, specialties like pork medallions in prune sauce, and contemporary dishes from the “slow-food” category.
The restaurant’s interior is reminiscent of a small museum, complete with a wine cellar decorated with wood carvings and featuring wines from Serbia, Montenegro, Italy, France, Croatia, Argentina, and Chile. The tambourine orchestra, which performs here on weekends, tables made of pine wood, interesting village details, a fountain, and a children’s playground with slides, swings, and swings are just a few of the things that will brighten your day.
Brkin Salas. You do not arrive at Brkin Salas by accident or on the way. It is ideal for those who enjoy an active vacation, as in addition to regular farm work and beekeeping, you can play basketball, football, or ride a bike.
Accommodation in double rooms and free internet provide the opportunity to work from here if necessary. A protected area of the Jegricka River you can fish are close to the farm, and there is a stunning view of Fruka Gora from there.
Petlov Salas. The famous farm on Kamenjar is one place you should not miss. On your table, you will find specialties from sea and river fish, grilled dishes, and lamb, as well as a variety of cold and hot appetizers, soups, and stews.
Friendly staff, music from Vojvodina, and a landscape that soothes the soul and eyes make me want to return. Petlov Salas is popular among tennis enthusiasts due to its high-quality clay courts and equipment.
Drevna Salas. The first thing you’ll notice is the large yard, which has covered summerhouses, a playground for children, and numerous rustic details that give this place its unique charm. When you combine that with high-quality traditional cuisine and a diverse selection of domestic and international beverages, you have plenty of reasons to spend the entire day here.
If the night catches up with you and you don’t want to go home, there are two and three-bed rooms and bungalows available, where welcoming hosts will gladly accommodate you.
