Discover Novi Sad: Parks, Riverfront, Beaches & Hidden Gems

When most people picture Novi Sad, they imagine the historic main square with the Cathedral and charming Austro-Hungarian architecture. But Serbia’s cultural capital has much more to offer — from tranquil green parks and riverside restaurants to vibrant beaches and growing neighborhoods.

For expats relocating to Serbia, tourists exploring Vojvodina, or investors considering real estate, Novi Sad combines lifestyle, culture, and opportunity in a unique way.

One of the most beautiful spots in central Novi Sad is Dunavski Park.

• Features:

  • Turtle and duck-filled pond

  • Lizards and other small wildlife

  • Plenty of shady green space for relaxing, reading, or biking

  • Family-friendly walking paths and benches

  • On-site bathrooms

Despite being located in the heart of the city, the park is quiet and peaceful — making it a favorite spot for both locals and expats.

👉 Quick Answer: Is Dunavski Park free?
Yes — entry is free, making it one of the best budget-friendly attractions in Novi Sad.

Just steps from Dunavski Park, you’ll find Belgradski Kej (the Quay), Novi Sad’s riverfront promenade.

• Cycling city: Novi Sad is known as the city of bicycles, with a bike lane network that stretches across the entire city.

• Jogging & leisure: Locals and tourists alike enjoy jogging, walking, or relaxing along the Danube.

• Tourist hub: Many Danube cruise ships dock here, allowing visitors to step directly into the city center.

• Fortress views: The promenade offers panoramic views of the Petrovaradin Fortress across the river.

👉 Quick Answer: Is Novi Sad bike-friendly?
Yes. You can ride from one end of the city to the other entirely on dedicated bike lanes.

One of Novi Sad’s most beloved features is its riverside restaurants. Several spots along the Danube offer terraces with direct views of Petrovaradin Fortress and Fruška Gora mountain.

Here you can:

• Enjoy fresh Serbian cuisine

• Watch barges and boats pass along the river

• Relax with friends and family in a scenic setting

Tip: Ask locals for “restaurants on the Kej” — they’re well-known but often unnamed on maps.

Known locally as Štrand, Novi Sad’s city beach is one of the best ways to enjoy summer on the Danube.

• Entrance fee: Only 50 dinars (~€0.50), making it very affordable

• Facilities:

  • Restaurants and cafes

  • Splash pads and playgrounds for kids

  • Basketball and volleyball courts

  • Shade trees and grassy areas

• Accessibility:

  • Bike parking at the entrance

  • Paid car parking under the bridge

  • Public bus stop nearby

👉 Quick Answer: Is Strand Beach suitable for families?
Yes. With kids’ activities, food stands, shaded areas, and safe swimming zones, it’s one of the most family-friendly spots in Novi Sad.

For a quieter local experience, head west to the Telep and Adica neighborhoods.

• Small fishing areas along the Danube, popular for barbecues and family gatherings on weekends and holidays

• Informal access points — locals often create their own paths by car

• Near a Serbian military base (don’t be surprised to see soldiers nearby)

• Signs of rapid development — multiple cranes and construction projects underway

👉 Investor Insight:
Adica is one of the most promising areas for real estate investment in Novi Sad. Still affordable today, it is expected to grow rapidly over the next 3–5 years as development expands.

Novi Sad isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s also a city for active lifestyles.

• Horseback riding: Stables offering riding lessons and tours are located near Adica.

• Tennis: Multiple clay courts available, with new ones under construction.

• Cycling routes: Extend from Novi Sad to nearby towns such as Veternik, Futog, and Bačka Palanka.

• Quality of life: Green parks, outdoor lifestyle, bike culture

• Affordability: Low-cost entertainment and food

• Connectivity: Just 1 hour from Belgrade by car or train

• Culture & events: Famous for EXIT Festival and rich Serbian traditions

• Investment opportunities: Rapid development in neighborhoods like Adica

Whether you’re considering moving to Serbia, buying property, or simply visiting for a few days, Novi Sad offers a unique mix of history, culture, relaxation, and opportunity.

From Dunavski Park and Strand Beach to the up-and-coming Adica area, there’s always something new to explore.

👉 Interested in moving to Novi Sad or buying property here?
Contact Relocation Serbia — we specialize in helping expats, entrepreneurs, and investors make a smooth transition to life in Serbia.