Things To Do
in Novska
Novska is a small inland town in central Croatia, located on the A3 motorway and the main Zagreb–Belgrade rail line. It sits near lowland rivers and floodplain nature areas, offering easy access to rural landscapes, birdlife and traditional Slavonian culture. The town has a modest historic core, working railway heritage and a local agricultural economy with seasonal festivals.
Novska is a convenient base for day trips to nearby nature parks (Lonjsko Polje, Psunj) and larger regional centres such as Slavonski Brod and Zagreb.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a visit to the Novska Town Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the region. Admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding buildings as you stroll through the town square, enjoying the fresh morning air. Grab a local pastry and coffee from a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Sava River, where you can enjoy beautiful views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Visit the nearby Church of St. Nicholas, known for its intricate design and peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, treat yourself to a traditional Croatian lunch at a local konoba, savoring regional flavors.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in one of Novska's charming restaurants to enjoy dinner with a view of the river. Try local specialties such as čobanac or fresh fish, accompanied by a glass of Croatian wine. End your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the serene ambiance of the town.
Begin your day early with a drive to Papuk Nature Park, where nature trails beckon with stunning views and vibrant foliage. Enjoy a guided tour that introduces you to the diverse flora and fauna, as well as the geological wonders of the area. Stop at a viewpoint to capture breathtaking photos of the surrounding landscape.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s hidden waterfalls and caves, including the famous Slap Jankovac, which offers a refreshing retreat. Take time to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
Return to Novska for an evening of relaxation at a local tavern. Sample more of the regional cuisine and perhaps engage in conversation with locals about their favorite hiking spots. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying a dessert of strudel or štrukli.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee (local café) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus single ticket (regional) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $4-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $50-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient transport links by motorway and rail for regional travel
- Access to rich floodplain nature (Lonjsko Polje) and birdwatching
- Authentic small-town Slavonian culture and hearty regional cuisine
- Quiet, low-cost base for exploring central Croatia
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions compared with larger cities
- Fewer dining options for specialized diets (vegan/gluten-free)
- Public transport within the immediate area is limited—car recommended
- Seasonal closures: some attractions and services may be limited outside peak months
- "Dobar dan" - Good day / Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You’re welcome
- "Oprostite" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Gdje je ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Račun, molim" - The bill, please
Places to Visit in Novska
Visit one of these nice places.
Street-level scenes of daily life, the historic railway buildings and the junction provide documentary-style images and industrial heritage shots.
Calm waters, reedbeds and low bridges make for tranquil landscape and sunset photos, especially during low light.
Expansive wetlands, traditional wooden houses and migrating birds offer excellent nature and bird photography opportunities in spring and autumn.
Elevated viewpoints give panoramic rural landscapes—best for sunrise or late-afternoon light.
Close-up cultural shots of food, vendors, cured meats and lively market scenes capture local character.
Food in Novska
Novska Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spicy cured pork sausage typical of Slavonia—rich and smoky, found at local butchers and markets.
Must-Try!
Hearty meat stew (shepherd’s stew or goulash) served in many taverns—comfort food after outdoor activities.
Locally smoked ham and farmhouse cheeses often sold at markets and family-run shops.
Savory and sweet pastries from local bakeries—perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small weekly market and stalls where farmers sell seasonal vegetables, cheese, smoked meats and baked goods—great for sampling regional flavours.
Seasonal stands on the outskirts sell fresh fruit, honey and preserves—ideal for buying local produce directly from growers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Handshake and eye contact are common for first meetings; a friendly 'Dobar dan' (good day) is appreciated. Use polite forms and thank people—'Hvala'—often.
Show deference to older people and be respectful at religious sites—dress modestly and speak quietly in churches.
Avoid controversial political or historical debates unless you know people well; discussing local sports, food and family is safer and welcome.
If invited to a local home, bringing flowers, sweets or a small gift is polite; remove your shoes if hosts ask.
Safety
Tipping in Novska
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—rounding up the bill, leaving 5–10% in restaurants for good service, and small change for taxis or helpful porters is customary.
Croatia uses the euro; credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels, but smaller vendors, markets and rural businesses may prefer cash—carry some euros for markets and tolls. Contactless payments are increasingly common; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot and generally sunny—great for outdoor activities, cycling and river-side relaxation; expect temperatures in the mid-20s to low 30s °C (mid-70s to 90s °F) and occasional thunderstorms.
Crisp, pleasant weather with colourful fields and migration activity in Lonjsko Polje—ideal for photography and mushroom foraging; cooler mornings and evenings.
Cold with frosts and occasional snow; temperatures can drop below freezing—dress warmly and check road conditions if travelling to higher ground.
Mild temperatures, blooming countryside and good birdwatching; variable weather—bring layers for chilly mornings and warmer afternoons.
Novska at Night
Hiking in Novska
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate forested trails offering views over the Slavonian plains, good for spring-to-autumn hikes and nature observation.
Part of a larger protected area with marked trails, geological features and viewpoints—best for day trips to more challenging hikes.
Flat paths and boardwalks through the floodplain suitable for easy walks, birdwatching and seasonal photographic opportunities.
Short countryside loops around neighbouring villages that showcase rural architecture, orchards and river scenery—great for relaxed afternoon walks or cycling.
Airports
How to reach Novska by plane.
Main international airport for Croatia, about 1.5–2 hours’ drive from Novska depending on traffic (approx. 110–130 km). Reachable by car, taxi or regional bus connections via Zagreb.
Regional airport to the east (longer drive, roughly 2–3 hours); useful for domestic or select international connections and reachable by car or combined rail/bus travel.
Cross-border option in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina (approx. 2+ hours by car) that can be convenient for some regional flights—check visa and border procedures if using.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population engaged in local services, farming and small businesses.
Small minority communities present in the region with shared local traditions and cultural ties.
An aging demographic trend in smaller towns; many households involved in agriculture or commuting to larger towns for work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local amateur clubs and weekend matches that are community focal points.
Common indoor sports with local teams and school programs; community courts host practices and matches.
Traditional rural activities in the region—seasonal hunting and recreational angling attract locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novska.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with coastal Croatia; vegetable-based soups, cheese, eggs, salads and side dishes are common—ask staff to adapt dishes and look for bakeries, markets and larger restaurants in nearby cities for more variety.
Vegan choices are limited in small-town konobas; bring snacks and rely on markets for fresh produce. Larger supermarkets in the region carry basics like plant milks and canned goods.
Gluten-free options are not widespread—communicate dietary needs clearly in Croatian ("bez glutena") and prefer naturally gluten-free items like grilled meats, salads and dairy.