21 Best Places To Visit In Montenegro You Need To Know About

If you previously read my blog, you’ll know that I’m not a fan of cliches. However, when I think of Montenegro, there’s one cliche that comes to my mind that describes this country so well that they might consider embroidering it on their flag. Good things come in small packages. Capturing a tiny corner of Southeastern Europe, Montenegro is a country with some of the most beautiful and underrated beaches in Europe, capturing outdoors, breathtaking canyons, and beautiful mountains, all that in only 13,000 kilometers! If you want to travel to Montenegro, which is still one of the least visited countries in Europe, keep reading to find out what are some of the best places to visit in Montenegro.

Let’s start with the basics!

A Few Basic Things To Know

The name Montenegro literally translates to Black Mountain. There are a lot of dark mountains in Montenegro but it also has some amazing beaches and canyons that will take your breath away. That’s why some people refer to it as the New Zealand of Europe.

Montenegro is one of the newest countries in Europe, gaining its independence in 2006. Today, the country shares a border with Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Throughout the past century, it was a part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes and later, Yugoslavia. With the referendum in 2006, Montenegrins decided to separate from the federation with Serbia and become an independent country.

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Travel Requirements For Montenegro

Montenegro has the same visa policy as the other Schengen countries. Some other countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Ecuador, and Costa Rica also have visa-free entry to travel to Montenegro.

Looking for the cheapest flights to Montenegro? Check out this Qatar Airways deal deal and get 15% on all flights to Montenegro.

If you’re planning to travel to Montenegro with your own car you can officially use your own driver’s license. However, if you’re renting a car keep in mind that some rental car companies might require an international driver’s license. Just don’t forget to get a good travel insurance package.

That leads us to…

Traveling Around Montenegro

The public transport in Montenegro is not even close to public transport in most European countries. Larger cities are well-connected but the transportation options for the smaller towns are limited. One reason why this is the case is that most cities in Montenegro are so small, that locals prefer walking. However, this might be challenging for visitors, especially ones that want to see the outdoors or smaller towns.

If you’re planning to rent a car in the summer, don’t do it in a local store. This is the high season and everything is more expensive, especially car rentals. If you still want to do this, prepare to pay at least 30 euros per day. If not, you can use this link and save up to 30% on your car rental for your upcoming trip to Montenegro. The other alternatives are the bus and the train.

The train line runs from the coastal city of Bar through the capital Podgorica, through Kolasin, and continues towards the border with Serbia. The train allows you to cross more than half of the country, from the beautiful beaches to the divine mountains, in one day, and only a few euros.

The bus can take you to more places but the train is cheaper and more comfortable. However, keep in mind that sometimes, getting to the best places to visit in Montenegro includes a lot of mountain roads and driving on them isn’t very convenient.

Montenegro Accommodation Tips

Accommodation in Montenegro runs from posh resorts to campgrounds. You will find the cheapest accommodation in Suto More and the most expensive in Sveti Stefan, Kotor, and Budva.

Budva has a resort destination reputation and is sometimes even called Miami of the Adriatic and Kotor is the important historic capital. These places are overcrowded with tourists all the time and this keeps the prices at a higher level.

However, what I love about Montenegro is the fact that you can stay in Suto More or Kotor and go for a day trip pretty much anywhere without spending too much.

In the bigger cities, you can find some cool backpacker hostels. In the remote areas, you won’t find many hostels but you can find a lot of charming mountain cottages that provide lashings of local cuisine.

Another thing I love about Montenegro is that you can camp pretty much anywhere. No matter whether at the riverside, in the mountains, near the lakes, or in the countryside, camping is allowed almost anywhere in Montenegro.

The food in Montenegro

The food in Montenegro is relatively affordable, except for the island of Sveti Stefan which makes Montenegro one of the best food destinations in Europe . Anywhere else, you can have a three-course meal for less than 15 euros. Another money saver is the fact that tap water is safe for drinking across the country, with the exception of Herceg Novi in the month of May when local water pipes are being cleaned.

Some must-try dishes include:

Kacamak, a simple breakfast meal made of corn flour, barley or whole wheat;

Rastan: a dish made out of vegetables, particularly the ones belonging to the cabbage family;

Cicvara: a dish featuring a young cow’s cheese that melts in your mouth;

Japracu: a soup-based dish that includes a dry meat, rice, and pepper.

Njeguski Steak: A veal/pork schnitzel steak that used to be Josip Broz Tito’s favorite;

Buzara: A dish made of shellfish, prawns, and shrimps with delicious red sauce;

Ispod Saca: the Balkan version of a good Sunday roast just better!

If you’re planning to prepare your own food, be careful. Many markets don’t have publicly displayed prices for groceries and some vendors will try to cheat you if you’re a tourist. They might try to overcharge you or give you a spoiled or older product, so keep an eye when you’re grocery shopping or just go to a well-known supermarket.

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Best Places To Visit In Montenegro

Now that we covered some basics about visiting this lovely country, let’s see which are some of the best places to visit in Montenegro, starting with…

Kotor

Perched against the awe inspiring backdrop of Montenegro’s fjord-like Bay of Kotor, the fortified town of Kotor is the epitome of the local history. The well preserved Medieval architecture such as the 12th century Cathedral of Saint Tryphon reveals the past when Kotor was under Venetian rule and was an important port. 

Tourists are attracted by the maze-like streets, old buildings and by the high fortress walls providing beautiful view of the bay and the scenery. A combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes Kotor an irresistible tourist attraction for those who seek to comprehend the complicated history of Montenegro and appreciate the incredible scenery.

Budva

The 24-hour party town of Budva, often referred to as the ‘Montenegrin Miami’, is one of the best places to visit in Montenegro for wild and fascinating nightlife, shallow beaches, and ancient Old Town. Stari Grad- Budva’s Old Town, which has its roots in over 2,500 years past, is a cultural gem, with ancient churches such as the Church of Santa Maria in Punta and a coastline citadel. 

Over and above its historic appeal, Budva’s modern beauty hides in its bustling bars and clubs which bring people in with an offer of unforgettable nights. The contrast in the Old Town that combines the historic atmosphere with the modern vibrancy makes Budva an unmissable destination for every serious traveler who wants to explore Montenegro’s diverse culture under the sun of the Adriatic Coast.

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Durmitor National Park

Next on our list of the best places to visit in Montenegro, we have Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and an ecological pearl, situated right in the heart of the Dinaric Alps. This is the haven of untouched natural beauty which is composed of stunning peaks, canyons, and 18 glacial lakes called “mountain eyes.” Durmitor’s tallest peak, Bobotov Kuk, provides tough hikes and unparalleled views, possessing everything for adventurers and nature lovers. The park’s biodiversity includes a variety of plant and animal life and the Tara Canyon provides breathtaking rafting adventures.

Perast

Perast, a peaceful baroque a-phiscom village, situated on the edge of the Bay of Kotor, best represents the idyllic Adriatic coast of Montenegro. This small town, with its lovely old stone villas and age-old churches testifies that time has stood still there. 

The most iconic sights in Perast are the two islets off its coast, each home to a sacred site: St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks with the church filled with ex-votos and local lore in monastery Perast cannot be assessed only on the basis of its architectural beauty, but a tourist coming to Perast is offered with an atmospheric silence as a retreat from the concrete world. It’s a place where history and myth entwine, encouraging the visitors to dive deep inside its rich cultural layers and natural beauty.

Ostrog Monastery

The most significant spiritual site of Montenegro is Ostrog Monastery which is dramatically perched against a nearly vertical backdrop. This 17th-century marvel, chiselled right into the rock, brings both pilgrims and tourists for its exterior design and the relics of St. Basil from Ostrog. The monastery’s architecture is a paintbrush which humanity uses to show its trust and perseverance; a safe shelter of peace and thought. 

Visitors usually get overwhelmed by the calmness of the place and the beautiful views of the Bjelopavlići plain below. Ostrog Monastery is much more than just a religious monument but it is the embodiment of Montenegro’s cultural and historical identity, allowing viewers to see through the prism of Orthodox Christian heritage.

Cetinje

This list of the best places to visit in Montenegro couldn’t be complete without Cetinje, the old capital of Montenegro, and the cultural and spiritual centre placed at the foot of Mount Lovćen. Cetinje is famous for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and is a living museum, the home to several embassies, monasteries and museums depicting Montenegro’s glorious history. The Cetinje Monastery with relics of St Peter of Cetinje and the Blue Palace, the residence of the President, are sights worthy of mention. Here one can see the Montenegrin fight for independence and cultural advancement.

Lovcen National Park

The majestic scenery of Lovcen National Park is a testimony to Montenegrin national pride which combines stunning natural beauty with profound historical importance. The park is built around Mount Lovćen, the burial place of revered Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a poet, a bishop and a national hero, whose mausoleum stands on one of the summits of the mountain or/and reflection, and presents the magnificent views of the Bay of Kotor and of the hinterlands. It, which is accessible by a long staircase, itself is a masterpiece of art and architecture, expressing the state’s respect for its ancestors.

Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan is the perfect combination of Montenegro’s rich history and fantastic modern luxurious. This gem of an island, joined to the mainland by a narrow neck of land, used to be a fortified fishing settlement going back to the 15th century. In the course of time, however, it has turned into an exclusive resort, providing visitors with accommodation in admirably restored stone buildings in the tranquil Mediterranean setting. The island is invitable only to resort guests but the nearby beaches provide a magnificent view of Sveti Stefan’ s characteristic red-roofed buildings against the horizon of the Adriatic Sea.

Tara River Canyon

The Tara River Canyon is just one of the magnificent sights within the Durmitor National Park which also features extreme sports. Being the deepest of all the gorges in Europe, it creates a unique panorama for white-water rafting, over rivers with sparkling waters that are resentful of trees standing tall and cliffs rising high. The canyon is not only a playground for thrill seekers but also a preserve of the many and varied floral and faunal species which have made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Tara River Bridge, arches over the canyon offering a sight for those who want to see but not to go in the rapids.

Lake Skadar

Beautiful Lake Skadar situated on the border between Montenegro and Albania is the largest lake in the Balkans and a shelter for species richness with respect to birds. On the Montenegrinian side, a national park unmatched for its vast wetlands, rich greenery, and untouched fishing villages holds the glory. The lake has more than 280 bird species including many migratory birds. From a boat that takes them through the waters packed with lotuses and close to the former monasteries and fortresses. Beautiful Lake Skadar’s tranquil nature apart from its ecological importance provides a peaceful retreat into nature and illustrates the region’s environmental history.

Crno Jezero

Situated in the center of Durmitor National Park, Black Lake is a breathtaking glacial lake which encapsulates the untouched magnificence of Montenegrin highlands. Bordered by the lofty peaks of the Dinaric Alps and the dense pine forests, one finds this still lake whose waters reflect the dramatic and scenic landscape of mountains. Taking a relaxed walk through the lake area like a mini discovery of four seasons of Durmitor; from the colourful flowers of spring to the peaceful snow-covered winter. Black Lake acts as an entrance to the discovering of the park’s natural wonders in turn making it the ideal starting point for those seeking both leisure and thrill in Montenegro’s great outdoors.

Piva Canyon

This list of the best places to visit in Montenegro couldn’t be complete without Piva Canyon, cut by the Piva River in the northern part of Montenegro, illustrating the wild beauty of the country`s mountain landscape. This deep cirque is famous for its transparent waters, its rocky cliffs and the technical feat of the Piva hydroelectric power station which built the peaceful Lake Piva. Adventurers seek the canyon filled with challenging rapids for rafting and kayaking. The scenic road running along the rim of the canyon gives spectacular views as well as allows you to access the remote monasteries and traditional villages.

Biogradska Gora National Park

Biogradska Gora National Park which lies in the heart of Montenegro, is one of the last primeval forests left in Europe. The untouched wilderness of the park, comprising six glacial lakes, forests, and meadows, provides a glimpse of the ecological richness in the area. Lake Biograd, the main attraction of Biogradska Gora, is situated at the foot of the mountain and can be easily accessed thus being a perfect repose for nature lovers. The numerous hiking trails in the park takes sightseers through the old woods which are the habitat of diverse trees and animals over the centuries. Biogradska Gora National Park is a testimony to Montenegro’s conservationism and a place no nature lover should miss out on.

Pavlova Strana Viewpoint

Pavlova Strana Viewpoint is one of the most iconic views in Montenegro, capturing a dramatic bend in the Crnojevica River, and represents the essence of Montenegro’s breathtaking sceneries. This point of view, seen from Rijeka Crnojevića, provides fantastic panoramas of the northeastern shore of Lake Skadar and the horseshoe bend of the river. 

The region’s majestic tranquility, framed by verdant foliage and serene lakes, is a photographer’s delight, capturing the essence of Montenegro’s pristine nature. Pavlova Strana is more than a viewing point; it is a moment of astonishment, that features the harmonious combination between Montenegro’s wild nature preservation areas and cultural landscapes that have survived for hundreds of years, thus, it should be visited by anyone who wants to get the whole Montenegrin experience.

Gornji Stoliv

A little known gem on the Bay of Kotor, Gornji Stoliv, encapsulates the unspoiled beauty and tranquil way of life of Montenegrin coastal towns. Every year tourists come to observe the breathtaking beauty of the bay from the village situated on the mountain slopes. It is famous not only because of unique nature around but authentic natural and historical landmarks preserved. 

The journey to Gornji Stoliv through the centuries old chestnut trees is mesmerizing like the destination but the area’s rich bio diversity is also revealed through it. The main attraction of the village is the parish church of St. Elijah, a living monument to the local traditions manifested in its architecture and fitting in with the natural surroundings. Upper Stoliv stands for the epitome of a Montenegrin village that a modern human can retire to find complete relaxation and peace in nature and tradition.

Bečići

Beingceč, sited on the Budva Riviera, enjoys remarkable beaches as its lengthy stretches of sand with the sparkling Adriatic, making it a prime destination for relaxation. An appealing vacation destination, the coastline tidy, availability of all essential facilities and various high-end hotels perfectly run to meet every budget and need. 

The path along Bečići beach is alike a coastal promenade with a collection of theme restaurants where visitors can taste the local food while watching the sea. The beach itself, being awarded for its quality, is a center for water sports and has a considerable offer of family-friendly activities; thus Bečići is an ideal destination both for vacation seekers and adventurers looking for a quiet beach getaway while staying modernly equipped.

Bar

With its vibrant, coastal position in southern Montenegro, Bar is a dramatic juxtaposition of contemporary life and rich history and one of the best places to visit in Montenegro. Famed for its busy port and variety of cultures, Bar shows travelers the interesting face of Montenegro. The town is where the Old Bar, an old city ruin which tells stories of Montenegro’s past, together with the world’s oldest olive tree which represents peace and longevity, are based. 

Long pebbly beaches of the bar and its untouched natural environments provide a perfect setting for various outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching. The modern intersection of the town is its busy bars, cafes and summer festivals which give it a dynamic rivalry on the historical monuments. Blending the old and the new, Bar is a destination of interest for those wishing to get deep into Montenegro’s cultural and natural heritage.

Ulcinj

Situated on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, in its easternmost position Ulcinj shows a cultural variety that is an amalgam of Montenegrin, Albanian and Ottoman origin. This old town is known for its wide sand beaches particularly the Long Beach and its bustling nightlife. Ulcinj’s old fortress, with centuries of history, provides sea view from panoramic point and fisherman streets to walk. 

The town also has kite surfing vitally places, due to the nice winds and wide sandy areas. The multicultural ambience of Ulcinj is seen in its food, festivals and the friendliness of the locals, making it a popular destination among tourists looking for both beach relaxation and cultural exploration.

Žabljak

Žabljak, situated right in the middle of Durmitor National Park, is Montenegro’s top mountain resort and the door to discovering the stunning natural wonders of the listed park. Žabljak being the highest town in the Balkans, provides access to the various wonders of nature in the Park such as Black Lake, Tara River Canyon, as well as number of hiking paths which pass through thick forests and near glacial lakes. 

The town itself is a also a delight in itself with a cozy, rustic aura brought about by traditional Montenegrian hospitality reflected in their cafes and restaurants. Žabljak appeals not only to nature lovers all year round, but is also a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts; providing skiing and snowboarding in winter, hiking, rafting, and cycling in summer. Hence, it is a mandatory stop for adrenaline junkies.

Haj-Nehaj Fortress

Last but not least, we conclude this list of the best places to visit in Montenegro with the Haj-Nehaj Fortress located at Mt. Rumija near to Sutomore that reflects the tumultuous destiny and decisive role of Montenegro throughout the ages. The fortress which was built in the 15th century to defend against the Ottomans is a symbol of resilience and Montenegrin heritage. The climb to the fortress is a walk through verdant Mediterranean vegetation that concludes in breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding landscape. 

Even in its ruins, Haj-Nehaj is worth visiting with a chance to show the brush of Montenegro’s historical figures. Being isolated and surrounded by serenity this place is perfect for those who are interested in delving into history while enjoying nature of Montenegro.

Montenegro Has Something In Store For Everyone

For backpackers: Montenegro is a budget-friendly country, except if you’re planning to stay in Budva in the summer/ NYE or Sveti Stefan at any time of the year.

For luxury seekers: You can find multiple luxury accommodations and other facilities across the country. However, of all the sights along the shoreline, Sveti Stefan is probably the most spectacular one. The 15th century stone villas of Sveti Stefan that overlook the impeccable beaches on the island will surely take your breath away.

For beach lovers: You will find some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. If you want to spend your days relaxing on the beach and drinking tropical drinks on the beach and spend your nights partying until dawn, look no further.

For adventure lovers: Tivat is a pretty coastal town surrounded by beautiful river canyons that resemble Scandinavian fjords and lofty mountains and scenic serpentine roads. If you’re seeking an adventure you’ll certainly find it here.

For history lovers: Montenegro is dotted with historic sights surrounded by magnificent scenery. The most popular destination for history lovers is the city of Kotor with its stunning castles, enchanting churches, and centuries-aged fortresses. You’ll be happy to hear that there are many breathtaking hotels along the bay that you can stay in.

For nature lovers: visit some of Montenegro’s beautiful freshwater lakes. Skadar Lake is a great place for birdwatchers and the glacial lake at Mount Durmitor at Zabljak sitting at an elevation of 1,416 meters is a must for mountain lovers.

For couples: If you’re looking for a romantic getaway where you will spend your evenings wandering along the seaside and enjoying some fresh seafood and tasty local wine, Montenegro is a great choice.

For families: Most cities in Montenegro are really small and you can get family-friendly accommodation almost everywhere. This makes Montenegro a perfect destination for a family holiday.

Useful Tips For Discovering The Best Places To Visit In Montenegro

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If you want to rent a car in Montenegro, this AutoEurope coupon can get you 15% off on all car rentals in Montenegro.

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How did you like this list of the best places to visit in Montenegro? Did this article inspire you to travel to Montenegro? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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