Novo mesto, the centre of the Dolenjska region, lies in a pronounced meander of the river Krka. The old centre rises above the river on a rocky spur, and its central axis is the Main Square with the town hall and a row of townhouses. The upper parts of the façades conceal characteristic arcaded passages, which are among the most recognisable architectural features of the square.

On Kapitelj hill stands the cathedral of St Nicholas with its asymmetrical layout and an altar painting by the Venetian painter Tintoretto. From the viewing platform in the bell tower you can see the meander of the Krka, the town roofs, Trška gora and the Gorjanci. On the opposite edge of the centre, Breg huddles above the river, a row of formerly modest houses which together with the Kapitelj church creates the best-known view of Novo mesto.

The Dolenjska Museum presents the archaeological wealth of the area from prehistory to more recent periods. Novo mesto is particularly known for its Iron Age graves and figurally decorated bronze situlae, which is why the name city of situlae has taken hold. The museum complex is completed by the Jakac House with an art collection connected to the Novo mesto painter and graphic artist Božidar Jakac.

The Krka embraces the old centre and gives the town a series of green paths. The Župančič and Julija promenades, the Kandija bridge and the footbridges connect different views of Breg and Kapitelj hill. The municipal forest of Ragov log reaches almost to the centre, and the river is associated with boating, paddleboarding, fishing and other quieter activities on the water.

The winegrowing Trška gora rises north of the town and is dotted with vineyards, vineyard cottages and the church of the Nativity of Mary. Dolenjska viticulture is best known for cviček, and other wines mature in the surrounding cellars as well. Nearby are Otočec Castle, Šmarješke Toplice, the Gorjanci and Pleterje Charterhouse. Browse the accommodation in Novo mesto, choose restaurants or wine producers and discover activities along the Krka and in the Dolenjska hinterland.