From Belgrade: Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci Tour

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated: This tour costs $75.47 per person and holds a perfect 5-star rating based on 82 reviews.
• Includes multiple highlights: Visit Fruska Gora monasteries, enjoy wine tasting in Sremski Karlovci, explore Petrovaradin Fortress, and stroll through Novi Sad’s main attractions.
• Comfortable transport and easy logistics: Travel in an air-conditioned minivan with hotel pickup and drop-off, making the day hassle-free.
• Expert guide with personalized experience: A licensed guide leads the tour, sharing stories and insights on each stop.
• Flexible and accessible: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a minimum age of 18 and small group sizes capped at 16 travelers.
• Advance booking recommended: The tour is booked around 36 days in advance, showing its popularity.

Discover Serbia’s Northern Region: From Belgrade to Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci

This full-day tour from Belgrade offers a well-rounded exploration of Serbia’s north, combining history, architecture, and local flavors. Priced at $75.47 per person, the tour takes approximately 8 hours, making it a thorough yet manageable trip for those interested in cultural highlights without a strenuous schedule. With pickup and drop-off included, travelers enjoy a hassle-free experience that begins bright and early at 9:00 am.

What truly makes this tour appealing is its balanced itinerary: visiting iconic sites like the Fruska Gora monasteries, tasting legendary Bermet wine in Sremski Karlovci, exploring the Petrovaradin Fortress, and discovering Novi Sad’s lively cultural scene. Its excellent reviews underline the expertise of guides and the quality of the experience, making it a strong choice for history buffs, wine enthusiasts, and those seeking a scenic escape from Belgrade.

Fruska Gora Monasteries: A Spiritual and Historic Start

The journey begins with a visit to the Fruska Gora Monasteries, often called the ‘Holy Mountain of Serbia’. This area hosts more than 16 medieval Orthodox monasteries, each steeped in centuries of spiritual tradition. The guide shares engaging stories about the region’s turbulent history and monastic life, adding depth to the experience.

The stop includes 45 minutes on-site, with admission tickets included. Travelers appreciate how this visit offers not just scenic views but also a chance to connect with Serbia’s religious heritage. The scenery over the Pannonian Plain en route enhances the sense of stepping back in time, with an hour of picturesque landscapes to start the day. Be prepared for a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere at this stop.

Sremski Karlovci: A Baroque Town & Wine Tasting

Moving into the charming town of Sremski Karlovci, visitors find small houses, churches, palaces, and lush gardens that showcase its historical elegance. The main square, featuring the Four Lion Fountain and the Serbian Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas, provides excellent photo opportunities.

A highlight here is the wine tasting, where you sample Bermet, a famous Serbian wine that was reportedly served on the Titanic. The 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated for this stop allows plenty of time to enjoy the full wine tasting experience, with admission included. Guides often note the quality of the local wines and the picturesque ambiance of the town, making it a favorite part of the tour.

Petrovaradin Fortress: One of Europe’s Largest Fortresses

A visit to Petrovaradin Fortress offers a glimpse into Serbia’s military history and architecture. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries by the Austrian Empire, it once defended against Ottoman invasions. Today, the fortress is a well-preserved site that houses the City Museum, old military barracks, and the famous Drunk Clock Tower, with its upside-down hands.

The tour spends 45 minutes here, with free entrance, giving visitors time to explore the labyrinth of gates and ramparts. The sweeping views of Novi Sad and the Danube River are spectacular and often highlight the photos taken during this stop. This site appeals to those interested in military architecture and panoramic vistas.

Exploring Novi Sad: Serbia’s Cultural Capital

The final leg of the tour focuses on Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city and European Capital of Culture 2021. The tour provides a 2 hours and 30 minutes window to stroll through Liberty Square, where landmarks such as the Town Hall, Roman Catholic Cathedral, and Vojvodina Hotel are found.

Visitors enjoy walking down the main street, experiencing the blend of 18th and 19th-century architecture and vibrant café culture. The Serbian National Theater and the city synagogue, one of Europe’s largest Secession-style synagogues, add to the city’s cultural richness. The time spent here allows for photos, sightseeing, and soaking up Novi Sad’s lively atmosphere.

Transportation: Comfortable and Stress-Free

Throughout the day, travelers ride in an air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. The pickup and drop-off from Belgrade hotels make logistics straightforward, especially for those staying in the city center. The small group size of up to 16 travelers fosters a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and customize the visit.

The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, often highlighted in reviews. The use of a licensed guide ensures the historical and cultural stories are accurate and engaging.

The Wine Tasting Experience: A Notable Highlight

The wine tasting in Sremski Karlovci receives particular praise. While the full tasting is included only in private departures, all guests get to sample Bermet, a notable Serbian wine. The stories behind Bermet, reportedly served on the Titanic, add a historical flavor to this activity.

Some reviews mention the demonstration and lecture aspect, with a note that the room can be cold in late seasons. No additional fees are required for the tasting, and it becomes a memorable part of the day, especially appreciated by those interested in local wines.

Optional Lunch & Additional Costs

The tour does not include a full Serbian lunch, but it offers the option to purchase one for 10-15 EUR per person. Many travelers choose to enjoy a meal in Novi Sad or at one of the stops, enriching their experience. Souvenirs are not included, but there are opportunities for shopping in the cities visited.

Suitable for Most Travelers

This tour is designed to be accessible for most participants, with most travelers able to participate. The minimum drinking age of 18 applies, and clothing that covers knees and shoulders is required when visiting religious sites. The small group size and comfortable transport make it ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive day trip.

The cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind for planning.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Cultural Day from Belgrade

The From Belgrade: Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci Tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and local flavors at an accessible price point. Its high ratings and positive reviews reflect the quality of guides, the variety of stops, and the overall thoughtful organization.

This tour particularly suits history buffs, wine lovers, and those wanting a glimpse of Serbia’s scenic north without the hassle of self-driving. The comfort of modern transportation, combined with expert guides and a well-paced itinerary, makes it a reliable choice for a memorable day outside Belgrade.

While the tour covers many highlights, those interested in more extensive culinary experiences or specific site details might want to plan additional activities. Still, for a comprehensive introduction to Serbia’s north, this tour delivers excellent value and a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from Belgrade hotels, making the day seamless.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What does the tour include?
It includes visits to Fruska Gora monasteries, Sremski Karlovci wine tasting, Petrovaradin Fortress, and Novi Sad’s main attractions. All entrance fees and a licensed guide are included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with full refunds.

Is there an option for lunch?
Lunch is not included but can be purchased separately for 10-15 EUR.