The city of Novigrad, Croatia, a charming coastal town on the northwestern shore of Istria, sits between Umag and Poreč. With its rich history and the soul of a Mediterranean fishing village, it’s a perfect blend of tradition and seaside feel.
Tiny at first glance,but with plenty of shops, cafes, eateries, restaurants, and the life most pine pathways, there is no shortage of things and clicks to do in Novigrad.
Why you should visit novigrad
Novigrad that used to be a quiet fisherman’s village over history, today tells its story through the attractive touristic promenade of its coastal defence walls. The place is also bounded by gorgeous beaches and natural surroundings.
For those who travel to Istria for the first time, visiting Novigrad will be an excellent opportunity to meet how it looks small touristic place on the west Istrian coast. Seawalk, the medieval walls or old town sightseeing, strolling the narrow streets, and enjoying the sunsets are only a few things that should be done by visiting Novigrad. Once you come to Novigrad, you will realize why it has been chosen as one of the best small places to live in Croatia.
Novigrad in history
Novigrad is a town with a turbulent history that can be traced back to Roman times. The town walls were restored several times. Gratitude the foundations from Neapolis period in the 7th century, Civitas Nova in the 9th to ancient Emona, “Ammonia” in the 12th century are built on the first of the settlements mentioned in this area. During the Venetian rule in the 13th century, the city walls were constructed on late Antiquity walls’ remains.
There are spiky bastions strengthened by round Renaissance towers and the quadratic tower by the former main gate and the walls’ distinctive architecture construction. It’s considered the walls were reinforced by the round Renaissance Towers. Simultaneously, that square tower from an earlier period stands next to the former town entrance. The first written mention of the town heritage dates back to 599.
Novigrad sights
Though its old town used to look small, Novigrad is plenty of exciting sights to see. Encircled by stone walls, listed as a unique world heritage site Novigrad in Istria’s a wealth of things to see and do. Only what you need to do is to uncover them.Here we prepared the Novigrad attractions you can tick off your things-to-do list.
Walk along the city walls of the old town
Though Novigrad old town might not be a large or well-known metropolis, it is still uniquely known by its toothed tops, what you’ll first mention jagged when on the city shore. The walls that surround the city provide an excellent spot for sightseeing to the coast. They are usually the number of thing on anyone’s something to do in Novigrad list, and for a good reason.
You’ll be fascinated while walking alongside the town walls, an architectural gemstone, a reminder of the Middle Ages and the skills of local craftsmen. They erected this defensive battlement from the carved stone. A mighty defensive ring consisting of ramparts, reinforced by round Renaissance towers, offer views and once were protection by land and by sea.
It could be quite an easy climb to get to the top of these walls. Carved to its perfection due to lengthy and turbulent history can be felt and experienced only by visiting it. The city walls are undeniably the most famous attraction in Novigrad. Still, there are plenty of quiet restaurants, bars, cafes and shops throughout the old town where you can take a break.
Take a look at the old town of a loggia.
While walking along the city walls, take a look on to the seashore by the walls. One of the most marvellous loggias in Istria is considered the only one by the sea. It was built in the 16th century and renovated in the 18th century and 19th century.
Visit the Rigo Palace
One of the attractions which could be seen while visiting the Old Town in Novigrad is The Rigo Palace. An example of the “Central European Baroque” is entering the Istrian coast through the “Teresian”, Trieste. It dates back to the 18th century. It’s assumed to be built in 1770, belonging to the noble Rigo family in Novigrad. It’s believed that a noble family originating from Novigrad for centuries held the most important public offices in the town. Today is the building one of the well-established galleries of contemporary art in the city. Besides, it is one of the most famous spaces for modern art in Istria. The gallery organizes each year seven exhibitions of favourite artists from Croatia and abroad.
See the church of St Pelagius and St Maximus
Like every Istrian coastal place and Novigrad has it a lot. So if you are a lover of the architecture, culture and sacral buildings, you won’t miss seeing the Grand Parish Church of Sts. Maximilian and Pelagia dating back to the 6th century. The Parish church is probably the greatest of all Novigrad tourist attractions. It used to be a Cathedral until 1828. The church is a three-nave basilica. According to one premise, it was the cathedral and seat of the Novigrad diocese, and it’s original shape supposed to be from an Early Christian period. This was confirmed by the discovery of window frames from that period which was discovered in 1972. According to another theory, the church shape belongs to the 8th century. However, the church was reconstructed in the 18th century in the Baroque style, but some Romanesque features remained.
The interior of the Church of St. Pelagia is characterized by its Baroque altar. It could be seen in the Early Romanesque crypt, which is the only one in Istria and among the few rare in Croatia.
Find the best view from a Bell Tower, a symbol of the town.
You cannot be in Novigrad without taking a photo of the freestanding bell tower of the parish church of St.Pelagia and St. Maximus dating back to 1883, with the statue of St.Pelagia, the patron saint of the town. The bell tower is a symbol of the city and the incredible sight of Novigrad, which hides numerous friendships and first loves that have emerged from beneath it. The old belfry on the church was demolished in 1874. The present appearance neoclassicist façade dates back to the last reconstruction in 1935. Today it is a stage spot for summer concerts and festivals.
Visit the Church of Our Lady Of Mount Carmel
The one nave Church of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel dating back to the late 15th century is situated in the very centre of Novigrad. It is a typical building for Venetian Istria in the second half of the 18th century, with the restoration in the first half of the 19th century.
Look on to the Three- Nave Church of St. Agatha
Church of St. Agatha is an example of Romanesque architecture situated in the old town cemetery. It dates back to the ranging periods from the 9th to the 13th century. It’s a three-nave structure building covered by a double – pitched roof. A shrine is elongated with the space of the central apse.
Take a walk to the Church of St. Anthony.
Walk along with the Novigrad surroundings. You’ll quickly find the Church of St. Anthony, which is a one-nave church and assumed to be from the Gothic period. The church was restored in the 17th century for the first time. Later in mid 19thcentury, the sanctuary was extended, and two side windows were opened.
Take a photo of Mandarač
Like in similar places situated on the coast and Novigrad used to have “Mandarač” as a small fishing village’s particular principal place. Once, it was the town’s port. Today “Mandarač” has kept its status of a fishing port, continuing a century-old tradition that merges Novigrad’s people to the sea. Why not take a walk and make some exciting captures of “Mandarač”?
Take a look into Lapidarium Museum
It’s a modern building and the first “true” museum in Istria, displaying a precious collection of Antique and Medieval monuments. The awe-inspiring collection, particularly the medieval one, could be found in the museum. It includes the well preserved Mauritius ciborium dating back to the end of the 8th century, located in the baptistery that stood near the Novigrad cathedral (now the parish church). The modern building of the Lapidarium construction was completed in 2006.
The Galleria Kuk-Marine Austro-Hungarian Navy
It’s assumed to be the second most significant collection of the Austro-Hungarian and other navies after that in Vienna. Come inside and see the story of the time when the Austro-Hungarian Empire was the world’s leading power in shipbuilding, navigation as well as battles at sea. In the museum, several fascinating objects such as the ships’ models, large and small, compasses maps and nautical instruments.
Take a walk along “Marina”.
Situated on the Adriatic Sea coast, Novigrad is an ideal point for those who decide to make sailings along the beautiful west Istrian coast. An excellent opportunity to make your sailing trip to Istria is to be situated in Novigrad marina.
Novigrad’s marina is situated right nearby the old town on the north side. It is one of the most modern marinas in Croatia, with nearly 400 berths. That what was “Mandarač” in history. This is the Nautical centre today.
Listen to the Fishing Stories on Riva
Yes, Novigrad is plenty of fishing stories. Like the other coastal towns, it has the own waterfront – pier, Riva. Find someplace on a bench next to the picturesque Mandrač harbour. It’s unique to enjoy the shorestorylines watching the seagulls flying over the fishing boats and the fisherman’s unravelling, preparing the fishing net while bragging or grumbling their catch.
Novigrad activities
The beautiful environment is great for numerous activities.
Cycling. Novigrad’s surroundings are perfect for cycling through nature while tracing the paths of history. Trails of various lengths are waiting to be discovered. Whether short or long, just hop on your bike—or rent one—and set off. You can ride inland or along the coast, but my personal favorite is the Mirna cycling trail. Did you know that Novigrad is connected to about 500 kilometers of Istrian cycling routes?
Mountain Biking Tip: Antenal Lighthouse – Grožnjan – Antenal. This is one of my favorite trails, ever since I first rode it as a kid. It’s of medium difficulty and reveals the hidden beauties of this part of Istria. Start your ride in Novigrad or at Antenal, on the bridge near the lighthouse. Follow the Mirna riverbank until you reach another lighthouse. It looks mysterious now, but in ancient times—long before the Romans—this part of the Mirna was navigable. From Ponte Porton, continue toward Grožnjan and Brtonigla. The trail is a bit steep, but stunning, and it will reward you with unforgettable views. Words can’t describe it—you simply need to get on your bike and experience it yourself.
Cycling Tip: From Neapolis to Novigrad. This route takes you along lively paths that showcase typical Istrian lifestyle and culture, offering a chance to combine an active holiday with exploration. Along the way, you’ll reach Brtonigla and Buje—hilltop gems of northern Istria. If you want to extend the ride, you can also continue all the way to Umag.
Parasailing & Jet Skiing. For those seeking adventure on the sea, Novigrad offers jet skiing and parasailing along the coast. Parasailing gives you stunning views of the old town from above the water. Local companies in Novigrad provide a wide range of activities, including parasailing, wakeboarding, and banana boating.
Play Tennis. Numerous tennis courts within local resorts and hotels make it easy for tennis lovers to enjoy their game while on holiday.
Kayaking. In Novigrad, there are a few options for renting a kayak. If you already own one, all you need to do is choose your direction—north or south—and start paddling.
Trekking. Just like cycling, Novigrad’s surroundings offer plenty of hiking opportunities. I recommend heading inland to explore trails around Brtonigla. Or, if you prefer to stay close to town, walk north to the picturesque settlement of Dajla. You can also enjoy a walk along the Mirna River valley.
Novigrad beaches
Novigrad does have a few beaches, but they’re not exactly Putokoza’s first choice—most in the town center are concrete slabs with little shade. Still, for visitors spending a summer day or a few nights here, a refreshing swim is almost certain. Fortunately, in the surroundings—especially around the camps—you can still find more natural beaches that keep the spirit of the Adriatic alive.
Beach Maestral
This pebble, paved beach warded by the Blue flag is located in the tourist area near the hotel Maestral, placed one kilometre from the town of Novigrad. It is easy to reach the beach by a cemented path that leads from the hotel. The accessible entrance into the sea, cleanliness and equipment, water purity, and service quality is suitable for families with children, fun & sports.
The beach has plenty of facilities, including a swimming pool, and you can rent a beach deck – chairs on it. The sports fans will enjoy the tennis fields nearby. There is an attractive offer for the youngest, including Aqua Park, pedal boat, and other rental possibilities.
Beach Karpinjan, Novigrad
The pebbled, rocky beach stretches over 500 m over the coast in the Karpinjan bay north of the town, located only 1 km away from Novigrad centre. So you can reach it walking, and cycling path leads to it. The beach is supplied with showers, benches, a public toilet and sports activities such as the tennis and basketball courts, football and volleyball fields. Situated under trees, with a large area of a shallow sea, it is popular among families with little kids. There are also restaurants around it.
Camping Mareda Beach
The pebble, stone, paved beach is located within Aminess Park Mareda Campsite. It offers a fantastic place for relaxing and sunbathing. The sports fans and water activities lovers will like this beach since it has various facilities: sports equipment such as pedal boats, a wide choice of sport such as tennis, table tennis, mini-golf, beach volleyball, boules on the court by the sea, mini-soccer grass field, paintball field, aqua aerobics, sailing and windsurfing. This beach awarded by the Blue flag has at your disposal showers and cabins.
Beach Sirena
This natural stone and partially paved beach, another one that is bearing a Blue Flag, are equipped with changing cabins, deck-chairs and showers. Since it is situated within the camping Sirena, there is the possibility of relaxing under the pine-wood shade from the daily heatings, which is perfect for families with kids. It has bars, restaurants, sports facilities, water sports.
Beach Laguna
This stone beach situated under Hotel Laguna is quipped with changing cabins and showers and lounger and parasol rental. There is an excellent area for sunbathing and rest, and you can even find shade below the high pine-trees.
Novigrad City Beach
Situated in the centre of Novigrad and surrounded by the old town walls, this beach has a spacious paved surface. It is the choice for young holidaymakers, as they will find a wide selection of restaurants and bars in the centre of Novigrad nearby.
Rivara Beach
This fully paved beach located alongside the promenade that leads from the Aminess Maestral Hotel to the centre of town is a beach for everyone. The families and couples would like to use it, and it is perfect for all-day fun and socializing.
Daily tours from Novigrad
Situated almost in the central part of the Istrian coast and surrounded by gems, Novigrad is a spot of many choices to make an ideal daily tour from it. Here we listed a few of them for you.
Grožnjan
Being a centre of culture and art hilltop gem of Istria, Grožnjan is an ideal place to be visited on a daily tour for those who seek the combination of good vibrations and history. Besides the impressive walls with Venetian fortification characteristics and the colourful houses divided into cobblestone streets, Grožnjan offers a stunning view of the central part of Istria.
Getting to Grožnjan from Novigrad:
- By Car: It’s 25 minutes drive from Novigrad to Grožnjan.
Brtonigla
Suppose you search for an idyllic spot that will lead you alongside the pathways surrounded by numerous areas of vineyards and olive groves. In that case, a tour in Brtonigla is the right choice. Shy and introverted at first sight, the green Brtonigla unlocks quietly, and those who planned to discover it fast will not resist the influence of its charm. It provides the best inland from Istria-natural parks and caves, picturesque valleys, lush flora and fauna, and the well-preserved small churches and chapels witness to the past. Brtonigla is plenty of inspiration and hidden art. Getting to Brtonigla from Novigrad:
By Car: It’s 15 minutes drive from Novigrad to Brtonigla.
Poreč
Situated direction to the south from Novigrad, crossing the Novigrad lagoon, Poreč is a city that is almost 2000 years old. For the historians and those searching the Roman traces, Poreč is with no doubt an excellent choice for a daily tour from Novigrad. The main sight is the famous Euphrasian Basilica, UNESCO World Heritage Site. But what might also be interesting is the opposite island of the old town named St. Nikola that has some truly stunning beaches. Getting to Poreč from Novigrad:
- By Car: It’s 20 minutes of drive from Novigrad to Poreč direction south.
Umag
Like the rest of northern Istria, Umag, Croatia’s westernmost city, is highly influenced by the neighbouring Italian impact. The architecture dates back to the Roman empire. Besides to be well-known among tennis lovers with its Croatia Open Umag, ATP tennis tournament, you will find many interesting sights in town and ample opportunities to try the best of Istrian food and wine.
Despite its location on the coast, Umag is also another ideal summer spot destination for friends and family offering a relaxing yet active holiday. Here is how to reach Umag from Novigrad:
- By Car: It’s 20 minutes of drive from Novigrad to Umag direction north.
Oprtalj
If you seek a peaceful and quiet place, then a daily tour to Oprtalj, another Istrian hilltop, couldn’t fail. Thismedieval located in the very heart of Istria dating back to the 15th century once made the Venetian border of Istria. Today is plenty of the older houses dating back to the Middle Ages. The house’s appearance today is mostly characterized by the Renaissance. Oprtalj is similar is it neighbours another town with breathtaking views. And yes, you can just enjoy while tasting some Istrian wine in Oprtalj. Getting to Oprtalj from Novigrad:
- By Car: It’s half an hour of drive from Novigrad to Oprtalj.
Here we listed just a few days trip ideas you can take from Novigrad. Sure, many could be done in Istria, but to meet Istrian beaten paths and uncover its secrets requires time and patience. That’s why we write so many about Istria so if you’re interested in reading more about it, look into our article about things to make to Feel Istria.
Istria Wine Tours
The Best of Istria Wine Tour could be enjoyed by someone who appreciates good wine and visits historical sites not so far away from Novigrad. This trip involves a whole day of wine degustation. Starting at Groznjan in the morning, everyone taking the tour can visit Istria’s finest wine locations.
Find that hidden secret and off the beaten road, real jewels of the magnificent Istrian landscape. Visitors tour wineries and cellars, soaking in the views that this beautiful nation has to offer.
Novigrad events
A wide range of events waits for you in Novigrad. Whether you’re inspired by gourmet festivals, music in the open air or sporting competitions, we are sure you” find events to suit your taste.
Novigrad scallop night – Mandrač
This culinary event, usually held in June, attracts gourmands and is dedicated to scallops and shellfish.
Piazza Grande Music Night
If you love music and entertainment, you should visit one of these musical programmes held almost every weekend during the summer in the old town of Novigrad.
Beach Party
Another musical entertainment festival is held twice in August attracts beach party lovers.
Kids’Day
The street art performance is an exciting event for a family with kids but suitable for s broad range audience is holding almost every weekend in old town Novigrad.
Astro Party Lunasa – Piazza grande
The astronomy lovers and the broad range audience again will enjoy this event dedicated to astronomy and mythology held at the end of July or the beginning of August.
Motovun Film Festival
At the beginning of August, this event shows the unforgettable movie scenic experience from the movie “Film festival” held in Istrian picturesque hilltop Motovun.
Wine & Walk by the Sea
Autumn is made for the outdoors. But as also for vintage. And this event will enable you to spend the autumn in Istria in the best possible way: taking the long walks and tasting Istrian wines. It has been holding at the end of September.
Istria Granfondo
The event made for cyclists is held in October. The cycling marathon Istria Ganfondo starts and finishes in Umag and Novigrad.
Foto Ex tempore
This event attracts photography lovers and is held in October within the international festival of photography and photo contest.
Novigrad Cittanova Run & Wine Trail
If your lover of running, you simply cannot miss this entertaining sports race through the scenic streets of Novigrad, along the promenade by the sea, alongside olive groves and vineyards. There is a fascinating excursion within you need to go: Novigrad Cittanova Wine Trail as an experience that offers an unforgettable trip along the wine roads of Novigrad.
Getting to Novigrad
📍 GPS: Latitude 45.316380, Longitude 13.563100
✈️ By Air. Novigrad doesn’t have its own airport, but several nearby options make it easy to reach:
- Pula Airport (PUY) – The main gateway to Istria, about 1.5 hours from Novigrad. It serves over 70 destinations, including many low-cost airlines. Direct bus connections run from Pula Main Bus Station.
- Rijeka Airport (RJK) – Located on the island of Krk, around 170 km away. Mostly seasonal flights, popular in summer.
- Trieste Airport (TRS) – Just 100 km from Novigrad, a convenient international alternative.
- Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – About 230 km away, a major hub with global connections.
- Zagreb Airport (ZAG) – Croatia’s largest airport, 215 km from Novigrad (around 3 hours by car).
🚌 By Bus. Novigrad’s central bus station is less than 200 m from the town centre. Daily routes connect with Zagreb, while international lines run to cities like Munich, Trieste, and Ljubljana. Always check return timetables when planning day trips.
🚆 By Train. There is no train service to Novigrad. The nearest stations are in Buzet (Croatia) and Trieste (Italy).
⛴️ By Ferry. Novigrad has a small port but no ferry connections. For sea travel, the nearest major port is Pula, with occasional seasonal links to Zadar.
🚗 By Car. Driving is one of the easiest ways to reach Novigrad. The “Istrian Y” motorway connects the peninsula with Slovenia, Italy, and the rest of Croatia. Expect heavy summer traffic and observe speed limits.
🅿️ Parking. Parking in peak season can be tricky. Designated lots exist in different zones, but the old town (on a small peninsula) is car-free. Expect a 10–15 minute walk from some lots to the centre. Prices vary by zone and season. Be mindful of signs—illegally parked cars are quickly towed.
🐐Putokoza Tip: Lose Yourself in a Sunset Stroll. Spend the afternoon wandering along Novigrad’s coastline. The promenade is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, so you can drift into daydreams without the noise of cars. Follow the path all the way, stopping at small coastal bars where soft music mixes with the summer breeze. A cool drink in hand, the sea before you—this is where time slows down.
Not far from the old town stands the lighthouse, a quiet sentinel of the shore. As the sun sinks, the seaside promenade turns golden. Walking along the ancient walls—guardians of Novigrad’s long and turbulent history—you’ll feel each moment stretch, ready to be remembered. After all, Novigrad is not only a town by the sea, but also a proud member of the International Walled Towns Friendship Circle.
