Discover Novigrad, a charming Istrian coastal town. This Novigrad Croatia travel guide covers top things to do, best beaches, where to eat, and how to get there.
Novigrad is one of those Adriatic towns that wins you over slowly – not with loud attractions, but with quiet charm. Located on the western coast of Istria, this picturesque fishing town blends Venetian history, crystal-clear waters, and top-notch gastronomy. In this Novigrad Croatia travel guide, you’ll discover the very best the town has to offer – from cobbled lanes and ancient walls to award-winning beaches and restaurants that lure both locals and gourmet travelers from all over the world.
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Novigrad has a rhythm that draws you in – lively enough to never feel sleepy, yet far from the crowds of Rovinj and Poreč. Its Venetian walls embrace an old town filled with stone houses, boutique shops, and hidden wine bars.
The sea here is exceptionally clear, and the scent of freshly grilled fish drifts along the waterfront promenade. More than just a base for exploring Istria, Novigrad has its own authentic story to tell.
About Novigrad
Novigrad sits on a small peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea, its historic core wrapped in centuries-old stone walls. To the west, the town is embraced by the open sea; to the east, a sheltered marina cradles fishing boats and sleek yachts. The surrounding coastline is low and rocky, dotted with pebble beaches and shaded by pine trees, while inland you’ll find rolling fields, vineyards, and olive groves typical of western Istria.
Once a quiet fishing village, Novigrad’s story stretches back to Roman times, when it was known as Civitas Nova. Through the Middle Ages, it flourished under Venetian rule, leaving behind elegant bell towers, ornate windows, and fortified ramparts. The blend of Roman, Gothic, and Venetian architecture gives the old town a timeless character, with narrow stone lanes opening onto small squares and sea-facing terraces.
Today, Novigrad is a harmonious mix of the old and the new: fishermen still unload their daily catch in the mandrač harbour, while just steps away, modern cafés, wine bars, and art galleries bring a contemporary energy to this postcard-perfect Istrian town.
Best Things to Do in Novigrad Croatia
1. Walk the Old Town Walls
Built in the 13th century, these fortifications once defended the town from pirates and enemy fleets. Today, they offer panoramic views of the sea and waterfront – perfect for photographers.
2. Visit the Lapidarium Museum
Housed in a historic palace, this museum preserves stone artifacts from antiquity to the Renaissance, including fascinating early Christian reliefs.
3. Stroll the Novigrad Marina
One of the most modern marinas in Istria, surrounded by cafés and restaurants – ideal for an afternoon coffee.
4. Church of St. Pelagius and St. Maximus
With the tallest bell tower in Istria, this church rewards visitors with sweeping views over the blue horizon.
5. Discover Mandrač Harbour
A small fishing port at the heart of the old town, where you can watch fishermen mend their nets and boats sway gently on the tide.
Best Beaches in Novigrad
Karpinjan Beach – Stretching for nearly a kilometre along the northern edge of town, Karpinjan is a wide pebble beach backed by a fragrant pine forest. The shade makes it a welcome escape from the midday sun, and a long cycling and walking path runs parallel to the shore, connecting the beach to the town centre. Families and active travellers will appreciate the sports facilities, from beach volleyball courts to table tennis tables, as well as easy access to cafés and ice cream stands.
Maestral Beach – Located near the marina and several hotels, Maestral is one of Novigrad’s most family-friendly beaches. The gentle, shallow entrance to the sea is perfect for children, and there are plenty of beach bars and restaurants nearby for a relaxed lunch. Sun loungers and parasols are available for hire, and a section of the beach offers water sports rentals for those looking to add some excitement to their day.
Rivarella Beach – Just steps from the old town, Rivarella is ideal for travellers who want to combine sightseeing with a refreshing swim. This small pebble and stone beach offers quick access to the water without leaving the centre, and its nearby promenade is perfect for a leisurely post-swim stroll. In summer, it’s also a great spot to watch the sunset with the town’s historic skyline as a backdrop.
All of these beaches are regular recipients of the Blue Flag award, an international certification for pristine water quality, safety, and well-maintained facilities — so wherever you choose to swim, you can expect both beauty and comfort.
Where to Stay in Novigrad
Accommodation in Novigrad offers two distinct experiences. In the old town, you’ll mostly find rooms and older apartments tucked into centuries-old stone houses, perfect for travellers who want to soak up the historic atmosphere. Around the newer parts of town and along the waterfront, there’s a growing selection of modern apartments and boutique hotels, often with more space, contemporary amenities, and sea views.
Boutique hotels by the waterfront – For those seeking comfort and charm, Novigrad offers a handful of small, stylish hotels with direct views of the Adriatic. Many are housed in beautifully renovated stone buildings, blending modern amenities with historic character. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves, enjoying a fresh breakfast on the terrace, and stepping straight out onto the seafront promenade.
Private apartments in the old town – Staying in the historic centre puts you right in the middle of Novigrad’s daily life. These apartments are often tucked into centuries-old houses with charming details like wooden shutters, stone archways, or small balconies overlooking cobbled streets. Perfect for travellers who want a local experience, with markets, cafés, and the harbour just steps away.
Aminess Sirena Camping & Holiday Homes – Just south of town, this seaside campsite offers everything from traditional pitches under the pines to stylish glamping tents and fully equipped mobile homes. Guests have access to sports facilities, swimming pools, restaurants, and a stretch of Blue Flag beach, making it a great choice for families and active travellers.
Where to Eat in Novigrad Croatia
For a small town, Novigrad punches well above its weight when it comes to gastronomy. From Michelin-recommended fine dining to family-run konobas serving recipes passed down through generations, the food scene here is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Expect menus filled with freshly caught seafood, Istrian truffles, homemade pasta, and local wines that pair perfectly with a sunset by the sea.
Damir & Ornella – This legendary spot is famous for its “raw fish” creations, a concept somewhere between sashimi and carpaccio, often served as delicate tartares. The menu is short, seasonal, and deeply rooted in the freshness of the day’s catch. This is an intimate, special-occasion kind of restaurant.
Marina – A modern fine dining restaurant with a well-deserved Michelin recommendation. Chef Marina Gaši crafts tasting menus that tell a story of the Adriatic through unexpected flavour combinations. Dishes often feature locally sourced seafood, wild herbs, and creative plating that feels like art on a plate.
Konoba Cok – A warm, family-run tavern where you can dive into hearty Istrian classics like fuži with truffles, grilled fish, and slow-cooked meat stews. The rustic décor and friendly service make it feel like dining at a local friend’s home.
Lounge Bars & Wine Bars – For a lighter evening, Novigrad has several seafront spots offering Istrian wines, local craft beers, and small plates to share. Perfect for watching fishing boats glide into the harbour as the sky turns gold and pink.
Throughout the year, Novigrad celebrates its culinary heritage with events like the Gnam-Gnam Fest, a seafood festival dedicated to shellfish, and autumn truffle markets that draw foodies from across the region.
Day Trips from Novigrad
Rovinj – Just 45 minutes south, Rovinj is often called the most romantic town in Croatia. Its pastel-hued houses spill down to the harbour, while the Church of St. Euphemia crowns the hill with sweeping sea views. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of cobbled streets filled with art galleries, wine bars, and boutique shops, then linger on the waterfront for one of the Adriatic’s most famous sunsets.
Motovun & Grožnjan – Venture inland to the Istrian hill towns for a completely different atmosphere. Motovun, encircled by medieval walls, is famous for its truffles and panoramic views of the Mirna River valley. A short drive away, Grožnjan is a bohemian artist’s haven, where cobbled lanes are lined with studios, jazz cafés, and summer music festivals. Autumn visitors can enjoy truffle-hunting tours in the surrounding forests.
Poreč – Less than 20 minutes south, Poreč offers a mix of beaches, a lively old town, and the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, a 6th-century masterpiece of Byzantine art. The town’s seafront promenade is perfect for a late-afternoon walk, and nearby Zelena and Plava Laguna offer more swimming and sports opportunities.
Brijuni National Park – An hour and a half from Novigrad, this exclusive island national park is a blend of natural beauty, archaeology, and unexpected curiosities — from Roman villa ruins to a safari park. Accessible by boat from Fažana, the Brijuni Islands are best explored on a guided tour or by renting a bike to circle Veliki Brijun.
Limski Kanal – About 30 minutes away, the emerald waters of the Lim Fjord carve deep into the Istrian coastline. Famous for its mussel and oyster farms, this nature reserve is ideal for a boat trip or a seafood lunch in one of the waterfront restaurants.
How to Get to Novigrad Croatia
By Car – Driving is the easiest way to reach Novigrad, especially if you plan to explore more of Istria. From the Istrian Y motorway (A9), take the Novigrad exit and follow the signs into town. The road network is modern and well-maintained, with scenic stretches along the coast. Parking is available near the old town and along the waterfront, though spaces can be limited in peak summer months.
By Plane – The nearest airport is Pula Airport (PUY), about 75 km (1 hour) from Novigrad, with direct flights from many European cities during the summer season. Alternative airports include Trieste (TRS) in Italy, around 1.5 hours away, and Rijeka Airport (RJK), roughly 2 hours away. All have rental car services and seasonal shuttle transfers to Istria.
By Ferry – In summer, catamaran services from Italy (such as Trieste or Cesenatico) arrive in nearby ports like Poreč or Rovinj. From there, Novigrad can be reached by bus, taxi, or rental car in under an hour. While there’s no direct international ferry into Novigrad itself, the town is well connected by coastal roads to other Istrian ports.
Best Time to Visit Novigrad Croatia
- Summer (June–August) – The high season brings long, sunny days, warm sea temperatures, and a lively atmosphere along the waterfront. This is the best time for beach lovers, water sports, and open-air festivals. Expect higher accommodation prices and more crowds, especially in July and August, so book well in advance if you’re visiting then.
- Spring (April–May) – A perfect balance between pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Days are mild, wildflowers are in bloom, and the sea starts to warm up. Spring is ideal for cycling, coastal walks, and exploring the old town at a slower pace. It’s also when many restaurants and bars reopen after the winter break.
- Autumn (September–October) – The sea remains warm well into October, but the summer crowds are gone. This is prime time for food lovers, with truffle season in full swing and seafood festivals like the Gnam-Gnam Fest taking place. Days are sunny and mild, making it perfect for both sightseeing and relaxing by the water.
- Winter (November–March) – Novigrad slows down considerably, offering a quiet, authentic atmosphere. While some tourist facilities close, you’ll find cosy cafés, local markets, and peaceful promenades. This is the time for travellers seeking solitude and a glimpse of everyday Istrian life.
Conclusion
Novigrad may be small, but it offers a rare blend of history, sea, and gastronomy that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re wandering its medieval walls, savoring freshly caught seafood, or simply watching the sunset over the Adriatic, this charming Istrian town will win your heart. Use this Novigrad Croatia travel guide as your compass, and you’ll uncover both the famous sights and the hidden corners that make Novigrad unforgettable.
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