Novigrad in The Witcher 3: Complete City Guide & Everything You Need to Know
Welcome to the crown jewel of the Northern Realms - Novigrad, the Free City! As someone who's spent countless hours exploring every nook and cranny of this medieval metropolis, I can tell you that this isn't just any city in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. It's a living, breathing masterpiece of game design that serves as the backdrop for some of the most memorable quests in the entire series. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning veteran, this guide will help you navigate the largest city in the Northern Kingdoms like a true professional witcher!
Location and Geography
Novigrad stands proudly on the west coast of the Continent, at the mouth of the Pontar River. This strategic location has helped it become the world's largest city north of the Yaruga River. Key geographical features include:
- Massive city walls that stretch for miles, protecting the metropolis from invaders
- A natural harbor that serves as the heart of maritime trade
- Seven distinct districts, each with its unique character and atmosphere
- Connected to the surrounding regions of Velen and Oxenfurt via several main roads
- Surrounded by fertile farmland that helps feed its massive population
Districts and Notable Locations
Glory Lane and Hierarch Square
- The commercial heart of Novigrad
- Home to the famous Hierarch Square marketplace
- Location of numerous shops, craftsmen, and merchants
- Site of the famous Passiflora brothel
- Notable landmarks include the Kingfisher Inn
Temple Isle
- Religious and administrative center
- Houses the Great Temple of the Eternal Fire
- Location of the city's bank
- Home to numerous religious officials and ceremonies
- Contains important story-related locations for main quests
The Bits
- Novigrad's poorest district
- Maze-like streets filled with beggars and thieves
- Location of several important side quests
- Home to some of the city's most colorful characters
- Contains hidden treasures and secret passages
Harborside
- Bustling port area with constant trading activity
- Multiple docks for various types of vessels
- Home to numerous warehouses and shipping companies
- Location of several important criminal organizations
- Features the famous fish market
Key Characters and Questgivers
Important NPCs
- Triss Merigold - Located in the Bits during her questline
- Dijkstra - Found in the Bathhouse
- Dudu - A doppler involved in several crucial quests
- Whoreson Junior - Criminal kingpin
- Cleaver - Dwarf crime boss
- Francis Bedlam - King of Beggars
Commerce and Economy
Shops and Services
- Blacksmiths and armorers for gear crafting and repair
- Numerous merchants selling crafting materials
- Herbalists and alchemists for potion ingredients
- Banking services at Vivaldi's Bank
- Various innkeepers and food vendors
Prices and Trading Tips
- Best prices for crafting materials in Glory Lane
- Cheaper services available in The Bits
- Multiple options for selling monster trophies
- Currency exchange services available at the bank
- Special merchants for relic-level items
Notable Quests and Activities
Main Quests
Side Quests
- Novigrad, Closed City
- Novigrad Dreaming
- The Gangs of Novigrad
- A Dangerous Game
- Cemetery Plot
Hidden Secrets and Easter Eggs
- Secret treasure stashes in the sewers
- Hidden contracts on notice boards
- References to other games and literature
- Unique dialogues with specific character combinations
- Special events triggered at specific times
Travel Tips and Gameplay Advice
- Fast travel posts locations and optimal routes
- Best times to visit certain merchants
- Avoiding guard attention and wanted levels
- Shortcuts through the city
- Important character interactions to remember
Conclusion
Novigrad stands as a testament to CD Projekt Red's incredible attention to detail and world-building prowess. Whether you're here for the main story, side quests, or simply to explore one of gaming's most detailed medieval cities, there's always something new to discover. Remember to take your time exploring each district, interact with the colorful cast of characters, and immerse yourself in the rich atmosphere of this unforgettable location. Don't forget to check the notice boards regularly and keep an eye out for the countless secrets hidden within the city walls!
For the latest updates on Novigrad and other Witcher 3 content, be sure to bookmark xgamerss.com and join our community discussions in the comments below. Share your own discoveries and experiences in this magnificent city!