Local insights: discover Novigrad

The Croatian coast is full of interesting destinations you can explore on holiday. And after we already introduced you to Pula, it’s time for another popular tourist town in Istria: Novigrad.

Novigrad is a destination that’s especially close to our hearts, because this is where our story began, back in 2015.

For this blog post, we talked to colleagues who live in Novigrad and asked them for recommendations on what to see, what to eat, and where to find the best beaches in Novigrad.

Here’s what we found!

Source: YouTube (Novigrad tourist board)

1. Where to park in Novigrad

Novigrad’s old town is a pedestrian zone, so cars are left at one of the car parks on the edge of the centre. We’ve picked out three tried-and-tested options:

• Parking by the marina: closest to the old town, paid. The first choice if you’re heading to dinner in the centre or a walk along the town walls.
• Parking by the sports hall: paid, a bit further from the centre, but there’s almost always space. A free shuttle runs from the sports hall to the centre, which makes this a practical choice in July and August.
• Gravel car park at the first roundabout at the town entrance: free. The largest capacity and the safest choice at the peak of the season; it’s a short walk to the centre.

2. What to see in Novigrad

As a historic town, Novigrad has several sights worth visiting. One of the most recognisable is certainly the 19th-century bell tower of St. Pelagius’ Church, which you can climb for a panoramic view of Novigrad and the sea. The town’s history is also reflected in its impressive town walls, which have defended the town for centuries and prove that, despite its name, Novigrad (“new town”) is anything but new!

Insider tip:

I would recommend a leisurely walk along the walls, which is a great way to learn about the city’s history. Part of the walls is the beautiful Belvedere Loggia overlooking the sea. If you want to learn more about the history of the Novigrad area, visit the Lapidarium Museum. It has the largest collection of stone monuments, some of which date back to the 1st century.

Marko Bukovac, CTO and co-founder

Istria wouldn’t be Istria without olive oil, and if you want to see how it’s made, visit the Al Torcio oil mill, where you can tour the olive groves, see the harvest, and taste and buy homemade olive oil. Nearby is also the mouth of the Mirna River, where, besides nature, you can also watch various bird species.

If you’re more interested in concerts and city events, Novigrad has you covered there too. Take a look at the town’s event calendar.

3. Novigrad with kids

Novigrad is a town of short distances, which is good news if you’re travelling with small children. You can get from the beach to the centre and back on foot, no car and no crowds.

Here’s where local families spend the day.

Shaded playgrounds

In summer, playgrounds under the trees are the popular choice. The Lungomare playground is set in a pine forest, with a café right nearby, so you get a combination of shade, sea, and coffee, all within reach. Another option is the playground at CMIK. It’s also shaded and ideal to visit when during hot days.

Punto Mare Fun Zone

Punto Mare has pools for the whole family, a playground, cocktails, and a snack bar. There’s also an animation team for all ages: they organise dancing, live music, a show programme and a mini disco several times a week.

Cinema at CMIK

One of our colleagues recommends taking the kids for a walk down the street with colourful umbrellas, or to a film screening at the newly renovated cinema at the Centre for Events and Culture, where open-air cartoon screenings are also held in summer. A great option for rainy days and a little break from the sun!

Istralandia

Istralandia Water Park offers more than 20 slides and several different pools. A great option for a full-day family outing not far from Novigrad.

4. Where to eat in Novigrad

Restaurants

Istria is known for its gastronomy and its dedication to local ingredients. In Novigrad you can visit restaurants and taverns serving fresh seafood and Istrian specialities. We’ve put together a list of restaurants picked out by our colleagues.

• Labelle D’or (📌 Gradska vrata 23, Novigrad): a spot for breakfast and brunch, special recommendation for homemade gelato and cakes.
• Damir & Ornella (📌Zidine 5, Novigrad): a restaurant with Michelin recommendation. The menu is built around raw fish.
• Čok (📌 Sv. Antona 2, Novigrad): another restaurant with Michelin recommendation. Special recommendation for the steamed sea bass.
• Amfora & Bonazza (📌Ribarnička ul. 10, Novigrad): a restaurant where you can try fresh Adriatic squid and Istrian pasta with truffles.
• Fish food BIBA (📌Mandrač ul. 16, Novigrad): when you want a quick, tasty bite, try the fishburger.
• Wine bar Rigo (📌Velika ulica 5, Novigrad): if you want a wine-and-food evening, Wine bar Rigo offers around 30 wines and sparkling wines.
• Half 8 (📌Porporela ul. 8, Novigrad): located right in the town centre, by the sea. You’ll enjoy a wonderful sunset view, and the pizza is excellent too.
• La Gradela (📌Aminess Sirena Campsite, Novigrad): set right by the sea, with a sunset view. There’s a large playground right next to the terrace, so parents can enjoy the evening worry-free.

Market, fish market and shops

The market and fish market are located in the town centre. They’re open throughout the season, every day in the morning hours (come early if you want the best pick of fresh fish). For guests staying in villas and apartments with their own kitchen, the market is the fastest way to get hold of local ingredients and try fresh fish, seasonal fruit and vegetables, and Istrian olive oil. Feel free to check out our article on how to shop like a local when you’re in Croatia.

Wineries in Novigrad and the surrounding area

Novigrad is surrounded by vineyards, and a good number of winemakers are located within a few kilometres of the old town. You can plan a tasting as an afternoon trip and still have time for the beach in the morning. It’s always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about the working hours and how to reach the winery, especially outside July and August.

• Pervino (📌 Servul 7c, Novigrad): You can try local cheeses and other delicacies in one of the best-rated wineries in the area.
• Ghira (📌Strada Kontesa, Novigrad): A small winery, specializing in bio and natural wines. For guests looking for something different.
• Stancija Fava (📌Salvela 54, Dajla): Wine and olive oil in one place, located between olive groves and vineyards.
• Veralda (📌Kršin 4, Brtonigla, about 15 minutes’ drive): Organic wines, wine tastings paired with food and olive oil.

Note: Visiting wineries involves wine tastings, so it’s important to arrange transport in advance. Appoint a sober driver or book a taxi service for the whole tour, especially for the way back. Have fun, but responsibly.

5. Where to stay in Novigrad

Our website offers several villas and apartments in Novigrad and its surroundings. You can browse villas with swimming pools and pet-friendly accommodations or check out family vacation homes with amenities such as a children’s playground. There’s something for everyone. Choose the one that best fits your vision of a holiday and treat yourself to a real break from everyday life.

6. Where to swim in Novigrad

Novigrad’s beaches generally offer a range of amenities. Some visitors want to sunbathe and swim, while others are looking for recreation too. Novigrad has options for both! If you’re planning a longer stay, be sure to visit several different beaches and make the most of what each one offers. To help you narrow down your choice, here are a few recommendations.

• Maestral Beach – a Blue Flag beach with sun loungers and sports facilities, including tennis and beach volleyball courts.
• Beach at Aminess Maravea Camping Resort – has a seawater swimming pool and a dog beach.
• Beach at campsite Aminess Sirena – a Blue Flag beach with sun loungers and a restaurant serving grilled specialties.
• Karpinjan beach – a great beach for recreational activities. It has a long path for walking, cycling and jogging, and a street workout park
• Kastanija beach – a great choice for dog owners. Next to it is the Dog Dreams Beach & Bar, designed with dogs in mind.