The 56th International Tourism Fair begins in Novi Sad: Tourism as enjoyment and a development opportunity for the region
In Novi Sad yesterday, the grand opening of 56th International Tourism Fair – an event that has, in just a few years since becoming a standalone event, established itself as the second-largest tourism fair in the region. The message from the opening was clear and optimistic: Tourism must remain a pleasure, not an obligation.
Tourism as an emotion
The Provincial Secretary for Economy and Tourism, Dr. Nenad Ivanišević, stated that the essence of tourism lies precisely in emotion – in the tastes, smells, memories, and experiences that enrich us. He also reminded that the decision to separate the fair from Lorist in 2022 was correct, as the event has significantly strengthened since then. In the last five years alone, almost 10 billion dinars.
250 exhibitors from 10 countries
This year the fair brings together more than 250 exhibitors from ten countries – Serbia, North Macedonia (partner countries), Montenegro, Romania, Hungary, BiH, Bulgaria, Greece, Slovenia and Russia. In the „Master“ Hall, tourist agencies, tour operators, hotels, spas, insurance companies, and numerous other organisations from the travel sector will be exhibiting.
North Macedonia strengthens cultural tourism
The Minister of Culture and Tourism of North Macedonia, Zoran Ljutykov, has highlighted that his country has merged culture and tourism into a single ministry to further stimulate the development of cultural tourism. Every year, over two million Serbian tourists pass through North Macedonia on their way to Greece, and the aim is to retain some of them. A new application with all the key information for visitors is already planned to be launched by 2026.
Novi Sad increasingly attractive to tourists
The Mayor of Novi Sad, Žarko Mićin, emphasised that the city was visited by more than 150,000 tourists from 170 countries, around the eye 400,000 overnight stays. Novi Sad is increasingly positioning itself on the European tourist map, and major infrastructure projects – the express railway to Subotica and future connection to Budapest – will further stimulate arrivals.
Fruška gora, rich in natural, cultural and spiritual content, remains one of the city's key assets, as do the titles that Novi Sad carries: European Youth Capital, European Capital of Culture, and from next year, European City of Sport.
Strauss's Story as a New Attraction
Particular attention was also drawn to an interesting historical fact – during its first international tour 178 years ago, Johann Strauss the Younger He held two concerts right in Novi Sad. It is also believed that he got the idea for „The Blue Danube“ during his stay in Futog. The city plans to commemorate this connection in order to further enrich its cultural and tourist offer.
Duration and opening hours
The fair is held in the „Master“ Hall with an area of 6,000 m² and lasts until Saturday, 29th November.
Entry is free, and the opening hours are:
- Thursday and Friday: 10 am – 7 pm
- Saturday 10:00 – 17:00
