What to Do and See in Novigrad, Croatia
You won’t see Novigrad on any Istrian “must see” list. It’s not as famous as romantic Rovinj and doesn’t have the incredible historical sights of either Pula or Porec. What Novigrad does have are medieval fortifications (which I’ll cover further below) and a very laid-back atmosphere.
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What we didn’t expect was to see streets lined with suspended umbrellas.
I’ve read about a few places that have suddenly become quite popular because of their umbrella installations. Agueda in Portugal is one of those places. Novigrad’s installations are maybe not as spectacular but they add a lot of colour to the town while also providing a lot of shade. Who doesn’t like the novelty of umbrella-covered streets? A bunch of photos:
Besides the umbrella-lined streets is a pretty town partly encircled by a wall of fortifications. They were constructed in the 14th century when Novigrad was under Venetian rule and under constant threat from the Republic of Genoa. Today you can walk around the walls, lay out on the rocks and go swimming.
So our opinion on Novigrad? We found a pleasant town without the crowds that you’ll see in Rovinj or Porec. You can come here, see everything there is to see in a couple of hours and go for a swim outside the town’s walls. If you’re just looking for a base in the area it’s a great place just to relax. Many people come here for a few days of beach and sun (and some spend their entire summer here).
Accommodation
A few recommendations: Hotel Villa Cittar (very nice hotel, ideal for a short stay), Apartment Oblò (simple but well equipped and perfectly located), Apartments Mirella (beautiful apartment, a bit outside the town center but a perfect longer stay apartment).
Related: Visiting the really pretty town of Primošten, Croatia
Related: A visit to Omiš: Croatia’s Adventure Capital
Related: 12 Surprising Places to See (that you may never have heard of)
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Frank (bbqboy)
Thanks Andy! 🙂
Frank (bbqboy)
Yes, I’ve heard Bath has the same. If you ever post on it let me know Shikha, I’ll link it above 🙂
Frank (bbqboy)
We’ve had variable weather but even on rainy days you usually get stretches of sun. I’m with you – cloudy, rainy weather depressing. Can’t take it. Hope it clears up for you Mark.
Frank (bbqboy)
I think they’re special ones because the have to endure a lot of wear and tear. They look more solid.
Frank (bbqboy)
You’re right, the people are warm and in the end they’re the reason we come back!
Frank (bbqboy)
Thanks Patti! Croatia is great, one of our favorite places.
Frank (bbqboy)
Thanks Kemkem, yes I’m with you – I think without the umbrellas it would be a pretty but quite ordinary town. The Umbrellas add a lot of character and as you say, some shade.
Frank (bbqboy)
Then everyone would be climbing up walls like they were Spiderman…
Frank (bbqboy)
Yes, it was actually a bit cold in mid-May!