Home to some of the continent’s most beautiful beaches, several UNESCO World Heritage sites, and national parks frequented by bears and wolves, Montenegro is arguably Europe’s best-kept secret. Crowds are much smaller here than in neighboring Croatia to the north, so you can often have many of the country’s sights and attractions completely to yourself – especially in the off-season. So, without further ado, here’s our roundup of the 14 best things to do in Montenegro:
1. Cruise the beautiful Bay of Kotor
If you’ve heard of Montenegro, you’ve probably also heard of the Bay of Kotor. It is one of the Mediterranean’s most striking landmarks and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. It is approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles) long and is surrounded by two striking mountain masses of the majestic Dinaric Alps, one of the most impressive mountain ranges in Europe, stretching for more than 645 kilometers (401 miles) long.
The best way to see the bay itself is on a boat tour that takes you through the cobalt blue waters to “Our Lady of the Rocks” – a small island that houses a large Catholic church and accompanying museum. Rumor has it that the island was formed over centuries by sailors who laid rocks here after each successful return voyage. This practice continues to this day, in a program called " Fashinada ——Locals go to the island at sunset on July 22 every year.
Cruise ship through the Bay of Kotor: Highlights of Montenegro
2. Hike along the alpine Balkan border
Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to traverse some of the most stunning alpine scenery in Montenegro, Albania and Kosovo. As you cross the passes between the borders, delicious dinners await you and your hiking companions at one mountain lodge after another, including those in small Montenegrin villages like Babino Polje. In Ropojana Valley, considered a natural wonder of Montenegro, you will find jagged peaks and natural waterfalls in a valley carved by ancient glaciers. Be prepared to feel out of breath for more than just the walk itself!
Zoom mountain boundary lines: Hiking in Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro
3. Taste local cuisine on the Luštika Peninsula
Located at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, the Luštika Peninsula is a great place to get in touch with nature, with secluded coves, medieval fortifications and peaceful fishing villages. Here you will see the real Montenegro, as the locals still live as they have for centuries, growing olives, cheese, wine, ham and other agricultural products. Lakija — A fruit brandy considered the national drink of many Balkan countries.
It’s a picturesque place best explored on foot, on two wheels, or by boat or kayak – especially if you want to see hidden gems like the “Blue Hole” cave. If this sounds a bit secluded, you can open a bar and restaurant in Luštica Bay, an upscale venue located around the yacht harbor.
4. Explore the ancient architecture of Herceg Novi
Known as the “City of the Sun,” Herceg Novi is a charming place known for its pleasant weather, ancient fortress, charming squares, and seafood restaurants. This is a great place to spend a few days, especially if you are a history buff. While there’s plenty to see and do, the highlight is Marreborg – a magnificent fortress dating back to the 13th century. They occasionally show outdoor movies and hold concerts here from time to time, so it’s worth a visit.
Mount Orjen is also worth hiking, with its summit rising 1,893 meters (6,210 feet) above sea level. It tends to have snow half the year and has world-class mountain biking trails if you prefer something more adventurous. The nearby countryside is dotted with vineyards, and you should also head to nearby Igalo, which has hot springs and healing sea mud.
5. Bird watching on the largest lake in the Balkans
The vast Lake Shkodra covers an area of 400 square kilometers (154 square miles), which means it is the largest lake in the Balkans. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by stunning karst mountains and famous for being one of the best birdwatching locations in Europe. You can see plenty of waterbirds here, including pygmy cormorants, spotted herons and the endangered Dalmatian pelican.
If you want to explore the charming villages dotted around the lake, then we recommend renting a bike. Don’t miss a visit to Vidikovac Godinje – the observation deck offers a panoramic view of the sparkling lake.
6. Stroll around the town of Perast
The small town of Perast is one of the best preserved towns on the entire Adriatic coast, with 17 Baroque churches and 19 churches. Not bad for a place where you can walk from one end to the other in a few minutes. For history buffs, it’s well worth a visit, as the influence of this UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the Neolithic Age (also known as the last period of the Stone Age).
Take a stroll here and take in the scenery—and maybe stop for a break from the midday sun with a glass of chilled wine or an iced coffee. Speaking of sun, come here to enjoy the sunset – arguably one of the most beautiful in the entire Adriatic.
7. Hike through Lovcen National Park
Lovcen National Park is just a stone’s throw from Kotor, making it an easy and convenient day trip and a must-see on any trip to Montenegro. It holds a special place in the hearts of all Montenegrins, with the towering central peak, Mount Lovćen, reaching an impressive 1,749 meters (5,738 feet).
This is also the final resting place of Petar II Petrovich Negos. Petar II was a bishop (or monarch), poet, and philosopher who is credited with bringing modernization and centralization to Montenegro during his reign. The mausoleum at the top of Lovcen (or “Black Mountain”) is well worth a visit, and you can hike the trails here and enjoy the postcard-worthy views.
8. Appreciate the yacht life in Montenegro Port
Now, if you’re looking for some glitz and glamor, head to Tivat’s Porto Montenegro. Looking more like Monaco than Montenegro, it underwent extensive renovations in 2009 and 2010 and now attracts the rich and famous, making it a great place for people watching.
You can admire the superyachts while sailing from the Bay of Kotor, but if you’re looking for some entertainment options, head to the nearby “Lifestyle Village”. Here you’ll find a variety of beautiful boutiques, restaurants, bars, and even museums.
Explore Tivat and the Port of Montenegro: Montenegro Sailing – Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik
9. Party until dawn on the Budva Riviera
Speaking of bars, there are plenty of them on the Budva Riviera, a 35-kilometer (22-mile) strip of beautiful beaches on the sparkling Adriatic coast , warm climate and numerous entertainment options. The epicenter here is arguably the town of Budva, undoubtedly the most popular attraction in Montenegro.
Yes, you’ll be sure to share it with lots of other people – including many summer cruise vacationers – but if you’re looking to kick back and relax, this is the place for you. There are plenty of places to dance ’til dawn, but you can also enjoy world-class seafood and laze on the beach. Don’t miss a visit to Stari Grad (Old Town), home to the ruins of a Roman-era cemetery.
10. Get active in Durmitor National Park
Arguably one of the most impressive areas of Montenegro, there is plenty to see and do in this glacier-carved landscape. Durmitor National Park is one of Europe’s last bastions of wilderness and is synonymous with towering limestone peaks (48 of them, in fact), sparkling glacial lakes and vast pine forests.
It’s a major ski resort from December to March, with prices much cheaper than its European counterparts, and is a prime area for mountain biking, hiking and wild swimming. There’s also an abundance of wildlife here – keep an eye out for soaring golden eagles, wild boars, salamanders, chamois and, if you’re lucky, even brown bears and wolves!
Durmitor National Park Hiking: Montenegro: Medieval Towns and Mountain Views
11. Raft down the Tara River
The majestic Tara Canyon reaches a depth of 1,300m (4,265 feet) and is 82 kilometers (50.9 miles) long. It is known as the “Tear of Europe”. This is truly a majestic feat of nature, and the best way to see it is by hopping on a whitewater raft and racing down the turquoise waters of the Tara River. At certain times of the year, they reach an exciting level five. Note to yourself – you’re going to get wet!
12. Map leaving Bieropole
The pleasant town of Bijelo Polje is nestled in the picturesque Lim River valley and is surrounded by mountains. Its remote location in the country means you can truly get away from it all .
There are no five-star resorts here or hordes of tourists – here you’ll find the most traditional side of the country, so it’s a great place to get to know the local way of life. There are many caves outside the city, as well as some hot springs believed to have healing properties. The best season is arguably spring, when the chamomile flowers begin to bloom – hence the town’s Serbo-Croatian name of “White Fields”.
Visit the country’s remote northeast: Montenegro and Albania Adventure
13. Rest on the longest beach on the Adriatic
The final part of our list of things to do in Montenegro was visiting Velika Plaža – literally “Long Beach”. The longest beach on the Adriatic coast stretches 13 kilometers (8.07 miles) from Bojana to Port Milena, and is a great place to relax even if the water is too shallow for swimming. place. You can try your hand at one of the many kitesurfing rentals, get some exercise in, or relax with a drink or two at the beach bar when you’re thirsty.
14. Take an extra trip to Croatia
Leaving Montenegro and its many charms is a difficult task, but who can resist going to the Balkans when you’re already there? For the active adventurer, small but mighty Croatia is just a stone’s throw away, offering endless hiking, kayaking and snorkeling opportunities. Chart Koločep’s stunning coastline on foot, sea kayak for a unique perspective on Dubrovnik’s iconic city walls, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sibenik and Dyke Get an in-depth understanding of history at Risen Palace. Your heart will beat faster when you love the Balkans more than Montenegro.
Let the Balkan love continue: Active Croatia Discovery
