A Must-Drive in Novi Sad

Novi Sad is the second-largest city in Serbia, located on the banks of the Danube River, often called the "Athens of Serbia." It is famous for its rich culture, historic architecture, music festivals, and relaxed riverside atmosphere, especially the Petrovaradin Fortress, the venue of the EXIT music festival, which is highly favored by tourists. Below are classic travel route recommendations for Novi Sad, suitable for travelers with different interests and time availability. ------ 📌 Classic One-Day Tour of Novi Sad Ideal for visitors with limited time who want to experience the city's highlights. 🌞 Morning: Old Town Exploration 1. Freedom Square (Trg Slobode) ◦ The central square of Novi Sad, surrounded by neoclassical buildings such as the City Hall and the Name of Mary Church. ◦ Recommendation: Enjoy a cup of Serbian coffee at a café by the square (e.g., Café Velvet) and soak in the local pace of life. 2. Zmaj Jovina Pedestrian Street ◦ The liveliest street in Novi Sad, filled with restaurants, bars, and boutiques, perfect for strolling and shopping. 3. Dunavska Street ◦ A street featuring 19th-century architectural styles leading to the Danube riverside, with many art galleries and small museums along the way. 🍽 Lunch: Traditional Serbian Cuisine • Recommended restaurants: ◦ Project 72 (modern Serbian dishes) ◦ Fish & Zelenish (Danube fish specialties) ◦ Plava Frajla (traditional Serbian grilled meat) 🌅 Afternoon: Danube River and Petrovaradin Fortress 4. Danube Park ◦ The city's green lung, ideal for walking or renting a bike. 5. Petrovaradin Fortress ◦ The second-largest fortress in Europe, known as the "Gibraltar on the Danube." ◦ Must-see: ▪ Clock Tower (with its reversed hour and minute hands design) ▪ Underground tunnels (Catacombs) (guided tours required) ▪ Fortress viewpoint (overlooking the Danube and panoramic views of Novi Sad) ◦ EXIT Music Festival (held every July, a world-renowned electronic music festival) 🌙 Evening: Danube Sunset and Nightlife 6. Štrand Beach (recommended in summer) ◦ An artificial sandy beach on the Danube, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying a beer in summer. 7. Ribarsko Ostrvo (Fishermen’s Island) ◦ A small island on the river filled with bars and restaurants, ideal for dinner or nightlife. 8. Return to Old Town or Experience Bar Culture ◦ Recommended bars: ▪ The Quarter (jazz bar) ▪ CK13 (punk/rock style) ▪ Toster Bar (vintage style) ------ 📌 In-Depth Two-Day Tour Suitable for visitors who want to explore Novi Sad’s culture more deeply. Day 1: City History and Culture • Morning: Freedom Square → Zmaj Jovina Street → Dunavska Street • Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Vojvodina (to learn about local history) → Danube Park • Evening: Petrovaradin Fortress sunset + dinner Day 2: Art and Nature • Morning: Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Vojvodina • Afternoon: Head to Fruška Gora (Serbia’s wine region, wine tasting + monastery tours) • Evening: Return to Novi Sad and experience nightlife ------ 📌 Transportation Guide • From Belgrade: ◦ Train (1.5 hours, ticket price about ₩500-1000) ◦ Bus (1.5 hours, ticket price about ₩600) ◦ Self-drive (about 1 hour via A1 highway) • City transportation: Walkable, or use bus/taxi (cheap and convenient). ------ 📌 Travel Tips ✅ Best travel time: May to September (summer is ideal for music festivals and riverside activities) ✅ Must-try foods: Pljeskavica (Serbian burger), Ćevapi (grilled meat sausages), Rakija (fruit brandy) ✅ Recommended accommodation: Old Town or near Petrovaradin Fortress (e.g., Hotel Leopold I or Garni Hotel Centar) ------ Novi Sad is a vibrant cultural city with both historical depth and a modern art and music atmosphere. Whether for a brief one-day trip or an in-depth exploration, you can find your own rhythm here! 🎶🚶‍♂️