population: 23.854 million

extension: 298.5 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Novo Mesto and interested in museums, you should visit the Dolenjska Museum, which is located in the center of town. It houses exhibits on local history, archaeology, and ethnography.

If you're interested in visiting more museums of a similar type, you could also check out the Krka Archaeological Park, located about 10 kilometers from Novo Mesto, which features exhibits on ancient cultures that inhabited the area around the Krka River. The Museum of Recent History Celje is another option, located about 40 kilometers away, which focuses on the history of Celje and the surrounding area.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Novo Mesto and the surrounding region of Dolenjska include:

1. Bela Krajina Pogača - a type of savory bread made with flour, salt, water, and lard, commonly served with various toppings such as cheese, bacon, or vegetables.

2. Štruklji - a type of rolled dumpling made with dough and filled with various ingredients such as cottage cheese, walnuts, or poppy seeds.

3. Jota - a hearty soup made with beans, sauerkraut, potatoes, and sometimes pork.

4. Prekmurska Gibanica - a layered cake made with poppy seeds, walnuts, apples, and cottage cheese, typical of the Prekmurje region.

5. Roast duck - a popular dish during the festive season, typically served with red cabbage and potato dumplings.

6. Ocvrte žolce (Fried Chicken Gizzards) - a popular snack or appetizer consisting of fried chicken gizzards seasoned with garlic and herbs.

7. Kraški Pršut (Karst Ham) - a dry-cured ham from the Karst region, often served as an appetizer or with local cheeses and wines.

8. Cviček - a light, dry red wine from the Dolenjska region, made from a blend of two or three grape varieties.

These dishes are all beloved by locals and offer a taste of the unique culinary traditions of the area.

Activities

There are several fun activities that local people enjoy in Novo Mesto. Here are some suggestions:

1. Take a walk along the scenic Krka River, which runs through the town and offers picturesque views.

2. Visit the local farmers' market, held every Saturday morning, to sample fresh produce and homemade goods from the region.

3. Explore the historic Old Town area, which features charming architecture and narrow streets lined with cafes, shops, and galleries.

4. Attend a performance at the Anton Podbevšek Theatre, a popular cultural institution in Novo Mesto.

5. Go hiking or cycling in the surrounding hills and forests, which offer beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation.

6. Visit the Otočec Castle, a stunning medieval castle located just outside of Novo Mesto, which is now a luxury hotel and spa.