The ultimate travel guide to Sremski Karlovci, Serbia. Find out what to expect, what to see, and also where to eat in Sremski Karlovci.
Sremski Karlovci, a small town about fifteen minutes from Novi Sad, has attracted visitors since ancient times.
Sremski Karlovci is only thirteen kilometers from Novi Sad, making it an ideal destination for a quick and easy change of scenery and entertainment. This baroque city is very important on Serbia’s cultural and historical map, and its residents always welcome me warmly.
Sremski Karlovci has everything you need for an unforgettable trip, from historic restaurants and wineries to prominent cultural monuments and parks. Karlovci is often referred to as a living museum, so simply walking through the city’s central streets will be an enjoyable experience.
One thing is for sure, there are plenty of sights in Sremski Karlovci. including the magnificent Patriarch’s Palace, the oldest Serbian high school, numerous wineries, and the Strazilovo picnic area. Here are my suggestions for what you should not miss.
The central square in Sremski Karlovci is a true masterpiece of baroque eclecticism, and the buildings that line it outperform one another in terms of beauty and significance.
On the north side, towards the Danube, there are the buildings of The Theological College of Saint Arsenije (a new building from 1900), The Theological Seminary (a boarding school from 1903), and The Stefaneum (a boarding school for high school students from 1903, which now houses the Institute of the Serbian People under the patronage of the World Serbian Community).
How to get from Novi Sad to Sremski Karlovci?
The distance between Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci is approximately 12-15 kilometers. You can travel from Novi Sad to Sremski Karlovac in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences and requirements.
OPTION 1: NOVI SAD TO SREMSKI KARLOVCI BY TRAIN
Taking a train is the fastest way to get to Sremski Karlovci from Novi Sad, but this is only convenient if you are near the train station in Novi Sad.
The train ride takes only 8 minutes, but from many areas of Novi Sad, such as Sremska Kamenica or Petrovaradin, it might take more time to get to the train station in Novi Sad than it would to get to Sremski Karlovci itself. If that’s the case for you, check out these alternative options below.
OPTION 2: NOVI SAD TO SREMSKI KARLOVCI BY BUS
Buses are normally the most economical manner to tour. The Novi Sad public transportation company provides frequent service to Sremski Karlovci via lines 60, 61, and 62.
Fares may additionally vary relying on the service and time of travel, however are commonly low cost (200-300 dinars, 1.84-2.76 USD). Travel time via bus usually takes approximately 30 minutes.
OPTION 3: NOVI SAD TO SREMSKI KARLOVCI BY CAR
Traveling from Novi Sad to Sremski Karlovac by car is very simple and fast because these two cities are relatively close to each other. The trip takes about 30 minutes on the E-75 highway or about 40 minutes on smaller local roads, depending on traffic density and weather conditions.
OPTION 4: NOVI SAD TO SREMSKI KARLOVCI BY TAXI
Taxis can be a quick and cushy option, but will likely be more steeply-priced than taking the bus or using your personal vehicle. Taxi fees vary according to fare, distance, and ride time.
If economy is your priority, the bus is probably a better option for you. If you need more flexibility and faster arrival, give preference to a car or taxi.
1. The Theological College of Saint Arsenije
Metropolitan Stefan Stratimirovic founded the first Serbian Orthodox seminary in 1794. In 1900, Patriarch Georgije Brankovic constructed the Karlovac Seminary building for the Church and National Funds. The SANU Archive, a branch of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, is located in the same building. This school educates young theologians from around the world.
The seminary has a square base, but the edges are decorated with decorative rustication. The central building is made of facade bricks, while the decorations are plastered and painted yellow, which gives the classic gold-red combination from the Orthodox ancestors of the Serbs.
The wide entrance staircase is guarded by two bared-breasted sphinxes.
If you are amazed by this architecture and want to visit it, I advise you to announce your visit first. Each tour has a maximum of 50 visitors and allows for photography.
The wide entrance staircase is guarded by two bared-breasted sphinxes.
2. The Theological Seminar
The boarding school for Karlovac seminary students was built in 1903 by Patriarch Georgije Brankovic.
The polychrome of the materials at the Seminar is emphasized by shallow elevations and attics, while the modest decoration around the opening is the only plastic decoration on the building. The layout of the interior is planned according to the functional needs of this church-educational-boarding institution. In domestic historiography, this Nikolic building is marked as “pseudo-Byzantine” or as an eclectic attempt to create a new national style.
3. Stephaneum
Built in 1903, on the initiative of Patriarch Georgia Brankovica, as a boarding school.
The building, with its position at the end of Branko Radicevic Square, rounded off the whole of the buildings built for the needs of the Karlovac Patriarchate.The building has a basement, ground floor, first floor and attic.
Stylistically, it belongs to historicism (eclecticism). The main facade is flanked by massive angular risalites which are emphasized by the double overhang of the wall, the gradation of rustic finishing according to the principle of the Tuscan Renaissance – rustic in the plinth, deep joints that imitate hewn in the ground floor and the building and canvas.
Split wreaths are modest profiles. Above the cornice on the risers are balustrades that enclose high caps in the form of a hemmed pyramid with prominent cornices and a metal decorative railing on top.
The attic space is lit by decorative sheet metal windows. The windows on the first floor have only a plastic frame of shallow profile with a profiled beam above and a cassette field below the pane. Those on the risers are decorated with a balustrade and triangular tympanums. Basement openings are simple, square in shape without frames.
The main entrance is emphasized by a triangular tympanum supported by simple columns of the Doric order without flutes.
The eastern side of the square is dominated by the Patriarchal Palace, the Cathedral Church and the Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity.
4. The Patriarchal Court
The Patriarch’s Palace is one of Sremski Karlovac’s symbols and a must-see attraction during your visit. It is located in the old city center, as are the majority of prominent sights. This palace, which was built between 1892 and 1895, is now an important seat for the Serbian Orthodox Church’s diocese. At the same time, it is the bishop’s residence.
The building itself is an example of first-rate architecture common in these parts of Serbia.
It represents a combination of Baroque and pseudo-Renaissance styles.
The palace houses the Treasury, the museum of the Serbian Orthodox Church. The chapel inside the palace was painted by the famous Serbian painter Uros Predic.
During the visit, you will see portraits of bishops and metropolitans, significant icons and iconostases from the Staro and Novo Hopovo Monasteries, manuscripts dating back to the 15th century, Saint Peter of Cetinje’s ordination robe, and authentic and rare lambskin wallpapers. After viewing the exhibits, take advantage of the opportunity to relax in the beautifully decorated palace garden.
5. Orthodox Cathedral of St Nicholas
The cathedral is located right next to the Patriarch’s Palace, so you will find it easily. The Cathedral Church dedicated to Saint Nicholas represents the pinnacle of baroque-classical sacral architecture in Vojvodina.
The church was built between 1758 and 1762 based on Vienna plans. Zaharije Orfelin designed the bell towers and dome, and Vladimir Nikolic added the Neo-Renaissance facade plastic during the 1907–1911 renovation. The rich iconostasis, created by Teodor Kracun and Jakov Orfelin, is regarded as Serbian Baroque painting’s crown jewel.
6. The Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity
The Catholic church dedicated to the Holy Trinity was built in 1768 in the Baroque style.
At the very entrance to the church you will see one of the most beautiful examples of Baroque in this area. It was built on the site where the Benedictine basilica used to be. The temple was renovated and expanded several times.
In the northern part of the inner city core, there are two more significant buildings: the Neoclassical building of The Magistrate, built between 1806 and 1811, from whose balcony the founding of Serbian Vojvodina was proclaimed, and the representative building of The Karlovci Gymnasium, built in 1891 by the brothers Stevan and German Anđelić. , according to the project of the lesser-known Hungarian architect Julius Partos.
7. The Magistrate
It was built between 1808 and 1811 in the neoclassical style.
The most significant event associated with this building is the proclamation of the Serbian Voivodeship from its balcony in May 1848.
The magistrate’s purpose has changed several times throughout its history, at one point it was even a prison. Today, this building serves as the headquarters for the Municipality of Sremski Karlovci.
If you decide to take photos of this building, what you should know is that photography is only allowed from the outside.
8. The Karlovci Gymnasium
It is safe to say that it is the most renowned high school in the entire country. The first high school opened in 1791. Today, the famous and respected philological high school is built there.
Before entering its chambers, take a moment to admire the gymnasium’s fantastic architecture, which is dominated by bold and impressive yellow and red tones, as well as colorful stained glass windows.
When you visit this landmark, keep in mind that this is where the idea for establishing a Serbian folk school and the first school theater was born.
Gymnasium’s Library houses 18,000 titles, including a phototype edition of Miroslav’s Gospel, The Four Gospels from the 16th century, and The First editions of Dositej, Radicevic, and Vuk Karadzic.
If you want to look inside this building, the doors of the Gymnasium are open to all interested parties on weekends during the school year, and the entrance fee for a tour of the building accompanied by a student on duty is symbolic. I advise you to announce your visit first. Each tour has a maximum of 50 visitors and allows for photography.
9. The Four Lions
Are you ready for a little refreshment at the fountain?
This unique fountain, whose faucets are symbolically decorated in the shape of a lion’s head, is located in the very heart of Karlovac and has become a meeting place over time.
You can find it near the Gymnasium, the water from it is clean and refreshing, and it is also a great place if you want to take some photos.
10. The Chapel of Peace
Built in 1817, at the place where the famous Peace of Karlovac was signed (1699) between the powers of the Christian Alliance and Turkey. At that place, a round table was used for negotiations for the first time in official world diplomacy.
By decision of the Vienna War Council, the original conference hall, which was built of wood, was replaced by today’s chapel. The chapel has been restored and Masses are celebrated in it on special religious holidays.
11. City Museum
Located in Patrijarha Rajacica Street, it is a true treasure of Serbian cultural heritage. The museum’s permanent exhibition is exhibited in the luxurious palace of Rajacic. It should be noted that the City Museum is proud of its historical, ethnological and artistic collections.
This museum you can visit on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
12. Zavicajna kuca (The Native house)
This foundation was founded in 2009 with the aim of revitalizing the original culture of the Danube Swabians.
The ultimate goal of the foundation is to nurture the tradition, language, culture and art of this minority through cooperation with researchers and authors. The position of the Danube Swabians in Sremski Karlovci has always been very specific, and the ethnic setting of this foundation gives an excellent insight into their way of life.
A museum, a cultural center, a bowling festival and an fenster are waiting for you within the Zavicajna kuca.
13. The oldest pharmacy in Vojvodina
Ludwig Strasser founded the oldest pharmacy in Vojvodina in 1890, and it’s amazing that it’s still in business today!
You must visit this location because it still retains its original interior design, which was created in Venice.
14. The Museum of Beekeeping
I believe that all true lovers of beekeeping and nature will be delighted with the display of this interesting museum in Karlovac. The Zivanovic Museum has been faithfully preserving the tradition of beekeeping and winemaking for years. The museum was created way back in 1986 and was designed by Borivoj Zivanovic.
By visiting the museum, you will come across authentic furniture, photographs and documents, different types of hives and tools that were once used in this work.
The working hours of the museum are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you want to look inside this building, I advise you to announce your visit first. Each tour has a maximum of 50 visitors and allows for photography. You can also buy some souvenirs.
15. Vavedenje Monastery
The Monastery was built in 1746 on the foundations of an older church from the 16th century. In addition to many clergymen and distinguished citizens of Karlovy Vary who are buried in the port, Serbian patriarchs Georgije Branković and Lukijan Bogdanović are also buried in the crypt of the temple.
If you want to rise spiritually, the Monastery is open for visits, the number of visitors is not limited. Photography is only allowed outside. You also have the opportunity to buy some souvenirs in the church shop.
16. Strazilovo
The well-known picnic spot Strazilovo is only about six kilometers from the city center. If you are a nature lover, you can follow several hiking trails from here, including The Fruskogorski Marathon and The Fruskogorski Transversal, which starts right here.
There is also a resort on the hill, so you can walk from Karlovac to the top and relax in the shade. The Strazilovo mountain lodge offers the option to stay for a longer period of time.
The grave of Branko Radicevic (1824-1853) is located on the hill above the picnic area. His body was brought here from Vienna in 1883.
The viewpoint at the beginning of the ridge of Magarcev Breg will offer you a panoramic view of Karlovci, just a few minutes’ walk uphill from the main square.
Where to Eat in Sremski Karlovci
Besides the sights and a vibrant cultural life, Sremski Karlovci has a number of excellent restaurants serving delicious traditional and international cuisine. I’ve chosen some of the most popular restaurants that have received high ratings from guests.
These restaurants serve well-known Karlovac wines, which have a unique combination of sweet flavors and fragrant notes. The majority of the restaurants have a stunning view of the Danube, allowing you to enjoy delicious food and wine while taking in the scenery.
17. Dunav Restaurant & Hotel
The most popular and in-demand restaurants in Sremski Karlovci. This is a restaurant that will delight you with its extensive menu of delectable specialties and premium beverages. It is located in the Dunav Hotel. Its location is one of its best features, and it also has a large terrace that brings you even closer to the Danube.
My experience with restaurant service has been very professional and pleasant. The guest always comes first. This restaurant is ideal for both business lunches and large celebrations. I recommend that you try the fish soup, which will undoubtedly keep you coming back to the Dunav restaurant.
18. Restaurant Bermet Villa
If you enjoy the bohemian lifestyle, Bermet Restaurant is an excellent choice. The advantage of this restaurant is that it is located in the pedestrian zone, in the heart of the city, providing a fantastic view of all of the city’s attractions.
Drink your first morning coffee with the popular Bermet breakfast, cool down with veal ragout stew, and sample the best chicken liver from Joka’s plate. It would be a sin to leave the restaurant without a glass of Bermet!
19. Restaurant Passent
It is a prominent restaurant with a long tradition, located on the very bank of the Danube. The ambient restaurant, its surroundings and the great specialties of domestic and international cuisine are what are highly rated by the visitors of this luxury restaurant.
If you come here, be sure to complement a glass of good wine with some different cheeses that go great with wines, as well as a number of excellent cured meat products and fish specialties. What I can testify to is that all dishes are prepared with special attention and great creativity, so that the presentation of the specialties is as impressive as their excellent taste. Take a break at the Pasent restaurant and enjoy its delicacies.
The Wineries of Sremski Karlovci
When I want good wine, I go to the tourist organization of the municipality of Sremski Karlovci, which arranges a tour of some wine cellars with wine tasting. Here are some of my recommendations for wineries to visit.
20. The Kish Winery
Do you want to try the best bermet in the north of Serbia? You are in the right place because many people claim that Kish winery has the best and highest quality bermet. In this family winery, you can taste excellent wines and enjoy a mix of different flavors, among which Merlot, Portugizer and Grašac stand out. The “Kis” Winery not only produces wine but also offers wine tourism. It has a tasting room with a capacity of 30 people and hosts wine tastings.
21. The Dulka Winery
Winery “Dulka” offers Italian Riesling, Zupljanka, Cabernet Sauvignon, rosé, white and black Bermet, vinjak from ’95 with nine gold medals, and a variety of brandies, including peach, Komovica, grape, plum, and apple brandy. In addition to the old objects that were once used in this rich farmhouse, you can see the entire furniture set, which is extremely well preserved and dates from the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
22. The Zivanovic Winery
Winery Zivanović produces well-known, special wines, ausbruch and bermet, which I recommend tasting. The old lagum, built in the 18th century, was excavated deep into the hill and is now used to produce and store wine. The second cellar spans 140 m and can accommodate up to 80 people. Here you can taste wines, brandy and honey, as well as “Sremacki frustuk” with local country specialties
Cultural and artistic events in Sremski Karlovci
Karlovci is also known for a large number of cultural and artistic events, so you can choose to visit them when one of them is taking place.
The most important are the celebration of The Peace of Karlovac (January 26), The Night of the Museum (mid-May), The bowling festival (end of June), the church singing school “Cornelius in memory” (end of July), the festival of national communities “By tradition in Karlovce” (end of August ), cultural and artistic festival “Brankovo Kolo” (beginning of September), Karlovac grape harvest (end of September).
When I want to see the foundations of famous historical events and experience a mix of modern and traditional, I go to Sremske Karlovci. Anytime is a good time to visit. Karlovci are ready and waiting for you!
