Novi Sad is a city that beckons travelers with its charming streets, lively cultural scene, and stunning views of the Danube. Unlike many cities, Novi Sad offers a blend of rich history, vibrant local traditions, and picturesque landscapes—all easily explored on foot or through guided tours. One tour that stands out is the Novi Sad: Walking Tour city center and Petrovaradin Fortress, which is praised for its detailed storytelling and intimate experience. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to enjoy the city’s scenic spots, this tour hits many highlights in a relaxed, engaging manner. We love that it includes visits to landmarks like Matica Srpska and the fortress, with plenty of opportunities for photos along the Danube.
For those wanting a broader experience that combines city exploration with overnight stays, the Belgrade: Guided City Tour with Novi Sad and Hotel Stay offers a comprehensive 3-day adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see both major Serbian cities, enjoy a river cruise, and experience local nightlife—all with comfortable accommodations included. Lastly, for visitors who prefer a shorter but focused experience, the Novi Sad: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide provides a quick yet rich introduction to the city’s top spots and legends. All of these options cater to different schedules and interests, making Novi Sad accessible to a variety of travelers.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at each of these top-rated tours, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which best suits your travel style.
1. Novi Sad: Walking Tour city center and Petrovaradin Fortress
This private 2-3 hour walking tour offers a fantastic way to get to know Novi Sad’s core in a relaxed setting. The tour includes stops at key sites like the Matica Srpska, where you can appreciate Serbian cultural institutions, as well as Danube Park for a lush break in the city. The highlight is undoubtedly the Petrovaradin Fortress, which offers sweeping views of the Danube and the city skyline. The tour is customizable, so your guide can tailor the experience to your interests, whether it’s architecture, local stories, or hidden alleyways.
What makes this tour stand out is the guide’s deep knowledge and personal anecdotes, making history come alive. Visitors consistently praise guide Vladimir for his engaging storytelling and fluency in English. Many reviews mention how the tour feels almost private, with enough time to soak in the city’s atmosphere and discover lesser-known corners. The walk also includes a visit to the Novi Sad Synagogue, Dormition Church, and the Serbian National Theatre, all steeped in local significance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, insightful introduction to Novi Sad’s key sights and want to enjoy stunning views from the fortress. It’s a great value for a personalized experience that covers history, culture, and scenic vistas—all in just a few hours.
2. Belgrade: Guided City Tour with Novi Sad and Hotel Stay
Spanning 3 days, this tour package is ideal for travelers eager to explore Serbia’s two largest cities and enjoy a seamless experience. Starting with a panoramic and walking tour of Belgrade, the itinerary includes a Danube river boat trip, which offers a fresh perspective of the city from the water. Afterward, you’ll transfer to Novi Sad for a complementary city tour, visiting landmarks and local hotspots.
What makes this tour distinct is the inclusion of overnight stays in Belgrade, with breakfast and transportation arranged from the moment you arrive. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided introduction to Serbia without the hassle of planning logistics. The tour also features nightlife exploration, allowing visitors to experience Belgrade’s renowned clubs and riverside restaurants.
While reviews are not provided here, the package’s comprehensive nature appeals to those who prefer seeing major sights with expert guidance, especially if you’re short on time or want a hassle-free trip. The combination of cultural, scenic, and culinary experiences makes this a well-rounded introduction to the country.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full immersion in Serbian culture over multiple days, combining city sightseeing with relaxing river cruises and lively evenings.
3. Novi Sad: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide
This 2-hour tour offers a quick but thorough look at Novi Sad’s most iconic spots. Led by a local guide, you’ll visit key highlights like the Petrovaradin Clock Tower, the main square, and other must-see sites. The emphasis is on storytelling—learning about local legends, interesting facts, and what makes the city special beyond just its buildings.
The tour is perfect for travelers who have limited time but want an authentic taste of Novi Sad. The guide’s local insights help reveal hidden stories and the city’s character, making the experience more memorable. Reviews note the guide’s friendly demeanor and ability to make the city’s history engaging for all ages.
This tour is best suited for those who prefer a brisk walk with plenty of personality—ideal if you’re arriving for a day and want to maximize your time. It’s less comprehensive than the full-day options but offers a highly personal and authentic experience.
Bottom Line: A quick, lively introduction to Novi Sad’s main sights and legends, suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire for local stories and a sense of place.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your schedule, interests, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want an in-depth exploration with personalized attention, the Novi Sad: Walking Tour city center and Petrovaradin Fortress (see more) is perfect. For those combining city sightseeing with a multi-day Serbian adventure, the Belgrade guided tour (see more) offers a full culture. If your time is limited but you still want to feel connected to the city’s stories, the Novi Sad: City Highlights Walking Tour (see more) delivers.
Think about your priorities: are you after scenic views, historical insights, or local legends? Also, check availability and book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slots.
Final Thoughts
Novi Sad offers a variety of engaging city tours suited to different tastes and schedules. For a personalized, in-depth walk through the city’s streets and fortress, the private walking tour (see here) is a top pick. For a multi-day Serbian adventure that combines cultural, scenic, and nightlife experiences, the Belgrade and Novi Sad tour (see here) is hard to beat. If you’re pressed for time but want an insider’s glimpse, the short city highlights tour (see here) offers a quick, friendly introduction.
Whatever your choice, booking early and considering your interests will help you make the most of your visit. Novi Sad’s combination of history, scenic beauty, and local stories makes it a city worth exploring thoroughly—so pick the tour that best matches your style and enjoy every moment.