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

This guided day trip from Belgrade promises a taste of Serbia’s most captivating sights — from the historic streets of Novi Sad, home to the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress, to the tranquil slopes of Fruska Gora, the country’s oldest national park, and the exquisite wine offerings, especially the legendary Bermet. If you’re craving an immersive glimpse into Serbia’s culture, history, and natural beauty in one balanced package, this tour might just be your best choice.

We love how this experience combines a mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and indulgent local flavors — all with a professional guide who knows the region inside out. The small-group format ensures a more personal, engaging outing. However, it’s worth considering that the full itinerary can be quite packed, so expect a lot of moving parts and some early mornings depending on your pickup time. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy history, architecture, scenic landscapes, and, of course, good wine.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Novi Sad, Fruska Gora, Kruedol Monastery, and Sremski Karlovci
• Expert local guides who provide insightful commentary and answer questions
• Stunning views from Petrovaradin Fortress and the national park
• Unique wine tasting experience, including the legendary Bermet
• Authentic cultural atmosphere in historic towns
• Small-group setting ensures a personalized experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

How the Day Begins — Pickup and Journey

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup in Belgrade, a hassle-free start that removes the stress of navigating on your own. Traveling in a comfortable van, your group will enjoy a roughly one-hour drive through Vojvodina’s rolling landscapes, setting the stage for a day filled with eye-catching scenery and intriguing history.

Kruedol Monastery: A Sacred Introduction

Our first stop is the Kruedol Monastery, perched on Fruska Gora’s slopes. Here, you’ll get a guided tour of one of Serbia’s most important Orthodox monasteries, renowned for its frescoes and spiritual significance. The peaceful atmosphere invites reflection, and the visit lasts about an hour, giving ample time to admire the architecture and learn about its role in Serbian religious life. Reviewers have appreciated how knowledgeable guides bring these sites to life, noting that “the monastery is a highlight for its history and serenity.”

Discovering Fruska Gora’s Natural Beauty

After the monastery, we make a quick 15-minute drive into the oldest national park in Serbia. We loved the way the landscape here offers a welcome contrast to urban sights — lush slopes, tranquil forests, and scenic views perfect for photos or just soaking in the calm. Walking through these surroundings, it’s easy to see why Fruska Gora has been a natural refuge for centuries.

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Sremski Karlovci — The Historic Heart

Next, we arrive in Sremski Karlovci, a charming town rich with Serbian history and tradition. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll encounter the famous fountain “4 Lions”, the Orthodox cathedral, and the old high school — all symbols of the town’s cultural importance. The town’s self-proclaimed “other Sun” adds a whimsical local legend, and the architecture here reflects centuries of history with baroque, neo-gothic, and classical influences.

One reviewer praised how their guide made the history accessible and engaging, making this stop a highlight: “I learned a lot about the migration of Serbian people in this area, and the architecture amazed me.” Your time here lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough opportunity to stroll, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

Wine Tasting and Bermet — A Local Specialty

No trip to Serbia is complete without experiencing its wines, and this tour’s visit to a local wine cellar offers an authentic tasting session. You’ll sample various regional wines along with Bermet, a specialty dessert wine flavored with herbs and spices. Its unique flavor has a legendary status — Empress Maria Theresa was said to favor it, and, according to legend, it was even served on the Titanic.

Guests consistently praise the quality and variety of wines, noting that the Bermet, in particular, is a standout. One reviewer even mentioned that it’s a “favorite drink,” making this part of the tour both a cultural and gustatory delight.

Petrovaradin Fortress — A View to Remember

The highlight for many is the Petrovaradin Fortress, perched atop the Danube River. From its ramparts, you’ll get sweeping views over Novi Sad and the river below. The fortress’s labyrinth of tunnels and ramparts echoes with history — once a border between empires, now a vibrant venue for Europe’s largest music festival, EXIT. Our guide points out the fortress’s strategic design and shares stories of its storied past, enriching the experience.

Some reviews mention how the fortress’s atmosphere varies — bustling during festivals, tranquil during visits — but always impressive for its size and history. Expect about 30 minutes of exploring here, with time for photos and a chance to appreciate the panoramic vistas.

Exploring Novi Sad — A City of Elegance

Finally, we arrive in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, often called the “Serbian Athens” because of its historical role as a cultural hub. Walking through the old town, you’ll notice beautiful baroque and neo-gothic buildings with colorful facades. The guided tour covers key sights and explains the city’s resilience and charm amid rapid modern changes.

Guests have described Novi Sad as “graceful,” with friendly locals maintaining a relaxed vibe despite its size. The hour-long visit includes time to stroll the streets comfortably, soak in the architecture, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or local snack.

Returning to Belgrade

After a full day of sightseeing, the group heads back to Belgrade, completing an approximately 8-hour journey. The relaxed pace, combined with insightful commentary and plenty of time at each stop, makes this a well-balanced experience.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a small, air-conditioned van makes for a comfortable day, especially given the itinerary’s many stops. The group is limited to 15 participants, fostering a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. Pickup is included, which adds convenience, and the morning start allows you to maximize your day.

Cost and Inclusivity

The tour’s price encompasses hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, a professional guide, and wine tasting at a local cellar. Food and drinks outside of the tasting are not included, so bringing snacks or planning lunch separately might be wise. Compared to the value of seeing multiple historic sites, tasting regional wines, and enjoying expert guidance, many find the cost justified — especially considering the personalized experience.

Duration and Planning

At 8 hours, the tour is quite full, so be prepared for an active day. Check availability to confirm the start time, and remember that the tour runs rain or shine. The experience is suited for travelers who appreciate a well-organized day with a mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want an immersive introduction to Serbia beyond Belgrade’s city limits. History buffs will appreciate the fortress and monasteries, while wine lovers will enjoy the Bermet tasting. The small-group vibe suits travelers seeking a more personal, less rushed experience. If you enjoy authentic cultural encounters, scenic landscapes, and insightful guides, this tour offers an excellent value for a full-day adventure.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or have limited mobility, the packed schedule might feel a bit intense. Also, those seeking extensive free time in each location may want to consider how much of the day is dedicated to sightseeing versus leisure.

FAQ

What is the tour’s duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting with hotel pickup in Belgrade and concluding with a return trip after sightseeing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation in a comfortable van is included, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel.

How many stops are there?
There are about 8 main stops, including Kruedol Monastery, Fruska Gora, Sremski Karlovci, a wine cellar, Petrovaradin Fortress, and Novi Sad.

What is the focus of the wine tasting?
You’ll sample various regional wines, including Bermet, a dessert wine favored by historical figures and legendary for its spicy, herbal flavor.

Can I expect a guided tour?
Absolutely. A professional English-speaking guide leads the tour, providing explanations, historical context, and answering questions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a camera. Food and drinks outside of the tasting are not included.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. Some sites may be less enjoyable in heavy rain, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

How many people will be in the group?
Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the price considered in terms of value?
Given all included visits, tastings, and expert guidance, many find the price offers excellent value for a full day of exploration.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Belgrade offers a well-rounded introduction to Serbia’s cultural, historical, and scenic treasures. We loved how it balances visits to iconic landmarks like Petrovaradin Fortress with authentic experiences such as wine tasting and strolling through charming towns like Sremski Karlovci. The small-group format ensures personal attention, and the knowledgeable guides make history and local legends come alive.

Travelers who enjoy architecture, scenic landscapes, and immersive cultural activities will find this trip both rewarding and memorable. It’s an excellent way to spend a day outside Belgrade, especially if you want a mix of history, nature, and regional flavors without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning enthusiast, this tour provides a meaningful glimpse into Serbia’s spirit — with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a highlight of your Balkan journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: