Novi Sad is a city that rewards those willing to explore on foot. Its streets are filled with stories, architecture, and views that reveal a different side of Serbia’s second-largest city. Unlike larger cities with sprawling metro systems, Novi Sad’s walkable core makes it ideal for discovering its charm at a relaxed pace. We particularly love tours that combine historical sites with local stories, like the Novi Sad: Walking Tour city center and Petrovaradin Fortress, which offers a rich mix of sights and insider knowledge. Whether you’re wandering through Danube Park or climbing the fortress walls, these walks provide a genuine feel for local life.
For those considering their options, the list below highlights three of the best walking tours in Novi Sad. Each offers a different flavor—some focus on historical landmarks, others on cultural stories or hidden corners—so you can pick the one that best suits your interests.
1. Novi Sad: Walking Tour city center and Petrovaradin Fortress
This private 2-hour tour is a standout for its blend of city highlights and panoramic views. Starting at a location of your choice, the guide takes you through key sites like the Novi Sad Synagogue, Dormition Church, and the Serbian National Theatre. Each stop includes a brief guided tour—around 10 minutes—where you’ll learn about the city’s diverse architecture and cultural layers.
What makes this tour special is its focus on hidden gems like charming courtyards and alleyways often missed by casual visitors. The grand finale is a visit to the Petrovaradin Fortress, where you’ll enjoy stunning views over the Danube River and learn about its strategic importance. With an average rating of 4.9/5 based on 41 reviews, guides like Vladimir are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Guests mention how the tour feels almost like a private experience, with plenty of local anecdotes and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a comprehensive look at Novi Sad’s main attractions with a local touch, perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded experience.
2. Novi Sad: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide
This 2-hour tour is designed to hit the city’s highlights in a brisk, engaging way. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Novi Sad’s main sights. Your local guide will lead you through the best spots, sharing stories and legends that add flavor to the visit. Highlights include the Petrovaradin Clock Tower and a stroll through the city’s central squares and streets.
While it doesn’t cover as many sites as the private tour, it’s a great option for travelers who enjoy a lively, story-rich walk. Reviews mention a friendly guide who makes the history come alive, and the small group size keeps things intimate. If your main goal is to get a quick but meaningful overview, this tour fits the bill.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a lively, storytelling experience in a shorter time frame, with a focus on local legends and must-see landmarks.
3. Novi Sad Private Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour private tour zooms in on the city’s hidden corners and cultural layers. It’s ideal for those who want a more personalized experience with a focus on Novi Sad’s merchant roots, Jewish heritage, and architectural evolution. The guide takes you through the oldest house in the city and shares stories about its rebirth after destruction in the 19th century.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on local history, including the city’s role as a commerce hub and its cultural diversity. Guests appreciate the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path areas not covered in larger tour groups. It’s best suited for travelers who love history and culture but prefer a more intimate setting.
Bottom Line: A focused, personal experience for those interested in Novi Sad’s layered past, ideal for history buffs and culture lovers.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Novi Sad
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and how deep you want to go. If you’re after a comprehensive experience, the Novi Sad: Walking Tour city center and Petrovaradin Fortress offers the best mix of landmarks, stories, and views. For a shorter, lively overview, the City Highlights Walking Tour is perfect. If you prefer a more personal and detailed exploration into the city’s lesser-known stories, the Novi Sad Private Walking Tour is your best pick.
Consider your budget (private tours tend to be more expensive but more personalized), your time constraints, and your interest in history or culture. Booking early is advisable during peak months (spring and summer) to secure your preferred time slot, especially for private tours.
Final Thoughts
Novi Sad offers a variety of walking experiences that suit different tastes and schedules. For those wanting a well-rounded introduction, the city and fortress tour is hard to beat. Culture lovers and history enthusiasts will appreciate the private tour for its intimate insights, while travelers short on time will enjoy the highlight tour for its quick, engaging overview.
No matter which you choose, walking around Novi Sad is the best way to soak in its authentic atmosphere. Be sure to book your preferred tour early, especially in the warmer months, and get ready for a memorable exploration of this Serbian city’s charm.