Novo Mesto Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Novo Mesto, Slovenia through this complete travel guide. Learn about its cultural and natural attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Novo Mesto

Novo Mesto is a hidden gem located in the southeastern part of Slovenia in Central Europe. It sits by the Krka River, surrounded by rolling hills and lush green forests, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With a rich history and culture, Novo Mesto has plenty to offer for all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Novo Mesto

Novo Mesto has a lot of cultural and natural attractions that visitors can explore. Here is a list of places to check out during your stay:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dolenjski Museum: This museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Dolenjska region, including a collection of artifacts ranging from the prehistoric era to modern times.
  • Novo Mesto Castle: A 16th-century castle that serves as the cultural center of the city. It houses a gallery, museum, and concert hall.
  • Franciscan Monastery: This 17th-century monastery is home to a small museum that displays the city’s history and religious art.

Natural Attractions of Novo Mesto: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Otočec Castle: A picturesque castle located on an islet in the middle of the Krka River. It offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Krka River: A popular spot for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. The river banks offer plenty of picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
  • Kočevje Forest: A vast forest that is home to many rare and endangered species. Visitors can go hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on the numerous trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Novo Mesto

Novo Mesto is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with several trails leading through forests, hills, and along rivers. Some popular routes include:

  • Krka River Trail: A 30 km long trail that follows the river from Novo Mesto to Šmarješke Toplice. It takes around 7-8 hours to complete, and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside.
  • Gorjanci Trail: A 50 km long trail that leads through the Gorjanci Hills. It takes around 12-14 hours to complete, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
  • Adrenaline Trail: A 7 km long trail that leads through the Kočevje Forest. It is specially designed for mountain bikers and offers challenging terrain and steep descents.

Best Things to Do in Novo Mesto: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting: Novo Mesto is known for its excellent wines, such as Cviček and Metliška črnina. Visitors can go on wine tours and tastings at local vineyards and wineries.
  • Thermal Spa: The region around Novo Mesto is home to several thermal spas, such as Toplice Šmarješke and Dolenjske Toplice. Visitors can relax in the hot springs and get pampered with various spa treatments.
  • Balloon Ride: Get a bird’s eye view of Novo Mesto and its surroundings by taking a hot air balloon ride. It is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Novo Mesto

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Novo Mesto:

Day Activity
1 Visit Dolenjski Museum and Novo Mesto Castle
2 Go on a wine tour and tasting
3 Explore Kočevje Forest and go on a hike
4 Relax in the thermal spa and get pampered
5 Take a hot air balloon ride
6 Visit Otočec Castle and go kayaking on the Krka River
7 Discover the local food scene and buy souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Novo Mesto

Trying out the local cuisine is a must when visiting Novo Mesto. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cviček: A light and refreshing red wine that is unique to the Dolenjska region.
  • Belokranjska pogača: A savory bread made with bacon, onions, and caraway seeds.
  • Potica: A sweet pastry filled with walnuts, honey, and cinnamon.

Local Beverages

  • Pelinkovec: A herbal liqueur that is made with wormwood and various other herbs.
  • Laško Beer: A popular Slovenian beer that is brewed in the town of Laško.

Where to Stay in Novo Mesto: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Novo Mesto has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to affordable hostels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Krka: Located in the city center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, such as a restaurant, fitness center, and spa.
  • Hostel Situla: A budget-friendly hostel that is housed in a restored 15th-century building. It offers dorm rooms and private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and lounge.
  • Guesthouse Kapušin: A charming guesthouse that is located on the outskirts of the city. It offers comfortable rooms and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

What to Buy in Novo Mesto: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for a special souvenir to take home? Here are some suggestions:

  • Cviček Wine: A signature wine of the Dolenjska region, it is a perfect gift for wine lovers.
  • Šmarješke Toplice Salt: A local gourmet salt that is made from the thermal water of the nearby Šmarješke Toplice spa.
  • Handmade Lace: Novo Mesto is known for its intricate and beautiful lacework, which makes for a unique and timeless gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Novo Mesto

Slovenia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and Novo Mesto is no exception. Visitors can experience traditional folk music and dance, as well as various festivals and events throughout the year. Here are some cultural customs to keep in mind:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting churches and other religious sites.
  • Respect local customs, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home.
  • Slovenians are known for their hospitality, so be prepared to be welcomed with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Novo Mesto

The best time to visit Novo Mesto is during the spring and summer months, from May to August. The weather is warm and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Fall is also a good time to visit, as the foliage turns into beautiful shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Novo Mesto

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Novo Mesto:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Explore the beautiful countryside and go on a hike or bike ride.
  • Check out the various cultural events and festivals.

Don’t:

  • Show up late for appointments or meetings.
  • Wear revealing clothing in public places.
  • Be disrespectful to the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Novo Mesto is a safe and healthy destination for travelers. Here are some tips:

Safety in Novo Mesto

  • Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas.
  • Follow basic safety precautions, such as keeping your valuables secure and locking your doors.
  • Check the weather forecast before going on a hike or outdoor activity.

Health in Novo Mesto

  • The tap water is safe to drink.
  • Slovenia has a good healthcare system, but make sure you have travel insurance.

Getting to Novo Mesto: Transportation Options and Logistics

Novo Mesto is easy to get to, with several transportation options available:

Airports Near Novo Mesto

  • Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport: Located around 80 km from Novo Mesto, it is the main airport in Slovenia. It offers flights to various European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Novo Mesto

  • Novo Mesto Bus Station: Located in the city center, it offers bus connections to other Slovenian and European cities.

Other Options

  • Rail: The nearest train station is located in Sevnica, around 20 km from Novo Mesto.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a great option for exploring the countryside and nearby attractions.

How to Get Around in Novo Mesto

The best way to get around in Novo Mesto is on foot or by bike. The city center is compact and easy to navigate, and many attractions are within walking or biking distance. Taxis and buses are also available for getting around the city and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Novo Mesto: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Novo Mesto is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Slovenia. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Ljubljana: The capital of Slovenia is located around 70 km from Novo Mesto and offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions.
  • Bled: A picturesque alpine town located around 130 km from Novo Mesto, known for its stunning lake and castle.
  • Škocjan Caves: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder, located around 60 km from Novo Mesto.

Conclusion

Novo Mesto is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Visitors can explore its rich history and cultural heritage, go on outdoor adventures, try out the local cuisine and wines, and relax in the thermal spas. With plenty of accommodation options and nearby attractions, Novo Mesto is a must-visit destination in Slovenia.