Things To Do
in Novi Marof

Novi Marof is a charming town located in northern Croatia, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. Nestled in the heart of the Varaždin County, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The town is characterized by its friendly atmosphere and is surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.

Novi Marof serves as a great base for exploring the nearby attractions, including castles and national parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical center of Novi Marof, visiting St. Mary’s Church and the nearby park for a leisurely walk.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Croatian dishes, followed by a stroll in the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby Medvednica Nature Park for a morning hike and enjoy the stunning views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Castle of Trakošćan, a short drive away, and explore its beautiful gardens and museum.

evening
:

Return to Novi Marof and enjoy a drink at a local café, soaking in the relaxed evening atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍏Local Produce$1
🍺Beer$3
🚌Public Transport Ticket$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Some attractions may require a drive.
  • Public transportation options can be limited.
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please
  • "Gdje je WC?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Kako si?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Novi Marof

Visit one of these nice places.

St. Mary’s Church

An architectural gem with beautiful stained glass windows, offering great photo opportunities both inside and outside.

Castle of Trakošćan

A picturesque castle surrounded by a tranquil lake and lush forests, perfect for landscape photography.

Novi Marof Park

A serene park with walking paths and vibrant flowers, ideal for capturing the beauty of nature.

Culinary Guide

Food in Novi Marof

Novi Marof offers a delightful culinary experience with a focus on traditional Croatian dishes and local ingredients.

Novi Marof Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Čobanac

A rich meat stew made with various types of meat and a blend of spices, perfect for a hearty meal.

Must-Try!

Strukli

A pastry filled with cheese, often served baked or boiled, showcasing the region's dairy products.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Novi Marof Farmers Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade products. It’s a great place to sample local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Novi Marof experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to -5°C (23°F) occasionally. Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically in late spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; addressing people politely is valued.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and it's polite to try all dishes offered.

Dress Code

While casual attire is acceptable, dressing neatly is appreciated, especially in restaurants and religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Novi Marof is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Novi Marof

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for local markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer features warm weather, perfect for exploring local attractions and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage and a cooler climate, ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snowfall, creating a picturesque landscape but may limit outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Novi Marof at Night

Novi Marof has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and cafés that come alive in the evenings. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often gather to socialize over drinks. Live music events and occasional cultural performances may be found, providing entertainment options for visitors looking to experience local culture.

Hiking in Novi Marof

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Medvednica Hiking Trail

A well-marked trail that offers varying levels of difficulty and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Varaždin Castle Trail

A scenic hiking route leading to Varaždin Castle, featuring historical landmarks along the way.

Airports

How to reach Novi Marof by plane.

Zagreb Airport (ZAG)

Located approximately 80 km from Novi Marof, it's the nearest international airport, offering flights to numerous destinations across Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Novi Marof is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within a short distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a car for more remote attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Croatian Locals

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Croats, who are known for their hospitality and cultural traditions.

Tourists

Novi Marof attracts both domestic and international tourists, particularly those interested in exploring rural Croatia and its natural beauty.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is extremely popular in Croatia, with local teams often having a strong following.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Novi Marof is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, though schedules may not be frequent. Cycling is also a feasible option for getting around the town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Novi Marof.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Novi Marof offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it’s best to check with the staff at restaurants for suitable meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Novi Marof is adequate, with local clinics and hospitals providing basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Varaždin. Emergency services can be reached easily, and pharmacies are available throughout the town.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide