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.
What we didn’t expect was to see streets lined with suspended umbrellas.
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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.
Below: The town loggia (known the Belveder)
Below: Old gate to the sea.
Below: bell tower of St. Pelagius.
Below: views from the long pier looking towards town.
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: Bbqboy’s Guide to Croatia
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So, would you visit Novigrad? If so, do the umbrellas make a difference?
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How lovely! 🙂 Definitely putting Novigrad on the map when I visit 🙂
Another great city I now have to visit! Looks beautiful.
absolutely stunning! Loved it!
Thanks Andy! 🙂
Look how beautifully colourful it is, the umbrella lined streets obviously and that bright blue sky that you got to enjoy whilst you were there! 🙂 I keep seeing photos online of a similar umbrella type feature here in England in Bath though I’m yet to make it there myself.
Yes, I’ve heard Bath has the same. If you ever post on it let me know Shikha, I’ll link it above 🙂
How did they hold up in the rain, keep you dry!! Although by the looks of your photos, rain wasn’t on the agenda anytime soon. Perhaps we should move further south, we have had/are having pretty crappy weather for a few weeks now (Poland, Slovakia and Ukraine) and it’s starting to get on our nerves!
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.
The umbrellas are very pretty and make the street cozy. Are they actual umbrellas or special ones they make for the project?
I think they’re special ones because the have to endure a lot of wear and tear. They look more solid.
I love Croatia. I have only been to Zagreb (twice). However, I feel the laid back energy in the country and people always seem to be warm.
You’re right, the people are warm and in the end they’re the reason we come back!
Okay, it’s official. We need to travel to Croatia. I’ve seen SO many beautiful photos of places from all over the country! And, to answer your question, yes, the umbrellas would make the difference. 🙂 I love them! What a bright and cheerful way to provide shade for the streets and brighten up the town!
Thanks Patti! Croatia is great, one of our favorite places.
Yes, the umbrellas definitely makes a difference 🙂 . How colorful! In Malaga at the old center, they had the great idea of putting on one of those tent things for protection. It was fantastic as you had some respite from the sun, just like here. Very pretty place and great images btw !
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.
Amazing pictures as usual. BUT, umbrellas are a thing of the past. Next up: hanging money all over the place to provide shade and “greenery”
Then everyone would be climbing up walls like they were Spiderman…
Love the colorful umbrellas! I think I would also like a dip in the sea. Looks refreshing! 😉
Yes, it was actually a bit cold in mid-May!