Balkan countries are becoming increasingly popular as holiday destinations. In recent summers, Albania has been in the spotlight, but have you heard of Montenegro yet? A unique, still relatively unknown spot that you should definitely visit. Here you’ll find what to see and do in Montenegro.
Not everyone can point out Montenegro on the map. But this small country, located along the Adriatic Sea, borders Albania, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Italy across the sea. Knowing this, it’s no surprise that Montenegro’s nature is breathtaking. Dramatic mountains, enchanting landscapes, azure seas, and picturesque villages make Montenegro an ideal holiday destination.
Nature in Montenegro
Hiking, road trips, sunbathing, swimming… The nature in Montenegro makes it all possible. There are so many beautiful places that you’ll quickly fill up your itinerary. Below are some highlights you must see.
Durmitor National Park
Since 1982, this park has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list and is a true must-see. The park stretches from the Black Sea to the Tara Canyon and offers the perfect setting for scenic hikes through stunning mountainous landscapes.
Tara Canyon
This impressive canyon is the second deepest gorge in the world and the deepest in Europe. Tara Canyon is located in Durmitor National Park and can be admired from the Djurdjevica Tara Bridge or, for the more adventurous, by white-water rafting. Between rapids, there are plenty of spots to swim or cliff dive. A definite highlight in Montenegro!
Black Lake
This lake is one of the eighteen so-called ‘mountain eyes’ in Durmitor National Park. Surrounded by towering pine trees, the lake is a perfect place to cool off and a unique sight. Enjoy the scenery, rent a boat, bring a picnic, or relax at the only café by the lake. A wonderful afternoon is guaranteed.
Velika Plaza
Looking for a beach day? You can find that in Montenegro too! Velika Plaza is a twelve-kilometer-long sandy beach on the southern coast. It’s very popular with tourists and is considered one of Montenegro's hotspots, hosting regular beach parties and music festivals.
Boat Trip on Lake Skadar
Swimming, boating, or just watching from the shore: this lake is beautiful from every angle. Renting a boat is a fantastic way to experience it. Floating among the water lilies and gazing at the Cursed Mountains of Albania, a day on this lake is always a good idea.
Lake Skadar is also Europe’s largest bird sanctuary and home to 270 bird species. Bring binoculars to spot the rare Dalmatian pelican!
Lipa Cave
A small train ride takes you through orchards of fig and pomegranate trees to the cave entrance. There you’ll find 2.5 kilometers of cave tunnels and underground chambers waiting to be explored. Take a guided tour through the cave system or descend into its heart with a guide (not recommended if you're claustrophobic).
Cities
Alongside nature, Montenegro has plenty of culture and history to explore. The impressive cities and charming villages each have their own unique stories. Here are some of the best cities in Montenegro to visit.
Budva
Step back in time in Montenegro’s history as you wander the streets of Budva. Roman ruins, museums, ancient churches, and quaint houses—it feels like the set of a romantic movie. Climb the city walls, visit a museum, or sit at a café… Need to cool off after your city tour? You’re just moments away from the beautiful Mogren beach with its azure sea.
Kotor
Kotor’s old town is a UNESCO heritage site, making it a must-visit. Nestled against steep mountains and along the Bay of Kotor, the view is breathtaking. The relaxed Mediterranean vibe makes it perfect for wandering, with plenty to see. Climb the Ladder of Kotor for an even better view or explore the city on foot. The narrow streets lead you to picturesque churches, traditional restaurants, and museums.
Be sure to visit the Maritime Museum, St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, Church of Our Lady of Remedy, Kotor’s Cat Museum, and St. Nicholas Orthodox Church.
Perast
A different vibe but just as idyllic. Perast is a small fishing village in the Bay of Kotor, quieter than the city of Kotor. Known for the many palaces built by wealthy families, this picturesque village is a must-see.
Tivat
Also known as Porto Montenegro, Tivat is comparable to Monaco or St. Tropez. The ambiance, scale, and especially the luxurious yachts are similar to these famous harbor destinations, but fortunately, the prices are not. Here, you can enjoy a coffee for just one euro, and a good pizza costs less than ten euros.
Special Places and Activities in Montenegro
Sveti Stefan
This is a small island village connected to the mainland by a single elevated road. The village dates back to the fifteenth century, giving it a fairytale-like charm. Surrounded by the azure sea and pink pebble beaches, it’s certainly a photogenic place.
Unfortunately, the island is no longer free to visit. Tourists have discovered this unique spot, and it has now become more of a luxurious tourist resort, requiring you to have a reservation on the island to access it. Fortunately, viewing the island from the mainland is enchanting (and free), especially if you're there at sunset.
Ostrog Monastery
This seventeenth-century monastery is carved into the rocks and towers 900 meters above the surroundings. The cave church is located on a steep cliff and is one of the most important religious sites in the Balkan region. Monks still live in the monastery, and thousands of visitors come here every year.
Take the Lepetane Ferry and Visit Croatia
Combine your trip through Montenegro with a side trip to Croatia. In the north, you can take the Lepetane ferry, which takes you to Croatia in just a few minutes for only a few euros. Once there, we recommend visiting Europe’s most beautiful beach: Pasjaca.
Bay of Kotor
Need some exercise? Be sure to visit the Kotor Fortress. Over 1,300 steps lead you 280 meters above sea level, providing breathtaking panoramic views.
In short: pack your suitcase because we know your next destination! A small tip: to see as many of these beautiful places as possible, it’s fun to travel around. So, don’t pack too much, and try to take only one bag to keep your journey compact and organized. For example, bring the Airback Next, a suitcase with a built-in vacuum compartment, allowing you to pack more than usual while keeping it to one suitcase. Enjoy your trip!
