Novigrad, Croatia
Novigrad is a charming coastal town situated in the heart of Istria, Croatia, known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings. The town's historic center is characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and well-preserved city walls, providing a glimpse into its past. Novigrad's harbor is a focal point, dotted with colorful boats and lined with waterfront cafes and restaurants serving delicious seafood and local cuisine. The town's cultural heritage is evident in landmarks like the Church of St. Pelagius and St. Maximus, showcasing intricate medieval art and architecture. Novigrad is also celebrated for its vibrant summer festivals, attracting visitors with a lively atmosphere and a blend of traditional music, dance, and gastronomy.
Parking in Novigrad
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1. Parcheggio Cittanova Centro Parking
GPS: 45.316978, 13.563079
Description: Paid parking located near the city center. The fee is around €1 per hour, payment at the parking machine. It is recommended to carry small coins in euros. Unfortunately, this parking is often full, with no available spaces. In such a case, we recommend using the slightly further parking area near the port (description below).
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2. Port Parking
GPS: 45.318968, 13.564647
Description: Paid, spacious parking near Novigrad Port, known as Marina Nautica Novigrad, offers parking spaces for marina guests and visitors. The parking is conveniently located near the port, providing easy access to boats and the city center.
Exploring Novigrad
Welcome to Novigrad, a charming coastal town in Istria. Let’s start our journey in the Old Town. Walking through its narrow, cobblestone streets, you’ll notice colorful houses with shutters open to catch the sea breeze. These streets have existed for centuries, and every stone has a story to tell. In the center, we find the Rigo Gallery (A; GPS: 45.31641129, 13.559175545), a modern artistic space housed in a historic building. Let’s step inside to see what is exhibited today — it’s always a surprise!
Now, let’s head to the Church of St. Pelagius and St. Maximus (B; GPS: 45.316342816, 13.558570405), whose bell tower proudly rises against the blue sky. It’s worth climbing to the top for breathtaking views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Imagine the sound of bells ringing over rooftops — a sound that has guided fishermen home for generations.
Next to the church is the Lapidarium Museum. Inside, you’ll find one of the finest collections of stone artifacts in Croatia. Each exhibit tells a story, from Roman times to early Christianity.
From here, we’ll move to the Novigrad Marina (C; GPS: 45.31788277, 13.560902455). Look at the yachts and fishing boats gently swaying on the water. It’s a great spot to relax and feel the salty air.
Walking along the coastline, we reach the City Walls (D; GPS: 45.31527694, 13.558327244). Built mainly in the 13th century, these walls were originally intended to provide protection against invasions and served as a barrier for residents within the fortified settlement. Over the centuries, they have been reinforced and expanded, introducing Renaissance elements such as round bastions that enhanced their defensive capabilities. One of the most distinctive features is the square Belveder Tower, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding area. This tower is situated directly by the sea, making it unique in the region. Additionally, the walls stretch along the southern side of the old town, running behind buildings on Torci Street, almost to Hotel Rotonda, creating a picturesque route through history. Today, Novigrad’s city walls are not only a historical site but also a popular destination for tourists who wish to explore the rich heritage of the town. Walking along these walls, you can step back in time while enjoying breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscapes.
To end our tour, let’s take a stroll along the promenade by the coast. Notice the small cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood — it’s the perfect spot to relax after our journey. If you have time, let’s sit down and try local specialties such as Istrian truffles or freshly caught fish.
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