Subotica Travel Guide: Best things To do, Places To Stay & Food 2026

Northern Serbia is a true hidden gem, and one of the finest spots is Subotica. Streets lined with beautiful art nouveau architecture and very few tourists, you can get a true taste of Serbia while beating the crowds.

In this blog, I share everything you need to know to plan your trip. From how to get there and when to visit, to the best things to see, do and eat – discover my tried and tested tips.

My first tip starts right here – it’s how to pronounce Subotica. Don’t make the mistake I did in thinking it would be ‘sub-ot-icka’ as you’ll get blank looks from locals. Make sure you say ‘sue-bo-titza’ to book transport or ask questions, you’ll get there much faster! 🤣

Now, let’s get into the rest of tips – use the options below to jump to the section you’re most interested in or read from the top for all the info.

1. Where is Subotica?
2. Is Subotica worth visiting?
3. When to go + how long to stay
4. How to get there
5. Best things to do in Subotica
6. Best places to stay
7. Best restaurants + cafés
8. How much a trip to Subotica costs

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Where is Subotica?

As a first time visitor, you’re probably wondering exactly where Subotica is. As you can see from the map below, Subotica is in the far north of Serbia, super close to the border with Hungary (just 10km away to be exact). Which means not only can you enjoy more of a cultural blend of Hungarian and Serbian but it’s easy to travel to from Budapest too.

It’s also in the vicinity of Lake Palić which offers more nature and wildlife if you fancy exploring beyond the city – but more on that later!

Is Subotica worth visiting?

If you’re a history lover, art appreciator or simply enjoy soaking up new cultures (while drinking coffee) then Subotica is the perfect spot. It’s worth visiting to see some of the best examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the world, explore a whole lot of history and enjoy the super friendly and chilled atmosphere.

With just under 100,000 residents, Subotica is small but perfectly formed offering the chance to experience more of Serbia outside the rush of the capital, Belgrade. Expect al fresco coffee in the sunshine, families taking walks together and beautiful streets. Just bear in mind, if it’s shopping, adventure or lots of food and drink choice you’re after, Serbia’s second city, Novi Sad may be a better choice for you.

When to go + how long to stay

The best time to visit Subotica is in summer – specifically from late May to early October. This is when the temperatures will be warmer, you’ll have maximum chance of sunny days and you can enjoy strolling in the sunshine and drinking coffees in the parks.

As Subotica is a small city you could get a feel for it in one day or take things at a slower pace and explore for a weekend. I had 24 hours here while interrailing through Serbia which was perfect – enough time to see the major sights, soak up the atmosphere and explore a little. You could also visit Subotica on a day trip from Novi Sad but we’ll get into that in more detail next…

How to get to Subotica

Now you know when’s best to visit Subotica and for how long, it’s time to look at how you’ll get there. As Subotica doesn’t have an international airport, your options are travelling from another city in Serbia or across the border from Hungary – find the key routes below.

From Belgrade, Serbia

By bus (my recommendation)

The bus takes around 3 hours from Belgrade and there’s multiple services throughout the day ranging from €14-€15. These are all direct so you can sit back and relax! You can find the full timetable and by mobile tickets ready on GetByBus here.

By car

It’s just over two hours drive to Subotica from Belgrade. Just be aware there are toll roads on the way – you can get a list of the toll roads and prices here. The fee can be paid by cash or card at the toll station.

From Novi Sad, Serbia

By bus (my recommendation)

By bus, the journey will take 1.5 hours and cost between €9-€11. You can find the full timetable of departures on GetByBus and book your mobile ticket in advance.

By car

Driving from Novi Sad will take you 1 hour 15 minutes and again takes you on toll roads. Get the latest list of toll roads and prices here.

By train

Unfortunately, the new high speed rail link that’s underway between Novi Sad and Subotica is delayed and as of publishing, this line is not currently open. When it is reopened I’ll update this blog as it’s the best way to travel when active.

From Budapest, Hungary

By bus (my recommendation)

Terra Travel offer a bus service connecting the two that takes 3.5 hours and costs €20. Just note, there’s only one service per day that leaves at 7pm from Budapest. You can get more information and book your ticket through CheckMyBus here.

By car

It’s a 2.5 hour drive from Budapest on the M5. This does become a toll road later on which you can avoid by switching onto Route 53.

Just note, as you’re not only travelling into a different country but out of the Schengen region – you will have to pass full border control so have your passport ready. You can cross the border on the M5 if you stay onto the Horgos-Röszke crossing. Or use one of the other eight crossings into Serbia.

Traffic is known to build up at the main borders so allow a little extra time and try to avoid rush hour and weekends when families are travelling.

By train

There is a great train link here but unfortunately this section was closed for repairs in November 2023 and is still yet to reopen. Once it does, this will be the best option to get to Subotica from Budapest (and indeed all of Serbia from Hungary). I’ll update this blog post when the line is back in action.

Best things to do in Subotica

Here are the best sights to see during your time in Subotica. The best part is – most of them are free or low entry cost which means you’ll have more money for tasty treats… But onto that next! 😋

Take a tour of Subotica City Hall

First things first, no visit to Subotica is complete without seeing City Hall. This is the city’s main landmark built in 1912 in Hungarian Art Nouveau style. While you can appreciate its beauty from the outside, you can admire the stained glass windows better and get views over the city from the top of the tower on a guided tour. Simply go through the main entrance and ask to join the next tour – I believe they’re usually at 12 noon.

Visit beautiful Subotica synagogue

After a tour around City Hall, head to what is potentially an even prettier building – the synagogue. Not only is this again a stunning art nouveau building and the second largest synagogue in the whole of Europe, but it explains the history of Jews in Subotica which is important to understand.

Wander the outside to take in the features then head inside to get a closer look at the incredible detail in the stained glass that’s meticulously cared for. Entrance tickets are €2.20 – just be aware the synagogue is not open on Mondays.

Admire the National Theatre

Stroll past the theatre to appreciate the classical style building that we reconstructed based on the original 1850s or venture inside to see a performance. This theatre is unique in Serbia as it features acts in Serbian and Hungarian (just note, not in English!)

If you do want to see a show – you can book tickets through their website here.

Visit Raichle Palace

This incredible building was actually a personal project for architect, Raichle Ferenc who built the property as his family home and office. Sadly, only four years after moving in Ferenc went bankrupt and had to sell the property and it now houses the Subotica Gallery of Modern Art.

You can visit the gallery and enjoy the architecture Tuesday – Saturday with a €1.70 entrance ticket.

Soak up the café culture

After a day of exploring, you’re probably ready to relax a little. One of the best things to do is grab a cup of coffee in the main square and soak up the summer atmosphere. While I was there the high school students were graduating and taking photos around town in their fancy dresses and suits for their yearbook. It was so lovely to watch the proud families and get a flavour of celebrations in Serbia.

Best places to stay

That’s your itinerary planned, let’s look at the best accommodation options. The incredible thing about Subotica (and Serbia in general) is that you’ll find really high quality apartments and hotels for incredibly affordable prices. I’ve included some of my favourites below whether you’re on a tighter budget or want to treat yourself a little.

Budget: Korzo Apartment (€29 per night)

It’s hard to believe this apartment is under €30 a night! Positioned in the centre of the city with lots of natural light, a spacious floor plan and everything you could need for a super comfy stay, this apartment is a fantastic option on a budget.

Plus, if you’re travelling with a friend or partner too – you’re splitting the cost further and looking at less than €15 each for your own apartment – what’s not to love!?

Mid-Range: Srafko Apartment (€34 per night)

Ever so slightly more expensive is Srafko Apartment which is actually where I stayed. What sold me on this was the balcony – it’s a cute spot to eat breakfast in the sunshine. Plus, the entire place is really well done, spotlessly clean and the host was fantastic and gave us lots of local recommendations.

Luxury: Artist Hotel (from €105 per night)

Lastly, if it’s a touch more luxury you’re after, there are a couple of great hotels in the city. Taking the top spot with fantastic reviews is Artist Hotel. Set in a beautiful classic building with stylish communal spaces, restaurant and rooms, it’s a great place to base yourself. Plus, breakfast is included in the price so again compared to other parts of Europe, this really is excellent value!

Best restaurants + cafés

Boss Caffe $$

A must visit for breakfast, lunch or dinner in Subotica. Boss Caffe serve dishes from around the world, from traditional Serbian favourites to Asian, Italian and French, you’re sure to find something you like. Plus, the service is known to be top notch so you can sit back and enjoy in their beautiful restaurant.

Bates $$

For 30 years Bates has been serving delicious Serbian dishes that don’t disappoint. Expect big portions, great value and authentic food – what more could you want!?

Fabrika Burgers $$

Sometimes all you’re craving is a juicy burger and fries. For those times, Fabrika has you covered. With brilliant reviews, their burgers are tender, tasty and fresh.

Poffy Shop $

A newer addition to Subotica is Poffy Shop – a cute little takeaway spot serving little Dutch pancakes with tasty sweet and savoury fillings. I stopped here a couple of times as they’re just so good, so affordable and a sweet little treat after a day of exploring. 10/10 would recommend!

Kafe Priča $$

For coffee and waffles, look no further than Kafe Priča. Serving a whole range of waffles with various tasty toppings and high quality coffee, you can easily spend a morning here relaxing and fuelling for a day of exploring.

Klein House Bar & Gallery $

Lastly, for afternoon into evening activity – Klein House is a fun spot. With wine tastings at incredibly low prices, trays of nibbles and often live music and new artists, it’s a great place to spend an evening.

How much a trip to Subotica costs

Now you know the best spots to stay, explore and eat in Subotica, you can start to see just how affordable the city is. For one full day and night in Subotica with mid-range accommodation, all meals out and visiting the major attractions, you can expect to spend €60 – €70 (and even less if you’re splitting the accommodation with a friend or partner).

That’s my complete guide to visiting the hidden gem that is Subotica in Serbia. I hope this has helped you plan the perfect trip and that you enjoy your time there as much as I did!

If you have any tips to add or questions about visiting Subotica, please use the comment box below to let me know. Happy travelling!

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