Taking a pet to a Croatian vacation and finding out that your hosts also love pets, and that their apartments at Novigrad are eco-friendly is quite possibly impossible. But it’s as real as it could be.

We won't call this a miracle, but miracles do tend to happen from time to time.

Vacationing in Novigrad - super safe small Istrian coastal town is by itself a miracle for some parents and other stressless holiday seekers. At Novigrad, there is just enough of everything. So, if you are looking for an apartment in Novigrad, and can relate with previous sentences - bookmark this page. Villa Bionda could become your favorite Istrian vacation host.

Enjoy now

Although holidays do make people happy, a study showed that it is the anticipation of the upcoming trip that increases happiness, and once the holidays are done, there is hardly any effect on our happiness or wellbeing.

Once we are back into our daily routine, the stressless week in Croatia seems to blur into the background. As the mentioned study suggests, increasing anticipation will subsequently increase the happiness level.

Anyway, you are looking for an apartment for your Istria vacation. You want to enjoy it and at least try to bring some Novigrad happiness back to your daily routine (once the week or so in Novigrad has ended). But how would you know where to find that long-lasting happiness?

Added value apartments should offer you something extra, maybe, even some happiness TO GO.

#1 The added value apartment know their guests

First and foremost, it is essential to understand who will be vacationing. Is it a family, are they bringing pets, or is it a couple of bike enthusiasts looking to explore Parenzana?

There isn’t a one size fits all formula but at Villa Bionda, there are apartment elements that will adapt to suit your holiday needs and desires.

Guests are unique individuals but they are humans after all, and thus love to be welcomed. At every Villa Bionda apartment guests can anticipate feel-good welcome packages.

#2 The added value apartment has its character

Apartments at villa Bionda have their names, they aren't just numbers, they are not any place - they are the place you’ll spend some of your vacation time, they are your home for the time being. They should feel better than just a place to crash.

Villa Bionda apartments are decorated with earthy colors, also green and blue. Apartments interiors have Istrian and Mediterranean bits and parts, just so you don't forget where you are.

Thanks to a number of waves of settlement that have taken place in Istria throughout history, the culture, customs, and languages have changed along with the occupying rulers. Harmony of diversities is something you can expect here.

#3 Membership card is a must-have

Villa Bionda membership card is completely free and allows you to save 10 to 20% in the most famous Istrian restaurants and taverns, wineries, shops and SPA centers.

You will find detailed information and a list of all the places where you can get discounts in your apartment. We will point out just a few: Gatto Nero tavern, Gatto Blu pizzeria & grill, Hedonsit coffee & cocktail bar, Ivančić winery, Prelac winery, XXX wine cellar.

#4 Guests are properly welcomed at the added value apartment

Welcome package awaits every apartment guest, whether staying for one, two or ten days.

We wanted to create a diverse welcome package, one that has a little something for everyone. So, Bionda welcome package includes:

• still and sparkling water
• Malvasia
• Merlot
• sparkling wine
• extra virgin olive oil.

Do we even need to mention that all products are Istrian?

#5 The added value apartment will take you for a ride

Visiting cult winemakers, olive growers or taverns, visiting the world-famous Brijuni or Pula Arena, discovering small Istrian pearls like Momjan, Motovun, Hum, Fažana... Exploring unknown Istria in a convertible. Sounds like fun?

We’ll listen to your wishes, make a program and the enjoyment may begin.

If you are up to for an added value Istrian vacation - contact us for more info. We’ll gladly find what suits your needs the best.

Check out our guest reviews or just book now.

Novigrad, Cittanova or Novigrad Istarski are different names for a town set on a small peninsula on the western coast of Istria, two kilometers north of the mouth of the river Mirna and some 25 km south of the border with Slovenia. Novigrad isn't crowded with hotels like other coastal towns, but still, it has an excellent vibe and is never overcrowded.

If a charming location for a relaxing time by the sea is exactly what you have in mind - plan no more.

We’ll dive into perks of spending a vacation in Novigrad Istria, but first, we want to point out that Novigrad is the best city to live in Croatia. If living is that easy there, just try to imagine how trouble-free vacationing at Novigrad could be.

Super Safe for vacationing - The best to live in

Novigrad was named the best place to live in Croatia for 2018. and 2019., that is, the winner in the category of overall quality of life, in the competition of small towns! Let's not forget to mention that back in 2015., Forbes, a reputable magazine, ranked Novigrad among TOP 20 Croatian cities to live and do business in.

This sure is a guarantee that while exploring Novigrad you'll find super friendly hosts that want you to enjoy Novigrad as much as them.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do

You've probably heard of this “when in Rome” phrase. It means that it is advisable to follow the conventions of the area in which you are residing or visiting.

In this particular case, Romans are Novigrad locals, and you should follow their diet regime. You should eat local.

Novigrad is home to some of the best seafood taverns in Istria.

You can find taverns tucked away in a hidden alley near the sea, that prepare tasty specialties exclusively with carefully selected local groceries (Istria and Kvarner), mostly from eco-farming!

Some local taverns combine tradition, original flavors and quality with creativity and thus create a new dimension of Istrian and coastal cuisine. At Novigrad restaurants and taverns you can find simple, traditional and delicious food with a creative twist.

Parenzana left a profound mark

Parenzana is a hiking and biking trail that connects. It’s a symbol of friendship and travelers. Its 13 km are in Italy, 32 in Slovenia and 78 km are in Croatia.

Opting to rent a bike or to bring your own to your Novigrad vacation will very much depend on the length of your trip and your overall travel plans. One way or another, riding a bike is an eco-friendly way of exploring Novigrad, and we support that way of exploring the beauties of Croatia, Istria, and Novigrad.

Kids will love Novigrad

One survey found almost half of favorite childhood memories are family vacations, and more than half (55%) of respondents said: “holidays have given them happy memories that will stay for the rest of their lives."

Novigrad beaches are within walking distance, and there are playgrounds for the little ones to enjoy. Whether your kids prefer sea playground or they are more of a water park type, Novigrad has them covered.

Get to know Novigrad maritime and other historical stories

Gallerion and Lapidarium are the names to remember.

Gallerion is a Maritime Museum with a permanent Austro-Hungarian Navy collection. Most interesting ship models you can see there have cruised the world and can tell some great stories. Gallerion also hosts temporary exhibitions, all in relation with a maritime theme.

Lapidarium can tell you how it all began. Its collection of stone monuments dates from the first to the eighteenth century. City’s crenelated walls dating back to the 13th-century witnessed a rich historical legacy, and a large part of it is now located in the Lapidarium museum.

If you are up to for a safe, great and delicious time - contact us for more info. We’ll gladly find what suits your needs the best.

Check out our guest reviews or just book now.

Do you want to bring your pet to Croatia? Here is some info you may need to kick start your dog-friendly vacation.

Pets have probably never been a bigger part of the family.

So you want to include yours on the family vacation in Croatia, right? Maybe you would like to rent-a-bike while in Novigrad or consider booking eco-friendly vacation.

Anyhow ....

Croatia has become a very pet-friendly destination. It often happens you see dog lounging at the beach, relaxing under a café table or enjoying the sea breeze. And most of those pets are tourists, not locals!

Before you go, read this blog to help keep both you and your pet safe and comfortable.

First of all - consult your veterinarian

Your pet's health should be your number one priority.

Pet should be healthy enough for travel and current on his or her vaccinations. Tell your veterinarian about your Croatia vacation so they can determine how to protect your pet from potential risks in this region. If you’re escaping the snowdrifts for beautiful Istria beaches, it’s easy to forget about flea, tick and heartworm preventives, so make sure you bring the right parasite protection.

Check your pet’s identification

No matter how careful you are, they can escape and get lost in unfamiliar locations. That’s why your pet should have an updated ID tag that includes the address of your destination and your smartphone number.

If your pet wanders out without his or her collar, a microchip is a backup solution.

Using microchip, veterinary clinics, shelters and animal control centers can scan your pet and find out how to reach you. Before departure, make sure your pet's microchip has your current contact information, including where you can be reached during vacation.

There are even GPS devices with apps that enable you to track your pet’s location from your smartphone.

Your pet should be at peace inside a carrier

Whether you’ll travel by plane, bus or car, it’s best to have your pet in a well-ventilated carrier. The carrier should be spacious enough to allow them to stand, turn around and lay down. They should always have their fresh water or a litter pan for cats, but you already know that, right.

If your pet isn’t used to being in a carrier, you could:

• introduce it to them at home
• pad the bottom with their favorite blanket
• place cookies or toys inside so they associate positive things with it

While at home, leave the door open so they can explore inside at their own will, then try closing the door for short periods, gradually extend the time the door is closed. Hopefully, you'll end up with a carrier-positive pet.

Traveling to Croatia with a pet

When traveling to Novigrad, Istria or Croatia with a pet you need to meet some conditions.

• Your dog must have a clearly and legibly marked tattoo with the corresponding serial number entered onto the passport
• The pet needs to be microchipped with a 15 digit ISO 11784 or 11785 standard pet microchip.
• The passport should detail the location of the microchip, and the date  the microchip took place
• All vaccination information. Inc. serial number, expiration date & the date of vaccination
• Your pet must be vaccinated for rabies at least 21 days prior to entry

While these are most simply put necessary conditions required to bring your beloved pet to Croatia, we suggest going through Croatia Department of agriculture official pages.

• If you come from other EU countries find all the info here
• If you come from other non-EU European countries find all the info here
• If you come from other countries find all the info here

Finally, find pet-friendly accommodation

Here at Villa Bionda we are super enthusiastic about accommodating your pets. Pet-friendly vacation is in our DNA.

Renting a bike in Novigrad vs. bringing your own

Big question, right?

To be honest, there isn’t one definitive answer. The decision should depend on a range of factors and personal preferences.

If you are planning to set off on a cycling holiday in Novigrad, it is better to take your own bike with you. If cycling won't be your main holiday activity, we suggest renting a bike once you come to this Istria small fishing town.

Another important thing you should take into consideration is:

• how much you love your bike
• whether it’s custom fit to you
• do you have a history of discomfort on poorly fitted bikes

We all know what a pain it can be to pack a beloved bike into a bag or box. Hours are spent carefully securing and lagging the entire frame, stuffing as many bags of clothes into the carrier in hope of further limiting any potential damage.

At that moment your luggage weighs 23kg or so. Carry it up and down stairs, into transport and finally to check-in at the airport, where it will spend the next few hours enjoying the loving care for which baggage handlers are renowned.

Alright, let’s not make it any more complicated. In this piece, we want to point out some of the most common advantages and disadvantages of both options.

Renting a bike in Novigrad gets you peace of mind

You won't have to worry about taking your bike apart, packing it up nicely in a bike bag or case, lugging it half-way across the world and building it back up again. And most of all, it feels great knowing you won't be running the risk of damaging your bike while in transit. Just remember baggage handlers.

Bringing your own bicycle to Novigrad is a more secure option

Bringing your trusty two-wheeler along with you means you'll be saddling up on the bike you know. The bike that is perfectly suited for your riding style and fits you like a glove.

Decide for a rental and you may find yourself on a bike you just aren't as fond of or doesn't fit you as well. You'll already know you’ll be riding on foreign trails (although, more than 500 km of Novigrad trails are an ideal way for discovering it's natural beauties), do you really want to be riding an unfamiliar bike?

Renting a bike is a chance of testing out a new ride

Renting a bike, without fail, means getting to test out some new wheels. We at Villa Bionda can offer you lightweight aluminum bikes and electric ones.

Whether you've been itching to try a 29er race machine, electric or cruiser bicycle, renting a bike gives you the perfect opportunity to try something new. And if you're already considering purchasing a new ride, what better way to judge compatibility than on a vacation in Istria?

Bringing your own two-wheeler to Novigrad could be cheaper

Depending on the duration of your trip and the bike you end up with airlines will generally set you back roughly 50 € - 100 € each way for sports equipment.

Accidents can happen whether you're riding your own bike or a rental - right? The only difference is you could be hit with a hefty price tag if your rental shows signs of damage, much more so than if you were to get your own bike repaired.

Renting a bicycle in Istria brings you freedom and flexibility

This one goes to the ones among you who don't plan on solely cycling vacation.

If you're planning on traveling before or after the biking portion of your holiday, renting a bike allows you to get up and go as you please without having to worry about carrying a bulky case around with you or finding safe storage space for your bike.

So... what to do now

Opting to rent a bike or to bring your own on your dream Istria vacation will very much depend on your home location, the length of your trip and your overall travel plans.

One way or another, riding a bike is an eco-friendly way of spending your Istria vacation, and we support that way of exploring the beauties of Croatia, Istria, and Novigrad.

Simple guide for best eco-friendly vacation in Croatia

Whether it’s your first time visiting Croatia or you are new to this eco-friendly way of traveling, you should benefit from reading this piece. This simple guide will help you have a great vacation while protecting the environment at the same time.

By now it seems like everyone have visited Croatia. Incredible beaches, turquoise sea, homegrown wine, rich cultural heritage, friendly people … These adjectives are commonly used to describe Croats and Croatia. So, why haven’t you visited “the pearl of Mediterranean” yet?

Croatia, or Hrvatska as locals would say it, is a stunning vision of sea, trees, and islands that are hard to capture in a photo.

Croatia sure is beautiful place, let’s keep it that way.

You want to find all about the best eco-friendly holiday in Croatia, right? Follow these 5 steps, enjoy, and come back again.

Find an appropriate destination

Where are you traveling from? You sure know that most forms of transport contribute to climate change. If you want to minimize your vacation emission, pick a destination closer to your home or one you can reach by transport other than plane.

If your trip to Croatia must include plane flights at least find eco-tourism options. Lots of hotels, resorts, and villas in Croatia understand the negative impact on the environment and act upon it.

Pick out the best way to get here

What we want to say is that you should choose the most environmentally friendly form of transport. If you can drive, take the bus or the train to Croatia, you should definitely do that.

If you must fly, try to avoid short flights and choose airlines with higher occupancy rates and more efficient aircraft.

Find the right place to stay

For your eco-friendly vacation choose environmentally friendly accommodation in Croatia.

Look for villas and apartments with effective waste treatment systems, that recycle, that are energy efficient, and, if possible, the ones that use ecological materials in all segments.

Be eco-responsible guest

While visiting Novigrad, Croatia or any other destination you should respect the local environment.

This means:

• staying on trails and public footpaths
• not removing plants
• not feeding wild animals
• never litter

When you return to your apartment, washed out from all the daily adventures - consider conserving water and taking shower rather than bath. Minimize your use of personal care products and detergents, reuse towels and bed bedclothes.

You should limit energy use. Efficient energy use, in this case, includes the use of air-conditioning and hot water. Please turn off all lights and taps when you leave the apartment.

Cotton swabs and buds, condoms, tampons, and plastics shouldn't be flushed down the toilet. Please dispose of sanitary waste properly.

Almost all beverage cans can be returned for refunds (0,5 HRK / piece) so consider returning them for recycling. Please reduce the number of bags, napkins and disposables you use when you eat and shop.

If you are reading this line, you are probably highly interested in an eco-friendly vacation in Istra, Croatia. This is something special for you - get your Villa Bionda membership card for free and save up to 20% when dining and shopping in the most famous Istrian restaurants, taverns, wineries, and souvenir shops. Be economical and ecological conscious!

Make your vacation in Croatia even more eco-friendly and avoid damaging recreational activities. Avoid sports that are harmful to the environment, rent a bike instead.

Coming home from holidays in Croatia

You want to remember vacation in Croatia for years to come but 500 years is way too much. Plastic bags can take up to 500 years to biodegrade so take a reusable bag with you when you go souvenir shopping.

Think twice and count to one hundred before you buy any products made from any endangered species, including animal hides and body parts, tortoise-shell, ivory, or coral - they could be illegal.

And finally… enjoy Croatia nature and the environment.

There is so much out there that stands out on this planet as amazing, astounding, and downright breathtaking. Let’s keep it that way.

Want to book your eco-friendly vacation in Novigrad, Croatia? Do it now!