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How to Get to Novi Sad

How to Get to Novi Sad

Novi Sad Vojvodina, Serbia Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airlines & Routes

Serbia's national carrier, Air Serbia, has direct flights to numerous European cities, Middle East destinations, and North America (New York and Chicago).

Flight Information

  • Many low-cost airlines, including Wizz Air, Ryanair, and easyJet, operate Belgrade routes from various European cities.
  • Other major carriers like Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, and Turkish Airlines also fly to BEG.
  • Direct flights from New York (JFK) and Chicago (ORD) to Belgrade via Air Serbia.

Seasonal Flight Fluctuations

Flights are most expensive and book quickly during summer, especially in July for EXIT Festival. Book flights several months in advance for this period.

Best Booking Times

  • High Season (Summer): Highest prices, quick bookings.
  • Shoulder Season: More reasonable prices and good availability appear during spring and autumn.
  • Low Season (Winter): Flights stand cheapest, but fewer options may appear on some routes.

Airport Amenities

Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) includes standard international airport facilities. Duty-free shops, a variety of restaurants and cafes, car rental agencies, currency exchange services, ATMs, free Wi-Fi, and lounges are available.

Airport Transfers - Taxi

Taxis at the airport. Use the airport's official taxi counter inside the terminal for a pre-arranged, fixed-price taxi. This avoids overcharging. Price for a Novi Sad ride typically €50-€70.

Airport Transfers - Bus

The most convenient and popular option. Buses run regularly, approximately every 1 to 1.5 hours, directly from the airport to Novi Sad city center. The journey lasts about 1.5 hours. Tickets cost around €10-€15; purchase online or from the driver.

Transfer Options from Belgrade Airport BEG to Novi Sad

Private & Rental Car

  • Private Transfer: Pre-book private transfers online for convenience and a fixed price. These services often match taxi costs.
  • Rent a Car: Car rental agencies have desks at BEG. This option gives flexibility for extensive region exploration. Check DiscoverCars.com.
  • This option is great for exploring further afield.

Combined Transport

  • Train to Novi Sad: The "Soko" high-speed train from Belgrade to Novi Sad takes about 30 minutes. Trains run frequently.
  • Bus from Belgrade: Extensive bus network connects Novi Sad to most cities. Main bus station near train station.
  • This typically involves taking a taxi or shuttle from BEG to Belgrade city center first, then onward to Novi Sad.
  • Journey time may be longer but offers more route flexibility.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Serbia shares land borders with Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Croatia. Standard passport control and customs procedures appear at these land borders. Expect potential delays, notably during peak travel seasons or holidays.

Train Services

The "Soko" high-speed train links Belgrade and Novi Sad, a fast and modern travel experience. The journey lasts about 30 minutes. Trains run frequently, making this the quickest and most comfortable travel method between the two cities. International train connections from Serbia appear limited.

Long-Distance Buses

An extensive bus network links Novi Sad to most Serbian cities and towns. Novi Sad's main bus station (Autobuska Stanica) sits near the train station. International bus routes link Novi Sad (often via Belgrade) to various European cities. Connections to destinations like Vienna, Budapest, Zagreb, and Sarajevo exist. Reputable bus companies include FlixBus, Fudeks, and Lasta.

Sea/River Arrivals

Danube Cruises

Novi Sad a popular stop for Danube River cruises. These usually form part of multi-day international cruises, not a main arrival method for independent travelers.

River Transport Options

  • The port for cruise ships sits near the city center.
  • Local boat tours on the Danube appear, especially in warmer months.
  • No scheduled public river transportation system exists in Novi Sad.

Immigration Procedures at Seaports

For international river cruises, immigration procedures typically occur onboard the ship or at Serbia's first port of entry.

Checklist for River Arrivals

  • Valid passport with sufficient validity.
  • Any necessary visa documentation.
  • Cruise itinerary and booking confirmations.

Departure Information

Preparation for departure smooths exit from Novi Sad.

Departure Timing

  • Airport (BEG): Arrive at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights. For domestic or regional flights, 1.5-2 hours usually suffices. Time for check-in, security screening, and passport control.
  • Train/Bus Station (Novi Sad): Arrive 30-45 minutes before departure for domestic journeys. For international bus journeys, arrive at least 1 hour beforehand.
  • Double-check flight or bus schedules the day prior to departure, specifically during holidays or adverse weather conditions.

Airport & Station Facilities

Amenities for departing travelers.

Amenities Overview

  • Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) has dining options, shops, lounges, and Wi-Fi for departing travelers.
  • Novi Sad’s train and bus stations include basic amenities: kiosks, cafes, and waiting areas.
  • Free Wi-Fi at BEG for convenience.

Exit Fees

  • Serbia levies no specific exit fees or taxes for departing travelers.
  • Budget for standard travel costs only.
  • A straightforward departure process.
  • This simplifies final travel arrangements.
  • No hidden charges upon exiting the country.
  • Keep all travel documents accessible for passport control.

Driving in Serbia

Requirements & Regulations

Age 21 minimum for car rental in Serbia (sometimes 23-25 for certain car classes). A valid national driving license held for at least 2 years, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and a major credit card for the deposit are necessary.

Driving Laws

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Headlights remain on at all times, day and night.
  • Winter tires are a requirement from November 1 to April 1.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads in Serbia generally maintain safety. Mind pedestrians, cyclists, and agricultural vehicles, especially on smaller roads.

Driving Safety Tips

  • Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h outside urban areas, 100 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on highways.
  • Driving under alcohol influence is strictly forbidden.
  • Winter driving has challenges from snow and ice.

Road Quality

Major roads and highways, like the A1 from Belgrade to Novi Sad, generally stand in good condition. Road quality varies on local roads.

Highway Tolls

Highways have tolls, payable in Serbian Dinars (RSD) or Euros (cash or card).

Parking

Paid parking zones exist in the city center, managed by zones (red, yellow, blue) with varied time limits and prices, payable via SMS or parking machines. Parking garages also appear.

Final Driving Tip

Always Carry Documents

Always have your driving license, IDP, vehicle registration, and insurance proof with you when driving in Serbia.