Why everybody loves Novi Sad

There is more to Novi Sad than Exit Festival and Index sandwich. Many tourists decide to stop here on the way from other European countries to Belgrade. They are often positively surprised and even decide to stay longer than planned or simply come back. Novi Sad was a crib of free political spirit, the city of parties, the alternative culture, the eco-minded people, the birthplace of the first Serbian vegan restaurant, and so many more things. It’s the city with unique spirit, a long history, and countless cool local stories.

Why does everybody fall in love with Novi Sad? Because of its picturesque arrangements all over the city, vivid colors, parks, street art and tiny buildings. Why does everybody stay in love with Novi Sad? Because of the widest smiles in the Balkans, the slowest daily routines, and the highest culturally aware society.

The culture is strong in Novi Sad

Novi Sad is a strong parallel to Belgrade culture scene, but also a tacit competition. Even though the two cities were always friends and partners, the silent challenge of who can do better and who can do more has always existed. Don’t worry, it’s healthy!

The culture centers have a lot of impact on the city’s culture scene, events and gatherings. Even when there is no even do check out the famous culture centers in order to meet the most hip people, and creative minds, who are not of afraid of changing the things that they don’t like in the local community. Some interesting places to check out are "Crna Kuca" and "KC Lab."

New energy of younger people who are not afraid to think and act is changing the traditional setting, and traditional definitions of culture and art. These, together with more conventional approach, helps turn Novi Sad into the European Capital of Culture 2021 and European Youth Capital 2019.

Locals’ favorite gathering spots

During the winter months, numerous city bars thrive with murmuring, smoke, and crowds as everybody’s social life is happening there. During the weekends most local bars have either live music or DJ sets. During the day the characteristic of the city’s cafes, bars and restaurants is the smell of coffee, cinnamon and mulled wine.

When the weather becomes warm enough to be outside for longer than half an hour without freezing, somewhere around the end of March, the whole city transforms. Suddenly everyone’s hanging out outside most of the time. The most popular places among locals for an evening chilling sessions are Danube Riverside and city’s numerous parks. During the long sunny day, the most of the city rush for the refreshing afternoon at Danube’s most famous beach in Novi Sad - Strand.

I may be biased, but Novi Sad is the city of diversity in almost every segment of balanced urban life. For the adventure seekers, there are also many things to check out: hiking in the nearby Fruska Gora, countless cycling opportunities, escape rooms, street markets, and festivals.

The weeks to come will unravel more of the Novi Sad’s unique personality and why you will fall in love with it - in case you already haven’t.