From Belgrade: Novi Sad & Fruska gora & winery and monastery

If you’re looking to get a taste of Serbia beyond Belgrade, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the country’s cultural, historical, and natural treasures. It combines beautiful architecture, stunning landscapes, historic sites, and a chance to sample some of Serbia’s famous wines — all in one day.

What really draws people in are the knowledgeable guides, who bring the history and stories to life, and the spectacular views over Novi Sad and the Danube. Plus, the wine tasting, especially of the legendary Bermet, adds a distinctive local flavor.

A potential downside is that the day is quite packed, so if you’re after a slow, relaxed experience, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the tour is a group setting, which is perfect for socializing and sharing insights but might not suit those seeking total privacy or a very personalized experience.

All considered, this tour is an excellent fit for anyone interested in history, architecture, good food, and wine—especially if you enjoy a lively, guided environment rather than wandering solo. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience offers rich insights into Serbia’s history and culture.
• Stunning viewpoints from Petrovaradin Fortress give you postcard-worthy photos.
• Wine lovers will enjoy tasting Bermet, a unique local dessert wine.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers major highlights, from monasteries to historic towns.
• Small group setting ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
• All transportation and entrance fees are included, making it hassle-free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on Your Day Trip

This tour packs a lot into about 8 hours, starting with the pickup from your Belgrade hotel. Once onboard a comfortable van, you’ll head to your first stop: Kruedol Monastery. Here, you’ll get a quick but meaningful look at one of the most significant Orthodox monasteries on Fruska Gora Mountain. The architecture and frescoes are quite impressive, and the guided tour will shed light on its importance in Serbian culture.

Next, you’ll visit Sremski Karlovci, a charming town with a long history of migration and culture. Walking around, you’ll see the old high school, the iconic “4 lions” fountain, and the Orthodox cathedral. Some reviews highlight how much they learned from the guide about the town’s history and legends, like the claim that locals call it the “other Sun.”

After exploring, you’ll head to a local wine cellar for a tasting session. Here, besides sampling a variety of high-quality wines, you’ll have a chance to try Bermet. This spicy, sweet wine was reportedly a favorite of Empress Maria Theresa and even sold on Titanic — a fun fact that adds a special touch to the experience. The tasting lasts about an hour, giving enough time to savor and ask questions.

Then, it’s time to visit Petrovaradin Fortress, perched above the Danube. The views from the fortress walls are remarkable, offering panoramic shots of Novi Sad and the river. The underground tunnels and fortress walls reveal stories of a storied past, once a border between empires. This is also where Serbia’s famous EXIT music festival takes place, adding a lively contemporary vibe to an ancient site.

Finally, your day winds down with a guided tour of Novi Sad itself. The city is called the Serbian Athens for good reason — its architecture, cultural sites, and relaxed atmosphere make it a city worth exploring. After about an hour wandering its streets, you’ll return to Belgrade, enriched by the day’s discoveries.

The Experience of the Tour

People often praise the expertise of guides, with reviews mentioning how much they learned and the engaging storytelling. One traveler remarked, “Novika is a special guide. He is a polymath of great knowledge and humour,” which suggests you’ll get a lively, well-informed commentary throughout.

The scenic stops are a big hit. From the fortress views to the peaceful landscapes of Fruska Gora, every location offers a chance for memorable photos and quiet moments of reflection. The taste of Bermet is a highlight for many, with some reviewers noting it’s a rare opportunity to try a regional specialty not found elsewhere.

The architecture in Novi Sad — baroque, neo-gothic, and classical buildings — adds to the city’s charm. Several reviews mention how the tours’ length and pacing are well-balanced. You get enough time at each stop to explore and appreciate without feeling rushed.

While some mention that the price may seem high (£140+), many find the cost justified considering the all-inclusive nature—entrance fees, transportation, guide, and tastings are covered. For travelers seeking a guided experience with depth and local insights, it offers good value.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts about 8 hours, with a pickup and drop-off from Belgrade hotels. It’s suited for small groups (limited to 15 participants), which enhances intimacy and interaction. The group size is ideal for those who prefer a more personal touch rather than large, impersonal tours.

Transportation is by van, with punctual pickups. The schedule includes multiple stops: Kruedol Monastery (1 hour), Sremski Karlovci (45 minutes), wine tasting (1 hour), Petrovaradin Fortress (30 minutes), and the Novi Sad city tour (1 hour). The timings mean you’ll have a good amount of time at each site, but be prepared for a full day.

Weather-wise, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly. The tour guides are knowledgeable and engaging, and the small group setup means you can comfortably ask questions and take photos.

The tour is not suitable for sleeveless shirts, and since it’s primarily an outdoor experience with some walking, comfortable shoes are recommended.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Serbia’s most cherished sites, combining history, architecture, stunning vistas, and regional wine. The knowledgeable guides, especially, elevate the experience, turning a sightseeing trip into a learning adventure. If you’re keen to understand Serbia’s cultural depth, sample authentic wines, and enjoy spectacular views, this trip ticks all those boxes.

It’s best suited for travelers who like a structured, guided day with a mixture of history, scenery, and local flavors, without the stress of planning each detail. The small group size ensures a relaxed, engaging atmosphere, perfect for curious minds eager to learn about Serbia’s past and present.

While it’s a full day and slightly on the pricier side, many find the experience’s quality and depth more than worth it. The blend of cultural sights and natural beauty makes for a memorable, satisfying trip — a great way to deepen your understanding of this intriguing part of the Balkans.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, with scheduled stops and guided tours at each site.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
You’ll visit Kruedol Monastery, Sremski Karlovci, enjoy wine tasting (including Bermet), explore Petrovaradin Fortress, and tour Novi Sad.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the price, making it a hassle-free experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking and exploring outdoor sites.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the information isn’t specifically tailored for children, the tour is primarily cultural and historical, so it’s suitable for curious older kids or teenagers interested in sightseeing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to speak English to join?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, and guides are prepared to provide engaging commentary for English-speaking travelers.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Serbia’s history, culture, and natural beauty, wrapped up in a comfortable, well-organized package. Whether you’re a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or just someone eager to see more of the Balkans, it’s a solid choice to add to your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: