5 Awesome Day Trips From Novi Pazar Serbia

Novi Pazar is truly unlike any other city in Serbia. The centre of the country’s Islamic population, the so-called ‘New Market’, is surrounded by some of the most historical spots in the nation, along with a variety of iconic churches, monasteries and quite frankly unbelievable flavours.

Stari Ras

Where it all began. Some 11km west of Novi Pazar lies the remains of a fortress called Stari Ras, ostensibly where the Serbian state got its start way back in the 9th century. One of the first capitals of medieval Serbia, Stari Ras was abandoned as early as the 13th century but its importance cannot be overplayed. This was the centre of trading routes at the time, and this advantageous position meant the locals could prosper while continuing to build the state. Little remains in the modern age, except a few walls and a palpable sense of history.

Sopoćani Monastery

Serbia is a country full of inspiring yet tranquil monasteries, and Sopoćani is undoubtedly one of the most impressive. Built close to the site of the Stari Ras fortress, Sopoćani came into being in the 13th century before being extended a century later. The Ottomans burnt the place down in the 17th century, but life returned to Sopoćani following the wars of the 20th century. Today it still gives a peek into a tranquil Serbian past of monastic existence.

Uvac Meanders

We’re always a little reticent to throw the winner’s cap at individual attractions, but every now and then we’ll make an exception. The meanders of the Uvac river represent the pinnacle of natural beauty in Serbia, which is no small statement. These are bends designed by a deity with attention issues, hairpins unlike anything else on the continent that are matched for drama only by the cliff faces and impressive birds that fly in and around the water. They are just a short ride from Novi Pazar, so be sure to head out west for something truly magnificent.

Kopaonik

Known as the ‘roof of Serbia’, Kopaonik is the biggest mountain this part of the country. It also happens to the most the popular when it comes to winter recreation, with Serbs heading here in droves for a spot of skiing and more. Serbia’s greatest naturalist was particularly fond of the mountain, and Josif Pančić was eventually laid to rest on one of its peaks. Don’t make similar plans however, instead stick to night skiing and untouchable vistas.

Đurđevi stupovi

Another stunning monastery, Đurđevi stupovi is located a short drive away from the modern city of Novi Pazar. It sits on a mountain above the town, although it isn’t just its location that attracts reverence and respect. This is one of the most unique monasteries in the country when it comes to architecture, along with the incredible frescoes that wait within its walls. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, and rightly so.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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