From Belgrade: Sremski Karlovci & Novi Sad with Wine Tasting

Exploring Serbia’s northern region offers travelers a chance to enjoy beautiful architecture, historic sites, and excellent wines all in one day. This tour from INSPIRED TOURS promises a well-rounded experience, combining cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and a taste of local viticulture.

What we particularly appreciate about this trip is its perfect balance between guided visits and free time, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of each place at your own pace. The highlight for many is the wine tasting at a family-run cellar, which adds a personal touch that makes the experience more authentic.

One potential consideration is the 8-hour duration, which means you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the road—something to keep in mind if you’re prone to travel fatigue. This tour suits those who love history, architecture, scenic views, and, of course, good wine. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a full, enriching day trip from Belgrade that covers the highlights of Vojvodina’s cultural and natural treasures.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences with visits to family-run wineries and historic monasteries
• Comprehensive itinerary including Sremski Karlovci, Petrovaradin Fortress, and Novi Sad
• Knowledgeable guides who offer insightful commentary and personalized suggestions
• Beautiful scenery along the Blue Danube River and Fruska Gora Mountain
• Flexibility with free time in Novi Sad for lunch, shopping, or wandering
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles with pickup and drop-off at your Belgrade accommodation

This 8-hour journey is designed to give you a taste of Serbia’s northern charm, making it a fantastic option for first-time visitors or those wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail. From the moment you’re picked up from your Belgrade hotel, the experience feels seamless, thanks to professional guides and drivers who prioritize comfort and knowledge.

Transportation and Timing

The tour features transportation in air-conditioned cars or minivans depending on group size, which ensures a comfortable ride through the often scenic but sometimes winding roads of Vojvodina. Pickup is from centrally located hotels or addresses within 5 km of Republic Square, with details sent the day before, so there’s no guesswork.

The schedule is carefully planned, with each stop lasting enough to explore without feeling rushed, yet short enough to keep the pace lively. For example, you’ll spend about 30 minutes at Krusedol Monastery, enough for a guided walk and some photographs, and an hour at the wine cellar for tastings.

The Cultural and Historic Highlights

Starting at Krusedol Monastery, built in the 16th century, travelers can admire centuries-old frescoes and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this religious site. The guide’s insights help bring the monastery’s history to life, making it more than just a quick photo stop.

Next, you’ll visit Sremski Karlovci, a charming town at the foot of Fruska Gora Mountain. The town’s architecture is a highlight, with its first Serbian Gymnasium and Orthodox Church dedicated to St. Nicholas. The visit also includes a brief but enriching guided tour where you’ll see the historic pharmacy, one of the most beautiful in Europe, and the Catholic Church of St. Trinity.

Wine Tasting: A Personal Touch of Tradition

The highlight for many is the wine tasting at Probus Wine Cellar. This family-run operation, with roots dating back to the 18th century, offers a genuine taste of Serbian viticulture. The hosts passionately share their story and the history behind their wines, including Bermet, a distinctive variety once served to the Titanic’s passengers. The tasting lasts an hour, during which you can enjoy several types of wine, accompanied by local stories and traditions.

This part of the tour is especially praised for its authenticity. As one reviewer noted, the local hosts’ family history adds a warm, personal element to the experience, making you feel more like a guest than a tourist.

Petrovaradin Fortress and Novi Sad

After the wine, the tour heads to Petrovaradin Fortress, nicknamed “Gibraltar on the Danube.” This fortress is a marvel of preservation, with underground tunnels and artillery bastions that tell stories of centuries past. The guided visit offers insights into its strategic importance and impressive architecture.

Following the fortress, you’ll have about 45 minutes in Novi Sad to explore on your own. The main square, Liberty Square, is a hive of activity, surrounded by notable buildings like the City Hall, the Roman Catholic Name of Mary Church, and Vojvodjanska Bank. The tour also passes the Serbian National Theater, emphasizing the city’s cultural importance.

Many reviewers highlight the aesthetic appeal of Novi Sad—its vibrant streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere make it a city worth wandering in. You’ll have free time for a traditional Serbian lunch, shopping, or simply soaking up the local vibe.

Authenticity and Local Insights

Our review of the tour guides indicates they are highly knowledgeable. One reviewer mentioned that “Nina, the guide, was very professional and knew her tour inside out,” which adds value for those wanting more than just surface-level commentary. The driver, Bogdan, was also praised for his driving skills and helpful attitude.

The small group size and private setup create an intimate environment, allowing for personalized attention and genuine interactions. These details enhance the overall quality of the experience, making it feel less like a standard bus tour and more like a personalized day out.

While the specific cost isn’t listed here, this tour’s inclusive nature—hotel pickup, professional guide, driver, wine tasting, and bottled water—means you’re paying for a hassle-free, well-organized day. Given the quality of experiences, historical insights, and tastings, the value for money seems quite good, especially for those who want a rundown without planning every detail themselves.

You’ll also appreciate the flexibility of booking with a “Reserve now & pay later” option, offering peace of mind in case your plans change.

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy cultural sightseeing combined with culinary experiences. History buffs will appreciate the churches, monasteries, and fortress, while wine lovers will treasure the tasting session and the stories behind Serbia’s wine traditions.

It’s also perfect for those who prefer guided tours for the local insights and want a comfortable, all-in-one day trip that maximizes their time in Serbia’s Vojvodina region. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo but want a guided experience with a personal touch, this tour ticks all those boxes.

If you’re visiting Belgrade and want a well-rounded day exploring Serbia’s northern treasures, this tour offers an excellent combination of history, scenery, and authentic local flavors. The guides’ professionalism and the genuine family-run winery make it stand out from more generic sightseeing options. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Serbian culture, a collection of beautiful photos, and a few bottles of wine to take home.

This trip is particularly suited for curious travelers who love immersive experiences and want to see the real Serbia beyond the capital. Whether you’re into architecture, history, or wine, this tour provides a satisfying slice of Vojvodina’s charm in a single day.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and tastings, with pickup and drop-off from your Belgrade accommodation.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in air-conditioned cars or minivans, depending on group size, ensuring a comfortable journey through the scenic routes.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Krusedol Monastery, Sremski Karlovci, Petrovaradin Fortress, and free time in Novi Sad for exploration and lunch.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers have praised guides like Nina for their professionalism and deep knowledge of the sites and local stories.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, driver, wine tasting at a family-run cellar, and bottled water.

Can I customize the experience?
This is a private group tour, so you can discuss your preferences with the guide for a more tailored experience.

Is there free time in Novi Sad?
Yes, after the guided tour, you’ll have around 45 minutes for lunch, shopping, or wandering around the city.

What is Bermet wine?
Bermet is a distinctive Serbian wine, historically served on the Titanic, and is featured at the wine tasting.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport or ID, and dress appropriately for visiting places of worship (cover shoulders and knees).

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like the fortress and city streets.