Best things to do in Novo Mesto

Situated on an island in the middle of a river, this attraction remains the only of its kind in the world. Wooden bridges link the island with the opposite banks of the river. It is a stunning location for walks and photographs; the castle is now a hotel.

The Gothic cathedral remains the town's main historical landmark. Top features include a vaulted presbytery from the 15th century, crypt, frescoes, and belfry that once served as a defense tower. The altar painting of the patron saint may be by Tintoretto.

With a rich exhibit program, this regional museum remains a center of culture and art. Permanent displays include sections dedicated to archaeological, ethnological, and recent history presentations.

The Kandija Bridge or the Old Bridge is an iron bridge in Novo Mesto, Slovenia. It connects the old city core on the left side of the Krka River with Kandija, the historical suburb of Novo Mesto, on its right side. The bridge is situated at the lower part of the Main Square. It was built in 1898 to replace the old wooden bridge from 1600, located tens of metres up the stream. The opening took place on 23 November 1898. The riveted structure bridging the Krka with a single arch is a unique structure in Slovenia. Since 1992, it has been protected as a cultural monument. It was renovated in 1977, 1996, and 2009.

Dating back to the 15th century, this Franciscan monastery houses a notable collection of thousands of items, including old manuscripts and archival records. The monastery also houses paintings by Baroque artist Metzinger, created in the 18th century.

At Pivka Park of Military History, you'll see one of the largest and most diverse collections of military history in Europe. Established in the 2000s, the collections occupy abandoned army barracks and preserve military history of Slovenia, Pivka region, and European technical and political heritage.

Terme Čatež features Roman-Irish baths and saunas, a gym, as well as a variety of outdoor and indoor pools, including wave surfing, speed slide, pirate bay, and Amazonian forest. The spa welcomes day visitors, but you may also choose to stay in the hotel here, or in a tent or mobile home. Amenities include a restaurant with a terrace, a bar in the hotel lobby, and a casino. Visitors note that it needs updating and there is little entertainment. Note that a price of a ticket covers one pool a day and that you need to bring your own towels and robes.

Dating back to the 16th century, Brežice Castle now serves as a popular venue for cultural events, its great hall an ideal setting for weddings. Functioning also as a museum, this monument preserves the area's heritage, with exhibits explaining how the local people lived and worked through the ages. Check the website for further details, including opening dates and times and visiting tips.

Dating back to the 16th century, Olimje Monastery is now a Franciscan monastery. Damaged by a 1970s earthquake, the castle was renovated thanks to national and parish funds, and was turned over to Franciscans in 1990. Both tourists and pilgrims visit, and the Franciscans also run an herbal apothecary on site. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcome.

This water karst cave features underground lakes as well as sites with preserved bones of bears. This attraction is a fun and education site for anyone intested in the natural world. It is carefully presented to the public while also being protected and preserved for the future generations. There are guided tours in the area which will take you to this cave as well as other popular attractions.