Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Novi Sad. Cenej Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 50 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Novi Sad, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Serbia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Novi Sad is roughly 50 minutes from QND via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Novi Sad:
Start with Petrovaradin Fortress. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past. Then, if time allows, make your way to Liberty Square (Trg Slobode). Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at QND, check out Plane Spotting at Cenej Aerodrome or Introductory Flight Experience (Aeroklub Novi Sad) to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Novi Sad
If you make it into town, Project 72 Wine & Deli is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Plava Frajla.
Inside QND
If you’re staying in the terminal, Klub Restoran Cenej is your main option. Aerodrome Cafe & Bar works too if you want something quick.
Transport from Cenej Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Novi Sad is the local transport, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Novi Sad Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Novi Sad might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at QND aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Novi Sad itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and QND is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Novi Sad and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at QND
Long overnight layover? Your options at QND include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Serbia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Novi Sad is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Novi Sad.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.