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21 Useful Things to Know Before You Go Travelling in Montenegro

My top tips and hacks to save you money, time and stress. A must-read before you go travelling in Montenegro.

When I set off on my 6-month overland journey through the Balkans last spring, Montenegro was probably the country I knew the least about.

The only expectations I had were for stunning mountain landscapes and shimmering sunsets on the Bay of Kotor. I got both of those in spades. Everything else was a surprise – usually a pleasant surprise, but not always!

Montenegro shares some commonalities with its bordering countries so if you’ve travelled in Albania or Bosnia for instance, you already have a rough idea of what’s in store.

On the whole, Montenegro is incredibly convenient. The country is compact and straightforward to navigate, the Euro is the official currency (even though Montenegro isn’t yet a ratified EU member), and much like the rest of the region, people are exceedingly welcoming and friendly.

Still, I had many ‘Only in Montenegro’ moments during my road trip that inspired me to compile this list. Here are 21 practical Montenegro tips that I think every traveller should know before they go.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

What is travelling in Montenegro really like? 21 essential Montenegro tips

I hope these practical Montenegro travel tips will make your journey a little easier.

Lake Skadar in Montenegro.

1. It rains – a lot

Montenegro’s remarkable topography is one of the things that makes it such a great place to visit. The rugged mountain interior backs almost directly onto the sea, so in the space of 15 minutes you can travel from the Mediterranean-like coast into the high hills.

As fast as the landscape changes, so can the weather.

Keep in mind that it rains an awful lot throughout much of the year. Montenegro’s wet season typically runs from April through to September and brings torrential downpours. Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, is the wettest city in Europe by a big margin, clocking up an average 1600mm of rainfall over 157 rainy calendar days.

Winter in Montenegro is bitterly cold in the mountains while on the coast, conditions remain mild (the mercury rarely drops below 12 degrees Celcius in Kotor, even in January). Because of the way the city is positioned in relation to the mountains, Kotor receives no direct sunlight for a big chunk of the year, which does make it feel a bit chillier. (Speaking to a local, this was her biggest complaint about living in Kotor.)

Summers on the coast are similarly mild, with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees during the day in cities including Budva and dipping to a pleasant 17 degrees in the evenings. The sea is warm enough to swim in from July onwards.

While rain on the coast is rare during summer, thunderstorms are common in the mountains. Dark clouds start to unfold in the late afternoon and can catch you off guard if you’re not careful. I had a couple of close calls and many disappointing afternoons where I couldn’t see 3 feet in front of me because of the thick fog.

It’s difficult to peg down a ‘best time to visit Montenegro’ , especially if you plan on splitting your time between the beaches and the mountains. Generally speaking, late spring or fall are both ideal times to visit the coast, while clear and dry summer conditions are better suited to hiking.

Try to avoid the Bay of Kotor in peak summer (more details in the next section below).

Looking down on Kotor old town from the fortress.

2. Check the cruise boat schedules before you go

Pre-2020, Montenegro’s ports were some of the busiest in the region for cruise ship arrivals. More than 650,000 cruise passengers disembarked in Kotor in 2019, almost a 30% increase on the previous year.

Because Kotor’s port is so close to the UNESCO Old Town, when a large ship is docked, it alters the entire landscape . You can see the hulking boats from every angle – and while impressive in scale, in my opinion they don’t exactly enhance the landscape nor the atmosphere.

Cruise ships bring an influx of foot traffic into Kotor Old Town , making the narrow streets feel cramped and claustrophobic. Budva also has a deep-water port and experiences a similar phenomenon on ‘cruise ship days’.

If you want to avoid the crowds and queues, then it’s wise to plan your time in Kotor and Budva especially around the cruise ship schedule. Alternatively, you can organise your days so that you’re clear of the busy Old Town area in the morning when most passengers disembark for their day tours.

Smaller towns along the bay such as Perast (more on that in a moment) do not have large ports and are much more subdued, especially in the late afternoon.

→ Read next: The best things to do in Kotor .

A black car parked in the mountains of Montenegro.

3. You’ll see a whole lot more if you hire a car

Montenegro is the one country in the Balkans where I chose to hire a car instead of relying on public transport. And I’m so, so glad that I did. If you’re looking for a perfect road trip destination in the region , Montenegro is it.

Yes, drivers are a bit more lackadaisical with road rules than in Western Europe, but Montenegro is actually fairly tame compared with some other neighbouring countries (I’m looking at you, Albania!). In fact, I’d go a step further and say that self-driving is safer than using the bus . Bus drivers are notoriously bad with overtaking and speeding, something I really don’t have the stomach for. You’ll need to be hyper-vigilant of other drivers, but at least you’re in control when you’re the one behind the wheel.

The roads are in good shape and apart from having to deal with a helluva lot of tunnels, driving is straightforward with only a few curly road rules. (One thing to keep in mind is the headlamps rule – see this guide for details .)

Some of my favourite spots in Montenegro are the remote lookout points and ‘in-between’ places that lie on the road from A to B. And often it’s the road itself that ends up being the highlight – certainly the case with the infamous Kotor Serpentine , with its 16 hairpin bends and 16 stunning lookouts.

My favourite drive is the backroad from Rijeka Crnojevića to Virpazar , which took me right along the edge of Skadar Lake. No sane bus or taxi driver would ever take such a rambling route – you simply need your own car if you want to do it.

Because Montenegro is so compact, you can expect to see a good chunk of the country in as little as 7-10 days with your own car .

→ Read next: My 10-day Montenegro road trip itinerary .

→ Don’t miss: My top tips for driving in Montenegro .

→ Search for a rental car: I recommend Local Rent .

If you plan on crossing borders in your rental car, be sure to obtain a Green Card and any other required documentation.

4. Be warned: Finding a place to park can be very tricky

While driving in Montenegro was a breeze, finding a place to leave the car was often a nightmare – especially on the Bay of Kotor. I travelled in spring (outside of peak season) and even then, it was very challenging to find a car park. I can only imagine how bad it gets in summer.

Parking spots were particularly scarce in Kotor, Budva and Herceg Novi. Perast and Rise did not pose a problem. If you’re hiring a car, you absolutely must choose accommodation with secure on-site parking . It’s a good idea to phone or message ahead the day before just to double check they have a spot for you – when I arrived in Herceg Novi, I discovered my guesthouse only had limited places and they were all full.

If you’re planning to drive into any of the bigger cities for the day, know that you might end up spending a good chunk of your morning driving in circles. It’s actually much better to stay overnight at the busier ports where you know you’ll have a guaranteed place to park.

Beautiful old architecture in Kotor Old Town.

5. Montenegro is safe for tourists

‘Is Montenegro safe?’ It’s a question that gets asked a lot, probably because of the region’s recent political history and the fact that the ex-Yugoslav countries are still relatively ‘unknown’ to many travellers .

Before my visit, I read some pretty crazy stories pertaining to crime (including the one about David Beckham’s Porsche) that made me feel a bit on edge. I needn’t have worried, though: Montenegro is much like any other country in the Balkans in terms of personal safety – that is to say, it’s very safe.

The joke ‘Welcome to Montenegro. Your car may already be here.’ refers to organised crime that isn’t likely to impact tourists. And it’s probably outdated anyway. Pickpocketing does occur but is localised to touristic places such as Kotor and Budva.

As a female traveller, I felt completely at ease in Montenegro . Apply the same common sense safety principles you would in any other country – and exercise a bit more caution with your belongings when visiting popular spots – and you will be absolutely fine. Remember to lock your car doors, too.

6. There’s a bit of a language barrier

English is not as widely spoken in Montenegro as in some neighbouring countries. This is especially true when you move away from the coast into the interior. Older generations of Montenegrins are more likely to speak Russian or German as their second language, while many younger people are proficient in English .

The official language in Montenegro is Montenegrin, a variation of the Serbo-Croat language that’s spoken around the former Yugoslav region. Though each country proudly proclaims to have its own national tongue, the languages are very similar. If you plan on travelling around for a long period, it really pays to learn some basic phrases that you can pull out across borders.

Google Translate doesn’t recognise Montenegrin , so you’ll need to search under Croatian (Latin alphabet) or Serbian (Cyrillic alphabet) when using the app.

7. Montenegro is more expensive than some other countries in the region

Dealing with Euros might be handy for calculating exchange rates, but the downside is that prices in Montenegro do err on the expensive side – especially when compared to neighbouring Albania or Bosnia. Montenegro is still an extremely affordable destination by any measure, but do be prepared to pay a little bit more for big-ticket items such as accommodation.

Unsurprisingly, prices in Budva, Kotor and Tivat are higher than in the national parks and mountain areas. Prices rise in the summer months, too – another reason to avoid peak season.

I kept a detailed daily budget for my Balkans trip, including for my 13 days in Montenegro. For two people, we spent a total of 280 Euros on food and drinks, 80 Euros on groceries, 115 Euros on ground transportation, and 90 Euros on activities and tickets. That’s almost double the amount we spent over two weeks in Kosovo .

Watch out for ‘sneaky’ extra costs such as the tourist tax in Kotor (1 Euro per person per night) and the extra fees associated with stowing luggage on the bus (common throughout the Balkans).

A very old stone bridge and stone houses overhanging a river.

8. Apartment guesthouses are king

Montenegro has every type of accommodation under the sun, from budget hostels to luxe resorts. If you’re on a budget or you’re interested in a more ‘authentic’ accommodation experience than a chain hotel can offer, then I highly recommend you stay in family apartments or guesthouses.

Guesthouses can be found in every city, town and village. Usually the set up will have you sleeping in private quarters within a family home. Meals are typically included for an extra fee, and that all-important parking spot comes included. Above all else, staying at a guesthouse is an easy way to directly contribute to the small business economy and have a meaningful interaction with a local . Some of my best Montenegro tips came from the families I stayed with along the way.

My most memorable stay was in the town of Rijeka Crnojevića at a guest house called Apartments Konak Perjanik . The historic house is attached to an old arched stone bridge and steeped in local legend – owners Ljudmila and Ivan know everything about the area, including stories about the prince!

The other family apartments I stayed at and loved are:

  • Sveti Stefan: Apartments Lazar
  • Kotor: Apartments Nancy
  • Perast: Apartments Jovanovic
  • Herceg Novi: Hedera Residences – Kumbor
  • Ulcinj: Apartments Bogojevic

Note that wild camping is illegal in Montenegro but tolerated outside of national parks and beaches. It’s best to stick to designated, paid campsites.

9. The heart of Montenegro lies beyond the Bokar

In local language, Montenegro’s name literally means ‘Black Mountain’ – a big hint that the heart of the country is not its ultra-popular coastline, but rather its interior.

Montenegro has five national parks that cover 10% of the country’s territory (not huge when you consider the capital city also covers 10%). Durmitor is by far the most popular and offers both day hikes and multi-day treks through a pristine landscape of craggy Dolomite-like peaks and charming alpine villages. Biogradska Gora in the north-east is one of only three remaining virgin rainforests in Europe , while Lovcen near Budva is home to the dark and mysterious peak that gave Montenegro its name.

Prokletije in the east is part of the Accursed Mountains or Albanian Alps where some of the Balkans’ finest hiking routes, including the Valbona to Theth trek , are located. The final protected area, Skadar Lake National Park , is one of the most underrated places in the country and shouldn’t be missed (more on Skadar later).

It might surprise you to learn that Montenegro has the highest number of species per area unit of any country in Europe . Montenegro takes biodiversity to the next level and is truly a treasure trove of flora and fauna.

Another huge plus: The deeper into Montenegro you go, the more affordable it gets . Prices halve and hospitality doubles as soon as you venture beyond the bay – so don’t skip Montenegro’s green heart.

A beautiful scenic viewpoint over a lake a river in Montenengro.

10. There are scenic viewpoints everywhere

If you happen to see a marked viewpoint on your map, it’s almost always worth the detour. The sheer number of places where you can spontaneously pull over for a stellar photo is one of the major reasons why you need a car to visit Montenegro.

You’ll find that many of the country’s best viewpoints have circular concrete viewing platforms. My personal favourites are the ones at Lovcen National Park (for magic mountain vistas), Pavlova Strana (the famous spot where the Skadar river bends), and ‘Ostrog Monastery approach’ (for a far-away view of the monastery embedded in a cliff face). 

The best viewpoint of all is a round platform tucked behind the Church of Saint Sava , looking directly down on Sveti Stefan. It took me a long, steep, bumpy drive and a few wrong turns to find this spot – but it was so worth it!

→ Read next: The most beautiful places in Montenegro .

11. There’s a ‘secret’ way to visit St. John’s Fortress for free

Speaking of heading skywards for a view – it’s hard to top the panorama of Kotor that you get from St. John’s Fortress, a set of castle ruins and viewpoints directly above Kotor Old Town. From the top, you look directly down on the orange rooftops and out to the mountain-fringed bay beyond. It’s hard to describe how beautiful it is – my photos certainly don’t do it justice!

So coveted is this view, you have to pay a rather hefty entrance fee of 10 Euros for the privilege. That’s unless you take the ‘secret’ backway to the fortress that bypasses the ticket desk. Normally I’m not one to go for such sneaky tactics, but when my guesthouse host recommended it, I thought why not.

As well as saving you some coin, the alternative ‘Ladder of Kotor’ path is actually much more scenic and naturally a lot quieter. When I did it, the only other souls I encountered were grazing goats. The trail starts from behind the Hydroelectric Power Plant and culminates with a steep clamper and final squeeze through a hole to access the fortress. Note that it’s quite rocky and uneven so good shoes are a must.

Once you’re done taking photos, walk back down the regular path to reach the Old Town and use the money you saved to support a local business – or make a donation to Kotor Kitties , an NGO that cares for the city’s stray cats.

A white Venetian building on a harbour with boats and a stone tower in the background.

12. You must spend a night in Perast when Travelling in Montenegro

Perast is hands down my favourite place in Montenegro . An old Venetian port like Kotor, it’s sandwiched between a cove and a cliff. Every inch of the narrow town is occupied by beautiful Baroque palaces (there are 18 in total), public squares and churches with crumbling bell towers. Our Lady of the Rocks, one of two tiny islands just off the coast, is a must-see for the intriguing backstory and creative chapel.

The history, the culture, the legend – there’s something incredibly captivating about Perast . (I mean, they even have their own local sweet, Perast Cake!). Not to mention the seafront is beyond picturesque and everything Montenegro dreams are made of.

The best part? Perast’s harbour is too shallow for cruise ships to dock so once the day tour crowds have gone home, the town takes on a totally different ambiance. Perast at dusk, especially in shoulder season, is a special kind of magic.

My best advice is to spend a couple of nights at a guesthouse here and dedicate your evenings to strolling along the waterfront.

13. Montenegro has two capitals (and only one is worth visiting)

I’m the sort of traveller who can find beauty in the strangest of places. It’s very, very rare for me to tell my readers to avoid a place – but in the case of Montenegro’s capital city, I sadly have to make an exception.

I just couldn’t get on board with Podgorica – and I know I’m not the only person who feels this way. I’ve seen it named ‘ugliest capital in Europe’ more than once – I think that’s a bit harsh. Believe me when I tell you that I wanted to be the first travel blogger to fall in love with Podgorica and reveal its many hidden gems. I tried and tried, but I just couldn’t find anything that captured my imagination.

It’s almost as if Montenegro understands this too and so gave us a second capital as a backup. This is one of just two countries in Europe (16 in the world) with dual capital cities . While Podgorica is the official capital, Cetinje , the old capital, enjoys the status of Seat of the President of Montenegro.

The two couldn’t be more different. Cetinje was founded in the 15th century and served as the royal capital for centuries. The architecture – especially the foreign embassy buildings – is quite delightful and can be admired while walking down several cafe-lined pedestrian streets. The 18th-century Cetinje Monastery in the centre of the city has some beautiful frescoes, while National Restaurant Belveder just outside the city limits serves delicious food against a backdrop of mountains.

Podgorica is quite underwhelming – the only real ‘landmark’ for tourists to see is the clocktower. I would love for you to prove me wrong – if you think I missed the mark on Podgorica, let me know in the comments what I should have seen or done and maybe I’ll give it another try!

14. Don’t skip one of Europe’s prettiest (and most underrated) train rides

One thing Podgorica does have going for it is its railway station. Not the station itself – although the bakery inside does have one of the best Bureks in the Balkans – but rather the trains that run through it.

Belgrade to Bar is a legendary stretch of railroad that starts in the Serbian capital and culminates on Montenegro’s southern coast. The most scenic part of the journey happens to be the section between Podgorica and Bar, where the train passes over a long, narrow bridge that floats on top of marshy Lake Skadar .

If you don’t have time for the whole 12-hour journey, you can enjoy the 60-minute Podgorica to Bar stint . Tickets only cost a couple of dollars, and Bar itself is a wonderful place in its own right, especially Old Bar with its ancient olive groves and aqueduct .

15. Don’t miss a boat ride on the biggest lake in the Balkans

Skimming the surface of Lake Skadar on the train is one thing – taking a boat ride for an up-close look at the marshes and wildlife is another. Shared between Montenegro and Albania, this is the largest lake in the Balkans , one of the oldest lakes in Europe – and one of the most visually pleasing spots in the region. It’s one of the top places in Europe for bird watching – but even if you have no interest in birds or wetlands, it’s still a very enjoyable activity.

Virpazar is the easiest place to charter a boat for a 2-3 hour jaunt on the water. Find a captain who speaks your language and can narrate the journey. When I did this trip, our captain was a fountain of knowledge on local flora and fauna and brought the area to life with his vivid descriptions and tidbits of information. In spring nesting season, you can see herons, spoonbills, eagles and much more.

Boats also depart from Rijeka Crnojevića at the western end of the lake but are a touch more expensive because there’s less demand.

A person stands on a round viewing platform overlooking the ocean and a small island.

16. Sveti Stefan is worth it just for the views

Sveti Stefan is probably the most iconic place in Montenegro – you’ll often see the islet with its brick-coloured rooftops and narrow land bridge gracing the covers of travel magazines.

Before I arrived in Sveti Stefan, I had no idea that the island is off-limits to tourists . (Unless of course you’re staying at the Aman, the resort that bought out the entire island and blocked off access with a velvet rope.)

I have to be honest, I was more than a little disappointed when I realised I couldn’t explore the alleyways of Sveti Stefan. I guess it’s my own fault for not doing my research. But my despair was short lived when I realised that the island looks much better from afar anyway.

There are viewpoints all over the mainland where you can get different vantages. The best is the one I mentioned earlier at the Church of Saint Sava, high in the hills above town. I also really enjoyed walking through the coastal park north of the island at sunset.

Is Sveti Stefan still worth visiting even if you can’t set foot inside the main attraction? In my opinion it’s a definite ‘yes’. As well as the views, Sveti Stefan is a stone’s throw from the Bay of Kotor and other places on the southern coast (including Petrovac), making it a good base for exploring. There are some lovely guest houses and restaurants here, too.

People sit under umbrellas on a white sandy beach in Montenegro.

17. The best Montenegro beaches are in the south

Montenegro has no fewer than 115 beaches scattered along its 290-kilometre coastline, most ranging from grey rocks to pink pebbles. For white-sand beaches , you’ll need to head to the southernmost part of the coast around Ulcinj .

Ulcinj has a strong Albanian influence and feels quite different to other places in Montenegro. It’s a total contrast to the Bay of Kotor and much more popular among regional tourists than the cruise ship crowd.

Though not a patch on the beaches further south on the Albanian Riviera, the coast here is quite pleasant. The best thing about swimming in Ulcinj is that you’re always in the shadow of Ulcinj Fortress , a majestic castle set over the sea.

18. Montenegrin cuisine is for meat lovers

From Cevapi and Burek to mountains of fish and seafood on the coast, meat is always on the menu. Like any Slavic country, Montenegro food is heavy on protein and more limited when it comes to fresh fruit and veg.

Having said that, it would be unusual for a restaurant/cafe in a city or larger town to not offer at least a few vegetarian-friendly options. Some traditional dishes such as Kacamak , a mountain dish made from cornmeal, potatoes and Kajmak cream cheese, are vegetarian by design. Almost every restaurant has a big selection of meat-free soups and salads, too.

Italian food is hugely popular in Montenegro so at a pinch, you can always find a Neapolitan pizza or a three-cheese pasta to fill your belly. If you have dietary requirements, consider eating meals at your guest house where you can put in special requests ahead of time.

19. Montenegrin wine is surprisingly good

Montenegro’s Mediterranean climate lends itself to cultivating grapes. Though not nearly as well-known on the world stage as Croatia or even North Macedonia , Montenegro’s wine culture is one of the oldest in the region, predating wine-making in Italy and France.

Montenegro is synonymous with deep, aged red wines made from Vranac grapes. All of the country’s vineyards are located in the eastern zone between Podgorica and Lake Skadar and can be visited on a trip along the Wine Route from the capital. Popular vineyards include Winery Masanovic, Savina and Cermeniza.

Even if you don’t partake in a vineyard tour or wine degustation, you can still taste Montenegrin wine (and brandy) at restaurants around the country.

20. Almost everybody smokes – but not indoors

One of the things I definitely did not enjoy about Montenegro was the prolific smoking. Montenegro has the highest tobacco-consumption rate in Europe, with the average adult lighting up 4,124 cigarettes in a year (four times more than the US average). Yikes.

Thankfully, things appear to be moving in the right direction. In August 2019, Montenegro banned smoking in indoor public places , including in restaurants and cafes. If you’re sitting outside, you should still be prepared for a side of second-hand nicotine with your salad nicoise.

Smoking is commonplace among taxi and bus drivers, too. Don’t be afraid to speak up if the driver lights up.

21. Most Shops in Montenegro are closed on Sundays

A small tip but a biggie for unsuspecting tourists – almost every shop in Montenegro is closed on Sundays . That includes grocery stores, mobile phone shops, corner stores, malls and some (but not all) pharmacies. Most banks are closed all weekend long.

This has been the norm since the country’s Internal Trade Act came into effect in October 2019. It also prohibits retail trade on public holidays (there are 14 national holidays in Montenegro, check the dates here ).

If you happen to be in Montenegro on a weekend or holiday, plan accordingly and stock up on snacks the night before!

Plan your trip to Montenegro

If you’re considering a trip to the Balkans, I hope this underrated nation is on your radar!

Here are a few resources to help you plan the perfect itinerary.

  • 15 best places to visit in Montenegro
  • My suggested Montenegro road trip itinerary
  • 21 essential things to know before you visit Montenegro
  • Essential tips for driving in Montenegro
  • Best things to do in Kotor
  • My complete guide to Perast
  • Guide to the Podgorica Bar train
  • More Balkans road trip ideas

Montenegro essentials

Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your visit to Montenegro.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Montenegro on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent (prices start from 15€/day) or jump on the Discover Cars website to hire a car through an international company.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel and apartment deals on Booking.com , the most popular booking platform in Montenegro.

TOP-RATED MONTENEGRO DAY TRIP: Durmitor, Tara & Ostrog Monastery (from $60/person).

MORE TRAVEL TIPS: Check out this post – 21 things to know before you visit Montenegro .

Any more Montenegro travel tips you’d like to share? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

29 Comments

Hi Emily! Love your article! My fiance and I spontaneously bought flight tickets to Montenegro for our honeymoon trip during Easter weekend. Now we have to decide where to stay – what do you recommend? Our priorities are food, nice walking paths and coastline.

Hi Dominika, you could check out my Montenegro itinerary for ideas. My favourite place on the water was Perast, it is just lovely.

From your comments, I take it that you would choose to stay in Perast rather than Tivat if given the choice. We are in the process of putting together an Oct. 2024 journey there.

Hi Steve – one thousand percent, yes. Perast is one of the loveliest places in the region. Small of course, but overwhelmingly beautiful and charming.

Hi Emily, Any thoughts on a solo female traveling in Montenegro? You noted in general it was safe but it sounds like you weren’t traveling on your own. Is it common to see solo female travelers?

Hi Melissa, that’s right, I was travelling with my husband. I wouldn’t hesitate to go back alone, though!

In general I think the Balkans is perfectly suitable for solo females. My friend Kami often travels solo to the region – I can recommend checking out her blog (and specifically this post) for more insights and tips : https://www.mywanderlust.pl/solo-female-travel-in-the-balkans/

Thanks so much Emily for this wonderful, information filled post. You made my mouth water and my camera trigger finger ache. We leave in a week and plan to spend a month in “all” of Montenegro, from seaside towns to high in the mountains. Very good advice on the cruise ships, we thought we had thought of everything. Fortunately, our stay in Kotor gives us 2 days without a big cruise ship, a fateful planning without knowing about the cruise ships. Keep up the excellent writing. Will be reading more! Johnna…TwoTravelinChicas

Awesome Johna! I look forward to reading about your trip and hearing your tips, too. Enjoy!

Thanks Emily for your blog on Montenegro. Excellent stuff. I am a Brit living in Slovenia since 1998, I am doing a Balkan trip by car for 2 weeks at the beginning of August with the family. I found your article and info very good, to the point, pragmatic and useful. We are driving from Ljubljana, through BiH (Sarajevo), then Žabljak, Nikšič, Podgorica, Stari Bar and then into Albania via Lake Skadar. Back via Northern Macedonia and Serbia. Thanks again for the useful road tips and places to see. Cheers and lep pozdrav. Andy Hunt Vodopivec.

Wonderful Andy! Have an amazing trip!

Hi! Do you know a website where to check the cruise ship schedule to avoid them in Budva and Kotor?

Hi Mari – you can try the site CruiseDig.

Beautifully written and informative. Reading this as I’m drinking Rose looking over the Bay in Perast. Very accurate and informative. Greetings from a 60+ NZ couple who will be checking out your log for our next trip.

That’s amazing Maya! I am just a little bit jealous of you!! Enjoy the rest of your time in Montenegro!!

I will travel from Budapest (Hungary) to Montenegro at the beggining of September and plan to visit the North-eastern part of the country. I appreciate your help!

Hi Emily – I am using your guides for Montenegro and Albania to help with trip planning for this July-August. I will be in Albania first, ending in Shkoder. Do you know the best transportation from Shkoder to Montenegro and could you suggest a good starting point in Montenegro if coming from Shkoder? Thanks.

Hi Scott, thanks for your comment!

Ulcinj has a large Albanian population and in summer, many Albanians head to the beaches there for the holidays. We travelled from Ulcinj to Kosovo via Shkoder, as it was the most logical route with frequent bus connections. Ulcinj is quite interesting, too – definitely worth a look around!

Hi Emily! I love your travel guide. It’s very helpful for someone who is planning a trip. I am using your website to find info about the country, cities, weather, visa req. etc before I travel.

Dear Emily, thanks a lot for your thoroughgoing description and useful advises! We will travel from Budapest (Hungary) to Montenegro at the beggining of September and plan to visit the North-eastern part of the country. I appreciate your help! Best wishes! Andrea

Haven’t been there but planning to be there

My friend and I (two women) are planning a trip into Montenegro and are considering April 2022. We also love the idea of renting a car for our travels. Do you have any advise on what to expect in April? Having read about the rain, we are a bit concerned it is too early in the year for a driving trip. Will the tourist towns be too empty? Should we wait and try for June, instead? Thanks!

I drove from April 10-17 and was in the country for a couple more days either side of that. So reading my posts should give you an accurate impression of what it’s like in April. We did encounter closed restaurants in some of the smaller towns (e.g. Sveti Stefan) and some rainy weather – but in my opinion it was more than a worthy trade off because it was far less crowded than in summer. Not sure what next season will be like though!

Great article! Thanks! I’m planning to do my wedding there on the 3rd of October. I have no idea what are the best places with an ocean view to do it and I’m scared that the place I choose will be too cold. Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated.

Amazing, congratulations! I can’t make any promises about the weather, but Perast and Kotor were by far my favourites places on the water.

If you want to go further south, Petrovac beach is very pretty too (and much quieter) with its stunning castle and rock formations.

I hope this helps!

Thank you for all the information and tips for Montenegro. I am planning a trip there in July this year. Just wanted to know about the covid restrictions if you can help me with it.

Hi Charu, I’m not in Montenegro currently so I can’t speak to the situation on the ground. I suggest you have a look at the ministry website or travel advice issued by the US embassy.

Kindest, Emily

Well written and appreciate all the tips.

I have been to Montenegro 3 years ago, and I want to go back again to do some hikes. This country is one of a kind. So small and that means easy to explore it all in one week.

I’m the same, Ausra – I have to go back again to see more of the national parks! I was there in late spring so it was lovely on the coast but still a little chilly in the mountains.

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Montenegro Travel Guide

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

If you’re curious about Montenegro travel, you’ve come to the right place. I love teaching people about traveling in the Balkans, one of my favorite regions in the world, and especially telling people what it’s like to travel to Montenegro!

I loved Montenegro from the moment I first visited in 2012. How could this tiny country be so incredibly stunning? So many rugged mountains and clear teal lakes, so many fun adventure activities and picture-perfect old towns.

And from that first trip, I’ve kept coming back to Montenegro — for music festivals and mountain climbing, birthday celebrations and rafting trips, monastery-hopping and swimming in the Bay of Kotor.

This may be a small country — but it has so much to offer.

Here are things you need to know about Montenegro travel. (And don’t forget to check out my guide to the best things to do in Montenegro , too!)

Table of Contents

Morning at the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, orange roofs and a bright blue sky

Montenegro is one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

I have frequently called Montenegro the most beautiful country in the world — or the most beautiful country in Europe. That’s high praise — and I don’t give it out lightly. (And yes, I’ve been to Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, you name it.)

While Croatia’s Adriatic coastline might get all the hype, Montenegro’s coastline has quite a bit of beauty as well. The Bay of Kotor is nothing short of spellbinding, with lush green mountains crashing down into clear teal water.

But that’s just the bay (which also happens to be the southernmost fjord in Europe). There are also the mountains. Once you head further inland, Montenegro is filled with stunning gray mountains interspersed with little tufts of greenery.

In fact, Montenegro’s name (Crna Gora) means Black Mountain, and was named for the dense evergreen forests on Mount Lovcen.

Kayaks and wooden boats perched on the dock on a reflective lake surrounded by forest and mountains.

Where to go in Montenegro

Not super familiar with Montenegro? Check out my list of 30 best things to do in Montenegro . Here are some of the best places to visit in the country:

Bay of Kotor: This spectacularly gorgeous bay is the most touristed part of the country. Many, many day-trippers come over from Dubrovnik, and plenty more travelers just pop into Kotor and pop out a few days later. Cruise ship travelers base in Kotor as well.

Kotor is the most famous town to visit in the region and makes a good base for exploring both Kotor Bay and Montenegro as a whole. A tiny town close to Kotor is Perast , and gets a lot of day-trippers but also makes a good base for a few days. Herceg Novi is a big resort town close to the Croatian border; Tivat is home to the region’s international airport and gets a lot of moneyed yacht visitors.

A bit more inland but close to the bay, you have Lovćen National Park and the old royal capital of Cetinje , both worth a visit.

Budva Riviera: Budva is a major beach town in Montenegrin coast that has been drawing huge crowds of tourists for decades (and attracts lots of Russians in particular). This part of the country is home to high quality beaches . Some towns to visit beyond Budva itself include Sveti Stefan and Petrovac .

Northern Montenegro: This part of Montenegro is mountainous and rural, and is home to national parks including UNESCO World Heritage-listed Durmitor National Park , home to Black Lake and Tara River Canyon rafting, and, further east, beautiful and underrated Biogradska Gora National Park .

Central Montenegro: Central Montenegro is one of the lesser-visited parts of the country, but there are some cool places to visit here, like Ostrog Monastery , set into a rocky cliff.

Southern Montenegro: If Montenegro is shaped like a diamond, the bottom quadrant is home to quite a few various sites.

Here you have the scruffy yet popular beach towns of Bar and Ulcinj , which are a bit scruffier than the Budva Riviera and draw a more local Montenegrin and Albanian crowd. The current Montenegrin capital of Podgorica doesn’t have much to see, but nearby Stari Bar is a bit of a ghost town with ruins that were wrecked in the 1979 earthquake.

Skadar Lake National Park is home to the largest lake in the Balkans and is a very interesting place to spend an afternoon.

A tiny village of stone houses with orange roofs set against a forested hillside on the Bay of Kotor.

Is Montenegro the new Croatia? Not really.

Everyone loves to declare places the “new” something. Riga is the new Prague! Medellín is the new Chiang Mai! Mahahual is the new Playa del Carmen! And plenty of people have been calling Montenegro the new Croatia for years. (And, in turn, Albania the new Montenegro.)

Is that true? I don’t really think so. While Montenegro might have similar dramatic coastline, along with rocky but not sandy beaches, Montenegro is light years away from Croatia in terms of infrastructure for travelers.

What does that mean? There are no ride-sharing apps that work in the country, buses won’t honor internet-purchased tickets unless you print them out, the highways have a single lane in each direction and get backed up, and while there are some nice hotels here, most accommodation tends to be at a more basic level. Many tourism businesses don’t have much of an online presence, either, beyond a WhatsApp number to call.

I’m not saying this to insult Montenegro — far from that! I love it here. Just know before you come that travel here is a lot more basic — especially if you’re used to traveling in Western Europe.

People swimming in the bright blue Bay of Kotor next to a bar built on a cement block.

When’s the best time to visit Montenegro?

To me, Montenegro is a quintessential summer destination. Between swimming in the Adriatic Sea, hiking through the mountains, and hopping through the gorgeous towns, Montenegro is like drinking in sunshine. That’s why I wanted to return for my recent birthday in August.

Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate, though much of the weather depends on the elevation. The coastal regions tend to be much warmer and rainier than the inland mountain regions, which are cooler and get a good amount of snow in the winter months.

July and August are peak season in Montenegro; June through September is high season. However, I don’t recommend visiting during July or August if you don’t have to. I most recently visited in August and the traffic along the coastline was NUTS. Cruise ships were NONSTOP. The towns were PACKED. Taxis were charging INSANE prices (more on that below).

If you enjoy summer weather, I recommend visiting Montenegro from early to mid-June or mid-September to early October. It will still be summery and gorgeous — just a lot more peaceful of an experience!

What about shoulder season? Absolutely! If you don’t care about swimming in the sea or sunning yourself, spring and fall can be great times of year to travel in Montenegro. Shoulder season is especially good for hiking and outdoor adventure.

Winter will be very quiet, with many businesses on the coastline closed — but it’s a great time for skiing in the mountains. Skiing in Montenegro is absolutely a thing (look to the Dinaric Alps), and it will cost you a fraction of what you’d pay in the Swiss or Italian Alps.

A menu of an oyster and mussels restaurant held over the clear green waters of the Bay of Kotor.

Is Montenegro expensive or cheap? Yes.

For decades, guidebook authors have been encouraging Europe travelers on a budget to head east. You’ll get far more for your money in Budapest than Paris!

The reality of that today? KIND of true, but not always. (After all I live in Prague, once a famously cheap European getaway, but now I often spend less in Italy than I do in Prague. Italy!!)

The Western Balkans — consisting of the former Yugoslavia and Albania — often get you quite a bit for your money. North Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Albania are very budget-friendly destinations, while Slovenia has grown more expensive and much of Croatia has become significantly more expensive, especially Dubrovnik.

So how expensive is Montenegro? It depends on where you go.

Kotor and Perast? Very expensive. These popular hotspots on the Bay of Kotor get a lot of tourism, and thus prices are driven far up. Budva and its southern beaches are only a bit cheaper than Kotor and Perast, though there are some deals to be had.

Southern beach destinations in Montenegro like Ulcinj and Bar that draw local visitors are a bit shabbier and a good amount cheaper than the beaches further north.

But once you head deep into inland Montenegro — think Durmitor National Park and Biogradska Gorda — prices drop significantly and are more on par with Serbian prices. Even heading slightly inland from the coast can make a big difference in prices.

It’s the same as anywhere else in the world: cities, coastal destinations, and tourist hotspots tend to be most expensive. Rural, inland, less popular destinations tend to be cheaper.

Kate takes a selfie at sunrise in front of the Bay of Kotor

Is Montenegro safe?

Montenegro is as safe as most destinations in Europe — which means it may be safer than your hometown. Do what you would do in any other destination — keep your valuables on you in transit, don’t drink too much, stay aware of your surroundings, keep in touch with someone at home.

I’ve traveled in Montenegro as a solo female traveler and I felt very safe the whole time. I’d travel solo in Montenegro anytime. (Have you seen my top 10 travel safety tips for women ? Definitely check them out if you haven’t yet.)

Are there any Montenegro-specific safety precautions to take? A few.

Be cautious of petty theft. Pickpocketing can happen in busy towns like Kotor and Budva, especially in their dark, twisty old towns. Keep your belongings in a zip-up crossbody purse, don’t take more money and cards than you need for the day, and lock up the rest in your room in a portable safe.

Be careful on the roads. Roads in Montenegro tend to be narrow and winding, especially once you get deeper inland. Many of these switchback-filled roads that are safe, but you need to go much more slowly than usual. Be careful where you stop to take pictures, too. There are rarely guardrails at scenic overlooks. Allot extra time for your drive so you don’t have to speed.

Practice safety when hiking. Talk with a local before you head out on a hike, check the weather, make sure it’s currently safe and passable, and let your hotel know where you’re going and when you should be back. Be cautious of snowstorms in the mountains from fall through spring.

Don’t go drink for drink with Montenegrins, especially if rakija is involved. Like Serbians, Montenegrins LOVE to share rakija with visitors and will offer it often, especially if you’re a man (my husband even got offered rakija at BREAKFAST once!). You do not have anywhere close to their rakija tolerance — I recommend trying one shot, max, only if you’re not driving, or politely turning them down.

The Bay of Kotor from above, green mountains plunging into a deep blue fjord, two tiny islands in the water.

How to get to Montenegro

There are two international airports in Montenegro: Tivat, which is on the Bay of Kotor; and Podgorica, the capital. If you’re flying directly in, you’ll want to aim for one of those two airports. Neither airport is super well-connected, especially outside the summer months, but you can find your way via some larger cities.

Some people like to fly to Dubrovnik and head to Montenegro from there. I’ve done that before myself. The border is a bit of a pain, but it might fit into your trip better, especially if you’re adding on time in Croatia.

Alternatively, you can get to the city of Bar, Montenegro, two different ways: there is a Montenegro Lines ferry from Bari, Italy , as well as a train from Belgrade, Serbia.

Otherwise, you’ll be arriving overland by car or bus. For this reason, travelers often pair Montenegro with another country or two (I always have!). You can easily add Montenegro to a southern Croatia itinerary , or add Montenegro to a longer trip through Serbia, Bosnia, or Albania.

(Just let your rental car company know if you plan on crossing borders.)

Montenegro after sunset: a mountainous backdrop with a city in the distance.

Montenegro is not in the Schengen Zone.

Like many of the Balkan countries, Montenegro is not part of the Schengen Zone. The Schengen Area is a group of 27 nations in Europe that have open borders.

Long-term travelers and digital nomads in Europe can only be in the Schengen Zone 90 days within a 180-day period. As a result, lots of these people are looking for nice non-Schengen areas to spend their time until they can return to the Schengen Zone.

So yes! Montenegro is not Schengen, so it makes a nice place to visit if you need to leave the area for awhile.

People squished into a public bus, some hanging onto railings.

Can you do public transportation in Montenegro? Yes, but it’s a pain.

Montenegro travel can be done either with or without a car. I’ve done two Montenegro trips without a car and one with a car and honestly, having a car makes travel in Montenegro so much easier.

If you just want to do a quick Bay of Kotor trip, or maybe Kotor and a day trip to Durmitor, you can get away without a car. If you want to travel Montenegro comprehensively, you will absolutely need a car.

So what kind of public transport is there in Montenegro?

Bus: Buses are the main way to get around Montenegro, including points beyond the country’s borders. You can buy tickets at bus stations in cities that have them.

The Blue Line bus travels along the Bay of Kotor, from Herceg Novi to Kotor, stopping at most towns along the way, though know that buses can be late and packed to the gills.

Important note: you MUST have tickets printed out if you buy them in advance. Having them on your phone screen won’t work. I bought tickets through BusTicket4Me , a Montenegrin company, and they wouldn’t let me on because it wasn’t printed out!! If you don’t have a printer, you can have the bus station print them out for you, but it might be a long wraparound line, as it was the day I did it.

Train: Surprise, there’s a train in Montenegro — and it’s actually a gorgeous journey! There is a train that runs between Bar and Belgrade, Serbia, stopping at Podgorica and Bijelo Pole en route. This can be an all-day or overnight journey (13 hours by day, 9 hours overnight).

Ferry: If you want to skip the long drive around Boka Bay (on the Bay of Kotor), there is a short ferry between Kamenari and Lepetane. Ferries run constantly as they fill, take 10 minutes, and cost 4.50 EUR ($5 USD).

Internationally, there is a ferry that runs between Bar and Bari, Italy, on Montenegro Lines. The journey takes nine hours.

Tourist shuttles: Montenegro Hostel offers tourist shuttles (good-quality buses and vans that take you direct from hotspot to hotspot so you don’t have to change buses several times). I took their shuttle from Tirana to Budva once and it was a lovely, comfortable, air-conditioned experience. You can take them from destinations in Montenegro to Dubrovnik, Croatia; Mostar, Bosnia; and Tirana, Albania.

Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus: There is now a hop-on-hop-off bus in Montenegro running along the Bay of Kotor between Risan and Kotor. At 25 EUR ($27 USD) for 24 hours, I think it’s a deal if you are traveling solo and would be taking taxis otherwise. Honestly, I would LOVE it if it continued to Budva or even Sveti Stefan or Petrovac. Hope they expand it in the future.

Taxis: Frustratingly, Montenegro doesn’t have Uber or any ride-sharing or ride-hailing apps. Taxis can and will charge high fees, especially on the Bay of Kotor. In 2023 I was quoted 50 EUR ($53 USD) for a 30-minute one-way trip from Kotor to Budva!

Cars driving down a road in Montenegro, tall mountains rising up in the distance.

Driving in Montenegro has its challenges.

If you’re going to rent your own car in Montenegro, great! You’re going to get to see so much more this way.

However, you should plan for all of your drives to take much longer than you expect. Montenegro might be the size of Connecticut, but you shouldn’t expect to get from Herceg Novi to Ulcinj as quickly as you can get from Greenwich to New London. (Or maybe you can. I went to college in Connecticut and traffic there is pretty gnarly.)

There aren’t any wide highways in Montenegro. Major roads in the mountains may look like highways on Google Maps, but they are often very narrow and curvy with one lane of traffic in each direction. You often have to slow down to drive these roads safely, and once we even had to drive through a landslide!

That said, these roads tend to be in good condition and driving is smooth. Your main concern is switchbacks in mountainous areas, and there are tons of tunnels.

During the summer months, traffic is terrible along the coast. Once again, the only road along the coastline has a single lane in each direction. Know this ahead of time, and plan a flexible schedule in case you get stuck. (Otherwise, visit during another time of year. Even June and September can be better than July and August.)

As for Montenegrin drivers? They can occasionally get a bit aggressive, but it’s nothing on the level of what I saw in Albania or, shockingly, Slovenia.

Parking in Montenegro can be a huge pain during the summer months, especially along the coast (we literally had to sit and wait for someone to leave Perast in order to park there). Again, consider visiting outside of July or August, and consider just paying for parking to have less of a headache.

People waiting in line at a monastery carved into the wall of a cliff.

Do people speak English in Montenegro?

The local language in Montenegro is Montenegrin, one of the Serbo-Croatian languages. That said, isn’t much of a language barrier in Montenegro — in areas catering to foreign tourists, that is — so if you only speak English, you’ll be okay.

Like in many parts of Central Europe and the Balkans, everyone who works in tourism speaks English. In more rural, less touristy areas, you’ll find that younger people (under 40) tend to speak English while older people do not.

While Montenegrin uses two alphabets — the Latin alphabet and the Cyrillic alphabet — most signage in Montenegro uses the Latin alphabet. This is a big difference from Serbia, which leans more on Cyrillic.

You’ll find that menus in Montenegro tend to be in the local Montenegrin language, English, Russian (Russians especially love the Budva Riviera), German (Germans go everywhere), and Italian ( perché no? ).

Finally — speak any Slavic languages? You might be able to get by occasionally in Montenegro! My husband Charlie speaks Czech, and a few times he was able to speak Czech with Montenegrins and they got the gist of what the other person saying.

An ancient city of rocky walls set against a mountainous backdrop.

How does money work in Montenegro?

Montenegro is not part of the European Union, but they use the euro as currency. I keep the Currency app on the home page of my phone and use it constantly to double-check what prices are (not as much in Montenegro, as euros are pretty close to US dollars, but you bet I use it a ton in the Czech Republic where the rate is a hard-to-calculate 22:1!).

Here are some money tips for Montenegro:

Avoid Euronet ATMs. These ATMs are found throughout Europe and will RIP YOU OFF. Instead, use an ATM attached to a physical bank. (Added bonus: in the unlikely event your card gets eaten, it can be saved from a bank ATM.)

If it asks whether to charge you in euros or your home currency, ALWAYS choose euros or whatever the local currency is. This might appear on an ATM screen as “Will you accept the conversion?” Always say no — it will still work. Or when paying by card, it may ask you which currency to charge. Always the local currency.

I know, this doesn’t feel intuitive. But they end up charging you a lot more when they convert the rate.

You can use your credit card for most transactions in Montenegro. I use cards whenever possible — both for points and to keep better track of my spending in YNAB, my budgeting software (which I ADORE). However, it’s always a good idea to carry a small amount of euros for small purchases or when businesses don’t accept cards.

A landscape of lake, mountains, and wetlands with lots of water lilies.

Will your phone work in Montenegro?

Do not use your home phone plan abroad — they will likely charge you ABSURD fees. Additionally, if you have an EU SIM card, know that it will not work in Montenegro.

But should you just rely on wifi in Montenegro? I don’t recommend it. Having working internet on your phone is a safety issue.

Instead, get an eSIM. I used to always get a real SIM card in Montenegro, but eSIMs exist now and they’re fantastic, as you can buy them at home without going to a store.

Nowadays I buy my eSIMs from Airalo. You can see their Montenegro eSIMs here. At the time of publication, you can get 3 GB of data for $15.

Two dishes on a patterned tablecloth in Montenegro: a plate of various grilled meats, and a plate or grilled tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini.

What is Montenegrin food and what will you be eating?

Diving into Montenegrin cuisine? Get ready to eat a lot of meat. (Unless you don’t eat meat, that is — you can avoid it if you want to.) Montenegro, like many Balkan countries, is really big on the meat consumption, especially up in the mountains.

It’s common to get a mixed grill featuring pork, lamb, veal, and chicken, as well as a big platter of tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini. Another meat dish is ćevapi (cheh-VA-pee), rolled minced grilled meat, often served in a pita. My husband is obsessed with pljeskavica , a Balkan burger made from pork, beef, and lamb.

Two sauces to try with your meat are kajmak (KY-mack), which is like clotted cream, and ajvar (I-var), made from roasted red peppers.

Along the coastline, you’ll find plenty of local seafood, with fish stews featuring prominently on many menus. A lot of mussel and oyster farms in the Bay of Kotor have simple restaurants operating out of shacks. You’ll never find fresher seafood than this!

In more touristy destinations, you’ll find slightly more international food options — along with a lot of pizza and pasta. (The quality varies, to be honest. Don’t be surprised if they bring you ketchup for your pizza.)

If you’re looking for a cheap snack or breakfast option, I recommend heading to a local bakery and grabbing a burek — a flaky pastry common throughout the Balkans. It can be filled with spinach, cheese, roasted red peppers, or anything else!

A simple apartment in Montenegro with a queen-sized bed topped with towels, two small end tables, and almost nothing else in the room.

Apartments rule for accommodation in Montenegro.

In Montenegro, like most of the Balkans, apartment accommodation tends to be more popular than hotels. And no, it’s not an Airbnb thing — this is the way things have always been here.

In the pre-smartphone era, it was common for local women in Central and Eastern Europe to stand in train and bus stations with signs reading “apartment.” Even as recently as 2020 in Makarska, Croatia, I saw women on the side of the road holding up signs reading “Apartmenti”!

Sometimes these apartments are considered guesthouses, with several private, lockable rooms available for travelers. To book these places, you can find a lot of them on Booking.com these days . And yes, they are safe. I stay in guesthouses frequently and wouldn’t if they weren’t safe.

And keep in mind that when you stay in an apartment or guest house in Montenegro, you’re (usually) giving money to a local — not buying a hotel chain CEO a third yacht.

The tiny town of Perast, set on the bay of Kotor on a cloudy rainy day, lots of boats in the gray water.

Montenegro is home to four UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

If you love visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world, Montenegro has four of them: two that are entirely Montenegrin and two that are split between different countries.

First off is the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor, and includes the towns of Kotor, Perast, and Risan in addition to the various fortifications and palaces and how they were integrated into the mountainous landscape.

Durmitor National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, singled out for its biodiversity, glacial lakes, and the second-deepest canyon in the world.

The Stećci Medieval Tombstones Graveyards include a collection of sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, and Serbia. In Montenegro, there are two sites in Žabljak and one in Plužine.

The Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th centuries are found in Italy include a collection of sites in Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro. The fortifications of Kotor are the lone Montenegrin site.

And keep your eye on the tentative UNESCO list for the future — some Montenegrin sites that have been nominated include the Cetinje historic core, Biogradska Gora National Park, and Ulcinj old town, among others.

Orange roofs of Kotor against a gray-green mountain backdrop at dawn.

You can see a lot while using Kotor as a base.

Want to have an easier trip to Montenegro without worrying about a car? I recommend using Kotor as a base for your Montenegro trip and exploring from there.

Why Kotor? It has the most tourism infrastructure in the country. Buses head off in several directions from here (if going from Perast to Kotor, for example, you must change buses in Kotor). And many tours depart directly from here.

Spend a few days exploring what Kotor has to offer (and it has a LOT to offer). Hike up to St. John’s Fortress first thing in the morning, visit the Kotor Cats Museum, photograph everything in sight.

Spend one day on a Durmitor National Park day trip. This trip takes in Black Lake, Tara Canyon (no rafting) and Ostrog Monastery ; alternatively, you can do a Tara Canyon rafting day trip .

Spend one day on a Great Montenegro Tour , which includes the Kotor Serpentine, Ngejusi, Lovcen National Park, Njegoš Mausoleum, Cetinje, Lake Skadar, and a brief photo stop at Sveti Stefan.

One afternoon, take a boat trip to the Blue Cave, submarine tunnel, and Our Lady of the Rocks .

One day, take the hop-on-hop-off Montenegro bus to Risan, Perast, and Bajova Kula. (Or just take the Blue Line bus for cheaper, perhaps as far as Herceg Novi if you’d like.)

One day, take a bus to Budva and Sveti Stefan.

You can see QUITE a lot of Montenegro — and you’ll be able to lay your head in the same place every night. Not bad at all!

A tiny chapel with a blue dome and bell tower built on an island in the Adriatic.

Should you take a day trip to Montenegro from Croatia?

There are so many Montenegro day trips that leave from Dubrovnik. Most of these trips take in Kotor and Perast. If you don’t have much time and you really, really want to experience Montenegro, then yes, you can absolutely do this.

This day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro is a good one , including Our Lady of the Rocks (or, alternatively, time in Perast), Kotor, and Budva.

However, you should know that summer traffic between Dubrovnik and Kotor can be rough. I’ve seen it get worse and worse over the years.

Additionally, you’ll need to go through passport control on both sides. And ever since Croatia became part of the Schengen Area in 2023, they’ve been extra strict and thorough with people at crossings.

A day trip to Montenegro means you’ll be sitting in traffic for a LOT of the day, especially if you visit during the summer.

Consider staying overnight, at the very least, if you’re visiting Montenegro from Croatia. You’ll get to see so much more. But if this is your only chance, take the day trip. You’ll still love it.

The monastery of Cetinje with its tall bell tower.

How much time do you need in Montenegro?

How much time should you actually spend in Montenegro? More than a day trip, of course, but how much do you really need?

I recommend spending around one week in Montenegro. I’d recommend spending 3-4 days on the Bay of Kotor — staying in Kotor is easiest, though I loved staying in Perast as a repeat visitor — and your remaining days in one or two other places.

Durmitor National Park makes a great choice; you can also head down into Southern Montenegro with easy access to explore the surroundings, especially if you have a car. Somewhere like Bar, for example, gives you a lot of options.

Is it too far to fly to Montenegro for just one week of travel? You can absolutely extend your trip if you’d like — or add on a short stint in another country. Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia, or Albania would be my top recommendations to add on to a trip to Montenegro.

A giant cruise ship sailing through the Bay of Kotor, a tiny rowboat in the foreground.

Please don’t take a cruise ship to Montenegro.

Yes, this is something that you hear me say frequently, and it deserves to be repeated. Cruise ships are terrible for most destinations around the world — and that includes river cruises. Cruise ships dump hundreds or thousands of travelers on a destination. They crowd the streets and spend little to no money. Who are they helping, really?

And it is especially egregious to see monstrously large ships sailing through the delicate Bay of Kotor and dropping people in the small city of Kotor. It is TOO SMALL to handle numbers those large.

Recently, Dubrovnik reduced the number of cruises they host. That was a smart move, and should be applauded.

But Kotor picked up the slack. All those cruises are now going to Kotor instead of Dubrovnik.

Do you want to see Montenegro by boat? Can I suggest a Montenegro sailing trip instead, or maybe a Croatia and Montenegro sailing trip ? This way you can still travel by boat and have a much gentler impact on local communities. And these trips are insanely fun.

Kate standing in front of one of the tiny islands in the Adriatic in the Bay of Kotor, wearing a burgundy tank top and black and white polka dot shorts.

Travel to Montenegro and you’ll be back soon.

Montenegro travel is so worth it — and once you’ve had a taste of it, you’ll be hooked. Even years after my first Montenegro visit, I know I wanted to return to celebrate my birthday here. It’s that kind of place. It just makes everything feel special.

I hope you have the best time in Montenegro! Definitely come back and tell me all about it.

More on Montenegro:

  • 30 Fun and Interesting Things to Do in Montenegro
  • I was Haunted by a Ghost in Montenegro for 3 days
  • 17 Beautiful Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro
  • 30 Stunning Beaches in Montenegro
  • 15 Best Things to Do in Budva, Montenegro

More on the Balkans:

  • Solo Female Travel in the Balkans: Is it Safe?
  • What’s it like to travel in Albania?
  • What’s it like to travel in North Macedonia?
  • Ultimate 2-Week Croatia Itinerary

Do you travel to Montenegro? What are your tips? Share away!

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The Road Reel

Visiting Montenegro: 25 Essential Tips for Travelling in Montenegro

If you are planning on visiting Montenegro here are essential tips you should know before you go travelling in this Balkan country. 

I have visited Montenegro ( Crna Gora -Black Mountain) twice so far. The first time I traveled for one week only. The second time I did two weeks Montenegro road trip covering the majority of the regions and a thousand kilometers of the country’s panoramic roads.

Before the first trip to Montenegro, my knowledge of the country was limited. I only saw a couple of images of the beautiful Kotor Bay which was enough to convince me to go travelling in Montenegro. Little did I expect that, although one of the smallest of Balkan countries, Montenegro is saturated with so much beauty at every turn.

Blessed with stunning landscapes, cute medieval coastal towns, mighty mountains, lakes, and canyons, Montenegro will make both nature and culture lovers fall head over heels for it. 

Montenegro travel tips- visiting Montenegro, kotor bay

Yet, before enjoying the best of Montenegro , there is some travel planning that needs to be done. Having been to the country twice, I would like to help you get the best out of your trip. Keep on reading those 25 practical traveling in Montenegro tips that I believe you should know before you go.

Note:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. This helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

25 Useful Montenegro Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know about Travelling in Montenegro

Travel tips for visiting Montenegro

Here you will find essential tips about traveling in Montenegro: from driving in Montenegro, accommodation advice places to see and skip, the best time for visiting, and some cultural and everyday life aspects of Montenegro.

Montenegro Travel Essentials- Quick Links

  • My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Montenegro is self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates using Localrent search aggregator.
  • Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Montenegro from your location.
  • For a perfect stay: Use Booking to find your perfect accommodation in Montenegro.
  • Must have : for traveling in Montenegro is Travel Insurance . Get a quote at World Nomads or SafetyWing .
  • Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls with TIM. 500 GB for 15 EUR!

Montenegro travel tips: getting around Montenegro

1. driving is the best way to see montenegro.

Being compact in size, Montenegro is an ideal road trip destination. Moreover, road-tripping Montenegro is just as much about the epic views and surprise stops as it is about the destinations. You will find yourself stopping every kilometer for endless photo opportunities!

That being said, renting a car is probably the most important tip I could give for traveling in Montenegro.

Self-driving will allow you to explore Montenegro in depth. Some of the best places in Montenegro can only be reached by car. This is simply because there is no public transport connection for remote places.

For example, even a quite well-known panoramic spot of Pavlova Strana is only accessible by car. There are no public buses passing it. 

Finally, public transport only takes you to the main touristy locations but there are so many smaller coastal towns and mountain villages which can be explored at ease only if you have your own wheels.

Last time I went to Montenegro I used DiscoverCars to rent my ride. Later on, I also discovered that Localrent is the other great car search website with equally competitive rates (if not more). With Localrent you will be renting from local suppliers, sometimes they do not even require a deposit!

  • Distances in Montenegro are short but the roads are windy and narrow- always account for extra time

Most of the must-visit places in Montenegro are not far away from each other in terms of distances. However, you have to account for the lower speed limits due to narrow and windy roads. You might only have to drive for 15 KM, but it sometimes can take around 30min on a narrow mountain road.

My longest drive was from the Eastern part (Prokletje National Park) to Lake Skadar which took around 4.5 hours to finish 200 KM. This was due to narrow mountain roads, that consumed most of the time.

Nonetheless, everything is relatively very close. Usually, you will not have to cover that much of the distance. Therefore, you can expect around 1-2 Hours of driving per day, or even less, depending on where you are and how much you want to cover in one go.

piva canyon tunnels montenegro road trip itinerary, montenegro travel tips

  • If you aren’t an experienced driver yet, road-tripping Montenegro might be challenging

Regardless of the convenience to move around with your own wheels, driving in Montenegro can be nerve-wracking. Most of the roads are narrow and windy, especially in mountainous areas.

If you are a new driver, scared of heights and hairpin turns, it might be a bit of a challenge. If you’re not sure about your abilities, you can order a transfer ride .

Some of the roads stretch along the cliffs and are wide enough only for one vehicle.  Therefore, extra caution is required- you must always be alert to the traffic coming from the opposite side.

Nonetheless, there is not much traffic on those remote roads, so take it slowly and you will be just fine. 

2. Book your car well in advance if you traveling to Montenegro in the summer

Talking about road tripping Montenegro brings to the other very important tip. Book your wheels well in advance!

During the summer months of July and August which are the high season in Montenegro, car rental prices shoot up to the skies. In general, car hire in Montenegro is more expensive than in Croatia. However, if you book your ride early enough, you can still get a really good deal for Montenegro car rentals. Especially, when booking a car for a week or longer.

From my experience, booking a car at least one month in advance for the summer months will guarantee you the best prices.

For the most competitive rates, check Discovercars or Myrentacar websites. The great thing with these two car search engines is that often there is no deposit required when booking your vehicle! 

Compare car rental prices in Montenegro

Rent a Car in Montenegro

Look for the best rates for your rental car at Localrent

3. Parking is a challenge along the Adriatic coast and Bay of Kotor

The convenience of having your own wheels comes at a cost when there is time to find a parking spot. It is not an exaggeration to say that parking can be a nightmare in Montenegro. Narrow streets and scarce parking spots are the reality of Kotor Bay and Adriatic coast towns. 

The most popular locations such as Kotor Old town, Budva, Sveti Stefan, or Herceg Novi are an extreme challenge when it comes to finding an empty parking spot (either paid or free). Even parking at smaller coastal towns like Perast, or Risan can be tricky during the peak season.

Expect to have to park a bit further away from the central parts of the above-mentioned locations, and have to walk a little bit.

4. Be aware of traffic from Kotor to Tivat airport during the peak times

If you are flying in and out from Tivat airport, it is conveniently located just around 15 minutes away from Kotor Old town. However, during peak hours, which in summer can start as early as midday, the commute time can reach up to one hour! And there is no shortcut to get to or from Tivat to Kotor. Have this in mind when planning your airport transfers.

ulcinj old town aerial views montenegro road trip itinerary for two weeks, montenegro travel tips

RELATED READS: Make sure to also read 33 things to know about renting a car and driving in Montenegro – all the questions answered along with other useful tips. Click HERE to read this post.

Accommodation tips for staying in Montenegro

5. stay at guesthouses or homestays for the best local experience, or rent a studio/one-bed apartment in montenegro.

You can find any type of accommodation in Montenegro- from budget backpackers’ hostels to lux resorts- the choice is yours!

However, I would strongly recommend either going for a family-run guesthouse or renting out a studio or one-bedroom apartment .

Each of those options has great advantages to staying in a regular hotel.

If you are looking for a more local experience, homestays are ideal. There you will receive amazing treatment from the host. Also, they will be very helpful in case you have questions about the area you are visiting. Finally, this way you will contribute to the small business economy (as opposed to leaving your bucks at large monster hotel conglomerates).

Meanwhile, if you rent your own apartment, which is also very affordable in Montenegro, you will enjoy complete privacy and convenience as if you have your own home. Apartments are usually family-owned as well.

Often the hosts live next door and you get both- complete privacy and required assistance.

Moreover, in remote areas, such as Prokletije, Komovi mountains, or Lake Skadar, having a homemade breakfast, lunch, and dinner might be your only and the best option.

a man in Montenegro renting apartments for vacation on the street

6. Book your accommodation for popular locations well ahead if you are travelling in Montenegro in summer

I cannot stress enough that booking your stay in advance during the summer months in Montenegro is a must! The most popular summer destinations are Kotor Bay and Adriatic Coast (Budva, Sveti Stefan especially). The best accommodation is booked out fast, and there might literally be nothing available at all.

Please do not make the same mistake as I did when I was traveling to Kotor Bay. On my two weeks road trip, I was doing some of my bookings on the go. While it worked out for mountain villages, I was in trouble with my last night at Kotor Bay. The studio apartment I was renting was not available for all the days I needed, but I thought it will not be a big deal to book something the night before.

Guess what- there was literally nothing available except some crazy expensive hotels or dorms. I ended up staying in some horrible hostel room in Dobrota (a small town next to Kotor), which by the way, cost just as much as a good studio flat in the same area during the peak season. Lesson learned.

montenegro travel tips- homestau restaurant in lake skadar

7. Choose accommodation with parking when staying at the Adriatic coast and Kotor Bay

The earlier mentioned parking challenge leads to a very important tip: when choosing your accommodation in Montenegro, make sure it offers private parking.

Choose a place with a guaranteed parking spot, especially in places like Kotor Bay, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and other more popular coastal towns like Herceg Novi, Petrovac na Moru, Bar, and even Ulcinj.

Since streets are really narrow, and all the waterfront towns are squeezed into a small piece of land, it is expected that there will not be enough parking spots.

Therefore, if your selected accommodation says street parking is available- forget it! During the summer you will have a headache looking for a parking spot.

This does not apply to mountainous areas though- I have not encountered any problems in finding where to park when traveling around mountains.

Book Accommodation in Montenegro

Look for the best rates and perfect places to stay on Booking.com

How many days in Montenegro do you need?

8. you can see all highlights of montenegro in just one week.

As I have just mentioned above, Montenegro is one of the smallest countries not only in Europe but also in the World. Therefore, you don’t have to drive miles from one place to another to see it all. That makes visiting most of the best spots in Montenegro possible within just one week. 

From Kotor Bay, to Lovcen mountains, to Unesco protected Durmitor, National Park, to Piva and Tara canyons, and Lake Skadar, all the way through Adriatic coast with a stop to Sveti Stefan and even reaching Herceg Novi next to Croatian border-I cover it all on my first trip to Montenegro back in 2017.

However, if you want to tackle more off-the-beaten path places in Crna Gora, or take it slow, an ideal time to spend in Montenegro is about two weeks.

RELATED REEDS: Check my 2 WEEKS IN MONTENEGRO ROAD TRIP ITINERARY to help you plan a perfect trip to Montenegro. 

black lake in durmitor national park zabljak montenegro road trip itinerary for two weeks

What to see in Montenegro (and what to skip)?

9. skip budva and capital podgorica. .

Talking about destinations to skip in Montenegro, Budva and Podgorica are two of them if you have limited time at hand. 

While some may argue that Budva is amazing, those would be the people who love partying and don’t mind overcrowded beaches.

Although Budva may be enjoyable during the low season, I would advise staying away from it during the summer. It is the most touristic place in the whole of Montenegro. Ideal for parties and nightlife, it would be a nightmare for somebody like myself, who loves peace and quiet, and the sounds of nature as opposed to loud music blowing out at every corner of the town.

Since I had more time during my two-week trip, I decided to stop in Budva early in the morning to check out its old town and a cave on a popular Mogren beach.

Since I was travelling during the peak season in July, I made sure to arrive as early as 7 am. Guess what, Mogren beach was already getting packed at that early time, while the old town of Budva was nothing close to quiet either. 

Podgorica is another place that travelers tend to hate. Before joining the club, I did a little bit of research and decided not to bother with the boring-looking capital as Montenegro has so many more interesting places to see.

budva dancing girl at sunrise montenegro road trip for two weeks

10. Montenegro is not only Kotor Bay- visit the mountains, lakes, and canyons!

Although Kotor Bay is a spectacular absolute must-visit place, Montenegrin mountains and canyons will leave you speechless.

Montenegro means Black Mountain. As its name suggests, it is not hard to guess that the mountains are the heart of Montenegro.

When I first visited, little did I know about the beauty of the rural mountainous side of Montenegro. Endless rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, glacier lakes, and deepest Europe canyons took my breath away.

There are not enough words to describe the beauty of Sedlo Pass at Durmitor National Park. You must drive the P14 panoramic route to see it yourself.

Also, Piva canyon with its dozens of rock-carved tunnels and the turquoise color river is not to be missed. Followed by the deepest in Europe Tara river canyon which is also a must-see when visiting Durmitor national park.

For those of you who are travelling longer than a week- less explored remote Komovi and Prokletije mountains are places to go to.

Montenegro travel tips- durmitor national park at dusk

  • If you are into hiking- Montenegro is a perfect place to conquer the mountains

Continuing on mountain-related tips- Montenegro is a hikers’ haven. Here you can find every type of trail -easy strolls around picturesque Black Lake in Zabljak, mighty Bobotov Kuk summit in Durmitor , glorious Karanfili peaks in Prokletije, mysterious Lovcen mountain range, as well technical rock climbing opportunities.

Moreover, you can even hike in Kotor Bay (stairway to St Giovani fortress and Kotor ladder being two of the most popular city trails).

In short, your options are endless when it comes to hiking in Montenegro.

RELATED READS: Read my full guide to Bobotov Kuk hike in Montenegro .

bobotov kuk summit montenegro road trip itinerary for two weeks

11. Montenegro has 5 national parks – all of them are very different!

Montenegro is home to 5 national parks, each of which is unique in its own way: Durmitor, Lovcen, Lake Skadar, Biogradska Gora, and Prokletije National Park.

Unesco protected scenic Durmitor National Park is probably the most well-known. It is a great destination for hiking, water sports and skiing.

Lake Skadar National Park , home to hundreds of birds’ speeches, is a surprisingly underrated destination in Montenegro. Its extraordinary beauty has not yet been discovered by many, which makes Lake Skadar one of the best-kept secrets not to be missed when traveling to Montenegro.

Biogradska Gora is known for its virgin rainforests (one out of three remaining in Europe!). It offers a fantastic nature escape along with water activities and many hiking options.

Out of the beaten path on the east side of the country is a less-visited Prokletije National Park . It is part of the Accursed mountains or the Albanian Alps. Here you can find some of the most impressive Balkan hiking routes, even cross to Albanian side and merge into its legendary Valbona-Theth trail if you will.

Finally, Lovcen National Park , just 45 minutes away from Kotor Bay, is where Montenegro’s name originated from.

The landscapes of each of the above-mentioned national parks are completely different from each other. Therefore, if you decide to visit all of them, you will be enjoying unique sceneries and experiences.

  • Montenegro is a perfect ecotourism destination- stay in a traditional mountain hut- katun

Montenegro ecotourism is increasing rapidly offering more unconventional stays in so-called “katuns”. Katuns are mountain huts where shepherds and their families live during the summer months.

Recently those cute little bungalows became a popular form of accommodation for tourism purposes. Some of the katuns are very basic, with just beds, while some of them may include a bathroom.

The best locations to experience how locals live are Durmitor and Prokletije National parks and the Komovi mountains.

montenegro travel guide and travel tips for visiting montenegro- komovi mountains

12. Don’t miss a boat ride in Lake Skadar- the biggest lake in the Balkans

Talking about experiences, one of the must-do’s is a traditional boat ride in Lake Skadar.

Shared between Albania and Montenegro, Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. The larger and the prettier side of the lake belongs to Montenegro.

Although the lush green rolling hills dominated landscapes of the lake are gorgeous to admire from above, but gliding through the waters filled with meadows of lilies at a reach of your arm is a completely different experience. Even more, taking a dip in Lake Skadar’s clear waters on a hot day is a blissful experience.

Also, Lake Skadar is a dream come true for ornithologists. Here they can find a few hundreds of bird species to watch!

The easiest way to rent a boat is at Virpazar, which is the main town in the Lake Skadar area. You can either join a group tour or hire a private boat.

montenegro road trip itinerary for two weeks skadar lake

13. Visit Sveti Stefan for its views at a distance

Probably the most iconic place in Montenegro is Sveti Stefan islet. Postcard-perfect miniature island town turned to 5-star resort is only accessible if you are a guest. As much as it would be lovely to explore the alleyways in the little old town, distant views of Sveti Stefan are equally magnificent.

You can either see it from a high vantage point of Saint Sava Church, or/and walk the beautiful coastal park north of the island. Both options are great and enjoyable.

14. Go to Ulcinj for sandy beaches and off the beaten path experience. 

Out of almost 300 km of Adriatic coast, Ulcinj, the southern-most seaside town next to Albanian border, offers the best and the longest sandy beaches in the country.

Ulcinj is locally known for its longest 13 km sandy beach (Velika pliaza) with an honorary “blue flag” award. Thus, even during the busy summer months you can find a peaceful place to suntan and enjoy the sounds of the sea.

Montenegro travel tips- Sveti Stefan from above at dusk

The Best Time to Go to Montenegro

15. the best time to go to montenegro depends on your preferred activity.

It is hard to pinpoint the ideal month to visit Montenegro. If you are into sunbathing and coastal life- summer is the time to go to Montenegro. The same goes for hiking- to avoid extreme cold, or heavy rains, the best time to trek is during the summer.

However, if you don’t mind taking some risk of encountering heavy rains, you might get lucky during the shoulder season which brings the benefit of fewer tourists and milder temperatures at the Adriatic Coast and Kotor Bay. Also, for the more adventurous of you, white water rafting in Tara canyon is more fun when the waters are wilder after the rain.

For winter sports, like skiing, winter is an ideal time to head to the Montenegrin mountains. Zabljak and Kolasin towns are the basis skiing locations.

Montenegro travel tips-weather is unpredictable, especially in the mountains

  • Be aware of heavy rains and floods when travelling off-season in Montenegro

Rain is very common in Montenegro, and it can totally change your travel plans. Even during the summer, you can expect heavy rainfall. On my first visit, we nearly had to cancel our white water rafting tour since the skies just went wild. When it rains it pours in Montenegro. Roads can even be too dangerous to drive on.

Also, since Montenegro is all covered in mountains, weather can be rather unpredictable. It can start as a sunny day, and end up with thunder and storms, or vice versa.

The same goes for the winter months, due to snowfall, some mountain roads become inaccessible. Like the scenic Durmitor ring- I have seen pictures online of it being completely covered in snow.

  • Weather in the mountains is significantly cooler than at the Adriatic coast

It can be boiling hot by the beach, but as soon as you go higher to the mountains, it can get quite chilly, especially early morning and evening/night time. Pack some warm clothes if you are planning to visit Montenegro mountains.

How expensive is Montenegro? Cash or bank card?

Montenegro, although more expensive than its neighboring Albania, or Bosnia and Hercegovina, is still a very affordable travel destination. It is also still much cheaper than more popular Croatia.

16. The more inland in Montenegro you go the cheaper it gets. 

Talking about prices, as a rule of thumb, the coastal parts of Montenegro are significantly more expensive. Drive 30-45 min inland and you will find amazingly cheap and beautiful guesthouses and much lower food prices in restaurants.

Even such places as Lake Skadar which is just as beautiful in its own way as Kotor Bay, has accommodation and meals at a fraction of the cost you would pay at any of the coastal towns.

    17. Bank cards are accepted but cash is still the king

Although bank cards are accepted in bigger hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and petrol stations, you must always have the cash to pay for your stays at guesthouses and family-run cafes and restaurants.

More often than not I needed to use cash during my trip to Montenegro. Even for the remaining amount of my rental car (apart from the online reservation fee), I had to pay in cash.

FUN FACT: Montenegro, although not yet in European Euro, uses Euro as its currency.

18. Data is ridiculously cheap and plentiful on a tourist package . 

Can you guess how much data you will get for the 10 EUR 15 days data-only package? I bet you will say like emm…maybe 50Gb. Even more than that! 500 GB for only 10 EUR- good luck finishing it all!

Montenegro travel tips- petrovac na moru- chapel on an island in Montenegro

  19. Tourism in Montenegro is growing rapidly, and so are the prices-visit soon!

I have visited Montenegro twice in 4 years span- and I could see that accommodation and meal prices almost doubled during this relatively short time. This doesn’t come as a surprise, as word about Montenegro as a dream vacation destination is spreading around really fast.

Nonetheless, Montenegro is still a very affordable country to travel around. It is still much cheaper than its neighbor Croatia. But growing rapidly in popularity, it is just a matter of time before Montenegro matches the prices of more expensive European destinations. 

Therefore, visit Montenegro soon!

Safety in Montenegro

20. montenegro is safe to travel.

Montenegro is in general a very safe country for travelers. It heavily depends on tourism, and local people are friendly towards visitors.

Of course, general precautions must be applied just like in any other country. Don’t leave your valuables unattended and be mindful of your belongings in very busy places such as Budva, as pickpocketing occasionally does occur in very crowded touristic spots.

Nonetheless, on not a single occasion did I feel unsafe in Montenegro. As a female traveler, I was totally fine to go to different places on my own, even hikes.

Always lock your car!

Theft from cars and pickpocketing at touristy places are the only things I found reported as a medium risk for theft. 

Food, Restaurants and Groceries in Montenegro

21. vegetarians will struggle in montenegro- a meat-loving country.

Montenegrin, just as any other Balkan country’s, cuisine is heavily loaded with meat dishes. Therefore, if you are a vegetarian, your choices will be limited. Pescatarians, on another hand, will enjoy sea and lake fish.

I eat fish occasionally, but most of the time I am vegetarian. That is why I was having a hard time finding exciting dishes on the menu in Montenegro. I managed to find a few vegetarian eateries in Kotor, and enjoyed homemade fish dishes at lake Skadar, but I was having a hard time in the mountainous areas where meat is mostly the only thing on the menu.

  • However, there are options to book a dinner or breakfast with Eatwith . If you plan on visiting Budva, check out this vegetarian dinner option .

tara bridge and local cheese in kolasin montenegro road trip itinerary

22. Don’t be surprised when you get the cheque at a restaurant before you finish eating. 

When it comes to cheques, restaurant etiquette in Montenegro is a bit different from what we are used to in many countries around the world. You will get your bill along with the meals served. If you want to order more food, you will get either an updated bill or an extra one for each of your orders. In this case, do the math yourself.

23. Smoking indoors is forbidden in restaurants and bars in Montenegro

Luckily, Montenegro joined the rest of the European countries and applied healthier lifestyle regulations by banning smoking indoors at cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Before this regulation took place, Montenegro was one of the highest tobacco-consuming nations. Which meant, that non-smokers had to suffer in public places. Not anymore!

24. Do your groceries before the weekend

One hot Sunday midday I was rushing to the nearby supermarket to get some cold juice and a few snacks for my road trip. I found the small local grocery store closed. I thought it was only closed as it is very small and for sure I will get what I need at a bigger supermarket. Wrong! Every single supermarket- bigger and smaller was closed along the way.

Apparently, even shopping malls do not work on Sundays and public holidays (I know we get a bit spoiled here in the UAE to have everything readily available 24/7).

What is the language in Montenegro?

25. language can be a barrier in montenegro.

Montenegrin is an official Balkans state language that belongs to the Slavic group. Other widely used languages in Montenegro are Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian and Albanian.

If you speak Russian, chances are you may understand some words in Montenegrin.

English, however. Is not as commonly spoken language, especially in remote areas. Tourists’ hubs like Budva, Kotor and Tivat will certainly have a higher number of locals that can communicate in English.

PRO TIP: you can utilize Google translate if you need to communicate non-English speaking locals, or get a menu translation (usually there is an English version everywhere). But have in mind that Goole still doesn’t support Montenegrin, so search in Serbian or Croatian- it will usually do the job for basic convos.

I hope you found these Montenegro travel tips useful! Do you have more questions about traveling in Montenegro? Feel free to comment or drop me an email!

Essential Montenegro Travel Resources for Your Perfect Trip

  • Go on a tour: Look for the best guided tours in Montenegro at GetYourGuide or Viator.

To plan your trip to Montenegro with these useful travel guides:

  • Read these 33 Great Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Montenegro .
  • Get inspired and pick  The best places to visit in Montenegro .
  • Plan your  road trip in Montenegro with my suggested 2-week itinerary  (can be trimmed to one week if you have less time, suggested route included).
  • Check my post about Hiking the highest peak in Montenegro- Bobotov Kuk  if you love trekking and mountains.

MY TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

  • Photo and video camera: Mirrorless Nikon Z6
  • Main lens: Nikkor Z 24-70 mm f/4
  • Wide-angle lens: Nikkor Z 14-30 mm f/4
  • Drone: DJI Air 2s
  • Pocket-sized camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 2
  • Small Tripod: Gorilla Pod
  • Travel tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Tripod (Ball Head)
  • Photo and Video Editing software: Adobe Photoshop , Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Premier Pro

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Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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montenegro travel.me

The Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide: What to Do, Eat, Stay, and more!

Montenegro travel guide

With more than 300km of coastline, five national parks, and dozens of idyllic cities and towns, it’s no wonder why Montenegro is quickly becoming a popular destination .

In fact, thanks to its juxtaposition of  monte  and  mari  — the mountains and the sea — Montenegro is perfect for everyone!

Craving the sunny seaside ? You’ll find your perfect beach in Budva, Herceg-Novi, Ulcinj, or even Sveti Stefan.

Perhaps a trip to the mountains? Montenegro is famous for that too (it’s even in the name!) – just take a look at the Montenegrin National Parks mentioned here and I’m sure you’ll be packing your hiking shoes the moment you see the gorgeous emerald hills or snow-capped peaks. 

It doesn’t matter if you just started to plan your trip to Montenegro or already have a solid itinerary — this Montenegro travel guide is jam-packed with travel tips that will take your vacation to the next level . Let’s take a quick look at what’s included… 

Looking for the best places to visit in Montenegro ? There’s an entire section where I list out the top places to visit via region and interests (city, beaches, nightlife, etc).

Perhaps you’re wondering how to get here  (or get around)? No worries, I’ve also listed out transport , including via air, bus, train, and even car.

… Or maybe you have all of that ready and just want to know what to eat ? Grab your appetite and order a Crni Rižot  while you devour the  what to eat in Montenegro  section. 

There’s also the best time to travel, safety tips, money, activities and day trips, and so much more!

Ready to travel to Montenegro? Let’s go! 

TRAVEL TO MONTENEGRO: THE BASICS

Do you need a visa for montenegro montenegro is generous when it comes to visa-free travel. in fact, it allows almost 100 countries visa-free entry for up to 90 days here’s a quick cheat sheet:.

🇺🇸 USA : 90 days 🇨🇦 Canada : 90 days 🇦🇺 Australia : 90 days 🇪🇺 European Union : 90 days 

You can check out the Montenegro visa requirements page for more information and apply (if needed). 

Montenegro Tourist tax Did you know that travelers have to pay a tourist tax for each day that they stay in the country? 

The tourist tax in Montenegro is about 1 EUR per person per day, although it varies depending which city you’re staying in. Some cities charge .80 EUR, some charge a little more. 

If you’re staying in a hotel, there’s usually a separate charge for the tourist tax; if you’re staying in an Airbnb or private accommodation, typically the host will offer to register you (so that you have more time to be a tourist instead of waiting at the registry!) 

Electricity & Plugs Don’t forget your electronics! Montenegro uses the type F plug and has a standard voltage of 230 V. I have used these adapters in more than 30 countries and highly recommend them!

montenegro travel.me

BEST TIME TO GO TO MONTENEGRO

Usually, the best time to visit Montenegro is between April to the beginning of October , when temperatures are at their best.

However, don’t discount Montenegro as just a warm destination. During winter, the northern part of the country turns into a snowy wonderland and you can find top-notch ski resorts, cozy cabins, and fresh nature! 

There are different versions of when is the ‘best’ time to visit Montenegro depending on your interests and plans. Here’s a quick overview: 

Best time to visit the beaches: June to mid-September for the warmest water Best time to ski in the mountains: December to March (and sometimes up to April!) 

Peak tourist season in Montenegro: July and August 

Hottest months: July and August Coldest months: December through February 

Best months if you want to avoid crowds: May/June and September/October 

Seasons in Montenegro 

Although Montenegro has four seasons, its Mediterranean climate allows the country to enjoy favorable temperatures without extreme weather. Case in point: you’ll usually see hot summers and mild winters, especially along the coast. Snow is rare, except for the mountainous regions. 

However, snow lovers fear not — inland Montenegro can boast temperatures as low as -20 C (-4 F) during the winter, which makes it a perfect off-the-grid destination to ski and snowboard. 

Here’s a quick rundown of each season in Montenegro: 

Spring : March, April, May — May is optimal, as the water starts heating up towards end of May but there are virtually no crowds 

Summer : June, July, August — July and August are the hottest and most crowded months 

Fall : September, October, November — September is also fantastic, as the weather cools down and it’s a great month for hiking 

Winter : December, January, February — Cold temps, coast has rain and northern part is snowy

Is everything closed in Montenegro in winter? Nope! Although most people might think of Montenegro as a summer destination, it actually works all year ‘round. Winter in Kotor is fairly mild (the average daytime temperature is 10C / 50F) and the streets are free of the typical cruise ship crowds. Hotels, transportation, and tours work, albeit some busses might have as many departures.

No idea what to pack for Montenegro? No worries! Check out my Montenegro packing guide that’s applicable for all four seasons. 

How much time do I need in Montenegro?

If it’s your first time traveling to montenegro, i would recommend staying at least a week to really get a sense of the country and do a few day tours..

For example, you can fly into Tivat airport and use Kotor as your ‘home base’ while doing a couple of day tours, such as to Perast or the extremely popular All Montenegro Tou r.

If you’re flying to Montenegro during the fall or winter, you can split your week between the coast (i.e. Kotor or Herceg-Novi) and the northern part of the country, which has fantastic ski resorts and mountain cabins. 

If you have 2 weeks , you can add the southern coast (Bar and Ulcinj), Budva, and Cetinje to your itinerary. In fact, if you’re near Cetinje, you can enjoy Montenegro’s lush nature and spend a day or two at Lovcen National Park, which is sure to give you an unforgettable memory of the country!  

View-of-Kotor-Panoramic-rooftop

SAFETY IN MONTENEGRO

In a nutshell: Montenegro is extremely safe.

The only crime to look out for is petty tourist crime, such as money scams and pickpockets. 

Pickpocketing is generally clustered around touristy cities like Kotor and Budva , especially when there are crowds of people. To avoid getting robbed, I recommend wearing a cross-body purse with a zipper and holding your hand over the top (so as to detract pickpockets from opening the purse). Don’t keep your valuables or phone in your pockets, which are another ‘hot spot’ for thieves. 

Pay special attention in stores and kiosks, as there are amateur scammers who ‘accidentally’ give you back incorrect change or charge you the wrong price. 

We’ve had this happen twice. One time a kiosk seller charged us 14 EUR for two bottles of water and some chips (which honestly should have costed, at most, 5 EUR) because it was Sunday and all of the regular grocery stores were closed .

montenegro travel.me

Solo female travel in Montenegro — I’ve had a few friends who traveled Montenegro as a solo female traveler, and all of them had no issues whatsoever. 

LANGUAGE IN MONTENEGRO

The official language in Montenegro is *drumroll* Montenegrin ! 

Interestingly enough, after a language reform in the mid-2000s, the Montenegrin language can be written either in Latin or Cyrillic (i.e. the same alphabet in Bulgaria, Russia, Ukraine, etc). 

However, we noticed that Cyrillic was very rare and only used around 10% of the time we were in Montenegro — almost everything was in Latin.

montenegro travel.me

However, no worries if you don’t — since Montenegro is quickly becoming a popular destination, English is widely spoken in touristic areas like Kotor, Budva, and hotels across the country. 

SIM cards in Montenegro

Montenegro’s three biggest telecom companies are Telenor, Telekom (better known as T-Mobile in the USA), and MTel . If you’re wondering which Montenegro SIM card to buy, there’s really not much difference between the three of them — all have great coverage, cost about the same, and offer similar packages. 

To put it in perspective, you could probably stream Youtube videos 24 hours a day and still have a decent amount of GB left after your SIM card expires. I freely used my SIM card, never connected to the WiFi in our accommodations, and spent about 70 GB by the time my month in Montenegro was over.  

Montenegro budget breakdown

MONEY IN MONTENEGRO

If you saw my 17 Montenegro Travel Tips blog post , you might remember that Montenegro uses the Euro as its official currency . Interestingly enough, Montenegro is not in the European Union or the Schengen Zone (although it’s rumored that they might join in the next few years!).

Credit cards are widely accepted in most large cities such as Kotor, Budva, Podgorica, Herceg Novi, etc. However, if you plan to visit smaller towns or villages, it’s a good idea to keep paper bills on hand. 

Likewise, always double check how you plan to pay for accommodations, especially if you book through Booking.com — some guest houses and family-owned accommodations will only accept cash upon check-in. 

  How expensive is Montenegro? 

Compared to its bigger Balkan neighbors like Serbia and Croatia, I would say that Montenegro is less expensive. 

The great thing about Montenegro is that it is only as expensive as you let it be. 

If you want a budget-friendly trip , you can do Montenegro on as little as 15 to 20 EUR a day . If you want to go all out and enjoy a luxury vacation at a resort, dropping 200 EUR a day, then that’s definitely possible. And if you’re somewhere in the middle, then you can do Montenegro on a mid-sized budget. :) 

Here’s how much you can expect to spend per day (per person) depending on your travel style: 

💵 Budget travel —Staying in hostels, using the bus to travel, eating street food or buying groceries — 15 to 20 EUR / day 

💰 Mid-range travel — Staying at a nice apartment or hotel, eating at restaurants and cafes, using the bus and/or renting a car — 30 to 60 EUR / day 

💸 Luxury travel — Staying in high-end hotels or resorts (i.e. all inclusive), eating in fancy restaurants, renting a car or using a transfer service — 100+ EUR / day 

Of course, these are just estimates. If you’re traveling as a couple (or as friends), for example, you’d obviously save some money by splitting the cost of a hotel room, car rental, and more. 

It’s also important to note that cities along the coast (i.e. Kotor, Budva, Ulcinj) will be more expensive because they cater to tourists. The further inland you go, the more money you will ultimately save.

WANT TO LEARN HOW MUCH IT REALLY COSTS TO TRAVEL TO MONTENEGRO? Check out my in-depth post here , where I break down the prices in Montenegro, including everything from accommodations, food and drinks, transportation, activities/sightseeing, and more.   

TRANSPORTATION IN MONTENEGRO

Getting into Montenegro is very easy, no matter where you’re coming from. 

If you’re already in the Balkans, you can take the bus from Dubrovnik (Croatia), Shkodër (Albania), or Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina). Those in Serbia can take the famous Belgrade to Bar train route, which passes through Podgorica (Montenegro’s capital) and finishes at a seaside town called Bar. 

If you’re traveling from Europe, the easiest way to reach Montenegro would be to take a flight to either Podgorica (the capital) or to Tivat (seasonal routes). 

Here’s a quick rundown of each method:  

montenegro travel.me

MONTENEGRO BY AIR

Montenegro has a total of two airports in the country: one in the capital, Podgorica (TGD), and one near the coast, Tivat (TIV). Both airports serve international traffic, although Tivat gets considerably more passengers because it’s closer to tourist cities like Tivat, Kotor, and Budva.

If you’re flying from Europe, you can easily find flights on most major carriers such as LOT, Norwegian, Ryanair, SAS, and so on. Montenegro has its own national carrier called (you guessed it) Montenegro Airlines that services major hubs in Europe. 

Alternatively, you can also fly into Croatia’s Dubrovnik airport (DBV) and drive or take a bus to Montenegro’s coast — the drive is around 70km and 1.5 hours by car or 2.5 hours by bus.  

Check flights to Montenegro here 

montenegro travel.me

MONTENEGRO BY BUS

Despite its rugged geography and small size, Montenegro has an excellent bus system ! 

In fact, it’s usually the preferred way for locals and tourists to travel across the country because of convenient connections and bus stations in literally every city, town, and even village.  

The majority of bus stations have a small cafe, lobby, and ticket desk, and are usually not too far from the center. If you’re buying a bus ticket online, don’t forget to print it out at the bus station. This usually costs between € 0.50 to €1 (depending on the station) as part of the ‘bus station fee.’

Likewise, you may be charged €1 by the bus driver for any luggage that’s bigger than a regular-sized backpack (this depends on the driver).

Although they’re not the newest models, Montenegrin busses are very comfortable and generally in excellent condition. 

To check bus times and routes, try either BusBud (international routes) or BusTicket4.Me (domestic routes). 

Fun fact: The first intercity bus line in Europe was introduced between the Montenegrin cities of Podgorica and Cetinje, during the time of King Nikola. Ironically, Cetinje was the first capital of Montenegro (the ‘Old Royal Capital’) before it was moved to Podgorica after World War II. 

MONTENEGRO BY TRAIN

Montenegro has a small railway network that connects its most important cities with the capital. 

Most travelers taking the train will either begin or end their journey on the Belgrade to Bar railway. This route starts in Montenegro’s seaside town Bar, connects through the capital, Podgorica, and continues to Serbia’s capital, Belgrade. It’s known as one of the most scenic railways in Europe, as you’re bound to see beautiful lakes, mountains, and canyons outside of your window. 

Best of all, you can take the entire 10-hour journey , from Bar to Belgrade, for only 20 or 30 EUR ! (Depending if you choose first or second class) 

Unlike busses, you need to buy train tickets at the train station. However, you can check timetables and routes on the official railway site .

car in montenegro

MONTENEGRO BY CAR

Although the busses can take you virtually anywhere in the country, sometimes it’s nice to rent a car to visit truly “off the beaten path places” where public transportation can’t go. 

Renting a car in Montenegro is one of the most popular ways to get around the country, especially to smaller villages and natural attractions (national parks, canyons, rivers, etc). 

Typically a car rental starts around €15 to €20 per day , but you can get a great deal if you rent for a longer period of time (i.e. many agencies give weekly discounts). One thing to note is that cars with automatic transmission usually cost a bit extra.

I recommend RentalCars.com if you plan to rent a car , since they have the largest selection and offer great deals. This is the company I normally use whenever I need to rent a car. :) 

TRAVEL TIP: Although Google Maps and Maps.me both work in Montenegro, Google Maps displayed the wrong address for our apartment rentals a few times. I would recommend using Maps.me over Google, especially in smaller towns (like Perast) and villages. 

MONTENEGRO BY TAXI

There are plenty of taxis in Montenegro to get you wherever you need to go, whether that’s from the bus station to the center of town, or all the way off the beaten path. 

A typical trip will cost you a few Euro, but be sure to check prices in advance so as to not be ripped off. 

montenegro travel.me

MONTENEGRO BY TOURS

Last but certainly not least, you can cover a great deal of Montenegro by taking day tours !

There are hundreds of different tours available for literally every type of traveler, from nature hikes to adventure activities (SUP, kayaking, rafting), guided tours around historical monuments, and even food and wine tours. 

I typically like to use Get Your Guide when traveling — here are some of their most popular tours in Montenegro: 

ACCOMMODATIONS IN MONTENEGRO

Sirena-Apartments-Kotor-Montenegro

Although Montenegro is still fairly off the beaten tourist trail, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a great apartment or hotel! In fact, there are plenty of accommodations across the country for every budget. 

The most popular hotel booking sites in Montenegro are Booking.com and Hotels.com , which offer fantastic options for every traveler, from hostels to hotels, apartments to penthouses, and everything in between. 

We booked the majority of our accommodations through Booking, including a luxury apartment with jaw-dropping views of Kotor Bay , a cute little studio overlooking Perast, and a family-run guest house in Herceg-Novi.

If you want to check out what cool places are waiting for you, just add your city and expected travel dates here: 

GUEST HOUSES 

Guest houses are very popular all around the country and are a common way for local families to make a little extra money while hosting travelers. They’re very easy to find, as they’ll usually be called “Guesthouse [NAME]” or Apartments with the family’s surname (such as Apartments Đukić in Kotor). 

Staying at a guesthouse is great for a number of reasons: you’re supporting the local economy , the majority of guesthouses are in pristine condition, and oftentimes it’s cheaper than a hotel room! Best of all, most guest houses have separate entrances and rooms, so you can choose to be as social as you prefer. 

On a similar note, apartments in Montenegro are a great choice if you’re traveling with a larger group — or just prefer to have the same conveniences of home (kitchen, washing machine, etc). 

In a similar note to guest houses, you can also opt for a family stay in a sobe . These are basic, cozy rooms in somebody’s house and are similar to the feeling you’d get in a guesthouse or bed and breakfast. 

Sobe are usually booked in-person: in the high season, there are usually people waiting near bus stations holding up ‘sobe’ signs . You can also spot signs near people’s houses indicating they have a free room to rent. 

ALL-INCLUSIVE  

Last but certainly not least, all-inclusive resorts are quickly popping up in Montenegro! These are usually found along the Montenegrin Riviera in places like Budva, Sveti Stefan, Petrovac, and Čanj. The most popular all-inclusive chain is Iberostar , which can be found in the latter cities and have rave reviews. 

WHERE TO GO IN MONTENEGRO

From the sea to the mountains and everything in between — here’s a quick overview of each region in Montenegro.

THE ADRIATIC COAST 

The Montenegrin coast features some of the most beautiful seaside towns and cities on this side of Europe. Dive in by starting in Kotor and making your way westward. 

Kotor Old Town Montenegro

KOTOR — The most well-known city in Montenegro , it’s no wonder why Kotor is so popular. A city where cobblestone streets meet historic stone buildings to breathtaking views from the Kotor fortress, inviting streetside cafes, and surprises at every turn, Kotor has everything you need for a picture-perfect vacation. 

Kotor makes an excellent home base if you want to explore the rest of Montenegro with ease — you have Perast and Herceg Novi to the west; Budva, Ulcinj, and the entire southern coast to the south; Podgorica and Skadar Lake to the east; and Niksic and Zabljak to the north. 

And speaking of day trips, you’ll also have the best variety because the majority of tour companies depart from Kotor.  Check out my travel guide to Kotor here.  

Perast Montenegro where to go

PERAST — What if I told you about a gorgeous seaside town — with idyllic boats bobbing near the shore, the sun shining on majestic Baroque palaces, and a place still very much under the radar —  just a 15-minute drive from Kotor ? 

Surprised? Then you definitely need to check out Perast! Small and sweet, perfect as a  romantic weekend getaway or a quick day trip from Kotor, Perast is the ultimate charming small town in Montenegro. In fact, the photo above was the main reason why we chose Montenegro as our destination! Check out my travel guide to Perast here .

TIVAT — Tivat is often the first point of contact with Montenegro’s coast, especially for those flying into Tivat airport. 

Although it’s usually skipped in favor of more popular destinations like Kotor or Budva, Tivat is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while still being based near the coast. 

Sea Fortress Herceg Novi

HERCEG NOVI —   Montenegro’s westernmost city, Herceg Novi is primarily known for two things: castles (its name literally means ‘New Castle’) and sunshine (it gets 200 days of sunshine every year). Herceg Novi is a great introduction if you’re entering Montenegro from Croatia, or as a weekend getaway from Kotor. Check out my travel guide to Herceg Novi here .

SVETI STEFAN — If you’ve ever seen a photo of an island with quaint stone houses, huddled together with their red-tiled roofs, then you’re already acquainted with one of Montenegro’s most famous attractions !  

Sveti Stefan is a luxury resort and hotel that features serenity, privacy, and one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. You can book a room here , or visit on a day trip from Budva to get a postcard-perfect photo from above. 

Ulcinj Montenegro Beach

ULCINJ — The southernmost city on Montenegro’s coast , Ulcinj has a distinctly middle eastern atmosphere thanks to its proximity to Albania. Here you’ll find plenty of beautiful beaches, olive groves, and charming villages.

It’s also a great gateway to Lake Skadar, or if you want to continue your Balkan trip, to Albania as well. Check out my travel guide to Ulcinj here.

MONTENEGRO BEACHES

Beaches in Montenegro

⛱   Dobrec Beach — Accessible only by boat, the U-shaped Dobrec Beach offers peace and tranquility from crowded cities. There’s an on-site restaurant serving fresh seafood and hammocks for rent. 

⛱   Jaz Beach — Just 6 km west of Budva is this lovely beach, which has 1.2 km of coastline and plenty of activities. It’s great for families or day trippers because there are cafes and restaurants nearby, plenty of parking, and kiosks where you can rent a paddleboat, kayak, or even a jet ski. 

⛱   Mala Plaža – Located right in the center of Ulcinj, ‘Little Beach’ is such a cute and picturesque place to chill out and enjoy Ulcinj! My absolute favorite beach in Montenegro, Mala Plaža has these sweet thatched umbrellas (a la Maldives or Bora Bora style) and calm waters.

⛱   Lucice Beach — Some 800 meters from the village of Petrovac, Lucice offers turquoise waters surrounded by pine forests and warm sand. 

Did you know almost 80% of Montenegro is covered in mountains? With 5 national parks, turquoise-blue lakes, lush valleys, and mysterious caves, it’s no wonder why Montenegro constantly tops the list of the best countries for nature. 

Durmitor-national-park-Montenegro

ŽABLJAK — Žabljak is unofficially called the ‘ gateway to Durmitor ’ and, thanks to its location along the mountain range, is the highest town in the country! Naturally, you can find great views, plenty of things to do, and charming nooks and crannies here. 

During the summer you can hike around the nearby mountain ranges, while in the winter the entire region turns into one big ski resort! 

DURMITOR NATIONAL PARK  —  Remember how I mentioned the highest point in Montenegro ? You can find it at Bobotov Kuk, the tallest peak in the Durmitor mountain range. 

Surprisingly enough, one of the best hikes in Montenegro — to Bobotov Kuk — can be done in one day! There are two popular routes to the top that should take between 8 to 10 hours round-trip, depending on your level of fitness.  

lovcen-national park

LOVCEN   — Did you know this is the place that inspired Stefan Milutin to name the country Montenegro? That’s right! After Milutin saw Mount Lovćen covered in dark, dense trees back in 1276, he stated that the country should be named Crna Gora —  ‘ black mountain .’ 

See if you can spot the similarities for yourself on a trip to Lovcen National Park, which houses one of the country’s biggest attractions, the mausoleum of Montenegrin ruler Petar II Petrovic Njegos, at the very top.

Want to spend an entire day at Lovcen? There are plenty of things to do, such as hiking, ziplining, and cycling.

SKADAR LAKE — Shared between Montenegro and Albania, Lake Skadar is one of the most popular natural attractions in Montenegro. In fact, it’s the largest lake in Southern Europe!

Lake Skadar is extremely popular during the spring and summer, when the weather warms up and locals enjoy a boat ride out on the water.

Although day trips are popular in the area, don’t forget to go off the beaten path and check out the small islands (particularly the one with Monastery Kom!), keep an eye out for birds, and explore the fortresses. 

CULTURE & CITIES

Podgorica, Montenegro

Podgorica is great for those on the hunt for Soviet-style architecture and monuments; those who love off-the-beaten-path destinations, and those into the cafe scene. Otherwise, it’s perfectly fine to skip the capital if you’re short on time. 

CETINJE — On the other hand, Cetinje is the (former) capital worth visiting! This was the first capital of Montenegro and, thanks to its history, has retained plenty of historic charm. 

Cetinje is famous for being the cultural heart of Montenegro because of the many museums, colorful buildings, and former embassies that grace its streets. Check out my travel guide to Cetinje here.

Bar-stores

BAR — Although often overlooked in favor of its bigger neighbors (Budva and Ulcinj), the town of Bar — or rather, Stari Bar — is worth a day trip to see the ancient ruins.

Take a walk through the impressive Stari Bar Fortress, see the oldest olive groves in the country, or wander around the picturesque old town. 

NIKSIC — Known for being the second biggest city in Montenegro, Niksic has an industrial feel to it. It’s a popular day trip to see Yugoslavian-era spomeniks (monuments), like the Home of Revolution.

Budva-montenegro-nightlife

BUDVA — Budva has been called the “Miami of Montenegro,” and it’s no secret why. The first night we were there, it felt like everybody around us was dressed to the nines: girls in fancy dresses and heels walking with men in designer shirts, on their way to a nightclub or upscale bars. 

Budva is, without a doubt, where everybody comes to party. Whether it’s a music festival during the daytime or the club during the night, Budva is unrivaled in its status as a party capital.

Of course, that’s not to say it doesn’t have its tourist charms. Budva also has a famous Old Town, lovely beaches, and even an island that you can visit via boat! Check out my travel guide to Budva here.

TIVAT – Nightlife in Tivat is more refined compared to its neighbors. This is thanks to Porto Montenegro, an upscale area with fancy lounges and bars where socialites come to hang out and be seen. 

KOTOR — Hey look, it’s Kotor again. :) 

While it may not have fist-pumping nightclubs or beach bars, Kotor still offers plenty for a night out. Check out the live music coming from restaurants and lounges, or enjoy a casual nightcap at a pub or bar. 

CAN’T DECIDE BETWEEN KOTOR, TIVAT, OR BUDVA? Check out my post here , where I go in depth about each city, their pros/cons, and more!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN MONTENEGRO

Montenegro-Bucket-list-what-to-do-Montenegro

This section was originally going to be a sort of ‘bucket list’ of things to do in Montenegro , but it got out of hand and turned into its own post ! 

You can see the top things to do in Montenegro in the aptly-titled The Ultimate Montenegro bucket list: 30+ things to do and places to see in Montenegro — just click that link. :) 

WHAT TO EAT IN MONTENEGRO

Plate of Montenegrin Food

With plenty of green fields, local farms, and a coastline that stretches almost 300km, there’s no shortage of fresh and organic food! 

From hearty meat dishes to seasonal salads, seafood , and more, Montenegro has it all. Use this mini guide to Montenegrin food as you hop from cafe to restaurant during your trip:

APPETIZERS & SIDES

🥓 Montenegrin cheese & prosciutto plate – Montenegro is famous for its cheese and meat, especially from the Njegusi region (located between Kotor and Cetinje). In many restaurants, you’ll see this type of charcuterie board, along with vegetables, olives, kajmak, and slices of bread. Definitely don’t leave Montenegro without trying some Njeguši pršut! 

🥗 Shopska salad – A traditional salad found in almost every cafe and restaurant. It contains slices of tomato, cucumber, pepper, grated cheese, and with a hint of olive oil. 

🧈 Kačamak – One of Montenegro’s traditional dishes, this is a must-try when you’re here! It’s a mix of potatoes, cheese, and cornflour, drizzled with sauce, and looks similar to polenta. 

🍚 Kajmak – Not to be confused with kačamak (above), kajmak is a type of clotted cream made from cow, sheep, or goat’s milk. This can be eaten by itself as an appetizer, or sprinkled onto a dish for added flavor. 

🥯 Bruschetta, tortillas, toast – Not quite Montenegrin, but you’ll often see bruschetta, toast, and tortillas as part of the menu in various restaurants. 

🥩 Steak : There are probably dozens of different ways to cook steak in Montenegro, but perhaps the most famous is Njeguski steak. In a nutshell, a pork or veal schnitzel is stuffed with prosciutto and kajmak cheese, then rolled, breaded, and fried. Mmm!

🌭 Ćevapi : The quintessential Balkan food, you’ll find ćevapčići all around the region — including Montenegro! These are small, long patties made of meat and spices, grilled, and smothered with onions. 

🍔 Pljeskavica : Another staple that is often called the ‘Balkan burger,’ the pljeskavica is a piece of meat that looks like a burger patty and is often stuffed or drizzled with kajmak cheese. 

🦐 Seafood : There’s so many options for seafood that it has its own category! If you’re traveling along the coast of Montenegro, I can guarantee that you’ll be able to walk up to any restaurant and see seafood on the menu. From sea bass to trout, octopus, shrimp, calamari, mussels, and more, you really can’t go wrong. 

Palačinke

🥞 Palačinke – A thin and sweet pancake that’s similar to the French-style crepe. Palačinke is usually found with jam, Nutella, or fruit inside, although it can also come in savory flavors such as chicken, ham, cheese, etc. Best of all, a palačinke shouldn’t set you back more than 2 or 3 EUR!

🍚 Sutlijaš – Essentially rice pudding, this dish can be sprinkled with cinnamon or topped with raisins. If you love the taste, you can even buy ready-made packets to cook at home. :) 

🍋 Lemonade – Found on every menu during the summer, this is similar to the lemonade from back home. However, be careful, as this drink tends to be on the sour side!

🍺 Niksicko beer – Nikšićko Pivo is the drink of Montenegrins and comes from the second-largest city, Nikšić. Speaking of beer… you’ll mostly see light beers on the menu, as dark beer isn’t so popular. 

🥃 Rakija – Although beer may be popular, rakija is king! This mythical drink can be made from virtually any fruit and has an alcohol content between 40% to 80% — oof! Rakija varies from different regions, as each has their own special techniques and flavors. 

🍷 Wine – Montenegro technically has two wine-growing regions: along the coast and in the Lake Skadar basin, not too far from the capital. With bold flavors and varieties, you’ll want to take a bottle home! 

croatia

WHERE TO GO AFTER MONTENEGRO

Find out your next destination here: 

🇭🇷 Croatia — Dubrovnik is only an hours’ drive away from Herceg-Novi and continues the theme of epic old towns, cobblestone streets, and charming seaside towns. Split, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Pula, and Hvar are worth a visit. 

🇧🇦 Bosnia and Herzegovina — Kotor to Mostar is about a 3-hour drive, and another 2 hours if you want to visit BiH’s capital, Sarajevo. If you love nature, be sure to check out Bileća Lake on the way there; other popular spots to check out in BiH include Banja Luka, Blagaj, and Lukomir. Click here for my Bosnia & Herzegovina blog posts .  

🇷🇸 Serbia — Remember the famous Bar-Belgrade train I was talking about? It’s time to check it out with a trip to Serbia! You can travel between both capitals via a train that leaves twice a day and offers plenty of fantastic views along the way. While in Serbia, don’t miss Novi Sad, Subotica, and western Serbia (especially Mokra Gora!). Click here for my Serbia blog posts .  

🇽🇰 Kosovo — Although Kosovo’s status is still disputed to this day, it’s a fantastic place to visit during your Balkan trip. Be sure to pay attention to how you enter and exit Kosovo, as there are special rules (i.e. you can’t travel from Montenegro to Kosovo and onto Serbia). Check out the capital, Pristina, as well as Prizren, Rugova, and Bjeshkët e Nemuna national park. 

🇦🇱 Albania — Just a quick drive from Montenegro’s southernmost city, Ulcinj, is the ancient town of Shkodër in Albania.  Similar to Montenegro, the country also has its own Albanian Riviera (popularly known as Bregu) along the western coast. Popular destinations include Sarandë, Ksamil, Tirana, and the Albanian part of Skadar Lake. Click here for my Albania blog posts .  

Inspired to visit one of these Balkan beauties? Check out flights here  or bus tickets here !

USEFUL REFERENCES FOR TRAVELING TO MONTENEGRO

Looking for more information before your trip to Montenegro? I recommend the following websites, books, and items that I personally used:

🚌 Busticket4.me — This website saved our trip multiple times! It has an easy-to-use design where you can search for busses, check timetables, and even buy tickets online (for some routes). For international journeys, BusBud is also an excellent alternative.

📖 The Mountains of Montenegro — Planning to hike Montenegro’s mountains? This guidebook is for you! It features 17 routes (including day trips and multi-day routes) as well as travel tips and points of interest. Check it out here .  

📖 Montenegro Marco Polo Pocket Guide — We had the chance to read this book during our trip (thanks to our host in Perast who had a mini-Montenegro library!) and it has plenty of great information about the main sights as well as smaller, off-the-beaten-path cities and towns. My favorite sections were ‘Only in Montenegro’ and the insider tips. Check it out here .

📖 Montenegro: A Modern History — If you’re looking to turn your trip into an in-depth history lesson, this book is highly recommended. As one reviewer noted, this book is “the greatest work on Montenegrin history,” and I completely agree. Check it out here .  

📖 Lonely Planet Montenegro — Last but certainly not least, everybody’s favorite travel guidebook provides essential information, maps, where to stay, what to eat, and more. There’s even a section about Dubrovnik if you plan to cross over to Croatia. Best of all, it’s available in both paperback and Kindle for on-the-go access. Check it out here .

Looking for even more resources for your Montenegro trip? Here is my ultimate Montenegro list:

🛂 Need a visa to Montenegro ? Check out iVisa for more information . 

✈️ Once you have your visa all set, it’s time to book airline tickets ! I use both CheapOAir and SkyScanner to book flights.

🛏 Book accommodations on Booking or Hotels . These two offer fantastic options for every traveler, from hostels to hotels, apartments to penthouses, local guesthouses, and everything in between! 

✨  Speaking of amazing accommodations… I have an entire blog post dedicated to the best guesthouses, apartments, and Airbnbs in Montenegro !  

📷   Find tours, day trips, or sightseeing activities at Get Your Guide or Viator .  

❗️One of the most popular day trips is the All Montenegro Tour .  This 12-hour tour gives you a taste of Montenegro as you enjoy breakfast at a local village, tour the Old Royal Capital, visit the birthplace of the Petrović dynasty, enjoy a boat ride through River Crnojevica, and finish the day with a panoramic view of the famous Sveti Stefan.

🚗 Prefer to carve out your own itinerary? Rent a car through RentalCars.com, which has the biggest selection of car rentals and the company that I use whenever I rent a car.

🧳 Not sure what to pack ? I have an entire blog post that details what to pack for a trip to Montenegro for all four seasons! 

🇲🇪 Looking for even more information before traveling to Montenegro ? Check out  my 17 Montenegro Travel Tips for some bite-sized tips…

🇲🇪 … Or check out all of my blog posts on Montenegro here ! Happy travels :)

PSA: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book something through them. This is at no cost to you and helps keep this site running. Thank you! 

Photo credits : Car in Montenegro – Dejan Zakic | Croatia – Spencer Davis | Euros – Markus Spiske  | Palačinke – Todd Cravens | Airplane Window – Adrien Olichon |

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I am very impressed 👏with all the work you put into this site.

Thank you Captain Ronald! :)

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Montenegro Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

A small village surrounded by trees on the banks of a river in Montenegro

Montenegro is a tiny Balkan country home to rugged mountains, medieval towns, and miles of picturesque beaches. With just over half a million people, Montenegro has become a recent hotspot for backpackers, though it’s still overlooked by most budget travelers.

Offering idyllic gems like Kotor, with its stunning medieval architecture and fjord-like bay, as well as world-class pristine beaches stretching down the Adriatic coast, as the Balkans become one of the most up-and-coming tourist regions in Europe , Montenegro has soared in popularity, especially since it is relatively safe, small, and cheap.

I loved my visit to the country. It’s a beautiful and charming place.

This Montenegro travel guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this overlooked and underappreciated destination!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Montenegro

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Montenegro

A beautiful view over the city of Kotor and its waters in Montenegro

1. Explore Ulcinj

Ulcinj sits on the Adriatic coast and is best known for its long, sandy beaches. In fact, one of the longest beaches in Europe can be found here (Velika plaža). Ulcinj also has a picturesque Old Town (Stari Grad) with gorgeous narrow cobblestone streets, incredible sunset views, and tasty seafood near the city walls. A popular activity is to rent a bike and cycle to Long Beach and spend the day lounging. This beautiful coastal town is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and enjoying the water.

2. Hit the beach in Budva

Budva has several beaches as well as coves, cliffs, and islands you can explore. I don’t love the main town itself but the area is incredible. The city is 2,500 years old and a bit of a labyrinth of old narrow streets but it’s definitely a cool place to wander around. Don’t miss the Citadela Fortress, constructed to protect Budva from invaders. Today, the fortress is also a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the scenic views. The Budva Riviera highlights include Jaz Beach, Becici Beach, and Kamenovo Beach. If you want to get away from the main beach crowds, take a boat out to Sveti Nikola, a nearby island, to find incredible turquoise pebble beaches on the shores of a towering cliff. Bring your beach shoes!

3. Visit Kotor

Montenegro is full of beautiful coastal towns, but none are quite as dramatic as Kotor. Home to exquisite sea and mountain scenery as well as historic architecture, the entire town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the most popular places in the country. This 2000-year-old town has several main attractions including its Old City Wall, fortress San Giovanni, the beautiful Cathedral of St. Tryphon, and the Maritime Museum. Kotor has incredible cuisine due to centuries of influence from the Greeks, Ottomans, the Austro-Hungary empire, and many others. Try local dishes such as rice-stuffed calamari, lamb with peas, and grilled fish. Don’t forget to try the local wines like Krstac, Kratošija, Žižak, and Vranac, as Montenegro is well known for its 50 types of wine and this is a great place to try some.

4. Go hiking in Durmitor National Park

With its sweeping views of forests, lakes, and waterfalls, and the largest canyon in Europe, Durmitor is a nature lover’s dream. The national park makes the perfect outdoor adventure spot for hikers as there are glacial lakes, 50 different peaks, and plenty of beautiful trails to choose from. Some of the most famous hikes include the easy Black Lake and Zminje Lake hike, the moderate Prutaš peak (2,393 meters/7,851 feet), and the hardest, highest peak of Bobotov Kuk (2,523 meters/8,277 feet). Funky Tours offers day trips starting at around 70 EUR including transportation and lunch. Tara Canyon is absolutely stunning, with crystal blue waters surrounded by both rocky shores and tree-lined slopes. And if hiking isn’t your thing, Durmitor is also one of the world’s best locations for climbing and rafting. They also have an adrenaline park in case you want to check out the spectacular scenery from the comfort of a zip line, dirt bike, or ATV. Admission to the nature park is just 3 EUR.

5. Take a wine tour

Other things to see and do in montenegro, 1. go rafting.

Rafting on the Tara River is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Montenegro. Known as the “Tear of Europe,” the river is the fastest in Europe and forms the second deepest canyon in the world (the first being the Grand Canyon) and you can go rafting in easy and moderate conditions while taking in the incredible beauty of the canyon. Prices start at 40-50 EUR for one day of rafting, 70 EUR for two days, and 100 EUR for canyoning. There are multi-day rafting and canyoning combo trips available too.

2. Hike Lovcen Mountain

Lovcen is more than just a mountain to the people of Montenegro, it’s a sacred place and national treasure. Located in the southwest one hour from Kotor, the mountains contain the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegoš, a beloved Montenegrin ruler. There is also a national park here with hiking trails, including a day-long hike to Kotor. Admission is 2 EUR. If you have time, head to the nearby village of Njeguši to enjoy some local cheese and smoked ham.

3. Relax at Lake Skadar

Lake Skadar, also known as Lake Shkodër in Albanian, is located in the south along the border with Albania and is the largest lake in southern Europe. There is plenty to see and do here, such as visiting the ancient island prisons and monasteries, exploring the National Park and bird reserves, relaxing on one of the private beaches, and taking a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Expect to pay around 25 EUR for a one-hour boat rental or 5 EUR per hour for a kayak. Lake cruises start at around 15 EUR.

4. Visit the National Museum of Montenegro

The National Museum of Montenegro is located in Cetinje, the country’s historic capital (the current capital is Podgorica). Established in 1896, it’s composed of several different museums and galleries in one complex. Two of the most popular museums are the Museum of History and the Art Museum. You can easily spend a full day here taking in the exhibitions and learning about the country’s history. Collective tickets cost 8-15 EUR while individual museum tickets are 3 EUR. Cetinje itself, a 15th-century town and also a great place to spend a morning or an afternoon. You can visit the Cetinje Monastery, with its collection of Early-Christian-era relics, and the 15th-century Vlah Church. Also, near Cetinje is Lipa Cave, one of the largest caves in Montenegro.

5. Enjoy the history of Stari Bar

Located in the southwest, this town was once ruled by the Byzantines. Its ruined fortress offers one of the most beautiful views in Montenegro thanks to the stunning backdrop of Mount Rumija. The town itself has been the site of many battles (chiefly against the Ottomans) so it’s been destroyed and rebuilt many times over. There are also the ruins of a 13th-century Franciscan monastery, an 18th-century Turkish bathhouse, and the oldest olive tree in the world (it’s over 2,000 years old). It is just an hour south of Kotor by car.

6. Watch the sunset in Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan is a 15th-century village just south of Kotor. Located on the coast, it has a postcard-perfect pink pebbled beach and beautiful clear blue water. While you can’t access the nearby island without staying at the five-star resort that occupies it, the beaches here are perfect for a late afternoon swim and for watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss the 600-year-old Praskvica Monastery that overlooks the village.

7. Hit the slopes

Thanks to an average of 120 days of snow each year, Montenegro is the perfect winter sports destination. The ski resorts in Montenegro sit at altitudes of up to 2,181 meters (7,155 feet) and there are over 20 kilometers (12 miles) of slopes to enjoy. The most popular resorts are Savin Kuk on Durmitor mountain or Kolasin 1450 on Bjelasica mountain. Lift passes are some of the cheapest in Europe, ranging from 10-25 EUR per day.

8. Visit the Cat Museum

For a more unconventional museum experience, visit Kotor’s Cat Museum (Museo del Gatto di Cattaro). Located in the Old Town, this small museum is dedicated to cats. It explores the history of Montenegro’s feline friends as Kotor has a noticeably high cat population thanks to its history as a trading port. Cats from all around the world traveled here on ships and were subsequently abandoned. They became an important part of the culture of the city. Admission is 1 EUR and helps support local stray cats.

9. See the Castle of San Giovanni

San Giovanni Fortress in Kotor is one of the city’s historic fortifications. Perched almost 300 meters (984 feet) above sea level, the castle has a taxing 1,355 steps you have to climb to get to it (which takes about an hour). The fortress, also known as St. John’s Fortress, is a UNESCO Heritage Site and dates to the 9th century. It’s one of the best historic remnants in the city. It’s mostly crumbled now, but there are several stone walls, fortifications, and foundations still in place. There are also over 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) of defensive walls, some of which are 20 meters (65 feet) tall. There are several viewpoints on the hike too. The admission price through the gate is about 9.50 EUR.

10. Explore the Blue Cave

Located on the Luštica Peninsula just 22 kilometers (13 miles) from Kotor, the famous Blue Cave of Montenegro is only accessible by boat on an organized tour from either Herceg Novi or Kotor. It’s named after the iridescent blue light that shines brightly within the cave. For a 1-2 hour tour of the blue cave (plus other nearby caves) expect to pay around 40-60 EUR per person.

11. Day trip to Perast

Just 20 minutes from Kotor, this stunning village is worth more than the half-day that most people give it (although if that’s all the time you have, it’s better than nothing!). There are 20 Baroque palazzi and 18 churches to see here, including the Church of St. Nicholas and its 55-meter (180-foot) Perast Bell Tower which you can climb to get an excellent view of the town. There’s also a Maritime History Museum here, and if you’re in the mood to relax, there’s a beautiful beach as well as boat tours around the Bay of Kotor.

Montenegro Travel Costs

Horses in a sprawling green field near mountains in Montenegro

Accommodation – There aren’t tons of hostels in Montenegro since it’s an up-and-coming backpacker spot. Dorm beds start at 12 EUR per night regardless of size or season. Free Wi-Fi is standard as are self-catering facilities. Most hostels do not include free breakfast. For a private room, expect to pay 40 EUR per night.

Budget hotels start at 25 EUR per night in the off-season for a double or twin. In peak season they start at 30-60 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many budget hotels also include free breakfast.

Airbnb is available in the main cities and towns around the country with private rooms starting at 20-25 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 40-65 EUR per night.

For anyone traveling with a tent, there are a fair number of campsites around Montenegro. A basic plot without electricity costs around 14-20 EUR per night for two people. Wild camping is illegal.

Food – Food in Montenegro is different from its Balkan neighbors, owing to heavier Mediterranean and Italian influences. Expect to see a lot of pizza and pasta restaurants when you’re in the cities. Also, look out for popular favorites like cevapcici (grilled kebabs), sarma (cabbage leaves stuffed with meat), and goulash. On the coast, seafood is readily available.

For a quick on-the-go snack, try burek a Turkish pastry filled with meat or cheese (they typically cost a couple of euros). For inexpensive traditional cuisine, expect to pay 6 EUR for a main dish. For fast food, expect to pay around 5-6 EUR for something like a burger and fries.

If you want to splash out, a three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant costs around 15 EUR. For something extremely filling, try karadorde vasnicla , a breaded veal cutlet roll stuffed with cheese.

Beer costs 2 EUR while a latte or cappuccino costs 1.50 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 25-35 EUR for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Montenegro Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 40 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach or hiking. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 95 EUR, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like rafting or canyoning.

On a “luxury” budget of 185 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Montenegro Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Montenegro is affordable so you won’t break the bank here unless you want to splash out. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are a few ways to save while you’re traveling Montenegro:

  • Take a free walking tour – Kotor and Budva both offer free walking tours. They’re my favorite way to get familiar with a new city and culture while connecting with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
  • Cook your own meals – Many hostels here have kitchen facilities so if you want to save money make sure you book accommodation with a kitchen. Buying groceries may not be glamorous but it definitely saves you money!
  • Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and connect with a knowledgeable local who can share their insider tips and advice.
  • Walk everywhere – Most of the major towns and cities in Montenegro are walkable. Skip the public transportation if you want to save a few euros. And definitely skip the taxis!
  • Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your money and enjoy the outdoors for free.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Montenegro

Even though Montenegro is small there are tons of hostels around the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Montenegro:

  • Pupa Hostel (Kotor)
  • Hostel Centrum (Kotor)
  • Old Town Hostel (Kotor)
  • Freedom Hostel (Budva)
  • Hostel Center (Ulcinj)
  • Hostel Anton (Tivat)

How to Get Around Montenegro

A small church on the coast of beautiful, sunny Montenegro

Public transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city, but expect to pay around 1 EUR for a standard adult bus ticket.

Bus – Montenegro has an extensive intercity bus network that is comfortable and reliable. You can often save money by buying your ticket directly from the driver as prices are sometimes cheaper when buying tickets right as you’re looking to leave. However, if you are traveling during the summer, it’s worth booking in advance to ensure you get a seat.

The bus from Kotor to Budva takes around an hour and costs as little as 5 EUR while the bus from Kotor to Ulcinj takes around 4.5 hours and costs around 10 EUR. Kotor to Dubrovnik, Croatia takes around 3-4 hours and costs 19-25 EUR.

Taxi – Taxis fares in Montenegro start at 1 EUR and go up by around 0.80 EUR per kilometer. Since they can add up fast, I’d skip the taxis if you can.

Train – The railway in Montenegro is old and not modernized at all. I would not advise train travel within Montenegro as the buses are nicer, faster, and far more reliable.

To enter and exit Montenegro, Montenegro Railways has a service that takes you north into Serbia all the way to Belgrade. It’s a 10-hour trip and costs around 29 EUR.

Flying – There are no domestic flights within Montenegro.

Car rental – Car rentals can be as low as 15-20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Just make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one to rent a vehicle. Also, be aware that the roads here are in rough shape and that drivers can be on the aggressive side.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Montenegro

The best time to visit Montenegro is between April and September. Peak season is July and August when the weather is warmest. Daily highs in the summer are usually around 31°C (89°F).

If you’re on a budget and want to beat the summer crowds, the best time to visit is either June or September. You still have the heat but there are fewer crowds and it’s not sweltering. For hiking and outdoor activities, consider September-October as the national parks look particularly pretty as the leaves change.

Winters are cold, especially if you go inland where there is more of a sub-alpine climate, offering heavy rainfall and snow. Unless you plan on skiing, I’d avoid visiting in the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Montenegro

Although Montenegro is a relatively safe country, scams and pickpocketing can occur, especially in Kotor, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and Herceg Novi. Be vigilant in tourist areas and while on crowded public transportation and always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

If you have a purse or shoulder bag, wear it across your body and not just over one shoulder so it can’t be easily torn off and stolen.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re renting a car, be aware that many of the roads are in rough condition. Drive slowly and cautiously — even if the locals aren’t. Additionally, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight. While break-ins are rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re checking a bag on a bus, don’t leave any valuables in it just in case it gets taken or misplaced.

If you’re doing any mountainous hikes, be sure to check the weather in advance and bring appropriate gear/clothing. It’s colder and windier at higher altitudes.

Unfortunately, organized crime has a strong foothold here. While the majority of their activities won’t impact you, some beggars have been known to take part in schemes wherein they provide information to thieves and pickpockets based on who gives them money. Don’t give money to beggars to avoid complications.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

There are a lot of unexploded land mines near the border with Kosovo. If you are exploring that area, be sure to stick to the main roads and don’t head off into the brush.

If you experience an emergency, dial 122 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Montenegro Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Montenegro Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

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Danilovgrad, Montenegro - June 4, 2012: Tourists visit to Ostrog - Serbian Orthodox monastery in Montenegro, located in mountains 15 km from Danilovgrad town. Founded in the XVII century.

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Home > 52 Top Things To Do & Places To See In Montenegro

52 Top Things To Do & Places To See In Montenegro

Post author Ana

Written by our local expert Ana

Croatian born Ana is an avid traveler who is always looking for the next travel story from the Balkans to share. Her passion is creating travel itineraries and in-depth guides.

Have you ever wondered what to do in Montenegro? Well, here is a massive list of the best things to do in Montenegro, something for every kind of traveler.

The tiny country of Montenegro, known locally as Crna Gora, is wedged between Croatia , Bosnia & Herzegovina , Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania .

Famous for its soaring mountains, the glittering beach resorts of the Budva Riviera, the winter sports destination of Zabljak, and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bay of Kotor, Montenegro is bursting with both natural and cultural treasures. The capital of Montenegro is Podgorica, a vibrant city that serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the country .

There is no wrong time for a Montenegro trip because each season brings a different take on the landscapes. The climate varies depending on where and when you visit.

The southern coastline has a Mediterranean climate, which means warm and dry summers, while winters receive most of the year’s rainfall but are still relatively mild. The center of the country and the northern areas have a continental climate, which means the temperature depends on how high up you go, with colder temperatures at higher elevations.

The capital city is located in the center of the country. It can get hot during the summer, while the mountains receive a large amount of rainfall, with snow still visible in high elevations during the spring months.

Wondering what to see in Montenegro? It may not be the most famous of European countries, but there’s a wealth of Montenegro attractions to visit and destinations to discover in Montenegro . The following overview will give you all the best Montenegro destinations around which you can build your itinerary.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Historical And Cultural Explorations

1. explore kotor old town.

KOTOR BAY MONTENEGRO - CROATIA TRAVEL BLOG

There are so many things to do in Kotor Bay and the Old Town that you can easily spend a few days here. Some things to see include the following:

Admire St Tryphon’s Cathedral

Cathedral - Bay of Kotor Montenegro | Montenegro Travel Blog

St Tryphon’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Kotor , and even if you aren’t religious, the cathedral’s age and grandeur are worth admiring. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century, and even today, it still acts as the seat of the Catholic Bishopric in the Bay of Kotor area.

The cathedral is named for Kotor’s patron saint, Tryphon, who is said to have protected the town in times of conflict. The current building is built on the same site as an older church, showing just how far back Kotor’s long history stretches.

Walk The Streets Of The Old Town

Of all the places to visit in Montenegro, it is most famous for Kotor. With its famed narrow, cobbled streets, grand squares, and well-preserved fortifications, the old town walls date back to the days of Venetian rule, which began in the 15th century. At the same time, some buildings and churches within the gates are even older than this. It’s a charming, historic place to stroll through and marvel at.

Have a cold beer in the main piazza or sample the unique blend of Montenegrin and Mediterranean cuisine at one of the many quaint restaurants and cafes within the walls, then quietly sit back and watch life go by on the ancient streets of Kotor.

Exploring Old Town is one of our favorite kid-friendly things to do in Montenegro .

Walk The Bastions And Explore The Kampana Tower

The walls, bastions, gates, and towers of Kotor can be walked and explored along much of their length. The defensives are some of the best-preserved in the Mediterranean, and the most impressive to see is the squat, round Kampana Tower that guards the entrance to the city from the bay, where the walls almost meet the water.

Even today, the many tourists and cruise ship travelers that visit the city will first enter the old town under the watchful guard of the Kampana Tower. At night, the tower and the walls are marvelously lit up, offering a unique view of these age-old structures.

Hike To The Top Of The Fortress Of San Giovanni

The unmissable Fortress of San Giovanni towers over the old town of Kotor. The fortress is part of the extensive fortifications surrounding the town, and the slowly crumbling ruins are a real landmark of Kotor.

The only problem is that this historic fortress is perched high on a steep mountainside. That means that reaching the top involves tackling the sharp inclines and never-ending zigzags of the Kotor Ladder, a series of stone steps that zigzag their way up to the ramparts of the fortress. There are over 1300 steps, although, by the end of the hike, you’ll be too tired to be able to verify that count.

Reaching the top, though, is worth the minor pain needed to get there. The ruins are impressive enough, but the views of the Bay of Kotor and the old town are spectacular.

See The Bizarre Cats Museum

Montenegro Souvenirs_What to Buy in Montenegro _ Cat Souvenirs

Within Kotor’s walls, you will notice that the town has a friendly, furry, feline population. Cats run wild in Kotor, and you will see them on every street corner and atop every bastion and tower.

These animals are an integral part of the town’s history and culture, so much so that there’s even a museum of cats located down one of the cobbled streets.

The strange, bizarre, yet intriguing Cats Museum has various feline memorabilia, art, and artifacts. It gives visitors an idea of the close relationship the town has always held with cats through the centuries.

If you’re not visiting Montenegro, you can still go on a day trip to Kotor from Croatia, for example. Driving from Dubrovnik to Kotor is a hugely popular day trip among people staying in Croatia’s most famous coastal city . Dubrovnik to Kotor by car is a journey that doesn’t take longer than about two hours. That is if you don’t often stop to enjoy the spectacular Bay of Kotor views along the way.

From Budva, it’s even shorter. You’ll get to Kotor from Budva in less than a half-hour. From the capital of Podgorica , it’s about an hour and a half by car. This is all to say that as spectacularly rugged as Kotor Bay may be, it’s exceptionally accessible from all directions. Driving in Montenegro is a piece of cake .

2. Visit Lovcen Mausoleum

Located in Lovcen National Park , the mausoleum of Petar Petrovic II Njegos claims to be the highest mausoleum in the world at 1657m above sea level. Njegos is Montenegro’s most famous poet and philosopher and was also the Prince-Bishop of the country.

Make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes because you’ll need to climb 461 steps to get to the mausoleum. When you step inside the tomb, you will be dazzled by an exquisite golden mosaic and an impressive sculpture of the Prince-Bishop created by Ivan Mestrovic.

Lastly, the views from the mausoleum are spectacular, and on a clear day, you can see Italy .

3. Admire The Art Of Moraca Monastery

The beautiful Moraca Monastery sits on the bank of the Moraca River in central Montenegro. Built in the 13th century, a medieval wall surrounds this Monastery, and the complex has two churches, Synod and St Nikola.

The Monastery’s highlights are the unique 13th, 18th, and 20th-century frescoes and impressive iconography said to be some of the best in the Balkans.

4. Explore The Medieval Trade Routes Of Rijeka Crnojevica

Many of the old trade routes still exist, and they are a great way to explore Montenegro, with bridges, fortresses, and natural wonders to take in as you walk the old routes. If you want to combine history and nature, this is the ideal place.

5. Podgorica’s Famous Clock Tower

This tower is protected because it is one of the few monuments after a massive bombing during WWII. Built back in 1667, it was the first clock to be constructed in the city and is certainly worth visiting, purely for its cultural importance.

6. Visit The Famous Stone Bridge In Rijeka Crnojevica

As you enter Rijeka Crnojevica, you will be treated to a reasonably ancient stone bridge constructed in the early 1850s called ‘Danilov most.’ This double-arched stone bridge is one of the most photogenic in the entire country, and on a beautiful clear day with no wind, one can capture the reflection of the bridge in the shallow water below.

It is a great place to stop on your way to Lake Skadar, as there are also some cute cafes in town.

7. The Oldest Olive Tree In The World In Bar

Or so say, locals. The sunny south coast is home to Bar , a town that may be small but certainly has plenty of history and is worth exploring. Here, you will find a colossal fortress set in the Old Town, as well as what is reputed to be the oldest olive tree on the planet, at 2500 years of age.

Natural Wonders And Outdoor Activities

8. lake skadar national park.

What to do in Montenegro - View of Lake Skadar, Montenegro

9. See The “Horseshoe Bend” Of Montenegro (Lake Skadar)

If you’ve traveled through the western United States, you are probably familiar with its version of Horseshoe Bend, but have you heard of the horseshoe bend that exists in Montenegro? Probably not.

It is a bend in the river which sits in the valley-like landscape above Lake Skadar. You will need to rent a car as it is only accessible from two different roads – neither accessible by Montenegro’s public transport services.

The street is pretty quiet. There are several pullovers along the road within a short distance from each other, so you can stop at whichever view you prefer. Sometimes, the grass and plants that are overgrown along the path can prevent a complete view, so make sure you find an area with a clear shot.

10. Wildlife Spotting At Lake Skadar National Park

Lake Skadar Montenegro | Montenegro Travel Blogger

Lake Skadar is the largest freshwater lake In the Balkans and is a critical bird ecosystem in the region. It is so important, in fact , that the lake was inscribed on the World’s List of Wetlands of International Importance by the RAMSAR convention.

The lake site is home to more than 260 species of birdlife along with many other animal species. Skadar Lake sits on the Montenegrin and Albanian border and is surrounded by karst mountains, making it picture-perfect. It’s easy to see why it’s recommended and highlighted by virtually every Montenegro travel guide .

11. Visit Debeli Namet

At the bottom of Sljeme Mountain , you will find this small but rather picturesque glacier. While it isn’t the biggest and certainly not the most southern in Europe, it still has that rather awesome natural vibe about it and is indeed worth a visit.

12. Hiking In The North

From Kotor, you can follow a marked hiking trail that will take you through some breathtaking landscapes , through forests, past waterfalls, mountains, and small villages as you go. You can swim along the way, stop for refreshments in the small mountain villages, and look over Kotor and its history.

13. Nature Walking In Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park Hiking | Montenegro Travel Blog 1

In the north of the country, high up in the mountains, you can walk slowly and leisurely within this beautiful national park, which is UNESCO-protected . You will pass the aforementioned Tara River Canyon through fields, hills, mountains, and valleys. Take your time and truly take in your surroundings.

14. Enjoy Natural Wonders On Foot In Biogradska Gora National Park

Biogradsa Gora National Park National Parks in Montenegro | Montenegro Travel Blog

Montenegro has many national parks, but this park is very easy to explore on foot, provided you pack the proper walking boots! This is one of the biggest forests in Europe, untouched by man, which means fantastic views, wildlife, flora, and fauna to explore.

15. Visit Sveti Stefan

montenegro travel.me

Although access is now only reserved for guests of the exclusive Aman resort, Sveti Stefan is still one of the most incredible things to see in Montenegro. This former fishing village occupies a small peninsula that juts out into the Adriatic Sea, a beautiful collection of red-roofed houses, fortified walls, and stone villas. You can catch a great view of Sveti Stefan from the mainland beaches, while a reservation at the on-site restaurant does give you a brief glimpse into this secluded tourist village.

16. Head Underground At Lipa Cave, Dobrosko

Because this is one of the best things to see in Montenegro, various tours head underground at Lipa Cave, and you can check out the magical sight of the multiple stalactites, stalagmites, and wildlife that calls the caves their home. The actual discovery date is fluid, but there are records of the discovery as far back as 1887. The caves are easy to walk around, and you are first taken down by a train and led around by an English-speaking guide.

17. The Ideal Sunset Location In Lovcen National Park

Lovcen National Park National Parks in Montenegro | Montenegro Travel Blog

Head up to the heights of Mount Lovcen for the best sunset in Montenegro. Located in the rugged Dinara Alps, Lovcen National Park is home to the Njegos Mausoleum, which lies on a steep rocky crag and offers dramatic views. This is the final resting place of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a former Montenegro ruler; the building is decorated with a striking gold ceiling. Take a seat, have a glass of wine, and enjoy the park’s beauty.

Also, make sure to check out the nearby village of Njeguši, the Petrović dynasty’s birthplace. It’s a great spot to taste locally made foodstuffs like smoked hams and cheeses.

18. Mala Rijeka Viaduct

Built in the 70s, this used to be the tallest in Europe, and while that title has now gone elsewhere, it is still a pretty impressive sight. You can take a train ride over the viaduct as part of a scenic tourist journey, linking Belgrade with Bar, so head online and check out times.

19. See The River Cijevna Waterfall

Just ten minutes by car away from Podgorica is the country’s version of the mighty Niagara Falls, which is equally impressive. It’s a great fishing spot and ideal for nature walks . If you fancy a spot of refreshment, there is a restaurant named Niagara on the river, too.

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Adventure and sports, 20. go diving.

THINGS TO DO IN CROATIA - Adriatic Sea 000362

Numerous diving centers along the coast support you, whether you’re a novice or a pro. There are countless dive locations across the Montenegro coast, where you can explore sunken planes, ships, caves, reefs, and even historical artifacts like an amphora. The best part is the visibility in the sea here, which is tremendous, with some areas as high as 50m.

21. Hike To The Highest View In Montenegro (Bobotov Kuk)

There are so many great hikes and views in Montenegro, especially in Durmitor National Park. But, perhaps, none are more rewarding than the hike to Bobotov Kuk – the highest point in the country.

Despite the relatively short hike it takes to get to Bobotov Kuk and the view of the country below that it offers, this trail is quiet and not often visited by tourists. Standing at just over 2,500 meters tall, there are indeed more towering peaks in Europe; however, when it comes to dramatic views, Bobotov Kuk is one that nears the top of the list. With green valleys below, you will be able to see for miles and miles.

Make sure you add a note in the guestbook sitting in the metal box at the top so you can be known as one of the brave ones who did the challenging climb to the top of the country.

22. Rock Climbing At Mt. Komovi

climbing-mt-komovi-montenegro_montenegro-travel-blog

Eastern Montenegro is home to the vast Mt Komovi, almost reaching the border with Albania . Experienced climbers can head here and climb this mass, with stunning views as you go. The various wildlife, flora, and fauna are impressive; however, be aware that this is generally a winter activity with several routes to follow.

23. Rock Climbing Closer To The Capital

Kucke Planine is a series of mountains northeast of the capital and is a popular way to spend a few days out of the city as a break. The highest peak, Surdup Peak, is the big hitter. Several slightly smaller ones are fantastic for climbing, with two lakes to visit, Bukumirsko Lake and Rikavacko Lake.

24. Bungee Jump From The Đurđevića Tara Bridge

Bungee Jump From The Đurđevića Tara Bridge

The concrete 365-meter-long Đurđevića Tara Bridge spans the Tara River in northern Montenegro. Consisting of five arches, it towers 172 meters above the river below; at the time, it was completed as the largest concrete vehicle bridge in Europe. Nowadays, it’s a popular destination for thrill-seekers as its longest arch, directly above the Tara River, is a popular bungee jumping spot.

25. Canyoning In Nevidio Canyon

This is one of the most challenging canyons to pass on the continent, but many tours do head into this area nowadays. This is for experienced canyoners only. However, the rewards are great, and the scenery is stunning. Located in the southern portion of the Durmitor Mountains, the peaks undulate before turning into a river and peaceful valley .

26. Skiing At Zabljak

Montenegro’s most popular winter sports region is, without a doubt, Zabljak, set in the Dinaric Alps. Durmitor Mountain is the highest peak, and you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in abundance during the winter. There are several ski schools around here, with many hotels and après ski fun to be had.

27. Paragliding In Becici

Just south of Budva, you will find the beach resort of Becici, and one of the most popular activities in the town is paragliding. Head into the sky and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline and mountains in the backdrop. It is possibly not for the faint-hearted, but it is a great activity to enjoy when looking for something a little different.

28. Enjoy A Jeep Safari Through Biogradska Gora Or Durmitor National Park

National Parks In Montenegro - A young couple sitting on a bench. Black lake. Durmitor

Suppose you want to explore the outdoor delights of Montenegro’s various national parks but are not overly confident about doing it yourself. In that case, a jeep safari is a fantastic way to check out the scenery. Numerous companies run jeep safaris in these two parks in particular.

29. Spend A Day Splashing Away At Aquapark Budva

Another kid-friendly place to visit in Montenegro is the Aquapark Budva. It is one of the largest waterparks along the Adriatic coast. Offering a fantastic view over Budva town and a few bars, it can also be a place for you, Mom, and Dad! Slides, wave pools, lazy rivers – you name it.

Tickets are reasonable: less than USD 20 for children and less than USD 25 for adults, making for an excellent way to spend an afternoon under the sun.

30. Go Bird Watching In This Impressive Bird Haven

Best Travel Binoculars_Pixabay

If you’re into bird watching, then figuring out what to do in Montenegro is easy!  Being such a small country (one of Europe’s ten smallest countries), this country, with its vast landscapes and environments, boasts one of the largest havens for bird watching in Europe.

Being home to over fifty percent of the continent’s bird species, you will find many dedicated bird lovers who come to Montenegro for nothing more than to explore its nature scene and try to track down as many of these local and native birds as possible.

Pick up a new pair of travel binoculars.

31. hike the mountains to gornja lastva.

gornja-lastva-mountain-view_montenegro-travel-blog

A beautiful and scenic walk reaches the medieval village of Gornja Lastva up a mountain, but don’t let the word ‘mountain’ put you off! 

Take your time and wear the right shoes, and you will be fine. This region is fantastic for showing visitors the real way of life in Montenegro, away from tourists and large cities.

32. Hike The Epic Coastal Mountain Traversal Path

If you’re looking for top things to do in Montenegro for adventurers, few things beat the Coastal Mountain Traversal Path. This sensational 180-kilometer hiking trail runs from Mount Orjen in northern Montenegro to Bar in the south. It’s the ultimate Montenegro backpacking trip. You’ll pass major attractions like Mount Lovcen and Lake Skadar on the way. However, much of the terrain is extremely rugged, so ensure you have proper hiking gear and orientation skills.

33. Head Off On A Horse Riding Adventure

Things To Do In Slavonia Croatia - Horses On The Farm

Just 15 minutes from the capital of Montenegro, Podgorica, you will find the Komani Highlands, where you can go horseback riding along mountain trails. The ride will take you through pristine nature and through some of the Komani region villages. More experienced riders can go deep into the mountains and take on more challenging trails to test their skills.

Relaxation And Leisure

34. take in the views from perast.

Things to do in Kotor Bay - Lion over looking Perast

One of the jewels in the Bay of Kotor is Perast, an idyllic Adriatic town that has become one of the more luxurious destinations of Montenegro. Every self-respective Kotor travel guide recommends visiting Perast in addition to the Kotor Old Town. Our kids voted it one of the best places to visit in Montenegro , too!

Besides the town’s sheer beauty, it has a fascinating history and culture, with the Our Lady of The Rock Church . Head to St. Nikola Church and climb the hill, where you can check out the truly stunning view right over the town and beyond.

There are many small museums around this area, which help you learn more about the country.

35. Budva’s Dancing Girl Statue

When in Budva, a great activity is to take a coastal walk and discover the Dancing Girl Statue. It’s a great walk and gives you a good look at the Budva Old Town from afar.  When it’s time to move on, be sure to check out the nearby 14th-century Church of Saint Sava as well.

36. Modern Style At Millennium Bridge, Podgorica

Balkan Trip: One Month In The Balkans Itinerary - Podgorica

We’ve talked so much about history and nature, but the capital is home to one of the most impressive modern-day feats, the Millennium Bridge . This bridge crosses the Moraca River and was built in 2005. You can drive or walk across it, which is lit at night.

37. Walk The Herceg Novi Esplanade

When looking for what to do in Montenegro, you can’t go past the green city of Herczeg Novi, which is renowned for its mimosa trees and other greenery. The old town is packed with fantastic 15th and 16th-century architecture with the Spanjola and Forte Mare fortresses – a must-see in Montenegro; once you’ve explored the former town, head for the Herceg Novi esplanade for a walk along this 6km thoroughfare in the early evening when it comes to life.

38. Camping At Buljarica

You will find Buljarica, a pretty beach town sitting at the foot of some impressive mountains west of Montenegro! Here you can enjoy beach time, but one of the main attractions is camping in nature . There are several campsites to contact here, offering a genuinely outdoorsy vibe.

39. Explore The Markets Of Sutomore

The outdoor market in Sutomore is one of the most popular attractions in the town. Here, you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables , clothing, cosmetics, and anything else you can think of! The town is also a beach resort , so spend the day! Open from 7 am until mid-afternoon during the summer months.

40. Shop ‘Til You Drop At Capital Plaza

The capital of Montenegro has a huge shopping mall where you can seriously bash your credit card and enjoy the fruits of big-name stores while also checking out a few more traditional and local boutiques too. Of course, around Podgorica itself, there are many other smaller shops to explore.

Make sure you pick up one or two cool souvenirs from Montenegro .

41. enjoy a mediterranean feel at porto montenegro marina, tivat.

Places To Visit In Montenegro - Tivat

This laid-back destination is close to Kotor but is much more chilled out, and experiencing the Mediterranean feel of Porto Montenegro Marina is a must . There are many bars and restaurants around here which serve local seafood .

Unique Attractions And Experiences

42. visit the blue grotto at herceg novi.

Another of Montenegro’s delights is the blue grotto in Kotor Bay at Herceg Novi . However, this one has something a little different, with waters that shimmer in various colors according to the light.

You head off on a short boat trip through the caves and past tiny islands and inlets before coming to an open area where you can swim. There may be crowds during the summer, so ensure you get there early.

43. Get Spiritual At Ostrog Monastery

Ostrog orthodox monastery, Montenegro

This charming Serbian Orthodox monastery is carved into a mountain cliff and is absolutely breathtaking. One of the absolute best things to see in Montenegro, the Monastery is visited by over 100,000 pilgrims annually, and a visit to its cave-like chapel is a must.

44. Witness A Spaceship In Podgorica (Dajbabska Gora Tower)

OK, this is not a real spaceship, but it gives me the feel of a UFO. In reality, it is only a radio control tower at the top of a hill south of the city. However, with some imagination and some distance between you and the tower, you may trick your Instagram followers into thinking you have spotted Montenegro aliens.

45. Check Out The Next Luxury Resort Along The Adriatic Sea (Mamula Island)

What used to be a concentration camp is now in the Montenegro government’s plans  to be the next luxury resort along the Adriatic Sea. Can you imagine relaxing by the seaside, knowing the island’s history?

It is now an uninhabited islet along the coast of the Adriatic Sea, with dozens of untold stories dating back to World War II while Italian forces occupied it. The Montenegro government’s decision has, understandably, been met with debate from those families imprisoned here during World War II in this dark spot of world history.

46. Enjoy A Lesser Known Beach Along The Budva Riviera (Kamenovo Beach)

The Budva Riviera, which is a beautifully scenic stretch of landscape with plenty of beaches and the center of tourism in Budva, can get quite overwhelming in the summer months. However, some beaches along the Riviera don’t get the attention they deserve. One of those beaches, and my favorite in Budva, is Kamenovo Beach.

Little tourists come here, and there are no residential neighborhoods in the area, which means it gets little attention even in the summer months. It is a comprehensive (half-mile or so) beach with pebbly sand and easy sea entry. Come with the whole family and enjoy a day in the sun – there’s even a small playground for the kids . If you get hungry, Kod Zoffa (located at the end of the beach) is very good!

47. Experience An Increasingly Abandoned Mountainside Town (Kruče)

Due to frequent landslides that are known to wipe out entire buildings, the town of Kruče has become somewhat of a ghost town . However, there are still a few notably good restaurants, small but quaint beaches, and plenty of nature along the mountainside for those who don’t mind the quiet.

If you are willing to brave the thought of a landslide while hiking, there are many trails, and you can enjoy the sight of abandoned homes with quite a unique mountain architecture that has been relatively untouched.

Local Gastronomy And Wine Tasting

48. wine tasting fun.

Blond Woman Drinking Red Wine In Restaurant

Cemovsko Field is the largest vineyard situated on just one field in Europe and is 2310 hectares – that’s a lot of wine to be produced! You can tour the estate, learning how wine is made while also trying a few varieties out for yourself, such as the award-winning Sauvignon and several types of Vranac.

49. Taste Test The Local Variety Of Rakija

Food-in-Slavonia_Rakija-Flower

In the Balkans, Rakija is a local favorite anywhere you go. And in each area, you travel throughout the Balkans, each country has its own local take on this Balkans specialty. After a full day of Montenegro sightseeing, this  alcoholic beverage made of different spirits and fruitful flavors will help you enjoy a good night’s sleep.

Each Balkan country you visit will claim the best Rakija, but it really comes down to your taste. In Montenegro, it is widely considered the national drink and is said to instantly destroy bacteria build-up in your stomach and relieve stomach and muscle pain. Needless to say, they love drinking it. Almost in all cases, when invited into a local’s home, they will insist you share a drink with them. The local variety is primarily centered around Loza (grapes).

50. See Why Montenegro People Are So Prideful Of Their Wine

Even more so than Rakija , locals will boast about some of the best wines in the world. From their innovative vranac wine to locally produced classic wines such as merlots and chardonnays, Montenegro people take their wine scene seriously.

With great vineyards all over the country, there seems to be a sophisticated and original selection of wines wherever you are. You are almost obliged to take at least one wine tasting tour while in the country. My favorite while tasting was the Krstač variety.

Wine lovers rejoice! Most tours you can go on will provide you with knowledge of the harvesting process, regional background, and even a history of the local family who owns the vineyard and winery . It is an all-around educational experience with some delightful surprises for your taste buds.

51. Try Some Cevapi

montenegro travel.me

As far as food from the Balkans goes, it doesn’t get more typical than ćevapi , which is also known as ćevapčići other neighboring/nearby countries. Cevapi is a type of skinless sausage , a mix of ground pork and beef with many spices. It’s grilled and served with vegetables, in a pita , and/or with fries. These meat dishes are found all over the region, from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, Albania, and Croatia . If you’re not a vegetarian, this is a traditional Montenegrin and Balkan food you must try during your Montenegro trip.

Nightlife And Entertainment

52. party in the hottest nightlife spot in montenegro (budva).

Budva, Montenegro Travel Blog

Though I can certainly think of a few European destinations with a hotter party life than Montenegro if you insist you must spend a night or two dancing the night away. At the same time, on your Montenegro vacation, there is only one city which you must go to.

Budva, also a hot spot for other tourism matters, has the best up-and-coming nightclub scene in Montenegro. The town’s population is mainly centered around its university students, which is why the nightlife has been coming on in recent years. With (relatively) cheap drinks compared to Western European cities, you will indeed have a beautiful night out on the town.

Take A Day Trip

There are lots of day trip options from Montenegro; one easy-to-make one is:

Take A Day Trip To The Unexplored Country Of Albania

Best Hotels In Berat, Albania - Cobbled Streets

Albania is, to many, one of the most beautiful countries in Europe . Though it is off the beaten path of an average European trip, many travelers are unaware of all it offers. And, especially, at a fraction of the price of Western European countries, which are more often traveled.

Albanians are hospitable people who love seeing people visiting their country and sharing its beauty. Whether you are a beachgoer, mountain hiker, or enjoy exploring old city walls, Albania is like a bigger version of Montenegro in that it has a little bit of everything for all kinds of travelers .

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The Best Towns To Visit In Montenegro

Podgorica, the capital of montenegro.

Formerly known as Titograd, Podgorica is a relatively new city, as most were destroyed in WWII. While most of the city was destroyed, some important landmarks remained, like the Petrovich Castle, built in 1891, and Christ’s Resurrection Cathedral, the largest building in the country. Another must-visit site is the Centre for Contemporary Art of Montenegro, where you’ll find an art collection from 60 different countries with over 1000 pieces.

The second-largest city is located right in the center of Montenegro and is an ideal base for exploring the rest of the country. The Ostrog Monastery (mentioned earlier) is close to Niksic, and the pace of life here is laid back but still lively – an exotic blend that works! This is also the center point for the production of Niksicko beer, so be sure to sample it.

Places To Visit In Montenegro - Cetinje

At the base of Lovcen Mountain, you will find Cetinje’s historical and cultural treasures . Thanks to King Nikola, it is rich in 18th and 19th-century architecture, with many embassies being constructed in the picturesque city.

Herceg Novi

Things to do in Herceg Novi Montenegro - Aerial view of forte mare in herceg novi

The fortified gateway to the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro’s star attraction, Herceg Novi, is home to several churches, fortresses, and other architectural highlights. Additionally, its setting on the bay’s shore is nothing short of sublime, its shoreline promenade lined with busy bars, revered restaurants, and cozy cafes. There’s even a beach, as well as excellent opportunities for hiking and cliff jumping .

dobrota-montenegro_montenegro-travel-blog

Located in the north, not too far from Kotor, is Dobrota, a town that sits at the foot of some of the country’s highest mountains. Apart from its beauty, one of the town’s main attractions is the various palaces, with Tripkovic Palace being one of the largest. These are still very well preserved, and you can tour around many of them, checking out how the wealthy used to live!

This is an old town known for fishing back in the day, but it is really now better known for what lays around it; set next to Lake Skadar, this is the ideal location for all manner of outdoor activities, including walking and birdwatching. The views are also fantastic.

Budva Montenegro

Best Beaches In Montenegro - Mogren Beach Budva (1)

A tourism hotspot in Montenegro , Budva is famous for its stunning coastline and beaches; it is for sure one of the most beautiful places in Montenegro. It has a 21-kilometer-long coast, arguably the best in the Adriatic, with 17 beaches and many hotels in Budva that line the shore.

There are so many things to do in Budva you will be spoiled for choice. The Old Town of Budva has a history that dates back 2,500 years, sits on a picturesque peninsula, and is filled with cultural and historical treasures. Be sure to visit the Church of Saint Trojica.

Tip: This is a very popular day or weekend trip from Dubrovnik since driving from Dubrovnik to Budva doesn’t take much longer than two and a half hours. You’ll cross the Bay of Kotor on the way, which is definitely a perk worth mentioning, too.

Best Beaches, Lakes & Rivers In Montenegro

There are dozens of options; let’s go through the best ones.

Budva Riviera

The Budva Riviera stretches out for 35 kilometers along the Adriatic Sea coast on both sides of Budva. It’s a major hotspot in the Montenegro travel industry and a hugely popular beach destination. Of those 35 kilometers of coastline, no less than 12.5 kilometers are beaches. There are about twenty separate beaches here, the greatest of which include the following:

  • Slovenska Beach
  • Mogren Beach
  • Kamenovo Beach
  • Bečići Beach
  • Sveti Nikola Island
  • Pržno Beach
  • Kraljičina Beach
  • Sveti Stefan

A Beach For Everyone In Ulcinj

Balkans Travel Blog_Top Coastal Villages And Towns In Montenegro_Ulcinj

Whether you like rocks, sand, or shingles, Ulcinj has a beach for everyone . The massive Velika Plaza (12 kilometers long), Mala Plaza, and Ada Bojan are the best sandy beaches to visit. This charming tourist resort is ideal for a summer getaway, with many hotels and restaurants to cater to your every whim.

At the foot of Durmitor Mountain lies Black Lake (Crno Jezero). This is the largest glacial lake in the UNESCO-listed Durmitor National Park. The lake is split into two, Big Lake and Small Lake, and lies on the fringes of an ancient cone forest. The lake is an absolute must-see site when exploring the Durmitor National Park .

Tara River Canyon, Europe’s Deepest Canyon

Montenegro In Winter - Tara Canyon

The Tara River Canyon is the deepest on the European continent and is seriously impressive, too. The waters are clear and shimmer in various shades of blue, perfect for a spot of white water rafting if you are an adrenaline junkie. You’ll get a great view of the Canyon from Djurdjevica Bridge, which happens to be 172m above the Tara River and is a major tourist attraction. The area around it is also ideal for other outdoor fun, such as hiking and mountain biking.

Best Accommodation & Spas In Montenegro

Splendid spa, becici.

splendid-spa-montenegro-accommodation_montenegro-travel-blog

By reading this list, you will notice that Montenegro is a natural and laid-back country, so it makes sense that there will be some fantastic spa resorts dotted around it. Becici in Budva has a Splendid Spa, one of the best in the country, and here you can enjoy upmarket treatments to give you proper R&R.

Key Festivals & Events In Montenegro

Head to the sea dance festival.

sea-dance-festival-montenegro_montenegro_travel_blog

The middle of July is party time in Budva, with an annual music and dance festival . The resort comes alive with various musical performances and parties on the beach – a perfect time to combine this festival with a beach break .

Now you have your list of Montenegro attractions and sights to enjoy when visiting Montenegro. See how many you can tick off the list during your stay. Are you still wondering what to see in Montenegro? Comment below, and we will try to help you.

  • Buying A SIM Card In Montenegro
  • Guide To Visiting Sveti Stefan
  • Best Beaches In The Balkans
  • Check Out Montenegro In Winter

Comments (10)

Wow, this is a truly complete guide! I only made it to Budva and Kotor a few years ago. Bookmarked!

Nice guide. If you come again, lets get in contact as we are insiders in Bar and Ulcinj area.

Gotta agree with most, great review, and those pictures are absolutely stunning!

Awesome info and photos!

Wow , seems like very cool place to stay.classical places like that can be very inspiring and can influence our life’s more than we think…………

Wow, no copy paste on text. I just had to type out the names to look at them on a map. Not cool. Otherwise a lovely blog.

Great round-up post! Most people need to check a map to see where Montenegro is, which is such a pity as it’s an epic travel destination! Their new citizenship by investment program should help put the country on the map more prominently though.

Great article! a lot of useful information! I would like to share my story of how I purchased baggage insurance before departure, how can I contact you?

Thanks, feel free to contact us here https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/work-with-us/

Montenegro is a wonderful country that has a lot to offer tourists and whoever comes once will want to come again. The flight to Podgorica went great, we rented a car in cars4rent for fifteen days, we visited beautiful places when this virus passes we will come again.

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The Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

Montenegro Travel Guide

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY  DISCLAIMER .

Montenegro is truly the gem of the Balkans and a magical place to travel in. This stunning country lies nestled between Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania, with a long stretch of its coastline on the beautiful Adriatic Sea. Montenegro will delight you with its endless array of places to visit with its fjord-like Bay of Kotor, beautiful beaches, the incredible turquoise Piva River and the jaw-dropping scenery of the Durmitor National Park.

Party the night away in Budva, relax on the beaches, immerse yourself in nature on incredibly scenic hikes, visit monasteries or get your adrenaline pumping while white water rafting or zip lining. Whatever your desire, Montenegro will be able to provide you with your ultimate travel experiences.

Most tourists gravitate to Kotor and the coast, but the Northern part of Montenegro was definitely my favourite. The incredible Tara River Canyon, the Durmitor National Park and the incredible turquoise waters of the Tara and Piva Rivers, will have you spellbound with their beauty.

Unlike its very popular neighbour, Croatia, Montenegro has yet to become a major travel destination, so you can still enjoy all the beauty of this wondrous country without all the crowds.  In 2016 Kotor was named as the Top City To Visit In 2016 by Lonely Planet, so it won’t be long before this changes, so get here quickly!

In this Montenegro travel guide , we have put together all the things you need to know about traveling, sightseeing, staying and touring during your trip to Montenegro.

View of Lake Skadar from Besac Fortress

Montenegro Travel Guide: What You Need To Know

Money   |     Montenegro uses the Euro even though it is not yet part of the EU. The cost of food, drinks and accommodation vary depending on where you are. The coastal area near Budva and Kotor are infinitely more expensive than the Northern Part of the country. ATM’S are widely available.

Is It Safe  |    The Balkans seems to received a really bad rap with a lot of people being concerned about my safety while traveling here. My experience was completely the opposite and I actually found Montenegro to be one of the safest places I have ever traveled in.

Language  |    The local language is Montenegran which is very similar to Serbian. During our month in Montenegro, virtually everyone we encountered could speak English, but the locals definitely appreciate it if you can say some basics, like Hello and Thank You.

Schengen Status  |    Montenegro is not a Schengen country, but they will grant you entry if you have a Schengen visa, a UK Visa or a USA visa. UK, EU, USA and Australian Passport holders do not require a visa either. Entry will allow you to travel for up to 90 days only.

Visas  |    You do not need a visa to enter Montenegro

Connectivity  |    We found wifi to be widely available in Montenegro even in the remote Northern parts of the country. Mobile data is cheap and much cheaper than in the EU. I would highly recommend purchasing a local prepaid SIM card for the duration of your stay.

Getting There  |    Montenegro is easily accessible from Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania by car. There is also a good bus network with the bus trip from Dubrovnik being the most popular. If you are coming from Belgrade in Serbia, you can catch the train to the capital city of Podgorica. From here you can catch a 2hr bus to Kotor. For those wanting to fly in, there are two airports. Flying into Podgorica will require you to either catch a bus further or to hire a car, while if you fly into Tivat you can easily catch a taxi for the 20minute ride to Kotor or Budva. However, the flights to Tivat will be more expensive as it is a much smaller airport.

Getting around  |   Montenegro has a fair network of public buses and taxis are reasonable, but if you really want to see some of the most spectacular spots, you really do need to have a car. The coastal roads are very good, as are most of the interior roads, but there are some stretches with roughly hewn tunnels with no lights, some crazy serpentine roads and a few very narrow places where passing oncoming cars was rather tight. That being said, there are hardly any cars on the road in the North, so you can take things slow and enjoy the ride. The scenery in Montenegro is truly spectacular and will want to stop often, so self-driving is definitely the most recommended method of travel. Hire a car in Kotor or Podgorica and enjoy the open road! Find the best car rental deals here .

Where to Stay  |    Montenegro has a myriad of accommodation options so something to suit every budget. It goes without saying that the popular places will be more expensive, but as you go inland from the coast, you will notice a vast difference in the prices. Find the best deals for accommodation in Montenegro here.

When to Visit  |    High season is from June to August. These are the hottest months and also the busiest months when parties are in full throttle in places like Budva and Kotor can get very crowded. The shoulder seasons of May/June and September/October are the most ideal. The weather is still glorious, there are far fewer tourists and prices come down. Montenegro also has a winter season with a number of ski destinations in the Durmitor National Park

Travel Insurance  |   Don’t forget a good travel insurance!

Montenegro Travel Guide: Where to Go & What to See

The Bay of Kotor   |   Nestled below majestic mountains lies the fjord-like Bay of Kotor with its quaint seaside villages

  • Things to Do in Kotor in Montenegro
  • Hiking the Kotor City Walls and the Ladder of Kotor
  • Hiking the Vrmac Ridge above the Bay of Kotor
  • The Picturesque Town of Perast on the Bay of Kotor

Budva Riviera  |   Dazzling you with a  rich nightlife and lazy beach days

  • Journey to the famous Horseshoe Bend & Montenegro Beaches

South Coast  |   Beautiful beaches, ancient old towns and family friendly places

The old town of Stari Bar in Montenegro

  • A Trip Down Montenegro’s Coast: Crows, Crowds & Kites

Central Region  |   Mountain passes, lakes, monasteries and the capital city.

  • Lake Skadar National Park: Boat Trips and Bird Watching
  • Road trip from Bosnian Border to Ostrog Monastery

Northern Region  |    Mountains, canyons, turquoise rivers, hiking, adventure sports and the most stunning scenery

  • White Water Rafting on the Tara River
  • Pluzine: Piva Lake, Piva River and Too Many Tunnels!
  • Durmitor National Park: The Best Road Trip I’ve Ever Done!
  • Hiking the Black Lake in Zabljak, Montenegro
  • Exploring the Tara River Canyon & Zip Lining at the Durdevica Tara River Bridge
  • Nothing’s a problem in Mojkovac!

The Whole Country   |   Cities, beaches, mountains, lakes and more

  • The Best Places to Visit in Montenegro

Recommended Tours in Montenegro

Kotor Boat Tour: Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula and Blue Cave    |   See Montenegro’s most popular attractions, including Our Lady of the Rocks, on a boat tour. Swim in the Blue Cave, known for its iridescent color. Check prices and more info.

Kotor 90-Minute Guided Walking Tour    |   Explore Kotor, the city of merchants and sailors, on a 90-minute guided tour that takes you through more than 2,500 years of turbulent history. Discover the spectacular architecture surrounding the squares of this UNESCO-listed fortified city. Check prices and more info.

From Kotor: Montenegro Tara Rafting    |   Feel the most exciting experience in Montenegro – white-water rafting on Tara River, part of Durmitor National Park. Tara canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe, and one of the most beautiful places in Montenegro. Check prices and more info.

From Kotor: The Great Montenegro Full-Day Tour    |   Join a 12-hour tour where you’ll see some spectacular viewing points, incredibly beautiful places and historic monuments. Visit Njegusi village, Lovcen National Park with its mausoleum, Cetinje, Crnojevic River and Sveti Stefan. Check prices and more info.

Kotor: Ostrog & Rijeka Crnojevic Private Tour   |   Visit Ostrog Monastery, one of the most visited sites in Montenegro, and one of three most visited Christian destinations on the planet with its cave-like chapel. After the monastery visit, go to Rijeka Crnojevic. Check prices and more info.

Kotor: Day Trip to Lovcen & Skadar Lake    |   This tour includes the most impressive sights available for a day trip out of Kotor. Have amazing views of the Bay of Kotor, local food in Njegusi village and visit two national parks (Lovcen Mountain and Skadar Lake) and the old royal capital of Cetinje. Check prices and more info.

Montenegro coastline

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Travel guide to Montenegro, everything you need to know

Jeanne and her son Tai have been full time travellers since 2017. They are lovers of all things travel with an insatiable desire to explore every last corner of the globe. Homeschooling and working as they move from one incredible location to the next. Their goal is to use their travel guides and stories to inspire others to explore the world.

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13 stunning places to visit in montenegro: the most beautiful country, a trip down montenegro’s coast: crows, crowds & kites.

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I’ve never been to Montenegro, but it looks like a beautiful place to visit! Yay for wifi and no visas needed, and that water looks gorgeous!

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I still can’t get over the colour of the rivers in Montenegro and the beauty of this tiny country. I hope you manage to get there one day!

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I wish to visit Montenegro and thanks to your post it makes me more sure it is a good idea (after the travel ban is over).

I will save your post for later and as soon as I make the plan about visiting this country, I will definitely grab some ideas from your blog post and will follow your great advice for sure!

Thank you for sharing this article with us and I wish you all the best!

When you are ready to travel, I hope that my posts will give you all the information you need to create a fabulous itinerary!

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A first timer's guide to Montenegro

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

  • roughguides.com
  • a-first-timers-guide-to-montenegro

written by Heidi Fuller-Love

updated 19.06.2019

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Fringed by the Adriatic on one side and rugged mountains on the other, Montenegro (the name means "Black Mountain") makes an ideal introduction to Eastern Europe. It's peaceful and safe and is a great destination for solo travellers. Our first timer's guide to Montenegro will help you get your bearings for a trip to this small yet beautiful place.

What to expect in Montenegro

Top things to do in montenegro, tailor-made travel itineraries for montenegro, created by local experts.

Balkan Puzzle

17 days  / from 3401 USD

Balkan Puzzle

A visit to the Balkans is an incredible experience, get ready for memorable flavours of the traditional cuisine and hospitable locals while you explore the sights: stunning panoramic views, tiny to the Adriatic coastline, idyllic and fertile valleys, pristine rivers and lakes.

A Montenegro Adventure

7 days  / from 1755 USD

A Montenegro Adventure

This is exactly what it sounds like - a trip that will take you across the small, yet magical country of Montenegro and allow you to explore its beauty from the stunning coast on the South, to the mountains and lakes on the North.

Epic Montenegro

9 days  / from 1965 USD

Epic Montenegro

Do you want to experience the joy, both of simple mountain life as well as the modern, luxurious spirit of the coast, then Montenegro is just the right place for you! Enjoy rafting, canyons, national parks and old towns and make your trip unforgettable.

Southern Pearls

10 days  / from 2327 USD

Southern Pearls

This ten-day trip will take you around three adjacent countries, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Montenegro. Your tour starts in Split, Croatia, moving south (hence the name "Southern Pearls") over the island of Hvar and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina to end up in Montenegro.

Serbia & Montenegro

14 days  / from 2807 USD

Serbia & Montenegro

If you are curious and looking for a remarkable journey filled with true wilderness, lovely people and life-changing adventures then Serbia & Montenegro are a must-visit! Enjoy the diverse UNESCO sites, glorious mountain peaks and crystal blue waters during this exciting 14-day trip.

Balkan Extended

13 days  / from 3153 USD

Balkan Extended

The Balkan Extended tour truly showcases the finest of Balkan’s heritage and natural beauty as you make your way through the 5 countries. Learn about the Serbian Athens, climb the splendid Old Bridge in Mostar, observe Slovenia's water castle and dive into the pearl of Croatia's beauty in Istria.

Balkan & Adriatic

10 days  / from 2569 USD

Balkan & Adriatic

The most relaxing Balkan & Adriatic tour! This trip is for travellers who are interested in visiting different locations in the Balkans but prefer a comfortable way of travelling. Get to know parts of Serbia, Montenegro and the beautiful towns of Croatia, all while travelling at a slow pace.

Croatia and Slovenia: An Adriatic Adventure

12 days  / from 4535 USD

Croatia and Slovenia: An Adriatic Adventure

This expansive trip celebrates the splendour of Croatia and Slovenia, with their wondrous hilltop towns and stunning cities, such as Dubrovnik, Ljubljana and Split. Experience the wine and olive oil-making traditions of these two countries, and go truffle hunting on the Istrian Peninsula.

Nature & Culture

12 days  / from 2959 USD

Nature & Culture

Inspired by timeless natural and cultural landmarks of the area, this trip is taking you through the highlights of Croatia, Southern part of Bosnia & Herzegovina and coastal Montenegro.

Balkan Essentials

10 days  / from 2191 USD

Balkan Essentials

The Balkans are stunning and you will have a chance to experience their beauty during this 10 day-multiple country trip. Feel the welcoming vibe of Belgrade, visit Kotor, Europe's unmissable town, walk down the famous Bridge on Drina and observe stunning Plitvice Lakes.

Explore the Balkans

10 days  / from 1970 USD

Explore the Balkans

Enjoy the sights of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia in one trip - the best of the Balkans! Stroll through the old towns, marvel at the historic buildings and stunning natural landscapes as you make your way through these four interesting countries.

From stunning scenery and beautiful beaches to thrilling activities and sumptuous food, this bite-sized Balkan country which sits between Europe and Asia offers something for every taste. The beach-studded coastline of this country, which was once a member the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, is dotted with small fishing villages, ancient churches, and fortified towns, but the uncontested star of Montenegro’s striking seascape is its UNESCO-recognised Bay of Kotor.

Head inland along winding mountain roads and you’ll find remoter destinations such as the dense bear- and wolf- thronged forests of the Durmitor National Park, Biogradska Gora’s primeval forest or the Tara Canyon, Europe's Grand Canyon and a popular base for white-water rafting.

Despite adopting the Euro in 2002, Montenegro is still budget-friendly with plenty of great value accommodation options ranging from sobe, the clean simple rooms rented by private house owners, to luxury resorts where rooms, especially outside of the summer season, are surprisingly affordable.

Thinking of visiting Montenegro? We can help! Our new tailor-made trip service will connect you with a local expert to plan and book a trip designed especially for you.

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The Djurdjevica bridge over the river Tara in Montenegro © Miroslava Durcatova/Shutterstock

Food is great value, too and there's a host of traditional dishes to taste. Must tries include meltingly tender smoked prosciutto from the mountain village of Njegusi, the shellfish and prawn dish buzara and the local Vranac wines. If you’re on a tight budget look out for cevabdzinicas : grilled meat shops where you can fill up on beef and pork cevapi sausages for cheap.

Hire cars are relatively inexpensive, too and it’s best to have your own transport if you want to really explore. Although slower and less frequent, there are also buses that travel to most of the main sights, but for panoramic views you can’t beat the slow train which runs between Bar and Belgrade via Podgorica and Skadar lake.

Boat in the bay

The beautiful Bay of Kotor, known locally as Boka (which just means ‘the bay’) is a water wonderland dotted with ancient churches and medieval and Venetian-era settlements. The best way to explore is to take a boat trip with an outfit like Kotor Bay Tours . Stop offs en route include The Blue Cave, a grotto surrounded by brilliant turquoise waters and Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island which, according to legend, was created some five centuries ago after two brothers discovered an ancient Madonna icon on a rock here. Longer boat trips will also stop over at Perast, a tiny atoll described as ‘the Montenegrin Venice’ because of its streets lined with ancient churches and Baroque palaces that were once home to Russian Czars and Venetian Princes.

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The beautiful Bay of Kotor © canadastock/Shutterstock

Where to eat, hike and stay

Back in Kotor town lace up your trainers and hike the 1,355 steps alongside the great wall that once protected the city from invaders, to reach the top of mount Sveti Ivan. Pause to take in the views over the glittering bay far beneath, then head back to explore Kotor town’s tangled web of cobbled streets, lined with honey stone buildings that are home to tiny restaurants, and stores selling everything from sun cream to local fruit brandy rakija and traditional black and red kapa hats.

Back in the bay have lunch at Verige65 – a restaurant with panoramic views of the Verige strait – whose modern take on local dishes includes a delectable prosciutto dish, served with homemade sausage and local cheese. Spend the night at Portonovi resort, an elegant waterfront resort close to the laidback town of Herceg Novi (and some of the bay’s best beaches), which was built to look like a traditional village. Alternatively, head for Hervceg Novi town and bag a budget bed at Guesthouse Tomanovic.

Explore buzzing beaches, great lakes and grand canyons

Further along the coast, Budva, known as ‘the Montenegrin Miami’ because of its beautiful (but crowded) beaches and lively (but expensive) nightlife scene, is a good starting point for boat trips to visit pretty St. Nicholas Island and some of the region’s best beaches. An hour or so inland from Budva, Skadar, which is Southern Europe’s largest lake, sits on the border with neighbouring Albania. Also known as Shkodra, Shkodër or Scutari, this vast stretch of water is a haven for migrating birds and rare species, including big beaked Dalmatian pelicans and a host of rare and exotic lizards. The best way to explore is to hop on one of the small fishing boats that shuttle back and forth over the lake’s lily-strewn waters.

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Budva from the air © Tjasa Razinger/Shutterstock

From here it’s a few hours drive, or bus ride to Durmitor National Park, home of the spectacular, 1.3km deep Tara Canyon which is the world’s second deepest, right after Arizona's Grand Canyon. High flung capital Zabljak, with its restaurants serving traditional food and its great value sobes makes an ideal base for exploring this wild and lovely region. Whether you choose to swim in the Back Lake’s icy waters, zipline across the Tara Canyon or take an exhilarating white water rafting trip along the Tara River, this is the perfect place to end your first trip through one of Eastern Europe’s most fun and friendly countries.

Need to know before you go

  • Although English is spoken widely, you’ll make instant friends if you use a few Montenegrin words - try zdravo (hello) and hvala (thankyou).
  • Away from tourist areas many shops, hostels and restaurants do not accept credit cards – make sure to have some euros on hand if you decide to get off the beaten track here.

Find more ideas for your trip to Montenegro in our guide to the best things to do in Montenegro .

Top image: Kotor seen from Sveti Ivan fortress © eFesenko/Shutterstock

Heidi Fuller-Love

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Travel advice for Montenegro

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Montenegro

  • How to get to Montenegro
  • Travel Tips Montenegro for planning and on the go
  • Culture and Etiquette in Montenegro
  • Eating and drinking in Montenegro
  • Getting around Montenegro: Transportation Tips
  • Sports and Outdoor activities in Montenegro
  • Best time to visit Montenegro

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Two Monkeys Travel Group

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary: How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Discover and learn a lot about Montenegro in this 3  day Montenegro Itinerary ! Know how you can maximize this limited time in this country!

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Thinking of going to Montenegro on your next out-of-country travel? You’re on the right page! If you want to have an amazing holiday trip in this country but you only have a limited time, this 3 day Montenegro itinerary might help. We listed down the most popular and visited places here that are possible to visit in just 3 days. Of course, 3 days is probably not enough, but that’s better than not going at all, right?

Other articles you can read:

  • How To Get a Job in Montenegro as a Foreigner [Find Work in Montenegro]
  • 11 Benefits of Living in Montenegro as a Resident – Why You Should Move to Montenegro
  • Eat Your Way Through Montenegro and Albania: Cuisine of the Two Western Balkan Countries
  • 5 Reasons Why You Should Meet Halfway in Montenegro
  • How to Get a Long Term Visa and Residency Permit in Montenegro

Table of Contents

Recommended 3 Day Montenegro Itinerary

Day 1 – kotor, perast, and herceg novi.

7 Day Montenegro Itinerary Experience Montenegro in 7 Days!

If you’re not really familiar with Montenegro, the best way to introduce this country to you is by spending it in Kotor. With a lot of places to explore and things to do, Kotor will absolutely complete your Balkan trip. Museums, beaches, medieval places, name it and this town has it. When you’re in Kotor, then it is best to visit the Bay of Kotor. Never forget this place! The Bay of Kotor could be one of the most extremely gorgeous places on Earth. It only requires an easy car trip from Dubrovnik. Go here and spend a fabulous day sailing the bay, admire the scenery, and enjoy the moment. Kotor bay and its medieval town also look so picturesque when viewed from a distance. Just take note that it is best to avoid the peak season (summer) when going here to avoid the crowd.

Spend your day at the Town of Kotor as well. There are lots of squares to visit and cafes to stop in for a break. Take a walk through the narrow streets as there are a lot of narrow alleyways and interesting buildings to discover. From Kotor, you can go all the way to Perast. And from there, enjoy coastal villages that you will pass through while on the way to Risan. As you follow the path around the bay, you will end up in Herceg Novi – popular for its fortresses and stairs. 

Recommended Accommodation

Guest House Villa Živanović

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Guest House Villa Živanović is set in Zelenika, 2 km from Herceg Novi. It offers rooms with air conditioning and free WiFi, available throughout the property. All rooms comprise a private bathroom with a shower and a hairdryer, as well as a fridge. Some come with a furnished balcony. The property also has a shared patio where breakfast is served.

Price: Starts at $22 per night for a Double Room with Balcony , add $2 for taxes and charges, $5 for breakfast, and it’s partially refundable.

Iberostar Selection Kumbor

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Situated in Herceg-Novi, 2.6 km from Lalovina Beach, Iberostar Selection Kumbor features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and a fitness center. The hotel has an indoor pool, evening entertainment, and a 24-hour front desk. The property offers beach equipment (loungers and umbrellas) free of charge. The rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. It also offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

Price: Starts at $191 per night for a Deluxe Double or Twin Room with Mountain View , add $4 for taxes and charges, breakfast included, and it offers a free cancellation.

Two Monkeys Tours

Day 2  – Pluzine and Durmitor

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

The next day, visit Piva Lake via the road Risan – Nikšić from the Bay of Kotor. You can reach Piva Lake in just 2 hours by this road. While on the way, you will see a magnificent view of the bay. The first stop on the road will be in Plužine, which is the start of a very nice road trip: Plužine – Trsa – Boričje. If you follow this path, you will pass through Piva Nature Park. As you go along, you will get closer to Mount Durmitor and you can finally end up at the National Park. The Durmitor National Park offers a very stunning panoramic view. It will also take you to Žabljak. Since Durmitor is a group of mountains, expect that you’ll be entering a place full of nature and adventure. Then, after a long day of driving and few stops, relax at the Black Lake and enjoy a magnificent peaceful time here. 

Domaćinstvo Krstajić

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Located in Žabljak in the Zabljak County region and Black Lake reachable within 8 km, Domaćinstvo Krstajić provides accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden, and free private parking. A patio with garden views is offered in all units.

Price: Starts at $18 per night for a Twin Room with Garden View , add $2 for taxes and charges, and offers a free cancellation.

Apartments Casa di Pino Eco Lodge

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Offering a bar, Casa di Pino Eco Lodge provides accommodation in Žabljak. Each unit offers a fully equipped kitchenette, a flat-screen TV, a living room, and a private bathroom. Guests at the apartment can enjoy a continental breakfast and it offers a terrace. Guests can also relax in the garden. Black Lake is 2.6 km from the accommodation, while Viewpoint Tara Canyon is 6 km from the property.

Price: Starts at $101 per night for a Standard King Room , add $2 for taxes and charges, breakfast included, and it offers a free cancellation.

Day 3 – Cetinje

10 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Enjoy Montenegro in 10 Days!

On your 3rd day, visit the town of Cetinje where you can go to the Loven National Park. Going here, all roads shown on maps are passable and well developed. The whole area is ideal for cycling, hiking, walking, and picnicking. The good thing is that you can walk from the Njegos mausoleum to another platform with a better all-around view. Just a day and night spent in Cetinje will make your last day trip in Montenegro more memorable than usual. 

Apartman L&M

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Located in Cetinje in the Cetinje County region and Lovcen National Park reachable within 20 km. Featuring a kitchen with a microwave, each unit also comes with a satellite TV, ironing facilities, desk, and a seating area with a sofa. A terrace with garden views is offered in each unit. Guests can also relax in the garden.

Price: Starts at $24 per night for a Two-Bedroom Apartment , add $2 for taxes and charges, and offers a free cancellation.

Hotel Dapčević

3 Day Montenegro Itinerary How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

Situated in Cetinje, 6 km from Lovcen National Park, Hotel Dapčević features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, and a terrace. All rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer, and a desk. At the hotel, the rooms include a wardrobe and a private bathroom. A continental breakfast is also available each morning at the hotel.

Price: Starts at $54 per night for a Comfort Quadruple Room , add $2 for taxes and charges, $6 for breakfast, and it offers a free cancellation.

And that’s our 3-day Montenegro Itinerary. We hope that your short stay in Montenegro will be filled with joy and new fun experiences. So if you’re planning to visit this Balkan country in the near future, please share with us your thoughts!

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EPIC Montenegro Itinerary For 5-10 Days (No Car Needed!)

montenegro travel.me

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Planning a trip to Montenegro ? It’s a beautiful and underrated country you’re going to love. During this Montenegro itinerary, I’ll help you plan where to visit, what to do, how to get around and more. Montenegro is one of the most beautiful countries in the Balkans , if not all of Europe . With a spectacular coastline and catholic churches (rather than the mosques in Ottoman-influenced Balkan countries like Albania and Kosovo ), it feels like a lesser-visited Croatia and makes a great addition to any Balkans itinerary . Although Kotor and Budva are cruise ship stops these days, the prices are still lower and the streets are nowhere near as packed as Split or Dubrovnik despite being just as picturesque (in my opinion). The day trips you can take encompass spectacular hiking, history, coastline and cuisine.

MONTENEGRO ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ), bus Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Getting around: car /bus

5 to 10 days in montenegro

How to plan a Montenegro itinerary

Initially, I felt confused when planning my trip because most sources on the internet suggest hiring a car and exploring Montenegro as a road trip. As a solo traveller and non-driver, this wasn’t the best option for me. After my trip, I can confirm there are at least 2 fantastic ways to plan a Montenegro trip:

  • Option #1 – base somewhere central like Kotor and take day trips. This a great option whether you have a car or not.
  • Option #2 – move around and spend a few nights in different places. This is easiest with a car because you can visit iconic places en route and save time.
  • Option #3 (what did) – a combo. Spend a few nights in Kotor or Budva exploring central Montenegro during day trips, then pick a new destination(s) for the final few nights.

Getting to Montenegro

By air – the main airport is in the capital, Podgorica. I use Skyscanner to find cheap flights, searching by whole month to see the cheapest dates to fly. By car – popular places to arrive from include from Croatia , Albania, Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. By bus – I arrived via the southern border by bus from Albania (side note, if you think Montenegro is beautiful, consider hiking in the Albanian alps !). My trusty mode of transport in Europe, the Flixbus , cover some routes in and out of Montenegro. Where they don’t operate, it’s easy to get local buses. From Kotor, I caught a bus to Mostar , Bosnia & Herzegovina booked on the Busticket4me website. By boat – some people arrive by cruise but this would never be my chosen method of transport!

Getting around Montenegro

By car – this is obviously a great option with all freedom to you. I recommend Rentalcars.com for hiring vehicles in Montenegro. By bus – you don’t need a car for your Montenegro itinerary: there’s a decent bus network. I used BusTicket4Me to book journeys between towns, always for under €10. Day tours – companies like GetYourGuide and Viator have lots of trips and excursions from popular towns like Budva and Kotor. It’s easy to jump on these and see a lot during one day. Group tours aren’t everyone’s cup of tea but they’re a good way to meet other travellers if you’re flying solo .

Budva or Kotor?

These two destinations are very different. Booking to stay in the wrong one (by which I mean the wrong one for you based on your travel style – there’s no ‘wrong’ option!) could impact your trip considerably. So, what’s the difference between Budva vs Kotor ? Well, Kotor is more historical and charming, while Budva is more of an upmarket and relaxing holiday destination known for highrise hotels and fancy resorts. I spent most of my time in Kotor as I found it more appealing, however honeymooners and families may prefer Budva. The two popular bases are just a 30-minute drive away so it’s easy to travel between them, plus you can book all the same Montenegro excursions from either place.

The ultimate Montenegro itinerary 

The itinerary I took aims to explore as much of Montenegro as possible. So if it’s your goal to squeeze in all the sights and visit as many places as possible, follow along!

  • Kotor – up to 5 nights (depending how many day trips you want to take)
  • Budva – 2 nights
  • Stari Bar – 2 nights.

Let’s get stuck into the details…

Days 1-5 – Kotor

kotor montenegro itinerary

Kotor is a gorgeous town with a well-preserved Old Town comprising quaint alleyways, cute cafes and authentic restaurants. When you walk outside of the old city walls, you’ll be greeted with spectacular Boka Bay. As I was visiting Montenegro without a car, it was easiest to stay in Kotor and explore the many beautiful places in Montenegro via small group tours with GetYourGuide and Viator .

Things to do in Kotor:

  • Hike up St John’s Fortress – observe 1,000 years of history as you take the challenging but rewarding hike of 1,350 stairs to the best viewpoint in town. Instead of paying at the official entrance, take the Ladder of Kotor for free passing the Cheese Shop where a local family serve homemade snacks and pomegranate juice.
  • Visit the quirky Cat Museum or simply meet friendly street cats around Kotor Old Town
  • Maritime Museum – learn about the history of the city through stories and exhibits about ships and the sea
  • Go kayaking in the bay
  • Visit Saint Tryphon’s Cathedral and look over the main square from the balcony
  • Walk through the Sea Gate to see authentic local life at Kotor Farmer’s Market
  • Relax on Kotor Beach and take a coastal walk to relaxed Dobrota neighbourhood.

Read next: what to see & do in Kotor, Montenegro

kotor old town

Where to stay in Kotor

  • Hostel – Old Town Kotor Hostel is easily the best budget accommodation with comfy dorm rooms with lockers, a swimming pool and daily activities from sunset BBQs and boat cruises. Check availability from €25 .
  • Budget hotel – stay at Boutique Hotel Astoria for lovely, individually designed rooms just metres from the beach. Check availability from €75 .
  • Midrange hotel – Hotel Monte Cristo inside a traditional Old Town building has a terrace restaurant for breakfast and large rooms with period features from €116, while Hotel Libertas has a swimming pool and ocean views from €113.
  • Apartments – stay at Wine House Apartments for city centre accommodation from €35 and Apartments Babilon for the best sea views from €78.
  • Browse all hostels on Hostelworld and apartments and hotels on Booking.com .

Where to eat in Kotor

Marinaio restaurant kotor

On to the important stuff!

  • Marinaio – delicious cheese and meat platters with a glass of wine for €10.99! The best bargain in Kotor if you ask me.
  • Pizza Pronto – budget travellers will be pleased to hear about giant €3 pizza slices! Two make a decent cheap lunch or dinner.
  • Cafe Mone – head here for healthy food and brunch including avo toast, salads, smoothie bowls and quality coffee.
  • BBQ Tanjga – for an absolute meat feast, this local restaurant slightly out of the old town has grilled meat served with chips, salad and local dips.
  • Restobar Taraca – veggies, vegans and lovers of Asian cuisine will be in their element at this cool restaurant with riverside seating.
  • Cattarissimo / Marshall’s Gelato – the best places in town for dessert! Try the cream cake at Cattarissimo and the pistachio gelato at Marshall’s.

Day 1 – explore Kotor

Spend your first day settling into Kotor and ticking off some of the activities above like the Fortress hike and museums. In the summer, I’d recommend climbing the fortress either early in the morning or late in the afternoon to beat the heat. Sunset from the top is spectacular but take into consideration you’ll have to hike down as it’s getting dark.

Day trips from Kotor for days 2-5

  • Durmitor National Park – the small town of Zabljak is the launching point for hiking around the famous Black Lake . Hikers may wish to spend 1-2 nights here to explore properly and take numerous hikes. If you’re more about the scenery, it’s easy to visit as a day trip via car or group tour .
  • Boka Bay – the bay surrounding Kotor is easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited. The best way to explore it is by boat.
  • Ostrog Monastery – this 17th-century monastery is a popular pilgrimage site following the well-renowned ‘Ostrog miracles’. More details to come…
  • Tara Canyon – the largest and deepest canyon in Europe is a must for your Montenegro itinerary. One of the most popular ways to visit is by rafting through it .
  • Lake Skadar National Park – this spectacular lake bordering both Montenegro and Albania is a popular place for river cruises and Insta-worthy photoshoots.
  • Perast – there are few European villages more idyllic than Perast with its sea views and €5 water taxi rides across to Our Lady of the Rock floating church.
  • Herceg Novi – another lakeside town past Perast with beautiful ocean views and architecture.
  • Tivat – quite the contrast to Perast and Herceg Novi, this waterfront village (15 minutes from Kotor by car) is known for yachts and designer shops.
  • Keep reading for some highly-rated tours visiting multiple places during the same day.

Let’s dive into these options in more detail…

Boka Bay boat cruise

Bay of kotor

The Bay of Kotor is full of wonderful surprises like caves creating brilliant blue optical illusions, a hidden wartime submarine bunker, a floating church and sublime towns nestled on its banks. Despite all this, my favourite part was the simple pleasure of jumping into the clear waters and soaking up the scenery. It’s a stunner! The best way to visit is by boat trip from Kotor. There are plenty to choose from but this 3-hour speedboat tour includes all the highlights or you can opt for a more leisurely 8-hour sailing trip .

our lady of the rock

On the banks of the bay, around a 20-minute drive from Kotor, this tiny town is nothing short of idyllic. Things to do in Perast include visiting Church of St Nicholas and Bujovic Palace and looking across the bay to Our Lady of the Rock, a church on a manmade island with a captivating legend behind it. Take a €5 boat tour from Perast if you haven’t already visited during a Boka Bay boat trip. If you’re visiting by car, you could stop in for an hour before heading to other bayside villages like Tivat and Herceg Novi. To visit by public transport, set aside half a day. The local bus costs €1.50 each way, departing at 15 mins past the hour from Kamelija shopping centre and returning from Perast beach parking area at 25 past the hour.

Tivat montenegro

Fancy Tivat may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it’s certainly an impressive addition to any Montenegro itinerary. From yachts in the harbour to high-end stores selling Prada and Versace, it feels worlds away from historic Kotor YET it’s only a 15-minute drive. Although Tivat wasn’t a match for my backpacker’s budget, it’s worth a visit to see how the other half live, or treat yourself to grilled seafood at one of the many harbourfront restaurants. Some Boka Bay boat trips will call here so check their itineraries if you want to visit.

Herceg Novi

At the foot of Mount Orjen looking across the Bay of Kotor, Herceg Novi is another idyllic town to check out. Surrounded by mimosa trees growing pink flowers (sadly not mimosa cocktails, my initial hope) there’s even a Praznik Mimosa Festival dedicated to them. With a well-preserved Stari Grad (Old Town), it takes around an hour to drive from Kotor, passing by Perast first. This would make a beautiful road trip!

Ostrog Monastery

Ostrog monastery itinerary montenegro

17th-century Ostrog Monastery is a brilliant white church that stands out against the craggy brown and orange Ostroška Gred cliffs behind it. Dedicated to St Basil of Ostrog (at the time known as the Bishop of Herzegovina), it has a reputation as a pilgrimage spot partially because of the Ostrog miracles. Intrigued? So was I. The legend goes that St Basil was influenced by God to build this monastery and selected three caves for the church and its relics. When a huge fire wreaked havoc in 1925, the two most important sections miraculously survived. By this point, the miracles were already in full swing. After St Basil was buried at the church, he started to appear to locals in dreams and seemingly heal their ailments. People soon started visiting Ostog Monastery in search of redemption, health and good fortune. Getting there: driving from Kotor takes around 2 hours. Many day trips visiting Durmitor National Park include a stop at Ostrog.

Skadar Lake National Park

Skadar lake

The largest lake in the Balkans can be seen during either an Albania itinerary or a Montenegro one. Known for its wide array of birdlife, lilypads and scenic viewpoints, it’s an idyllic place to explore. There are two little villages, Virpazar and Vranjina, that act as launching points for boat trips . Getting there: it takes 1.5 hours to reach Skadar from Kotor by car or you can opt for a day trip that includes it . If you plan to visit Bar later in your Montenegro itinerary (keep reading to learn why you should), it only takes 45 minutes to reach the park so one idea is saving it ’til then.

boat on skadar lake montenegro itineraey

Cetinje (old capital)

There’s little debate as to whether the old capital of Cetinje is more beautiful than the new capital of Podgorica. Spoiler, it is!

Cetinje old capital

The small, inland town of Cetinje began life in the 15th century and became the grand capital of Montenegro in 1878. However, after WWII, the capital was moved to Podgorica and placed under communist rule with the name of Titograd (translating as Tito City referring to the Yugoslavian leader, Tito). Although Cetinge is no longer the capital, it’s a beautiful place to visit beside Lovcen National Park. It’s around an hour’s drive from Kotor and a stop on some day tour schedules .

Lovćen Mountain

Lovcen nat park montenegro

At the heart of Lovcen National Park stands Lovćen Mountain offering incredible views from the top. Here you’ll also find the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, the famous Montenegrin leader and poet. If you have a car, it’s best to visit early in the morning before the tour groups arrive. I visited as part of a tour and, although it was busy, it’s a lovely spot.

Tours from Kotor

Great Montenegro tour – this is a great option to see a lot during one day. We started in Njeguši village for a local cheese and wine (champion’s!) breakfast and continued to Lovcen Mountain, the historic old capital of Cetinje, Lake Skadar (stopping at the famous viewpoint, having lunch then boarding a boat trip), finally finishing with sunset beside Sveti Stefan. It was a busy but amazing day! Book from €59 . Tour North Montenegro – visit Ostrog Monastery, Tara Canyon & Durmitor Nat Park during one day. Browse tours to Ostrog & Durmitor . Tara Canyon rafting tour – this is a fun option to experience the beauty of Tara Canyon during an adrenaline-filled day rafting down the river. A skilled guide and all your safety equipment are included. Book from €50 .

Sample Kotor itinerary

  • Day 1 – enjoy Kotor town
  • Day 2 – take a Boka bay boat trip
  • Day 3 – visit towns around the bay such as Perast, Herceg Novi and Tivat. If visiting by public transport, just visit Perast
  • Day 4 – Great Montenegro tour to Lovren, Cetinje and Lake Skadar
  • Day 5 – day trip to Ostrog Monastery and Durmitor Nat Park.

Days 6-7 – Budva

Note – this could also be a day trip from Kotor If you’re pushed for time.

Budva sunset montenegro itinerary

Another place to check out during your Montenegro itinerary is Budva. From Kotor, it’s just 30 minutes by car or 40 minutes by €2 local bus. Stay overnight to explore the beaches, walk to Sveti Stefan and enjoy the restaurants and nightlife. Things to do in Budva include :

  • Explore the historic Old Town with cobbled streets and atmospheric alleyways. There are 3 characterful churches, Holy Trinity, St. Sava and St. John the Baptist, with a pleasant square between them.
  • Let your hair down – after sundown, the Old Town becomes more lively with plenty of bars opening their doors.
  • Enjoy the beaches. Greco is closest to town but it’s worth travelling the 3km to Becici which is much nicer. Mogren Beach is another popular spot where you can lounge on the sand or go cliff jumping… If you dare!

The final thing to do in Budva deserves its own section…

Sveti Stefan

Stevi stefan

This stunning islet on the Budva Riviera is an exclusive hotel owned by the 5* Aman Resorts. Although non-guests (AKA us peasants who can’t afford to splash out €800 a night) can’t go onto the island itself, it’s an iconic spot for photos, especially at sunset. The history of Sveti Stefan dates back to the 15th century when it was fortified to protect against invasion from the Turks. It was once home to 400 people but, after the population declined, it was repurposed as a playground for the elite (such as Sylvester Stalone and Claudia Schiffer) with a heydey in the 1970s. It fell into disrepair during the 90s but has since been restored. Recent celebrities to visit include tennis star, Novac Djokovic, who got married there in 2014. Getting there: it’s around 6km from downtown Budva. While it’s easy to get there by car, bus or taxi, a recommended activity is to walk there, soaking up the coastal views. Sunset is easily the best time to visit!

Days 8-10 – Stari Bar

Stari bar montenegro itinerary

The first stop on my Montenegro itinerary after crossing the border from Albania was the charming town of Stari Bar (Old Bar) near the larger coastal town of Bar. Although most people come to Montenegro for the coastline, this charming inland town is well-preserved with an ancient fortress, cobbled streets, beautiful scenery and authentic restaurants. A real hidden gem! Spending a few days here relaxing was an absolute dream after my busy 2 month Balkans itinerary! But you could also swing by as part of a road trip in just a couple of hours. There’s not loads to do in Stari Bar but that’s part of the charm. Visiting the Fortress is the main attraction (€3 entry) and the Old Olive Tree is also worth a visit, thought to be over 2,000 years old making it one of the world’s oldest! As I mentioned before, it’s easy to visit Lake Skadar as a day trip from Bar. Book your boat trip in advance . Where to eat in Stari Bar:

  • Merak – this lovely cafe serves a fantastic breakfast of lokum (pancakes) with honey and jam, best served with authentic Turkish mint tea in a silver pot with sugar cubes.
  • Konoba Bedem – the best place for an authentic Montenegrian dinner with sharing platters of local meat, cheese and veggies, plus seafood dishes, pasta and more.
  • Restaurant Kaldrma – next door to Bedem is another lovely local restaurant with a colourful outdoor seating area serving traditional dishes and desserts.

Bar castle

Getting to Stari Bar: obviously you can arrive by car (1 hour 15 minutes from Kotor, 1 hour from Budva and 1 hour from Podgorica), otherwise you can arrive into Bar bus station. From here, get a taxi (€10) or a €1 local bus (the Mediteran Express) to Stari Bar.

Where to stay in Stari Bar

To be honest, the whole reason I came to Stari Bar was to stay at the Grove , a highly-rated hostel inside an old mill converted into some of the best budget accommodation I’ve ever seen! Each guest gets a double bunk bed with an orthopaedic mattress but the real treat is the garden area beside the river with hammocks, a little swimming pool and fruit trees. It’s a sociable place to stay with staff organising daily trips hiking and to waterfalls and Skadar Lake. There are also regular group dinners to local restaurants and a pizza oven in the garden. Best hostel ever! Book from €15. 2024 update – the Grove is now open as a hostel only for the summer season; book on Booking.com from €25 a night . Not a hostel person? Guest House Endi is an affordable budget hotel while Apartments Villa Bar has a beautiful pool and outdoor area. Kula Boutique is the best mid-range hotel.

Alternative stops for your Montenegro itinerary

  • Ulcinj – close to the border of Albania and the banks of Lake Skadar, this beautiful Adriatic settlement dates back to the 5th century. With a predominantly Albanian population and an Ottoman feel, it blends culture, history and sublime coastline. You can explore the town in a few hours but 1-2 days is an ideal amount of time to spend should you wish to relax.
  • Komovi – this spectacular mountain range is a favourite with hikers. Štavna pasture is a good base at the heart of the range with chalets to stay overnight.
  • Prokletije National Park – there are few places in Europe more striking and underrated than the mountain ranges between Montenegro and Albania. Hikers and nature lovers take note!
  • Piva Canyon and Piva Lake – another unbelievably beautiful lake near Durmitor National Park in Northern Montenegro measuring 45 metres in length and 200 metres in depth. It’s the perfect spot for sightseeing, photography, swimming and boat cruising.

Durmitor nat park

Best season to visit Montenegro

Summer (late June-early Sept) is the most popular time to visit Montenegro , especially during school holidays. However, the weather can be almost too hot (up to 42 degrees Celcius) plus it gets very crowded. Shoulder seasons (March-early June and mid-Sept-Oct) are the perfect times to visit in my opinion with fewer crowds, milder weather and better deals on accommodation. Winter (late Oct-Feb) – is the low season with many businesses closed and temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius. However, you’ll get great bargains and have places all to yourself!

Hiring a car in Montenegro

Although I completed my Montenegro itinerary without a car, it’s certainly beneficial to have one. You may even save money when you consider the cost of taking organised day trips to out-of-town attractions. If you’re an independent traveller who hates crowds and tour groups, you will definitely want to hire a car! I would recommend Rentalcars.com for hiring vehicles in Montenegro and around the world. You can pick it up in Podgorica, Kotor, Tivat or Budva and either return it to the same location or, for a small surcharge, select a different drop-off point.

Coastlien montenegro

Costs of visiting Montenegro

Montenegro is geographically located between Croatia and Albania/Bosnia & Herzegovina and the costs match this. Even the most population destinations are far cheaper than Split and Dubrovnik but I personally found it expensive after getting used to paying €5 for dinner in the other, cheaper Balkan countries! Some average prices are:

  • Meal and drink in a restaurant – €12-20
  • Bed in a hostel dorm – €15-25
  • Budget hotel – €50+
  • Local intercity bus ticket – €1
  • Bus in between cities – €5-10.

Is Montenegro worth visiting? Absolutely! Montenegro is one of the most underrated countries in Europe, in my opinion, along with Albania. I’d advise you to plan a trip sooner rather than later.

Is it worth visiting Podgorica? The capital gets a bad rep and to be honest, it’s justified. Podgorica isn’t very pretty or exciting so I’d say you can miss it. However, if the cheapest way to arrive in Montenegro is to fly into Podgorica airport, it’s not so bad. Spend a day and move on.

Where’s the best place to fly into? Podgorica is usually the cheapest option but Tivat also has a small airport close to popular tourist locations like Kotor and Budva.

How many days do you need in Montenegro? I would say you need at least 5 days in Montenegro but you could easily spend up to 2 weeks enjoying the various destinations without getting bored. I spent around 10 days in Montenegro.

Thanks for reading!

Check out all my Balkans blogs including my Balkans itinerary .

Serbia: Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia | Is Belgrade worth visiting? Kosovo: What to do in Pristina, Kosovo Albania: The ultimate Albania itinerary | Things to do in Tirana, Albania | Theth hiking guide North Macedonia: Attractions in Skopje, North Macedonia Romania: 2 week Romania itinerary | What to do in Brasov, Romania | Things to do in Timisoara, Romania | hidden gems in Bucharest | Romania travel tips Bulgaria: 2 days in Sofia, Bulgaria | Hiking Rila Lakes in Bulgaria | Visiting Rila Monastery, Bulgaria

Slovenia: The perfect Slovenia itinerary | Things to see and do in Ljubljana | wine tasting in Ljubljana | the best restaurants in Ljubljana Croatia: 7 day Croatia itinerary | Things to do in Split | Split day trips | Split restaurants | Split coffee | Krka falls from Split day trip | What to do in Trogir | Things to do in Dubrovnik | Lokrum island guide | Croatia solo travel | What to do in Zagreb | Zagreb cafes | Plitvice day trip from Zagreb | Zagreb street art | things to do in Zadar | Pag island | Dugi Otok Island Bosnia & Herzegovina: Things to do in Mostar | The top attractions in Sarajevo | Reasons to visit Sarajevo

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING MONTENEGRO Getting there by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

montenegro travel.me

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

2 thoughts on “ EPIC Montenegro Itinerary For 5-10 Days (No Car Needed!) ”

montenegro travel.me

What a wonderfully written blog! My wife & I made a last minute plan to travel to Montenegro from London a couple of days ago & we’re flying in a day’s time. I didn’t know where to start with my itinerary but this article has really helpful me to plan my travel so thank you very much!

The only question that I still have is around getting to Kotor from Podgorica airport. I was planning to take the bus but considering I’ll have a luggage (appx. 20 kgs) & my wife (I don’t have to carry her fortunately ;)), I’m not certain if I’ll be able to drag it to the bus station considering it’s a 1 km away. I’m considering hiring a taxi but I’m not certain which taxi service to use, if I’ll be able to book one on the airport as I don’t want to get on the street & be scammed by a taxi company right away. Please do inform if I should get a taxi or a bus & if it’s the former which service to book & from where? Any help will be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Regards, Rohit

montenegro travel.me

Hey Rohit, thanks for reading and commenting! Sorry, I haven’t done this journey myself. I’m sure either will be ok, you may just pay a tiny bit more than they’d charge a local but at least it’s not a long journey.

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3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro (Best Montenegro Itinerary 3 Days)

Read about how to spend 3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro and read this beautiful Montenegro travel guide.

👉🏼Epic Croatia Itinerary 10 Days + Best Places To Visit, Daywise Things To Do, & Vegan Food

3 Days In Montenegro Places to visit in Montenegro

Montenegro is one of the best countries to travel to within Europe. This small Balkan country is located in Southeast Europe beside the Adriatic Sea and surprises all with its enchanting beauty. It is a relatively new travel destination; therefore, it is not crowded with tourists, and many cities remain in their authentic condition. Exploring this stunning country for three days is the perfect time to see all the major towns and taste all the different Montenegrin offerings. You will be amazed to see the quirky and rustic Montenegro attractions with many things to do. 

MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE- 3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

The best part about Montenegro is its size. It is so tiny that it takes only around 4 hours to drive from one end of the country to the other. This small size means that going from city to city is easy, and almost all major cities are an hour away at most. Despite its small size and the proximity of the cities, every city and town feels entirely different and has its own unique identity and vibe.

Therefore, it never feels like you are repeating a city and seeing the same thing twice!  Montenegro is generally a favorite destination and tops the list when creating your Balkan holiday planning guide .

3 Days In Montenegro - Places to visit in Montenegro

3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

Be prepared for Montenegro in 3 days, a lifetime journey that will both awe and amaze you. Not only do mature travelers enjoy this place, but kids also enjoy this beautiful country. Visiting Montenegro with kids is also fun; therefore, it is a family destination too. 

Day 1:  Bay of Kotor | 3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

Arriving from Croatia, the cities along the Bay of Kotor are the logical first stop on this adventure. There are a few towns and villages to stop at and explore along the way that will start Montenegro’s adventures off with a bang.

3 Days In Montenegro Places to visit in Montenegro

Herceg Novi

The first town you will come across after passing the Montenegrin border is Herceg Novi. This little town is the perfect first stop to get a taste of a remarkably new and authentic city in Montenegro. The town of Herceg Novi is one of the less frequented tourist spots due to its smaller size. However, it holds all the same beauty and excitement as the others.

There are tons to do in Herceg Novi. Some options include going to a beach , walking the promenade, or hiking. Moreover, Herceg Novi has some stunning scenery due to the vivid blue waters the city is constructed beside and the mountains in the background.

After Herceg Novi, the following notable stop is in Perast. Perast is a tiny village along the Bay with a charm like no other. The town is all white stone buildings and stone walkways. The best things to do here are swimming, taking a trip to the museum, wandering the streets, or drinking in a cafe with locals.

Our Lady of the Rocks

3 Days In Montenegro - Places to visit in Montenegro

Off the shore from Perast is a small island called Our Lady of the Rocks. This island was built by Perast citizens throwing rocks into the water to make enough land to construct a church. This tiny island only holds a church and Monastery; however, both these buildings are stunning, and the inside is a museum with historical and significant artifacts.

Kotor is the most popular and touristy location in Montenegro. Throughout the summer cruise ships come to this city to explore its beauty. The main attraction of Kotor is the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site full of stunning architecture, old churches, and local shops. More so, a famous hike up the mountain offers stunning panoramic views of the Bay. Hike 1350 steps to the top of Kotor’s city walls for enchanting views. 

  • Click here to book your stay in Kotor or a hotel with perfect view .

Day 2: Coastal Towns |  3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

From the Bay of Kotor, a few coastal towns are quite popular and unique, and day two is for exploring them.

Tivat is a unique city in Montenegro that is very different from all the others. This city was recently remodeled and arriving here feels like you’ve left Montenegro and teleported to Monaco. Tivat is a yacht port home to some of the world’s most beautiful and grandest yachts.

Despite its upscale environment, there is a ton to do in Tivat that doesn’t require a big budget. Some options include spending the morning at the Porto Montenegro pool club, walking along the new promenade, or admiring the yachts.

  • Click here to book your perfect hotel stay with view in Tivat. 

Following a morning in Tivat, it is time to visit Budva. This city is a stunning coastal town that lies along the Adriatic Sea. As a result, sandy beaches are abundant here with clear blue waters. Having a beach afternoon is a great way to experience Budva’s best attraction.

After some time in the water, you can explore the city streets and take in the beautiful city.

Sveti Stefan

Just 15 minutes from Budva is the lovely Sveti Stefan. This area is home to some iconic orange thatched roof houses, stone buildings, and blue waters. Sveti Stefan is a small area but holds a magical charm.

There is a famous beach in Sveti Stefan called Queens Beach that is said to be the most beautiful in the world.

3 Days In Montenegro - Places to visit in Montenegro

Watch  3 Days In Montenegro – Montenegro Itinerary 3 days

Day 3: Historic Cities |  3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

The final day of the 3-day itinerary is for exploring the Southern cities in Montenegro that just so happen to be very historical. Be prepared to learn many of Montenegro’s complicated past on today’s adventures.  

The first city to stop at during day 3 is Bar. This city is a beautiful coastal location with a rich history waiting to be explored. The significant part about visiting Bar is that it is not a touristy city, which is a welcome break from other cities in Montenegro.

Southern Montenegro is known for its abundance of olive trees that fill the earth. However, one tree outshines the others due to its shocking age. The Old Olive Tree is said to be 2,200 and is the oldest tree in European and possibly the world. The tree is fenced in, but you can see it from a distance away. Therefore, the Old Olive Tree is the first thing you must see while in Bar.

More so, the Old Town in Bar dates back to 800 BC, and it is half reconstructed and half in its original state. This construction provides Bar with a unique Old Town that is fascinating and enlightening to explore.

Ulcinj is another historic city that dates back to the 5th Century BC. This makes it one of the oldest towns in Montenegro. As a result, the town is packed with history and significant findings that are great for experiencing and learning about Montenegro’s past. The city also has an Old Town with much history and showcases Montenegro’s complicated past.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MONTENEGRO – Beautiful Montenegro

  • March to October.
  • 240 days of sunshine throughout the year.
  • Typical Mediterranean climate.
  • July to August are peak season and crowded with tourists.

CURRENCY OF MONTENEGRO

Though not included in European Union, this country’s currency is also Euro. 

HOW TO REACH MONTENEGRO –  3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

  • Montenegro can be reached by air through its major international airports of Tivat, Podgorica, and Niksic.
  • Also, you can reach Montenegro from Croatia because Croatia is its neighboring country. Take a flight to Dubrovnik International Airport and then take a road trip. Only enter this country through recognized border crossings. Check visa policies for this country by clicking here. 

FOOD TO TRY OUT IN MONTENEGRO

  • Rastan(a vegetable dish)
  • Cicvara (cow’s cheese)

Hope you enjoyed reading about beautiful things to do in Montenegro with the best Montenegro itinerary 3 days. Montenegro attractions suit all types of travelers like beach lovers, countryside lovers, adventure and luxury travels, mountain lovers, mountain lovers, and peaceful, relaxing travelers. I would love to hear about some of the most remarkable experiences from your Montenegro travel.

USEFUL READS –  3 Days In Montenegro – Places to visit in Montenegro

  • Jet Lag tips .
  • Travel Tips .
  • How to choose Perfect stay / hotel .
  • Other Balkans country if you would love to visit like – Glorious Greece .

Samantha Karen is a guest writer for this Montenegro Itinerary post on Travel with me 24 x 7 blog and is the founder of her travel bog Sam Sees World. She is a millennial traveler on a mission to seek the new and unknown so she can document her experiences and inspire others to travel this wondrous world.  You can also follow her on    Instagram   and   Pinterest. 

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3 day Itinerary

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Discover the Best Food in Montenegro: A Culinary Guide

Montenegro, a small Balkan country in Europe, is a hidden gem for food enthusiasts. Its landscapes, from the Adriatic coast to the Tara River, offer a culinary fusion of Mediterranean flavors and Balkan influences. Traditional dishes vary by region, showcasing unique specialties. From fresh seafood to hearty meat dishes, Montenegro's cuisine reflects its rich history and culture.

Foto: Shutterstock

Key Highlights

  • Montenegro offers a diverse range of culinary delights, influenced by its geographic location and neighboring countries.
  • Traditional Montenegrin dishes include seafood delicacies, Njeguši prosciutto and cheese, traditional meat dishes, burek, kačamak, palačinke, crni rižot, and local wines.
  • Montenegro's coastal and mountainous regions offer contrasting culinary experiences.
  • Montenegrin dining etiquette and cultural traditions enhance the overall culinary experience.
  • Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Montenegrin cuisine, with an emphasis on olive oil and Mediterranean flavors.
  • The average cost of a meal in Montenegro for tourists is affordable compared to other European destinations.

Exploring the Culinary Wonders of Montenegro

Crnogorska jela, Montenegro Tourism

Montenegro offers a rich culinary experience that showcases traditional Montenegrin dishes and the influence of the Adriatic coast. From fresh seafood to traditional meat dishes, Montenegro's cuisine is a fusion of flavors from neighboring countries and its own unique traditions. Whether you're exploring the coastal towns or venturing into the mountainous regions, Montenegro's culinary wonders, including the famous Balkan pita, are sure to leave a lasting impression.

1. Discovering Montenegro's Seafood Delicacies

Crnogorska jela, Montenegro food, Montenegro dishes, Montenegro Tourism

Montenegro's proximity to the Adriatic Sea means that seafood plays a significant role in its culinary scene. The coastal towns are renowned for their freshly caught seafood delicacies, including prawns, squid, octopus, tuna, and mussels. Here are some must-try seafood dishes in Montenegro:

  • Grilled or fried squid: Enjoy the tender and flavorful squid, cooked to perfection on a grill or pan-fried.
  • Octopus salad: Indulge in a refreshing salad made with tender octopus, mixed with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.
  • Black risotto (crni rižot): A unique dish made with squid ink, giving it a rich black color and a unique flavor.
  • Fresh seafood platter: Sample a variety of seafood delights, including prawns, mussels, and fish, all served together for a true taste of the Adriatic.

Montenegro's seafood dishes reflect the country's coastal charm and the bounty of the Adriatic Sea.

2. The Rich Flavors of Njeguši Prosciutto and Cheese

Crnogorska jela, Montenegro food, Montenegro dishes, Montenegro Tourism

Montenegro is known for Njeguši prosciutto and cheese , a traditional delicacy from the village of Njeguši. Made from pig hind legs, it is salted and air-dried with for months. This tender ham has a rich aroma and savory taste, perfect for appetizers or charcuterie platters.

Smoking of the prosciutto

To complement the prosciutto, Njeguški cheese is often served alongside. This cheese is made from cow's milk and has a salty and tangy flavor. It pairs perfectly with the prosciutto, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. When visiting Montenegro, be sure to try this iconic duo of Njeguši prosciutto and cheese for a true taste of the country's culinary heritage.

3. Traditional Montenegrin Meat Dishes: A Must-Try

Meat cooked in clay pot is a delicacy

Meat lovers will be delighted by the array of traditional Montenegrin meat dishes available. Montenegrin cuisine places a strong emphasis on the use of quality ingredients and slow-cooking techniques, resulting in rich and flavorful dishes. Here are some must-try meat dishes in Montenegro:

  • Veal or lamb under the bell (ispod sača): This cooking method involves slow-cooking meat and vegetables in a covered metal dome. The result is tender and succulent meat with a smoky flavor.
  • Balšića tava: This dish features boiled veal that is roasted in a pan and combined with a delicious sauce made from eggs, milk, and sour cream.
  • Grilled meats: Montenegrins are known for their expertise in grilling meats. Try grilled sausages (ćevapi) or mixed meat platters for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

These traditional Montenegrin meat dishes showcase the country's culinary heritage and are a must-try for meat enthusiasts.

4. Savoring the Unique Taste of Burek

Burek, Montenegro dishes, Montenegro Tourism

Burek is a beloved dish in Montenegro and throughout the Balkans. It is a flaky pastry filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, spinach, or potato. Burek has its origins in the Ottoman Empire and has become a staple in Balkan cuisine.

The pastry is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough and filling it with the desired ingredients. It is then baked until golden brown and crispy. The result is a delicious savory pastry that can be enjoyed as a breakfast dish, a snack, or even a main course.

In Montenegro, burek is often enjoyed with a side of plain yogurt or sour cream. The combination of the flaky pastry and the creamy filling creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

5. Montenegro's Comfort Food: Kacamak

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Kacamak is a traditional Montenegrin comfort food made from cornmeal, akin to porridge. Served with butter, cheese, and cold milk or yogurt, this hearty dish warms the soul. Slowly cooked in water or milk until creamy, it's perfect for winter days or breakfast.

Kacamak is a staple in Montenegrin cuisine and is often enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish with meat or stews. Its simple ingredients and rich flavors make it a beloved comfort food among locals and visitors alike. When in Montenegro, be sure to try kacamak for a taste of traditional Montenegrin comfort food and to experience the country's culinary culture.

6. Indulging in Sweet Palačinke

palačinke, Montenegro Tourism

No culinary journey in Montenegro is complete without indulging in sweet palačinke. Palačinke are thin pancakes that can be enjoyed with a variety of sweet fillings and toppings. Here are some popular options to try:

  • Chocolate cream spread: Spread a generous amount of chocolate cream on the pancake and roll it up for a decadent treat.
  • Jam or fruit compote: Fill the pancake with your favorite jam or fruit compote for a burst of fruity goodness.
  • Honey and walnuts: Drizzle the pancake with honey and sprinkle it with crushed walnuts for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
  • Sugar: As palačinke are very nice flavored on their own, try it with adding some sugar and rolling it.

Palačinke are a beloved dessert in Montenegro and are often enjoyed on special occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the day. Be sure to save room for palačinke during your culinary adventure in Montenegro.

7. The Art of Preparing Crni Rižot

crni rizoto, black risotto, kuhinja

Crni rižot, or black risotto, is a unique dish that showcases the flavors of the Adriatic Sea. It gets its distinctive black color from the addition of squid ink, which also imparts a rich seafood flavor to the dish. Here's a step-by-step guide to preparing crni rižot:

Ingredients:

  • Arborio or Carnaroli rice
  • Squid or calamari
  • Fish or vegetable broth
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper

Preparation:

  • Clean and prepare the squid, separating the ink sacs from the rest of the body.
  • Sauté the chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
  • Add the rice and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Add white wine and let it reduce.
  • Gradually add the fish or vegetable broth, stirring continuously, until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
  • In a separate pan, cook the squid with olive oil and the ink sacs.
  • Add the squid to the cooked rice, along with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
  • Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the flavors meld together for a few minutes.
  • Serve hot and enjoy the unique flavors of crni rižot.

Crni rižot is a must-try dish for seafood lovers, offering a unique taste of Montenegro's culinary heritage.

8. Sampling the Best of Montenegro's Wineries

Montenegro is known for its quality wines, particularly the indigenous grape variety known as Vranac. When visiting Montenegro, a visit to the local wineries is a must to experience the country's rich winemaking traditions.

During your winery visits, you'll have the opportunity to taste a variety of wines, including Vranac, which is known for its rich, dark fruit flavors and firm tannins. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in Montenegro's wine culture and savor the flavors of the region.

9. Unveiling the Secrets of Montenegrin Olive Oil

maslinovo ulje

Montenegro's olive oil is a hidden gem of the country's culinary heritage. The Mediterranean climate and fertile soil provide the perfect conditions for olive tree cultivation, resulting in high-quality olive oil. Montenegrin olive oil is known for its rich and fruity flavors, with hints of grassiness and a peppery finish.

The traditional production methods, which involve hand-picking and cold-pressing the olives, ensure that the oil retains its natural flavors and health benefits. Montenegrin olive oil is often used in salads, marinades, and as a finishing touch to various dishes. Its versatility and unique taste make it a prized ingredient in Montenegro cuisine.

When visiting Montenegro, be sure to sample the local olive oil and learn about the traditional production methods. You'll discover the secrets behind this golden elixir and gain a deeper appreciation for its role in Montenegro's culinary culture.

10. Montenegro's Coffee Culture: Beyond the Bean

Montenegro's coffee culture is deeply ingrained in the country's social fabric. Coffee is not just a beverage; it's a way of life. Montenegrins take their coffee rituals seriously and often gather with friends and family at local cafés to socialize and enjoy a cup of coffee.

The coffee culture in Montenegro has been influenced by the country's Ottoman past, with Turkish-style coffee being the traditional choice. Turkish coffee is strong, thick, and served in small cups. The preparation involves boiling finely ground coffee beans with water and sugar, creating a rich and aromatic brew.

Montenegro's Signature Beverages

Montenegro is known for its signature beverages that reflect the country's culinary heritage and natural surroundings. Two notable beverages to try are:

  • Rakija: This strong fruit brandy, enjoyed throughout the Balkans, is a staple of Montenegrin culture. It is made from various fruits, such as plums, grapes, or apricots, and is often consumed as an aperitif or digestif.
  • Vranac: This indigenous grape variety produces robust and full-bodied red wines. Vranac wines are known for their dark fruit flavors and firm tannins, making them a perfect pairing for Montenegrin cuisine.

These signature beverages offer a taste of Montenegro's rich culinary heritage and reflect the country's vibrant Mediterranean culture.

The Legacy of Rakija: Montenegro's Spirit

Rakija

Rakija is a traditional spirit deeply ingrained in Montenegrin culture. This strong fruit brandy is considered the national drink of Montenegro and is enjoyed throughout the Balkans. Rakija is typically made by distilling fermented fruit, such as plums, grapes, or apricots. The result is a potent and flavorful spirit that is often consumed as an aperitif or digestif.

Rakija holds a special place in Montenegrin traditions and is often associated with hospitality and celebration. It is frequently offered to guests as a gesture of welcome and is a symbol of friendship and camaraderie. Many Montenegrin families take pride in producing their own Rakija, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations.

Vranac Wine: A Taste of Montenegro's Vineyards

Vranac, Montenegro Tourism

Vranac is an indigenous grape variety that is the pride of Montenegro's vineyards. This robust red wine is known for its deep color, rich flavors, and firm tannins. Vranac grapes are grown in the fertile valleys and hillsides of Montenegro, benefiting from the country's Mediterranean climate and mineral-rich soil.

The resulting Vranac wines are characterized by their dark fruit flavors, hints of spice, and velvety texture. They pair perfectly with Montenegro's hearty meat dishes, cheeses, and other local delicacies.

Visiting a vineyard in Montenegro is a must for wine enthusiasts. You can explore the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and sample the diverse range of Vranac wines. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, tasting Vranac wine is a delightful way to experience the flavors of Montenegro's vibrant wine culture.

Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Options

If you're looking for non-alcoholic options, Montenegro offers a range of refreshing beverages. Here are some popular choices:

  • Sour cream ( kisjelo mlijeko ): This tangy and creamy drink is a favorite among Montenegrins. It is often enjoyed on its own or used as a base for refreshing drinks and smoothies.
  • Pomegranate juice (sok od šipka): Montenegro is known for its abundance of pomegranates. The juice is a popular choice for its refreshing and slightly tart flavor.
  • Spring sparkly water (kisjela voda): Montenegro is blessed with natural springs that produce pure and refreshing water. Enjoy a glass of cold spring sparkly water to quench your thirst and hydrate during your travels.

These non-alcoholic options provide a refreshing break from the rich flavors of Montenegro's cuisine and are perfect for staying hydrated on your culinary adventure.

Seasonal and Regional Specialties

Montenegro's culinary offerings are influenced by its diverse regions and the changing seasons. Along the Adriatic Sea, you'll find a variety of fresh seafood delicacies, while the mountainous regions offer hearty stews and soups. The Tara River region is known for its traditional dishes made with local ingredients. Exploring the seasonal and regional specialties of Montenegro allows you to experience the country's culinary diversity and immerse yourself in the flavors of each region.

Summer Delights: Fresh Seafood and Salads

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During summer in Montenegro's coastal towns, enjoy fresh seafood and vibrant salads. The Mediterranean climate is ideal for savoring Adriatic Sea delicacies like grilled squid, octopus salad, black risotto, and more in places like Budva. Pair your seafood with refreshing salads made from local ingredients like tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese—a true taste of Montenegro's coastal charm for seafood enthusiasts.

Winter Warmers: Hearty Stews and Soups

'Brav u mlijeku'

In the colder winter months, Montenegro's cuisine shifts to hearty stews and soups that provide comfort and warmth. Warm up with dishes like kuvani brav (boiled lamb), brav u mlijeku (lamb cooked in milk), and various bean and vegetable stews. These dishes are slow-cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a comforting and satisfying meal. Montenegro's winter cuisine is the epitome of comfort food, showcasing the country's culinary heritage and providing warmth during the colder months.

Coastal vs. Mountainous Regions: A Culinary Contrast

Montenegrin cuisine offers a unique blend of coastal and mountainous flavors. Coastal dishes are Mediterranean-inspired with seafood delicacies, while mountainous cuisine features hearty meat dishes, stews, and soups for colder climates. Explore both regions to discover Montenegro's culinary diversity and unique traditions. Whether you prefer seafood or hearty meat dishes, Montenegro has something special for every palate.

Dining Etiquette and Cultural Insights

In Montenegro, understanding dining etiquette is pivotal for a complete culinary experience. Meal times hold significance, with lunch being the main meal of the day. It's customary to wait for the eldest or the host to start before eating and to maintain eye contact while toasting. Respect for food and local traditions is paramount; finishing everything on your plate shows appreciation. Embrace the leisurely pace of meals and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Montenegrin dining rituals.

Understanding Montenegrin Meal Times and Traditions

Crnogorska jela, Montenegro food, Montenegro dishes, Montenegro Tourism

In Montenegro, meal times and traditions play a significant role in the country's culinary experience. Breakfast is a modest affair, often featuring yogurt and local pastries. Lunch is the main meal of the day, usually consumed around 3 pm, consisting of hearty dishes like stews or grilled meats. Dinner is lighter and is typically enjoyed later in the evening. Montenegrin dining customs emphasize the importance of family gatherings and savoring meals slowly, reflecting the region's rich heritage and community spirit.

Tips for a Genuine Montenegrin Dining Experience

Embrace Montenegrin dining culture by savoring traditional dishes at local family-owned eateries. Enjoy seafood delicacies along the Adriatic coast and hearty Balkan-influenced meat dishes. Pair your meal with Montenegro's olive oil and wines. Appreciate the rich flavors of Montenegrin recipes like Njeguši prosciutto and burek, and engage with waiters for recommendations to experience warm Montenegrin hospitality.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options available in Montenegrin cuisine?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Montenegrin cuisine, offering dishes like savory stuffed peppers, grilled vegetables, hearty bean stews, and fresh salads. Traditional meals can be easily adapted to suit these dietary preferences while still capturing the authentic flavors of Montenegro.

What is the average cost of a meal in Montenegro for tourists?

The average cost of a meal in Montenegro for tourists ranges from $5 (modest breakfast) to $20 (decent lunch), depending on the restaurant's location and type. In coastal areas, prices may be slightly higher due to tourism. Dining in local eateries can offer more budget-friendly options.

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Best hiking and trekking tours in Montenegro!

As an experienced hiking and trekking company, we specialise in offering an inspiring range of hiking and trekking holidays in both remote and beautiful regions of Montenegro in order to create a truly unique wilderness experience! Hiking and trekking tours with us offer the finest trails, spectacular natural beauty, and the chance to explore the regions on foot in a way that few other trips can. Essentially, what this means for you is that you are joining a hiking vacation that puts the quality of the experience above all else!

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Being the leading provider of guided hiking and trekking tours in Montenegro and beyond, we offer a wide range of guided hiking holidays with knowledgeable local guides, passionate about what they do and where they walk. Daily hikes and treks will be guided  through some absolutely stunning hiking trails and the most scenic landscapes. Simply join a small group of like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to experience all the things that make Montenegro worth exploring!

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Our small group tours are ideal for single or solo travellers as you get the chance to join like-minded people. You can also book any of our holidays on a private basis, only for your friends, family or colleagues. Tours are balanced, well-planned itineraries with the flexibility to do your own thing and make the experience your own. We keep our groups small to create a sense of camaraderie and allow for closer connections to the places and people you visit. Most of our hiking and trekking tours in Montenegro have no more than 18 travellers and the usual average is 10-12 people.

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Enjoy the splendor of montenegro at your own pace on multi-day hiking and trekking tours.

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From the moment you make your first inquiry until you depart, you will experience the highest level of personal service.   Our team of professionals takes care of everything, from accommodations to meals to luggage transfers and taxis.

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  1. Montenegro

    Jewels of the Adriatic. Explore the area of the Bay of Kotor and the Montenegrin coast with its enchanting beaches, mighty mountains, and ancient cities that bear the historical marks of Roman, Venetian and Byzantine conquerors! More.

  2. Crna Gora

    Otkrij divlju ljepotu Crne Gore! Ovdje ćeš se na svakom koraku osjećati kao da si dio prirode! Istraži visoke planine, bistra jezera, osunčane plaže!

  3. 21 Things to Know Before You Go Travelling in Montenegro

    12. You must spend a night in Perast when Travelling in Montenegro. 13. Montenegro has two capitals (and only one is worth visiting) 14. Don't skip one of Europe's prettiest (and most underrated) train rides. 15. Don't miss a boat ride on the biggest lake in the Balkans. 16.

  4. Montenegro Travel Guide: 20+ Genuinely Useful Things to Know!

    One afternoon, take a boat trip to the Blue Cave, submarine tunnel, and Our Lady of the Rocks. One day, take the hop-on-hop-off Montenegro bus to Risan, Perast, and Bajova Kula. (Or just take the Blue Line bus for cheaper, perhaps as far as Herceg Novi if you'd like.) One day, take a bus to Budva and Sveti Stefan.

  5. Visiting Montenegro: 25 Essential Tips For Travelling In Montenegro

    Montenegro travel tips: getting around Montenegro. 1. Driving is the best way to see Montenegro. 2. Book your car well in advance if you traveling to Montenegro in the summer. Rent a Car in Montenegro. 3. Parking is a challenge along the Adriatic coast and Bay of Kotor. 4.

  6. The Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide: What to Do, Eat, Stay, and more

    Budget travel —Staying in hostels, using the bus to travel, eating street food or buying groceries — 15 to 20 EUR / day. Mid-range travel — Staying at a nice apartment or hotel, eating at restaurants and cafes, using the bus and/or renting a car — 30 to 60 EUR / day.

  7. Montenegro Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    7. Hit the slopes. Thanks to an average of 120 days of snow each year, Montenegro is the perfect winter sports destination. The ski resorts in Montenegro sit at altitudes of up to 2,181 meters (7,155 feet) and there are over 20 kilometers (12 miles) of slopes to enjoy.

  8. Explore Montenegro: The Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide

    The Mountains of Montenegro: A Walker's and Trekker's Guide - This lovely little book will guide you across all the hills and mountains of Montenegro. So strap on some strong hiking boots, keep this book close, and head out over the hills in search of the best views in Eastern Europe.

  9. Montenegro travel

    Central Montenegro Lovćen's star attraction, this magnificent mausoleum (built 1970 to 1974) sits at the top of its second-highest peak, Jezerski Vrh (1657m). Take the 461…

  10. Montenegro Itinerary: A 5 Day Coastal Itinerary Guide

    Montenegro is a small country that's easy to get around in. While the more time you have the better, 5 days is enough to discover all the gems on the Montenegro coast. If you also want to go inland and discover the mountains and the national parks of the north, 7-10 days in Montenegro is ideal. However, you could spend weeks slowly exploring ...

  11. 52 Top Things To Do & Places To See In Montenegro

    Driving in Montenegro is a piece of cake. 2. Visit Lovcen Mausoleum. Located in Lovcen National Park, the mausoleum of Petar Petrovic II Njegos claims to be the highest mausoleum in the world at 1657m above sea level. Njegos is Montenegro's most famous poet and philosopher and was also the Prince-Bishop of the country.

  12. The Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

    Montenegro is truly the gem of the Balkans and a magical place to travel in. This stunning country lies nestled between Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania, with a long stretch of its coastline on the beautiful Adriatic Sea. Montenegro will delight you with its endless array of places to visit with its fjord-like Bay of Kotor, beautiful beaches, the incredible turquoise ...

  13. A first timer's guide to Montenegro

    What to expect in Montenegro. From stunning scenery and beautiful beaches to thrilling activities and sumptuous food, this bite-sized Balkan country which sits between Europe and Asia offers something for every taste. The beach-studded coastline of this country, which was once a member the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, is dotted with small fishing villages, ancient churches, and fortified ...

  14. 7 Days in Montenegro Itinerary: The Perfect One Week in Montenegro Trip!

    In 7 days in Montenegro, you can discover Old Town Kotor, Perast, and Old Town Budva, and visit the stunning national parks in the interior, such as Lovcen, Lake Skadar, and Durmitor. Tiny in size, Montenegro delivers a powerful punch when it comes to natural beauty. Located in the shadow of the mighty Dinaric Alps, the country has a picture ...

  15. 3 Day Montenegro Itinerary: How to Maximize Your 3 Days in Montenegro

    Table of Contents. Recommended 3 Day Montenegro Itinerary. Day 1 - Kotor, Perast, and Herceg Novi. Recommended Accommodation. Day 2 - Pluzine and Durmitor. Recommended Accommodation. Day 3 - Cetinje. Recommended Accommodation.

  16. EPIC Montenegro Itinerary For 5-10 Days (No Car Needed!)

    Day 2 - take a Boka bay boat trip. Day 3 - visit towns around the bay such as Perast, Herceg Novi and Tivat. If visiting by public transport, just visit Perast. Day 4 - Great Montenegro tour to Lovren, Cetinje and Lake Skadar. Day 5 - day trip to Ostrog Monastery and Durmitor Nat Park.

  17. Guided & Self-Guided Adventure Tours To Montenegro

    3e Travel is an independent tour operator, based in Montenegro. We design active and adventure tours that explore the beautiful, untouched Western Balkans, one of the most diverse, exciting regions of Europe. Our adventure trips can be self-guided or guided and each can be personally tailored to the traveller's interests.

  18. 10 Best Places to Visit in Montenegro

    Check out all the places seen in this video: https://www.touropia.com/best-places-to-visit-in-montenegro/Established as an independent country in 2006, the s...

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    MONTENEGRO TRAVEL GUIDE- 3 Days In Montenegro - Places to visit in Montenegro. The best part about Montenegro is its size. It is so tiny that it takes only around 4 hours to drive from one end of the country to the other. This small size means that going from city to city is easy, and almost all major cities are an hour away at most.

  20. Culinary Delights: Food in Montenegro Guide

    Montenegro offers a diverse range of culinary delights, influenced by its geographic location and neighboring countries. Traditional Montenegrin dishes include seafood delicacies, Njeguši prosciutto and cheese, traditional meat dishes, burek, kačamak, palačinke, crni rižot, and local wines. Montenegro's coastal and mountainous regions offer ...

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    Insider's Guide to the National Parks in Montenegro. Katun - the essence of Montenegrin culture. Why Montenegro is a perfect destination for your family holiday. Complete Guide to Fly Fishing in Montenegro. new flavor meets the old world - unca fibre. Традиционная кухня по-новому - Unca Fibre. Белград.

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    Being the leading provider of guided hiking and trekking tours in Montenegro and beyond, we offer a wide range of guided hiking holidays with knowledgeable local guides, passionate about what they do and where they walk. Daily hikes and treks will be guided through some absolutely stunning hiking trails and the most scenic landscapes. Simply join a small group of like-minded travellers that ...