Written by: Milica Bokšan
What to visit in Vojvodina is a question that requires a truly comprehensive answer.
Vojvodina is a significant part of Serbia, so the best way to represent it to you is to focus on the larger cities in this area and the sights within them that you should see!
Before we jump to the list, let’s learn a little bit about Vojvodina in Serbia.
The Most Important Facts About Vojvodina
- Vojvodina is a lowland province in northern Serbia and home to 30 national communities. Besides Serbs, the region is home to Hungarians, Slovaks, Romanians, Roma, Croats, Montenegrins, Slovenes, Bulgarians, and other nationalities.
- Among Serbs, the motto “Srem, Banat i Bačka – tri srca junačka“ (‘Srem, Banat and Bačka – three heroic hearts’) is well-known. These are actually the names for parts of Vojvodina.
- The centre of Vojvodina is considered to be Novi Sad (also called Serbian Athens). Novi Sad has been declared the European Centre of Culture for 2022.
- In addition to Novi Sad, the largest cities in Vojvodina are Sombor, Zrenjanin, Subotica, and Pančevo.
Okay, so let’s see what you should definitely visit when you come to Vojvodina in Serbia!
#1 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Novi Sad
Novi Sad is the second-largest city in Serbia. It is located on the banks of the Danube River.
Once you visit this astonishing city, you must check these sights:
- Petrovaradin Fortress: It is considered one of the most beautiful fortresses in Serbia. Petrovaradinska tvrđava is famous for its underground tunnels, clock tower, and fantastic panoramic views. During the summer, the world-famous EXIT festival is held here. It attracts visitors from all over the globe to enjoy music and a unique atmosphere!
- Dunavska Street: Dunavska ulica is one of the oldest streets in Novi Sad. It’s ideal for walking, relaxing at the coffee shops, shopping, or all of these at once!
- Danube Park: A green oasis in the city centre, known as Dunavski park, is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. There’s also a lake with ducks and a lot of banks.
- Fruška Gora: Although not officially part of this Serbian city, it’s very close to it, so don’t forget to include it in your trip to Vojvodina. Fruška Gora is a national park and a region renowned for its numerous Serbian monasteries. Some of them are Krušedol, Velika Remeta, Staro Hopovo and Novo Hopovo.
Bonus: For a more detailed guide through Novi Sad, check this blog post!
#2 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Sremski Karlovci
Although not one of the largest, but certainly one of the prettiest Serbian cities, Sremski Karlovci is a must-include on your list of ‘What to visit in Vojvodina’.
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
- The Patriarchal Palace: Patrijaršijski dvor is located in the old town centre. The building is an example of amazing architecture typical of these parts of Serbia. This symbol of Serbian culture and history also includes the museum setting with permanent exhibits. Do not miss the opportunity to relax in the fantastically decorated palace garden!
- Karlovac Gymnasium: This is one of the most renowned high schools in the entire country. Some of the most famous Serbian movies, such as Lajanje na zvezde, Varljivo leto and Balkan Express, were filmed right here. Notable Serbs, including Branko Radičević, Jovan Sterija Popović, and Sima Milutinović Sarajlija, studied here. Today, Karlovac High School library includes 18,000 titles, a phototype edition of Miroslavljevo jevanđelje, first editions written by Dositej Obradović, Branko Radičević and Vuk Stefanović Karadžić.
- Wineries: The region is renowned for its beautiful vineyards and high-quality wines. The wines you taste in this city will be some of the best in the entire country. Some of the more famous wineries are Đurić, Kiš and Vinum.
#3 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Subotica
Subotica is the second largest city in Vojvodina, and is located right on the border with Hungary. With many buildings built and decorated in a secession art manner (or so-called Art Nouveau ), it’s no wonder that it is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Serbia.
In this city with a rich history and culture, you should definitely take your time to visit:
- City Hall: Gradska kuća is a true masterpiece of Hungarian Art Nouveau. You would be amazed by the luxury tiles and a panoramic view from the tower. Today, concerts, weddings, and other significant events are held here.
- Synagogue: This is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. Due to its architecture, it is now a cultural asset of exceptional importance, and it is more than 100 years old.
- Lake Palić & Zoo: Palić is a city settlement 7 kilometres away from Subotica. The promenade around the lake is exceptionally beautiful. In the Palić Zoo, you can see more than 60 species of animals, and the nature that abounds in the zoo will make you feel like you’re in some kind of woods!
#4 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Sombor
I know it can seem repetitive, but Vojvodina really has some of the most beautiful places. This centre of the Bačka district is one of the most visited cities in Vojvodina.
Here’s the list of just some of the must-visit places in Sombor:
- Županija: This building of great historical importance is one of the main symbols of Sombor. It has 270 rooms and halls, and it also houses the impressive painting The Battle of Senta by Franz Eisenhut. This battle marked the end of the Great Vienna War.
- Gallery Milan Konjović: Milan Konjović was a famous Serbian expressionist painter. In this Gallery, you will be able to see over 1000 selected works of this prominent artist. In addition to domestic exhibitions, the gallery organises numerous exhibitions of Milan Konjović abroad.
- Ranches: Salaši are specific places in Serbia where visitors can enjoy traditional Serbian dishes, local customs, fresh air and lush nature. There are two ranches near Sombor, Naš salaš and Dida Hornjakov salaš.
#5 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Zrenjanin
In the heart of Banat lies Zrenjanin, a city known for its bridges and its brewery tradition. In Zrenjanin, there are various manifestations such as Dani piva, Begej fest and Korzo.
Be sure to check these places:
- Šeherezada: This is the house of a German jeweller and it become a symbol of Zrenjanin. It got its name because of the oriental look and walls painted in ten colours.
- Peskara: Peskara consists of three lakes and it’s located only 5km from the center of Zrenjanin. Thanks to its clean water and untouched natural beauty, it is becoming increasingly popular. If you visit Vojvodina during the summer, you will be happy to know that the entrance is completely free, and if you come during the colder days, you can enjoy walking and beautiful sunsets.
- National Museum: This museum features 9 different departments with over 49,000 objects. If you want to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Banat, this is the place for you.
#6 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Vršac
Vršac is one of Serbia’s central wine-producing regions.
- Vršac Tower: Vršačka kula is a fortress on Vršački breg. It is believed to date back to the 14th century, and today it is protected as a cultural asset of great importance.
- Vršac Vineyards: Vršački vinogradi are very popular in Serbia and abroad. According to some written records and archaeological findings, the beginnings of viticulture in this area date back to the time of the Dacians and Roman rule in this region. Numerous wine events are also organised in Vršac, such as Vinofest or Grožđebal.
- Bishop’s Palace: Vladičanski dvor in Vršac is one of the most magnificent buildings in the city of Vršac, and one of the most beautiful examples of bishop’s palace in Serbia. It is also the oldest bishop’s palace of the Serbian Orthodox Church.
#7 What to Visit in Vojvodina: Pančevo
Right next to the capital city of Serbia, lies Pančevo, today one of the most important urban and industrial centres of Vojvodina. Numerous films and series are filmed here today, and not so long ago, iconic rock concerts were organised.
Let’s see what you should visit in Pančevo:
- National Garden: One of the favourite relaxation spots in Pančevo is Narodna bašta. Here you can expect lots of greenery, wooden pavilions, playgrounds and a coffee shop in the centre of the garden.
- Tamiš Quay: The Tamiš River flows through Pančevo, so you can enjoy walking beside it, or stop for a lunch in some of the restaurants on the ground or on the rafts.
- National Museum: In the centre of Pančevo, there is a museum where you can see different settings, but some of the most famous paintings are those by significant Serbian painters Paja Jovanović and Uroš Predić.
- Peščara: Near this city, there is a Deliblatska peščara, a special nature reserve where you can walk through forests or enjoy in the Aqua Park. This is one of the favourite places for picnics. If you’re looking for similar nature escapes in Vojvodina, be sure to check Obedska bara near Sremska Mitrovica or Carska bara near Zrenjanin.
Gastronomy of Vojvodina
When it comes to Vojvodina specialities, the Serbian cuisine of this region is a mix of different influences, Hungarian, Romanian, Slovak and others. However, rest assured, as is the case in other parts of Serbia, great care is taken to ensure the delicious taste.
Whether you opt for cooked dishes like sarma or goulash or appetisers made from dried meat and dairy products, you won’t go wrong. Vojvodina is known for its dried meat and meze!
Although Vojvodina is characterised by homemade treats like sweet pies, doughnuts or strudel, you will also find various types of pancakes and cakes in restaurants.
When comes to drinks in Vojvodina, beer, wine and rakija are a must-drinks in any coffee shop, restaurant or Serbian home.
If you want to take something with you, paprika spice is considered to be the best in Vojvodina!
So,
…next time you plan a trip to Serbia, don’t stop in Belgrade. Head north — and let Vojvodina surprise you!
Take your time and let yourself to explore all that Vojvodina can offer you. And in case you wanted to be fully prepared for your trip , book your Serbian private lessons and enjoy talks with locals!
