Things To Do
in Novi Marof
Novi Marof is a charming town located in northern Croatia, known for its picturesque surroundings and historical landmarks. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditional festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Visitors can explore the medieval fortress of Veliki Tabor and the Baroque parish church of St. George.
Novi Marof is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and cycling opportunities in the nearby hills and forests.
- "Dobar dan" - Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please
- "Kako si?" - How are you?
- "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the restroom?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $80
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the town center, enjoying fresh air and the quaint atmosphere. Visit the local bakery for some traditional Croatian pastries.
Take a guided tour of the local historical sites, including churches and monuments. Stop for lunch at a cozy café serving local cuisine.
Head to a nearby park for a relaxing walk as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant that features outdoor seating.
Pack your picnic and head to the scenic hills surrounding Novi Marof. Enjoy the fresh air and take in beautiful views of the countryside.
Explore the hiking trails and discover hidden spots for photography. Enjoy the tranquility of nature while you have your picnic.
Return to town and visit a local wine cellar for a tasting experience. Try pairing wines with regional cheeses for a delightful evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and local traditions.
- Pleasant Mediterranean climate, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Croatian cities.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes and nearby national parks.
- Limited job opportunities in specialized fields.
- Small size may result in fewer entertainment and dining options.
- Public transportation may not be as developed as in larger cities.
- Potential for seasonal tourism fluctuations affecting local businesses.
- May lack certain amenities and services that larger cities offer.
Best Activities in Novi Marof
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic trails of the Varaždin Hills, offering various routes with stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy cycling through the picturesque countryside around Novi Marof, with well-marked paths suitable for all skill levels.
Spend a relaxing day in the local park, perfect for family picnics, reading, or simply enjoying nature.
Take a trip to Lake Bistričak for swimming, fishing, or enjoying a peaceful day by the water.
Experience the local forests with nature walks, observing wildlife and enjoying the tranquility of the outdoors.
Places to Visit in Novi Marof
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful nature park that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for photography, especially during sunset.
The highest point in the nearby mountains, Vrh Turu provides sweeping vistas of the town of Novi Marof and the surrounding landscapes, ideal for both day and night photography.
The central square of Novi Marof, where visitors can capture the charm of the town's architecture and vibrant life, perfect for street photography.
An iconic church in Novi Marof with beautiful architecture and a lovely garden that offers a picturesque backdrop for photos.
The nearby hills and fields provide an array of natural beauty with wildflowers and scenic views, perfect for outdoor photography and nature shots.
Food in Novi Marof
Novi Marof Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Punjena Paprika is a beloved Croatian dish consisting of peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. You can savor this dish at local taverns like Konoba Fureš, where it's often served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes.
Must-Try!
Strukli, a traditional Croatian pastry, is a must-try in Novi Marof. These delightful dumplings are filled with cottage cheese and sour cream, then baked to golden perfection. Visit the cozy bakery, Pekarna Klas, to enjoy freshly made Strukli with a cup of aromatic coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
For an authentic food market experience, head to Novi Marof Market, where local vendors offer an array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other gastronomic delights. You can also sample delicious street food such as cevapi (grilled minced meat sausages) and langos (fried bread) at the market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Novi Marof, it is customary to greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Use polite forms of address, such as 'Gospodin' for Mr. and 'Gospođa' for Mrs., to show respect.
If invited to someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or sweets. During meals, wait for the host to start before eating, and keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.
Dress appropriately for occasions; casual wear is acceptable for informal settings, but for business or formal events, smart attire is expected. Being well-groomed is seen as a sign of respect in Croatian culture.
Safety
Tipping in Novi Marof
Ensure a smooth experience
In Novi Marof, as in many parts of Croatia, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 10% in restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was good. However, in more casual settings, leaving small change is also acceptable.
Payment methods in Novi Marof typically include cash and card transactions. While cash is widely accepted, especially at smaller businesses, credit and debit cards are commonly used in restaurants, shops, and hotels. It's advisable for visitors to carry some local currency (Croatian Kuna) for smaller purchases or in places that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Novi Marof offers mild temperatures and blooming nature. It is an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the local parks. Expect pleasant weather, with occasional rain, making it a great season for hiking and enjoying the countryside.
Summer (June to August) brings warm to hot temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor festivals and events. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant local culture, outdoor markets, and swimming in nearby lakes. However, it can get quite hot, so hydration and sunscreen are essential.
Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. This season is excellent for wine tasting and enjoying local harvest festivals. Expect mild weather, ideal for hiking, and fewer crowds compared to summer.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, creating a picturesque winter landscape. This season is perfect for experiencing local traditions and holiday festivities, but visitors should prepare for cold weather.
Novi Marof at Night
Hiking in Novi Marof
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Zagreb, Sljeme offers a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
This nature park features plentiful trails of varying difficulties. It is a popular destination for hiking, especially in spring and autumn.
A series of gentle hills and valleys located not far from Novi Marof, offering a peaceful hiking experience amidst nature.
Just a short drive from Novi Marof, this region contains a wealth of hills and picturesque landscapes that are perfect for hiking.
Though a bit further away, this national park features dense forests and wildlife, providing a range of trails for various skill levels.
Aiports
How to reach Novi Marof by plane.
The main international airport serving Zagreb and the surrounding region, located approximately 87 km from Novi Marof.
An international airport located in Pula, Croatia, about 217 km from Novi Marof, serving the Istrian region.
An international airport located near Zadar, approximately 208 km from Novi Marof, providing access to northern Dalmatia.
An international airport located on Krk Island, around 150 km from Novi Marof, serving the Kvarner Bay area.
An international airport located in Osijek, about 156 km from Novi Marof, serving the eastern part of Croatia.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Novi Marof, making up a significant portion of the population.
The second-largest ethnic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A minority group with a historical presence in the region.
Includes smaller groups such as Italians, Slovenians, and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Novi Marof, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with local teams participating in regional competitions.
Handball is a well-loved sport in Novi Marof, featuring a dedicated fan base and active local leagues.
Volleyball is played at both recreational and competitive levels in the town, contributing to a vibrant sports culture.
Athletics is promoted through local clubs and schools, encouraging youth participation and talent development.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novi Marof.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Croatian cuisine traditionally features a lot of meat-based dishes, many restaurants in Novi Marof offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like stuffed peppers, grilled vegetables, and fresh salads. Pekarna Klas also provides delectable vegetarian pastries and light bites suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can still enjoy Croatian cuisine by opting for naturally gluten-free dishes such as grilled fish, seafood, and risottos. When dining out, communicate your dietary needs to the restaurant staff, who are often accommodating and willing to customize dishes to accommodate gluten-free requirements.