If you’re dreaming of a charming coastal town in Istria without the crowds of Rovinj or the flashiness of Poreč, let me introduce you to Novigrad—one of Croatia’s best-kept secrets.
We stumbled upon Novigrad during our road trip through Croatia, and it turned out to be one of those places that quietly captures your heart. With its colourful old town, crystal-clear Adriatic waters, and a promenade perfect for sunset strolls, Novigrad is the kind of place that makes you slow down.
It’s a town where fishermen still unload their catch each morning, where families linger over wine at seaside cafés, and where the pace is just… calmer.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan your visit—from how to get there and what to do, to the best places to eat and where to soak up the sun. This isn’t just a roundup of touristy highlights—it’s all based on real experiences, personal tips, and the kind of hidden spots I always seek out when I travel.
How to get to Novigrad, Croatia (And Where to Park)
Getting to Novigrad is super easy—especially if you’re already road-tripping through Istria like we were. It’s located on the western coast of the Istrian Peninsula, roughly a 30-minute drive from Poreč and just under an hour from Rovinj. The roads are well-maintained and the drive itself is beautiful, winding past vineyards, olive groves, and sleepy hilltop villages.
We visited with our own car and found it really easy to navigate. And good news—parking in Novigrad is straightforward. There’s a large paid parking lot right next to the marina and just a short walk from the Old Town. We parked there and had no trouble finding a spot, even in the afternoon. You can pay by card or cash, and it’s well-signed, so no stress when you arrive.
💡 TIP – If you’re visiting during the summer months, try to arrive earlier in the day to avoid the busiest window between 11am and 3pm—especially if you want the best parking spots close to the old town or the seaside promenade.
Best Things to Do in Novigrad
Wander the Old Town
Start your visit by getting lost in Novigrad’s charming old town. The narrow stone alleys are lined with colorful façades, hanging laundry, and blooming flower pots—every corner is impossibly photogenic. There’s a lovely mix of Venetian architecture and that classic Istrian warmth. Take your time, peek into artisan shops, and don’t forget to look up—there are so many little details tucked into the buildings.
Stroll the Seaside Promenade
The Novigrad promenade is one of the prettiest on the coast. You can walk all the way from the marina, past the old city walls, and along the rocky shoreline. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon, when the sun starts to dip and the sea takes on that golden shimmer. There are plenty of benches if you feel like slowing down with a gelato in hand (highly recommended).
Admire the Church of St. Pelagius
This 8th-century church sits right at the heart of the old town and is known for its underground crypt—one of the few you can actually visit in Istria. It’s peaceful, humble, and definitely worth a quick stop while you’re exploring.
Walk Along the City Walls
What makes Novigrad even more special is that a good part of its medieval city walls is still intact—and you can actually walk alongside them. Originally built to protect the town from invaders, today they offer a peaceful path along the sea with gorgeous views over the water and the old town. It’s one of the best ways to get a feel for Novigrad’s history while enjoying the salty breeze. The walls are especially pretty around golden hour, when the light hits the stone just right.
Where to eat in Novigrad
For such a small town, Novigrad has some seriously good food. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood straight from the Adriatic, handmade pasta with truffles, or just a casual glass of local wine by the water, you’re in for a treat.
Damir & Ornella
If you’re a fan of fine dining and want to experience Novigrad’s most famous culinary address, this is it. Damir & Ornella is all about raw seafood, prepared right at your table with just a drizzle of olive oil, lemon, and a lot of love. It’s not the cheapest meal you’ll have in Croatia, but it’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience for serious foodies. Reservations are a must.
Konoba Kod Kristijana
This cozy, family-run konoba is tucked away just outside the busiest part of the old town and serves classic Istrian dishes with a personal touch. Think: grilled calamari, homemade gnocchi, and generous portions of truffle pasta. The outdoor terrace is charming and peaceful, and the staff are super welcoming.
Vecchio Mulino
Perfect for a casual lunch or laid-back dinner, Vecchio Mulino serves up wood-fired pizzas, seafood pastas, and generous platters perfect for sharing. The setting is relaxed and friendly, just a short walk from the harbor—great for families or travelers looking for something affordable and delicious.
💡 TIP – Seafood is definitely the star in Novigrad, so don’t miss trying the catch of the day or anything featuring local scampi—it’s incredibly fresh and beautifully prepared.
Where to stay in Istria
Base yourself in a central location like Rovinj, Motovun, or Bale—that way you’re never more than an hour from the coast, the hilltop towns, or even Pula (if you must). If you love coastal vibes, go for Rovinj. If you want countryside charm, Motovun or Grožnjan are magical.
We stayed in Rovinj and absolutely loved our time here! We rented an apartment right outside of the Old Town so we could still park our car in front. But from there to the heart of Rovinj it was an easy 10 minute walk. We stayed at Apartments Cvek, which was perfect for a family of 3.
Other hotel options in Rovinj are:
- Hotel Adriatic – Located in the heart of Rovinj’s Old Town, Hotel Adriatic is a design lover’s dream. This art-forward boutique hotel features contemporary interiors adorned with curated artworks, offering a unique blend of modern design and historical charm.
- Hotel Lone – Set within the Golden Cape Forest Park, Hotel Lone stands out with its Y-shaped modernist architecture and minimalist interiors. Designed by Croatian studio 3LHD, the hotel incorporates natural materials like wood and stone, creating a harmonious connection with its surroundings.
- The Melegran – Tucked away in one of Rovinj’s narrow Old Town lanes, The Melegran is a quirky boutique hotel that combines historic charm with contemporary flair. Its interiors feature bold colors, vintage-style furnishings, and unique design elements like neon lights and artistic wallpapers.
Best Beaches in Novigrad
While Novigrad isn’t known for long sandy beaches, it more than makes up for it with its crystal-clear waters, rocky coves, and laid-back swimming spots that feel like local secrets. The Adriatic here is unbelievably clean, and even in the summer months, it’s easy to find a quiet stretch of shoreline if you know where to go.
Here are a few of the best spots to soak up the sun and dive in.
Karpinjan Beach
Just a 10-minute walk north of the old town, Karpinjan Beach is one of the most popular places to swim in Novigrad—and for good reason. The beach stretches for nearly a kilometer and is lined with shady pine trees, flat stone platforms, and pebbly sections that are great for laying out a towel. There’s also a walking path, a few cafés nearby, and plenty of space to spread out.
City Beach (Main Town Beach)
Located just outside the old town walls near the marina, this rocky beach area is ideal for a quick dip with a view. You won’t find sand here, but there are plenty of stone steps and ladders leading directly into the sea. Locals love coming here to cool off in the afternoon, and the vibe is calm and super laid-back.
If you have any questions about how to visit Novigrad in Croatia or if you want to share your experience, comment below!
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Hi! We’re Charlotte, Christof & César!
Armed with our cameras & drone we’re always on the lookout for the next adventure!
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