10 Best Things To Do In Novi Sad, Serbia

1. Marvel at the stunning bronze monument

Probably the first place you’ll visit in Novi Sad, the Svetozar Miletic Square features unique and colorful houses that are full of character. Strategically positioned at the heart of the city square, you’ll find the statue of one of the city’s most influential politicians, Svetozar Miletic who was the mayor twice in the 19th century. The monument was built back in 1939 by one of the most renowned sculptors and architects in the country, Ivan Mestrovic. A visit to the city square gives you a chance to marvel at this 500-cm-high (196-in) bronze sculpture, which expresses the politician’s pride and authority.

On a summer evening, this area becomes a great spot to hang out with friends as your kids enjoy some exciting outdoor games. Alternatively, enjoy a delicious meal and drinks in one of the fine restaurants nearby.

Monument of Svetozar Miletic

Address: Novi Sad, Serbia

Website: Monument of Svetozar Miletic

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

2. Learn the history of a magnificent fortress

Found within the walls of a fortress, the City Museum of Novi Sad houses many valuable exhibitions and collections. Here, you’ll discover the artifacts and exhibits about the history of the fortress, its military records, and the civic history of Novi Sad between the 1700s and the 1900s. Here, you’ll also find an underground well that had supplied water to the fortress. Interesting underground escape routes are also found within the museum compound.

Some signs and descriptions in the exhibits are written in English, but in any other case, the museum guides are happy to assist with explanations.

City Museum of Novi Sad

Address: Dunavska 29, Novi Sad 21000, Serbia

Website: City Museum of Novi Sad

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 3 USD

3. Check out Platoneum Building’s amazing architecture

The Platoneum Building is one of Novi Sad’s most famous historical landmarks, and it’s named after a famous clergyman, Bishop Platon Atanacković. When you’re in Novi Sad, don’t forget to marvel at this three-story building’s exquisite façade that’s adorned in subtle terracotta-hued tiles, which sparkle in the midday sun. Vladimir Nikolić, a famous architect, came up with the design of the building in 1901, and he used Serbo-Byzantine architecture as his inspiration

Platoneum Building

Address: Nikole Pašića 6, Novi Sad 21000, Serbia

4. Relax and have fun at the beach

A visit to this 700-meter (765.5-yard) stretch of sandy beach is something you shouldn’t miss when you’re in Novi Sad, especially if you’re travelling with your family during summer. If you’re a sun-seeker, you may rent a sun-lounger and just relax sunbathing or even just take a dip in the Danube if you like. You’ll like this place if you’re a party animal, as it hosts everything from EXIT raves to local punk gigs. If you come during winter’s cold, snowy days, you’ll also have plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, such as skating on the central plateau beach. At Strand, you’ll find lots of incredible restaurants, ice cream parlors, and bars where you can enjoy some drinks and delicious Serbian delicacies. Meanwhile, the kids can enjoy themselves at the playgrounds and trampolines.

Strand Novi Sad

Address: Strand, Novi Sad, Serbia

5. Witness the evolution of art

Located in close proximity to the Museum of Vojvodina, the city’s Museum of Contemporary Art is a must-visit attraction if you’re an art lover or admirer. However, if you’re one of those who aren’t that interested in visual art, the museum’s building itself is definitely worth exploring for its impressive architecture. Here, you’ll get to explore a collection of both modern and contemporary art from Serbia and from around the world. Most of the pieces in the collection were made between the 20th and 21st centuries. The art forms include drawings and photography, conceptual and digital art, installations, paintings, and sculptures.

Museum of Contemporary Art Vojvodina

Address: Dunavska 37, Novi Sad 21000, Serbia

Website: Museum of Contemporary Art Vojvodina

Opening hours: Tue: 10am - 4pm; Wed - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 2pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

6. Look around Republic Square

As Belgrade’s main square, the Republic Square, also known as the Trg Republike, serves as the city’s gathering spot for both the locals and visitors. After enjoying a hearty, traditional Serbian breakfast, why not check out the square’s busy market, which is filled with hardworking farmers selling their fresh produce and buyers who are browsing through the stands. Then, head over the National Museum and National Theatre, and find yourself falling in love with the impressive edifices. Check out the famous statue of Prince Mihailo, which is set on a pedestal with beautiful bronze ornaments. You should also consider checking out the well-known digital clock that is located nearby, as well as two popular fountains strategically located in front of the Cultural Center.

Republic Square

Address: Trg republike, Beograd 11000, Serbia

Opening hours: 24 hours

Price: Free

7. Stand in awe of a majestic Art Nouveau building

Standing at the famous Jevrejska Street since the 18th century is a majestic Art Nouveau building. Only a few steps from Freedom Square, the Novi Sad Synagogue is one of this city’s most impressive buildings. Over the years, there have been different versions of this amazing building, with the current one being the fifth. Despite the numerous tragedies the building faced in the 20th century, you’ll love the pride and resilience it portrays with its beautiful architecture, which looks similar to medieval churches. The building’s architectural design is inspired by a combination of Art Nouveau concepts, Hungarian style concepts, and architectural trends from the 19th century. Marvel at the tall, large dome that crowns the building, which, from the outside, is seen dominating the skyline.

Novi Sad Synagogue

Address: Jevrejska 11, Novi Sad 21000, Serbia

Opening hours: 24 hours

Price: Free

8. Relax and get refreshed away from the busy city life

This lush, landscaped park used to be the venue for Novi Sad’s annual fair back in 1895. During summer and spring, the sophisticated green space offers a nice spot where you can relax away from the city’s bustles. Stroll through Danube’s Park while watching a multitude of gorgeous tree species, or have a little fun on the park’s lovely ice rink if you happen to visit in winter. As you walk through the park, you’ll find a nice pond with an island and several unique and interesting statues. There are also several nice restaurants where you can grab something to keep you going.

Danube's Park

Address: Dunavska 31, Novi Sad, Serbia

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Price: Free

9. Have a taste of Serbian art

Managed by the leading cultural institution in Serbia, Matica Srpska, a visit to this gallery gives you access to the richest collection of Serbian art. Here, you’ll not only view beautiful artwork from the 1900s but also a gamut of modern and post-Byzantine iconographers’art and sculptures. When you come here, make sure to get a glimpse of breathtaking baroque images. This is a must-visit if you’re looking to view a collection of renowned Serbian artists and iconographers.

The Gallery of Matica Srpska

Address: Trg Galerija 1, Novi Sad 21101, Serbia

Website: The Gallery of Matica Srpska

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Friday: 10am - 10pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm

Price: Free

10. Learn more about Vojvodinia’s history

Situated along Dunavska Street, the Museum of Vojvodina is a 19th-century palace that houses a collection of artifacts related to Vojvodina’s 8,000 years of existence. Here, you’ll delve into Vojvodinian history, complete with fascinating ethnological, archaeological, and historical exhibits. Be sure to check out the crowning glory of the museum: the set of Roman helmets made of gilded silver and glass gems coating from 4th century AD.

Museum of Vojvodina

Address: Dunavska 35, Dunavska 37, Novi Sad, Serbia

Website: Museum of Vojvodina

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9am - 7pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Experience an extraordinary holiday in Novi Sad

Set on a strategic curve of the beautiful Danube River, the Novi Sad has an elegant and refined side unique from the rest of Serbian’s cities. As the home to fascinating Serbian history and culture, make this city a diverse destination for many tourists. During your visit, be sure to interact with the city’s friendly people, and taste some of its delicious cuisines.