Enjoy my take on Montenegro’s best places. I lived in the region for a few years and had the opportunity to explore quite a bit. Although this article is the “10 Best Places to Visit in Montenegro” there is much more on offer from Montenegro, too much to cover in this short blog article however It should give you a good starting point. If you have any questions please reach out to us. If you would like to enjoy a luxury tour and let us take care of all the details why not join our Charms of the Adriatic Tour. We spend 10 nights in Montenegro and visit the North, South and Coastal regions, plus Trebinje, Bosnia Herzegovina, Tirana, Albania and Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Montenegro, a small Balkan republic that gained independence in 2006, has become a popular tourist destination over the years. Beautiful beaches, lush mountains, and picture-perfect old villages attract a rising number of tourists each year. It’s no surprise that tourism has become the driving factor behind Montenegro’s rising economy, given the mild Mediterranean climate and outdoor activities varying from walking through one of the national parks, an evening stroll along a beachside promenade or whitewater rafting for the more adventurous.
A trip in Montenegro is great because you can enjoy everything it provides in a country similar in size to the state of Connecticut. Even before rest of the world learns Montenegro’s attractions, savvy visitors will also want to add Montenegro to their bucket list. Montenegro is a very beautiful country, with stunning mountainscapes and lovely beaches with crystal clear water. When confronted with the compelling nature and fine cities that often appear concealed amid the nation’s mountains and valleys, youâll be glad you added Montenegro to your travel list. Montenegro has the most amazing natural features of any European country, with lush countryside blending with heavenly cities to produce something absolutely magnificent and unique. It’s difficult to pick the most gorgeous place in this beautiful country, but somebody has to do it. English is widely spoken throughout the country. If you want to take a Road Trip in Montenegro the roads are in good condition, and it is easy to get around by car.
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Currency: Euro
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Tourist Visa Required: Not for stays under 90 days
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Airports: Podgorica, Tivat (Alternates â Dubrovnik, Croatia – 2 ½ hours drive to Budva or Tirana, Albania 3 ½ hour drive to Budva)
Enjoy my list, I have added a few of my favorites that are unique and off the beaten path and you won’t find them on other Montenegro’s best lists.
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Kotor – The best medieval town
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Budva – The hub of Montenegro – beaches, shopping, restaurants, & nightlife
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Perast – The most beautiful seaside village
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Kolasin – Ski paradise high in the mountains
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Durmitor National Park – Get in touch with nature
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Ostrog Monastery – Monastery high on the mountainside
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Boka Bay – Take a cruise on the bay, sunset drinks, stunning views
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Prcanj – A great place to relax
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Virpazar – Nature & Wildlife Paradise
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Baosici – A hidden gem, small beach community
1. Kotor â The best medieval town
A vacation to Montenegro would not be complete without a stop in Kotor, the country’s most famous tourist attraction and crowning gem. The UNESCO-listed Kotor Old Town is one of the Adriatic’s most picturesque walled town centers, and a worthy challenger to Dubrovnik or Split.
The heritage of the numerous various empires which have occupied Kotor over the ages may be seen in the medieval Roman churches, Venetian palaces, and towering Byzantine towers. The myths and legends accompanying Kotor will have you intrigued, while the sheer quality of the orange-roofed buildings, narrow pathways strung with laundry, and native Kotor cats can have you attaining for your cameras at every step. It feels like stepping back in time as you enter the Old Town over all the gates that still bear Venetian insignia.
The ideal way to see Kotor is to stroll around the cobblestone streets early in the morning before the people arrive. Climb up to St. John’s for a birds-eye perspective of the roofs and turquoise bay outside. The walled town of Kotor lies snuggled into the steep hillsides surrounding the deep canals of the Bay of Kotor, and is recognized one of the greatest preserved medieval settlements on the Adriatic coast. While the architecture of Kotor reflects the different dynasties that ruled the area, it is most known for its Venetian-style Old Town, which is anchored by 12th-century Cathedral of St Tryphon.
The carved stone altar in the cathedral is a magnificent example of Kotor’s Middle Ages stone masonry talents. Hardy hikers who climb the upper town gates to Kotor’s mountaintop stronghold will be rewarded with stunning view of the city surrounding deep-water bay. This walled beauty, a seaside place full of narrow lanes and unseen corners, an effervescent town nestled in the shadows of the majestic Mount Lovcen, is Montenegro’s centerpiece. Kotor, being one of the most famous tourist spots along the Adriatic coast, deserves every traveler it receives.
It is very easy to get lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets, and this is by design. The old town was designed to confuse invading enemies with the maze of streets and their unconventional layout. In Kotor you can enjoy a coffee or a happy hour in one of the many cafes or bars. You will also find many artisan craft shops here as well. There are a few hotels and rooms for rent in the old town.
It is probably best to take a day trip to Kotor and sleep in Budva. However if you want the old world charm of staying in Kotor, its nice.
Activities: Tour the old town, Seaside Lunch or Dinner, Hire a boat cruise on Kotor Bay, Walk along the seaside. Hike up to San Giovanni Fortress, difficult. Beaches & Swimming. Canyoning at Ĺ kurda Canyon, Kayaking, Shopping.
Eat: Lunch BBQ Tanjga (best value – 7 min walk from old town) Dinner Restaurant Galion ( Beautiful evening views)
Drink: Evergreen Jazz Club Old Winery Wine Bar The evergreen jazz club is in a open square and is popular when there is live entertainment. The Old Winery Wine bar is a bit more chill and in the back section of the old town.
Walk: Suggested walking route to get you started – https://goo.gl/maps/xWAwizhGVpTq1nZi7
Alternate walking route along the seaside https://goo.gl/maps/4PunECNsuQ9YK2wVA
Stay: There are apartments/rooms & hotels available, Boutique Hotel Astoria & Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro & Apartmani Art Karampana https://goo.gl/maps/zk9ciDqBTHvC26bk7 The owner is nice and he Is native to the area. The apartment stay was nice and very convenient. I have stayed in these hotels and its a nice experience. In peak season it may get a bit noisy.
2. Budva â The hub of Montenegro – beaches, shopping, restaurants, & nightlife
Budva, at the heart of Montenegro’s coastline, has a charming Old Town, a plethora of beaches, and a number of significant cultural centers, including the childhood house of Serbian novelist as well as politician Stefan Mitrov Ljubia.
Budva is the most popular tourist destination in Montenegro because of its bustling nightlife. After a night out at one of the city’s many pubs, clubs, and restaurants, visitors may relax at one of region’s 35 beaches. Those searching for a more laid-back experience on the Budva Riviera should visit nearby Becici, which has a wonderful sandy beach.
Budva is a great location as a base during your stay in Montenegro, There are many hotels in the town center which is an easy walk to the stone passageways and tiny streets of the Stari Grad, a medieval fortified city which is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There is a long promenade that runs along the seaside and is great for taking an evening stroll or getting in your morning walk. Youâll find families out enjoying the many shops, restaurants and activities. Also there is a smaller walk way right along the harbor and shore with many restaurants serving delicious local cuisine fresh from the sea. I recommend trying the grilled octopus or the stuffed squid with a glass of locally produced wine.
Activities: Beaches, Mogren Beach, Dining, Shopping, Boat Charter, Tour of Budva Old Town & Church of St. John, Nightlife , Cruise, Casinos, Boat Trip to Blue Cave, Sailing, Helicopter Tours, Walking, Explore nearby villages, Budva is a great location from which to take excursions to nearby cities â Sveti Stefan, Milocer Park
Eat: Lunch – Old Fishermanâs Pub Dinner https://goo.gl/maps/fbu6VvHXTFpvigAUA
Restaurant Porto https://goo.gl/maps/LKaDRFPYtu1FXubm9
Olimp Restaurant (waterside dining, great for sunset happy hour)Â Â https://goo.gl/maps/ooqrurKdRr85139C6
Drink:
Casper Bar (Old Town) https://goo.gl/maps/rs31sLa8SHBmCuxV6
Beer & Bike Club (Locals & Live Music) https://goo.gl/maps/YGd55cMAXBHRk3f57
Top Hill https://goo.gl/maps/C8PuFhHCXDRmL9RB8
Opera https://goo.gl/maps/qDx2Xi3d6yA9DuBZ8
Greco Cafe & Bar https://goo.gl/maps/4KtNKBEuzsEBUxyaA
Jeff Bar (Old Town) https://goo.gl/maps/AAgEPyCWKR3wor4y8
Walk:
Old Town â Enter and start walking, you spend hours finding shops and cafes.
Waterside Promenade https://goo.gl/maps/1uEycrNUuQHV5B9s7,
Main Promenade walk https://goo.gl/maps/KTFNU7WxKGXGyHXYA
Shopping:Â Mall TQ Plaza https://goo.gl/maps/gasxEjraDtzpCRBfA
Stay: Astoria Boutique Hotel (Inside Old Town) Avala Resort & Villas,
Parking: â Itâs very expensive to park you car in the city center. Its best to park outside the center and stay at a hotel that is walking distance to city center.
3. Perast – The most beautiful seaside village
Perast is a the most beautiful Baroque town situated between the water and the mountains, located in the midst of the Bay of Kotor, near to the narrow passage that flows out to the Adriatic. Its one main street is lined with charming buildings, crumbling bell towers, and picturesque coastal cafes. A slice of Peraka torta, a delectable almond cake and a local specialty, is a must to eat.
The Venetians founded Perast, which has stately marble palazzos and attractive churches. The 18 Renaissance and Baroque palaces that line the seashore provide witness to the city’s former greatness as a bustling port. In comparison to neighboring towns all along Boka Kotorska, Perast is now primarily residential and relatively tranquil.
Small boats shuttle visitors to and from Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island near to the shore. It was built from old sunken ships and rocks at the site where two local fishermen saw a view of the Virgin Mary. On the island there is a church and a small museum housing artifacts from nearby shipwrecks and the bronze age.
Perast has its own distinct history and culture, with numerous annual festivals honoring the town’s maritime background. After when visitors have left, walking all along harbour at dusk is a wonderful opportunity to take up the essence of Perast. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Kotor.
When in Perast a must do is to have a nice lunch happy hour or dinner at one of the seaside restaurants. Its a very relaxing environment. I always visit Perast when I go to Montenegro.
There are a few hotels in Perast, however most visitors have a day visit and continue on instead of staying there. I have stayed in Perast and it was quite nice to slow down and really get to know the town.
Activities: Beaches, Swimming, Walking, Shopping, Dining, Sites Church of Our Lady of the Rocks – Church of St. Nicholas, Nearby City of Risen, Boat cruise/charter
Eat & Drink: One of the seaside restaurants
Walk: Walk the main street through the town https://goo.gl/maps/vSUxv1agVP59gcDv5
Stay: Heritage Grand Perast There are a few hotels in Perast, however most visitors have a day visit to Perast and continue on instead of staying there. One night or two maximum is enough time to relax and explore around the town
4. Kolasin â Ski paradise high in the mountains
Kolasin is a city in Montenegro’s northwestern region. This mountain town, developed by Turks in the 17th century, is one of Montenegro’s must-see destinations. It is bordered by mountains and is encircled by the Rivers Tara and Moraca. The municipality of Kolasin covers a total area of 900km2.
It becomes a winter paradise and is a popular ski destination as there are numerous ski resorts in the area. Kolasin is a small quaint little town with a pine trees, fresh mountain air and a nice main street with shops and great local restaurants. Kolasin is situated at an altitude of 954 meters and provides good vacation opportunities in both winter and summer. Kolasin is called an air spa due to its elevation and excellent climate.
There are eco farms & rural guest houses in the region which provide farm to table wholesome & delicious food. Some also offer rustic accommodation in a beautiful mountain landscape.
From Kolasin you can travel one hour to Tara River Canyon & Bridge to visit the village here and walk across the famous Tara River Bridge. Maybe you are adventurous and want to try the river rafting on the beautiful Tara River or zip line across the canyon.
The Lake Biograd, which is located in the National Park Biogradska gora and is one of Europe’s three remaining virgin forests, is a popular tourist attraction. At 1094 meters above sea level, Lake Biograd is surrounded by walking pathways.
Activities: Horseback Riding, Walking, Hike Mrtvica Canyon , Visit Biograska Gora National Park, ÄurÄeviÄa Tara Bridge, River Rafting, Skiing, Stay at an Eco Farm / Rural Homes with farm to table food, Jeep Safari, Zip lining at Tara River Bridge.
Eat & Drink: Konoba NiĹĄaviÄ https://goo.gl/maps/1XrB2xDVGANJvvqi9
Restoran Vodenica https://goo.gl/maps/hixSqDvJfwkos5vPA
Konoba AMANET https://goo.gl/maps/8otYKt7StDRjDwRE9
Walk: Kolasin walking route from Bianca Resort to Upper Town Center https://goo.gl/maps/K9cx2SqUW1qezJsW7
Stay: Bianca Resort & Spa https://g.page/biancaresort?share
Four Points by Sheraton Kolasin https://goo.gl/maps/HTjoYRNivfie7f6F8
5. Durmitor National Park â Get in touch with nature
The coast and sea are synonymous with Montenegro, but the country’s spectacular interior landscapes are just as impressive. Montenegro’s eastern half is almost entirely mountainous. Durmitor National Park, in the northwestern corner, is a must-see for hikers, kayakers, and other adventurers. Durmitor National Park in Montenegro has grey Mountains and purple wildflowers.
Durmitor is situated on a 1,500m plateau surrounded by towering mountains, glacial lakes, and deep valleys. The Tara River, which runs through the park for 150 kilometers, has some of Europe’s best water rapids. Trails abound, with the most notable being the day climb to Bobotov Kuk’s top.
In my opinion the perfect day visit to Durmitor is to visit the Black Lake, have lunch at the national restaurant right on the lake. After your coffee, head out for a hike through the forest and along the lakeshore capturing stunning photos of the landscape. Take in the fresh mountain air, and maybe even take a row boat ride on the lake. On your walk back to the car park you pass through the forest with local artisan shops selling their art work, local rakija and honey along the small road.
With wooden houses, meadows, and roving herds of sheep, the neighboring alpine town of Zabljak (the highest settlement in the Balkans) is a great base for exploring Durmitor and is attractive in its own right. When the wildflowers bloom in late April, this section of Montenegro is quite lovely. The park comprises the high mountains of the Durmitor Massif, 18 glacial lakes, and the Tara River, which contains the world’s second-deepest gorge.
In the winter, skiing and snowboarders are the most popular activities, while in the summer, whitewater rafting, camping, and hiking are popular. There are 163 bird species in the park, as well as animals varying from wild pigs to brown bears and the largest variety of butterflies in Europe
Activities: Hiking, Walking, Row boat on the lake, dining, Arts & Craft shopping on the road leading to the restaurant, Skiing, Biking, Canyoning in Canyon Nevidio, Mountaineering, Savin Kuk â Cable car ride to top with panoramic view, Bobotuv Kuk Highest Peak at 2523m.
Eat & Drink: National Restaurant on Black Lake
Walk: From the restaurant walk south along the lake shore, or you can walk through the forest and enjoy beautiful views and the aroma of pine trees.
Stay: Hotels in town of Zabljak
6. Ostrog Monastery â Monastery high on the mountainside
Located adjacent to Montenegro’s second-largest city, Niksic, Ostrog Monastery is the country’s most visited Orthodox Christian site and a key draw for pilgrims from around the world, even if you don’t consider yourself religious,
Ostrog is set on a steep cliff 2952 ft (900m) above the verdant Zeta valley, gleaming white against an ochre stone substrate. The top monastery, dedicated to St. Basil, was founded in 1665. It contains multiple candle-lit abbey and open balconies that create the appearance that the monastery was carved out from the rock.
It’s one thing to see Ostrog from the valley’s marked lookout points, but it’s quite another to walk the stairs and see it up close. A set of colorful iconographic mosaics constructed by pressing tiny bits of sparkling glass and stone straight into the surface of the rock is the more stunning feature.
If you not up to walking up the stairs you can drive to the top where there is car park.
This is a one or two hour stop.
Activities: Monastery Tour, Arts & Crafts Shopping
Eat & Drink:
Sokoline Hotel Restaurant https://goo.gl/maps/z9St2sL6QUZn3VRZ9
Koliba Bogetici https://goo.gl/maps/yNrm2UCZP8BkgrnA8
Stay: Niksic or proceed to Boka Bay region stay in Herceg Novi or Perast / Kotor depending on your continuing route.
7. Boka Bay – Take a cruise on the bay, sunset drinks, stunning views
From Kotor take a drive on the Old Austro-Hungarian Road heading up the mountain to the peak and stop at the 25th serpentine to observe Boka Bay in all its glory. From here you can get awesome photos. Boka Bay is known as Europe’s southernmost fjord and is considered among the most gorgeous bays on the planet.
Boka Bay is divided into four sections, Tivat Bay, Kotor Bay, Risan Bay, & Herceg Novi Bay. The Bay of Kotor is a fantastic holiday location for a variety of reasons, but its most appealing feature is its breathtaking beauty. Though it’s not a fjord, it has the appearance of one, with lush mountains giving an epic background to the bay’s azure waters. To the west, the Orjen Mountains and to the east, the Loven Mountains surround this lovely harbor.
The Verige Strait’s narrowest portion is barely 340 meters (1115 ft) wide. The Bay of Tivat is located at the further end of the bay. The Bay of Herceg Novi is located at the Adriatic’s primary entry. The Bay of Risan towards the northwest as well as the Bay of Kotor towards the southeast are the inner bays.
Kotor Bay is a historically significant destination. Several of the cities, towns, and villages that surround the bay are of medieval origin and have been meticulously conserved. This draws history and architecture buffs from all over the world, who can tour a variety of ancient structures.
Many of the Orthodox Christian and Catholic church buildings on the Bay of Kotor serve as a kind of hotspot for religious students and travelers. To top everything off, the Climate of this great resort allows for year-round hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.
Consider taking a cruise on the bay, there are many boat companies in the harbor and near perast that will take you where ever you like. Choose one of the local restaurants and enjoy the fresh seafood. Or chill on one of the many beaches located on the bay shores.
Activities: Day Cruise, Sailing, Kayaking, Shopping, Dining, Canyoning, Beaches, Swimming, Picnic, ATV tours, Hiking, Panoramic Drives, Historical Sites mentioned in this article, Blue Cave boat trip (snorkeling), Boat tour of surrounding islands & Forts, Helicopter Tours, Yachting, Shopping, Dining.
Eat & Drink:
Verige 65 (Coffee or Lunch) https://goo.gl/maps/unEQQy9S8yq5MTs38
ÄatoviÄa Mlini https://g.page/CatovicaMlini?share
Conte Hotel & Restaurant https://goo.gl/maps/BxuoirM1dMbYcAnv7
Restaurant Galion https://goo.gl/maps/F1oavoaJgGrw9RL38
Seki Nautilus https://goo.gl/maps/5SbQS2hjtoZQEvLs5
Konoba “ILIJADA” https://goo.gl/maps/Ry64WeadkxAzKzkt7
Stay: In Kotor, Tivat, Porto Montenegro, Perast, Prcanj, Herceg Novi, Dobrota
Drive: Kotor Serpentine https://goo.gl/maps/oFfTgH1meWV8cq7r8
8. Prcanj – A great place to relax
Prcanj is a lovely village located at 5 kilometers (3 miles) from Kotor. Prcanj is off the usual path and only accessible by a narrow coastal road, making it a hidden gem worth discovering. If you want to chill and get away from the masses, Prcanj is the place. Its quiet, the water is calm and clear. There isnât a lot to do other than enjoy some quiet time along the sea. You can enjoy sunset dinners next to the water, watch the boats sail by, enjoy early morning coffees with the fresh sea breeze. You can really enjoy the present in Pcranj.
Many other important persons throughout history have expressed similar sentiments, particularly dozens of famous ship captains who chose to retire there. The rich naval officers who called Prcanj home greeted and welcomed Austrian Emperor Franz Josef when he visited the town.
You can visit a number of religious monuments in Prcanj, along with the Orthodox St. Peter’s Church and the massive Birth of Our Lady church, which seems out of proportion for such a little town.
The construction of this huge church began in 1789 and did not finish until 1908. If you’re interested in learning more about the small town’s maritime past, the Nautical Museum has an outstanding collection.
Eat & Drink: Konoba Vila Marija Prcanj https://goo.gl/maps/PoWRAjRr548okuJp7
This is a nice restaurant with a wide variety of dishes. Its right on the water so you can have a nice evening dinner in a calm seaside place.
Walk: It is possible to walk along the road, however its narrow and there arenât any sidewalks https://goo.gl/maps/2JowZ94N8pzEjbEh6
Stay:
Art Hotel Galathea https://goo.gl/maps/KGJkAggwvBCyk5jd6 I stayed here some years ago but now there are some hotels built after my last visit and they seem to be suitable.
Hotel Perla Adriatica https://goo.gl/maps/2hqELwwPUecfydH26
Blue Kotor Bay Premium Spa Resort (Adults Only) https://goo.gl/maps/WNU1xV9hQFk226QS9
Hotel Libertas https://goo.gl/maps/QiHJdj3fGGwg5Kfn7
9. Lake Skadar / Virpazar – Nature & Wildlife Paradise
Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans with an area of aprox 200 square miles.. There are about 280 bird species here. The southern lake region is known for producing some of the best grape varieties. Carp is the most popular fish and is a commonly served in the area restaurants. Virpazar is one of the numerous lakeside towns from which you can take a boat cruise on the lake. If you want to get away from the heat of the summer and the crowds that swarm the beaches or just immerse yourself nature, Virpazar is a quaint small town, with riverside cafes and souvenir shops and a hub for boat tours on Lake Skadar. Beginning in the early morning and continuing throughout the day boats are departing from the riverside landings. You can join one and have lunch or light food and wine during your cruise which usually last a couple of hours. You will learn all about the lake and its marine and wildlife. Its the perfect getaway during your tour o Montenegro.
Activities: Boat tours, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, bird watching, photography, camping, dining , Arts & Crafts shopping
Eat & Drink: Konoba Winery https://goo.gl/maps/XQgSqpRH6RZMoVYQ8
Walk: Stroll through the small town visiting shops & cafes. https://goo.gl/maps/GSWQ31sWjQ7fD7Nj8
Stay: Day visit from Budva, Podgorica, Ulcinj, or Shkoder, Albania
10. Baosici â A hidden gem- small beach community
The small town of Baosici is a great for a beach vacation. It is a small village with apartments, rooms & hotels and plenty of restaurants & pubs. There are numerous small pebble beaches along the main road. It is family oriented. If you are driving from the main road at a higher elevation you may easily miss the turn to discover this little gem of a place.
Baosici is close to the larger cities Tivat & Herceg Novi. It has a nice small town vibe and you can walk to everywhere, cafes, pubs, and numerous beaches.
This is a historic fishing community that has long served as a commercial harbor. Baosici was first mentioned in the chronicles of Montenegro in 1351. The village’s original name was given to it after the Baosich princes’ house was established close in the 15th century. The settlement altered after the country won independence and tourism infrastructure development began.
It is now a tourist destination with multiple hotels, beaches, restaurants, and pubs. It is well positioned near the primary highway, making travel convenient.
Eat & Drink:
Papagaj https://g.page/rnlpapagaj?share
Pizzeria Galiot https://goo.gl/maps/KT5iMk2zmKpAfHsq9
Walk: Baosici is great for walking. Its a small road right on the seaside https://goo.gl/maps/YXiRyyw6A97eYpW89
Stay: There is a wide selection of rooms & hotels along the seaside.
Having had the distinct privilege of living and traveling throughout the spectacular country of Crna Gora, you have captured some of its beauty and charm. Hvala!