Novi Pazar - Discovering Serbia

Travelling to Novi Pazar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Novi Pazar, a pretty good destination in Serbia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Novi Pazar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Novi Pazar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Serbia, here's everything to know about Novi Pazar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Novi Pazar

Novi Pazar is a town located in the southwestern part of Serbia, near the border with Montenegro. It is the administrative center of the Raška District and has a population of approximately 66,000 people. It is situated on the banks of the Raška River and surrounded by the mountains Golija, Rogozna and Jadovnik. Novi Pazar was founded in the 15th century, and it has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its historic bazaar and traditional crafts. The town is a hub of the Bosniak culture in Serbia, and the majority of the population is Islamic. Novi Pazar is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, skiing, and mountaineering in the surrounding mountains.

What to visit in Novi Pazar

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Novi Pazar, Serbia: 1. Altun-Alem Mosque: This mosque is one of the oldest and most magnificent mosques in Novi Pazar. It was built in the early 16th century and features unique Ottoman architecture with a blend of Oriental and Western styles.
2. Ras Museum: The Ras Museum in Novi Pazar is a great place to learn about the history of Serbia. It has a lot of exhibits and artifacts, ancient manuscripts, and objects from the Byzantine and Ottoman periods of Serbian history.
3. Gostilje Waterfall: Gostilje is a beautiful waterfall located about 20 km from Novi Pazar. It's surrounded by stunning scenery and is a popular spot for tourists looking for a day trip.
4. The Fortress of Novi Pazar: The fortress of Novi Pazar is a historic site located on a hill overlooking the city. It dates back to the 12th century and offers a great view of the city.
5. Stari Ras Archaeological Site: Stari Ras is an ancient city located near Novi Pazar. It was once the capital of the medieval Serbian state and has a lot of interesting sites, including the remains of the old fortress, churches, and monasteries.
6. The Monastery of Sopocani: The Monastery of Sopocani is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 15 km from Novi Pazar. It was built in the 13th century and is renowned for its beautiful frescoes and architecture.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Serbia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Novi Pazar.

When to go on holiday to Novi Pazar

The best time to visit Novi Pazar is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, if you prefer cooler weather, the months of May and September are also good options. Keep in mind that Novi Pazar can get quite busy during the summer, so it's a good idea to book your accommodation and activities in advance. Additionally, if you are interested in winter sports, Novi Pazar is an excellent destination for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months from December to February.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Novi Pazar

Novi Pazar is a city in Serbia that can be reached by several transportation modes.
By plane: The nearest airport is the Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to get to Novi Pazar. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours.
By bus: Novi Pazar is well connected by bus to most major cities in Serbia. You can check bus schedules and book your ticket online from websites like BalkanViator or GetByBus.
By car: Novi Pazar is easily accessible by car. You can either rent a car from Belgrade or other cities, or drive your own car. The drive from Belgrade takes approximately 3.5 hours.
By train: Unfortunately, there is no direct train to Novi Pazar. The closest train station is in Raska, which is approximately 10 km away. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to get to Novi Pazar.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Novi Pazar.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Novi Pazar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Novi Pazar

Novi Pazar is a city in Serbia known for its traditional cuisine that reflects the cultural diversity of the region. Here are some typical foods in Novi Pazar with a short description of each: 1. Sudzukice: Sudzukice are small sausages made of beef, pork, and spices. They are typically eaten as an appetizer or served as a side dish.
2. Burek: Burek is a savory pastry made with phyllo dough filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It is a popular breakfast food in Novi Pazar.
3. Kajmak: Kajmak is a dairy product similar to clotted cream, made by boiling milk slowly until a thick layer of cream forms on the surface. It is often eaten with bread or served as a side dish.
4. Tandir: Tandir is a slow-roasted lamb dish that is marinated in spices and cooked in a clay oven. It is a traditional dish served during festive occasions.
5. Kebabs: Kebabs are a popular street food in Novi Pazar, made with marinated beef or lamb skewered on a stick and grilled over an open flame. They are often served with flatbread and vegetables.
6. Pita: Pita is a type of bread that is often stuffed with meat, cheese, or vegetables. It is a staple food in Novi Pazar and can be eaten as a snack or served as a main course.
7. Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. It is a popular dessert in Novi Pazar and is often served with coffee or tea.
You can find general info about typical foods in Serbia here.

Is Novi Pazar an expensive destination for tourists?

Novi Pazar may not be as expensive compared to some other European cities, but it would depend on the tourist's budget and preferences. Generally, prices in Novi Pazar are lower than in more popular destinations like Belgrade or Novi Sad, but they can still be relatively high for a small town. Accommodation, transportation, and food costs may vary depending on the level of luxury and style that the traveler is looking for. However, one can expect to find a wide range of options that would fit different types of budgets. It's recommended to do research and plan in advance to ensure a comfortable and affordable visit to Novi Pazar.

Where to find accomodation in Novi Pazar

Novi Pazar is a relatively small town in Serbia, so most of the accommodations are located in the central area. The best areas to look for accommodation are around the city center, close to the Bazar Mosque and the Plješevica River. You can also find a few options near the Stari Ras and Sopocani UNESCO sites, which are located a few kilometers from the city. Additionally, you'll find a few budget options in the outskirts of the town and some guesthouses near Lake Gazivode, which is located about 20 km away from Novi Pazar.
You can check hotel prices at Novi Pazar here:
Booking.com

Is Novi Pazar a safe destination for tourists?

As with any travel destination, it is important to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings while visiting Novi Pazar. While many visitors to Novi Pazar have reported feeling safe, there have been occasional incidents of crime such as pickpocketing or theft. It is recommended to avoid wandering into unfamiliar areas alone at night and to keep your valuables secured. Additionally, it is important to respect local customs and cultural practices while visiting Novi Pazar. Overall, by exercising common sense and following basic safety precautions, most visitors can enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Novi Pazar.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Serbia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Novi Pazar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Novi Pazar the most?

Novi Pazar is a city in Serbia that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor activities. While there's something for everyone in Novi Pazar, it is best suited for couples and families who are interested in exploring the natural beauty and historical monuments of the region.
Couples will enjoy taking romantic walks along the special, cobblestone streets at the heart of the Stari Grad district, visiting the ruins of the Novi Pazar Fortress, and admiring the region's Islamic architecture.
Families can explore many fascinating sites while enjoying outdoor activities like camping, rafting, and hiking. They can visit the ancient town of Ras, which dates back to the 3rd century AD, and explore the nearby Sandzak Valley, an area that offers scenic landscapes and unique outdoor experiences.
Young people that are looking for fun nightlife may find Novi Pazar to be somewhat subdued, but they can still enjoy traditional Serbian food, various cultural events, and festivals that take place around Novi Pazar.
Overall, Novi Pazar is a great travel destination for those who are interested in discovering the hidden treasures of Serbia and getting a sense of its history and culture.

How to get around Novi Pazar

In Novi Pazar, the most common mode of transportation is buses and taxis. Buses are the cheapest way to get around and they cover most of the city. Taxis are also widely available and are a faster and more convenient way of getting around the city. Additionally, you may also find private cars for hire, although this can be more expensive than using buses or taxis. It is also possible to rent a car if you prefer to drive yourself. However, the roads in Novi Pazar can be narrow and difficult to navigate, so it is important to be cautious when driving.

What to see around Novi Pazar

Sure, here are some nice places to consider for a day trip from Novi Pazar: 1. Sopoćani Monastery - a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about 30km away from Novi Pazar.
2. Stari Ras and Sargan Eight - ancient Serbian medieval fortress and an amazing railway that passes through the mountains, both located about 40km from Novi Pazar.
3. Drvengrad (Wooden Town) - a small ethno-village built by famous Serbian film director Emir Kusturica, located about 100km from Novi Pazar but definitely worth the trip.
4. Zlatibor Mountain - a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, located about 110km from Novi Pazar.
5. Uvac Special Nature Reserve - a breathtaking natural reserve with a unique canyon and diverse wildlife, located about 120km from Novi Pazar.
For every travel information about Serbia you can click here.

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