Novigrad, the yacht watching in Istria

When in Croatia or Slovenia (or even in northern Italy) it is impossible not to visit Istria. We already have a lot of stories on the itinari website about Istria - its viewpoints, small towns, and Roman history that still lives in Pula and every other corner of the peninsula. I have repeatedly said that Istria is something special for me. This land is green and blue, just the way I love it, and in its northwest is hidden a new town, just like its name suggests - Novigrad (meaning a new city in Croatian). A place to rest, walk or watch yachts. Let's explore this little paradise.

Where is Novigrad/Cittanova?

Novigrad is a coastal town belonging to the Istria County. It is adorned with the beauty of the sea and the beauty of the hinterland that is always green. Novigrad or Cittanova d'Istria in Italian, according to the scriptures, has existed at the same location since the 5th century AD. On the western coast of Istria, about halfway between Poreč and Umag. Formerly Neapolis, it was the famous city of the Western Roman Empire and the seat of the diocese. Many empires have changed over the centuries, and Novigrad has shyly remained and existed as a fishing and tourist town.

Novigrad, Istria

Ul. Gradska vrata 35, 52466, Novigrad, Croatia

Novigrad today

Today, Novigrad is one of the main tourist destinations in Istria. Novigrad is a small place that you can visit quickly. But no rush, take your time and enjoy every moment here. In Novigrad, the Mirna River enters the Adriatic Sea. The old part of Novigrad is a small peninsula dominated by the bell tower of the Church of Sv. Pelagia from the 15th century.

Novigrad is an excellent place for watching big and expensive boats, yachts, and other sea vessels. In the center, there is also a charming little port where these vessels are often parked. During the last 30 years, Novigrad has become a place where all those vessels in the northern Adriatic Sea are bound to sail in. Many cafes and restaurants are located right by the sea so that your view can be embellished by some of the world-famous ships, yachts, and cruisers, while you drink your coffee or eat the seafood.

Novigrad or Cittanova is a very fond memory for me. I remember having a short break by the sea, with coffee and gelato, after a tour of the interior of Istria. Of course, Novigrad has more to offer than just a yacht watching; it is just one of the recommended activities in this beautiful little spot in the north of Istria. To finish off, I've chosen these cool umbrellas in one of the alleys of Novigrad, aren't they lovely?