In short: in Novigrad it is worth seeing the remains of the medieval walls and towers around the old core, the Basilica of St Pelagius, the Lapidarium and the lively Mandrač fishing harbour; the town is known for its cuisine.
Novigrad is a picturesque fishing town on the western coast of Istria, surrounded by the remains of medieval walls, with a lively harbour and a calm shore. It is known for its cuisine and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for a peaceful family holiday. In this guide we go through the sights, beaches and excursions; if you are also interested in the Belgrade to Novigrad minibus transfer, how to get there is at the end.
Beaches in Novigrad
The beaches are mostly rocky and pebbly, with concrete platforms and well-kept bathing areas, in the shade of pines, along a long seaside promenade. The sea is clear and calm, and the coast is good for walking and cycling. For sandy beaches and shallow water, families usually choose the south of Istria — more in the guide what to see in Medulin.
What to see in Novigrad and nearby
The town walls and old core
Novigrad was once ringed by medieval walls, whose remains and towers can still be seen around the old core today. The narrow lanes, stone houses, a church and a seaside promenade make a pleasant whole for an evening walk, with a view of the marina and the fishing boats.
The fishing harbour and cuisine
Novigrad has been a fishing town for centuries, so today it is known for its cuisine — restaurants with fresh fish, shellfish and local specialities. The lively harbour with its boats gives the town an authentic touch.
Excursions from Novigrad
Nearby are Umag to the north and Poreč with its Euphrasian Basilica to the south, both on a short excursion along the coast.
Novigrad for families and with children
The calm shore, the pedestrian old core and the relaxed atmosphere make Novigrad pleasant for families. The seaside walks are good for cycling and strolling, and the well-kept bathing areas with a shallower entry suit small children.
Where to eat in Novigrad
Novigrad is reckoned one of the culinary centres of Istria — along the harbour and in the old town, fresh fish, shellfish and seafood are on offer, alongside Istrian specialities such as pršut (prosciutto), truffles and olive oil, accompanied by Malvazija and Teran wines.
How to get to Novigrad from Belgrade
For the Belgrade to Novigrad minibus transfer we drive door to door, departing from Belgrade. Departure is at night, at around 23:00h for Croatia, so the border is crossed when queues are smallest and you reach Novigrad in the morning. The journey is about 640 km, a drive of 7–8 hours.
The price is fixed and free of hidden costs — see the price for Novigrad or the whole price list, and we also drive to all the other towns in Istria (Belgrade to Istria transfer). Before the trip, check the border crossings and live cameras too, and read about the whole region in the guide Istria holidays.
Frequently asked questions
What to see in Novigrad?
The remains of the medieval town walls and towers around the old core, the narrow lanes and a church, the lively fishing harbour and the seaside promenade. The town is also known for its cuisine.
What are the beaches in Novigrad like?
Mostly rocky and pebbly, with concrete platforms and well-kept bathing areas, in the shade of pines; the sea is clear and calm, and the coast is good for walking and cycling.
What is Novigrad known for?
For its cuisine — restaurants with fresh fish and seafood — as well as for its picturesque old core with the remains of medieval walls and a calm shore suitable for families.
Is Novigrad good for children?
It is — the calm shore, the pedestrian old core and the well-kept bathing areas make it pleasant for a family holiday.
When is the best time for Novigrad?
The season runs from late May to mid-September, with the warmest sea in July and August. For a quiet break and the food, June and September are pleasant too, when there are fewer crowds.
How many days to set aside for Novigrad?
A long weekend is enough for the town itself, and with the surroundings, the food and excursions to Umag and Poreč it is pleasant to stay longer.
How far is Novigrad from Belgrade?
About 640 km, a drive of 7–8 hours. With a night departure from Belgrade (around 23:00h), you reach Novigrad in the morning.
