Montenegro
The Coast
Explore Kotor's Stunning Old Town
- Wander through the labyrinthine medieval streets and discover hidden squares.
- Climb the ancient fortifications (Ladder of Kotor) for breathtaking panoramic views of the bay.
- Visit historical landmarks such as St. Tryphon Cathedral, the Maritime Museum, and the Gates of Kotor.
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Piazza of the Arms (Trg od Oružja), the main square, which often hosts evening events.
- Look for the Cats of Kotor, a beloved symbol of the city.
- Enjoy the Kotor nightlife: a laid-back nightlife scene with charming pubs and bars within the Old Town walls, often with live music.
- Indulge in fresh local seafood especially the local mussels.
Discover the Charm of Perast
- Admire the well-preserved baroque architecture of this picturesque coastal town.
- Take a boat trip to the iconic islet of Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) and explore its church and history.
- Visit the islet of St. George (Sveti Đorđe), a natural island with a Benedictine monastery (viewed from the boat).
- Enjoy a leisurely seafood lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Experience the Buzz of Budva
- Explore the Venetian-era Old Town (Stari Grad) with its narrow streets and historic buildings.
- Relax on its sandy beaches such as Mogren Beach (known for its beauty) and Slovenska Plaža (longer and more lively).
- Enjoy the vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs.
- Visit the Citadel for panoramic views of the coastline.
Admire the Beauty of Sveti Stefan
- View the iconic 15th-century islet (now a luxury resort Aman Sveti Stefan) connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus.
- Enjoy the surrounding public beaches on either side of the isthmus.
- Capture picturesque photos of this stunning location.
Discover the Charm of Petrovac
- Explore the Venetian fortress (Castio) overlooking the bay.
- Relax on its pleasant sandy beaches such as Petrovac Beach and Lučice Beach (a short walk away).
- Enjoy the quieter and more family-friendly atmosphere compared to Budva.
Explore Bar's Rich History
- Wander through the atmospheric ruins of Stari Bar (Old Bar), an abandoned medieval town with churches, palaces, and fortifications.
- Visit King Nikola's Palace, the former residence of the Montenegrin royal family in the modern part of Bar.
- See the ancient olive tree in Stara Maslina, one of the oldest olive trees in the world.
Experience Ulcinj's Unique Blend
- Explore its historic Old Town (Kala), with influences from various cultures.
- Relax on the long sandy beach, Velika Plaža (Long Beach), stretching for several kilometers.
- Discover Ada Bojana island at the mouth of the Bojana River, known for its unique atmosphere and seafood restaurants.
- Visit Valdanos Bay with its olive groves and historical significance.
Discover Herceg Novi's Fortresses
- Explore Kanli Kula (Bloody Tower), a former prison with an open-air theater.
- Visit Forte Mare (Sea Fortress) with its historical exhibits and views.
- Discover the Citadel and other fortifications throughout the town.
- Stroll along the vibrant Skver promenade by the sea.
Explore Porto Montenegro in Tivat
- Wander through the luxury marina with its impressive yachts.
- Enjoy the high-end shops, restaurants, and bars along the waterfront.
- Visit the Naval Heritage Collection museum.
Discover the Luštica Peninsula
- Explore its traditional villages, olive groves, and hiking trails.
- Find hidden coves and beautiful beaches like Plavi Horizonti.
- Consider a boat trip to the Blue Cave (Plava Špilja).
- Visit the Austro-Hungarian fortresses offering historical insights and views.
Mountains & The North
Explore Durmitor National Park & Black Lake
- Hike around the stunning Black Lake (Crno Jezero), the most accessible and largest of Durmitor's glacial lakes.
- Discover other beautiful glacial lakes like Biogradsko Lake (though technically in Biogradska Gora), Zminje Lake, and Suva Lokva.
- Enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery, with peaks like Bobotov Kuk (the highest). Consider hiking trails of varying difficulty.
Witness the Majestic Tara River Canyon & Bridge
- Admire the views of the deepest canyon in Europe from the impressive Đurđevića Tara Bridge.
- Consider thrilling activities like white-water rafting along the Tara River.
- Experience the adrenaline of zip-lining across the canyon.
Discover the Primeval Beauty of Biogradska Gora National Park
- Explore one of the last three large primeval forests in Europe.
- Visit the serene Biogradsko Lake, perfect for a walk or a rowboat ride.
- Enjoy hiking trails through the diverse flora and fauna of the park.
Explore the Rugged Peaks of Prokletije National Park (Accursed Mountains)
- Admire the dramatic and jagged peaks of this stunning mountain range.
- Consider challenging hiking trails to glacial lakes like Hridsko Lake or through the valleys.
- Experience the remote and wild beauty of this less-visited region.
Visit the Unique Lake Skadar National Park
- Enjoy boat trips on the largest lake in the Balkans, known for its diverse birdlife (a Ramsar site).
- Explore the lake's numerous islands and visit some of its monasteries.
- Consider kayaking or canoeing on quieter parts of the lake.
- Visit traditional fishing villages along the shores.
Explore the Historical Town of Cetinje
- Visit the former royal capital of Montenegro and explore its historic buildings.
- Discover museums such as the National Museum of Montenegro and the King Nikola Museum.
- See the Cetinje Monastery, an important religious site.
Enjoy the Panoramic Views from Lovćen National Park
- Drive the scenic roads up Mount Lovćen.
- Climb to the Njegoš Mausoleum on Jezerski Vrh (Lake Peak) for breathtaking panoramic vistas of Montenegro.
- Explore the hiking trails within the national park.
Discover Plav & Gusinje and their Alpine Scenery
- Explore the town of Plav and the beautiful Plav Lake.
- Visit Gusinje, nestled at the foot of the Accursed Mountains.
- Enjoy hiking in the surrounding mountains and exploring glacial lakes like Hridsko Lake (accessible from Plav/Gusinje).
Visit Mojkovac on the Banks of the Tara River
- Explore this town located on the Tara River, offering access to both Durmitor and Biogradska Gora National Parks.
- Learn about its history, including its mining past.
Experience Žabljak, the Heart of Durmitor
- The highest town in the Balkans, serving as the main base for exploring Durmitor National Park.
- Enjoy the mountain atmosphere and access to numerous hiking trails and activities (skiing in winter).
Suggested Travel Itinerary
Montenegro - 5 Weeks
Days 1-4: Arrival in Tivat & Exploring the Bay of Kotor
- Immerse yourself in the UNESCO-protected old town, wander its streets, and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Hike part of the Ladder of Kotor for initial breathtaking views of the bay.
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Piazza of the Arms (Trg od Oružja), the main square, which often hosts evening events.
- Indulge in fresh local seafood especially the local mussels.
Days 5-6: Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks - Coastal Charm
- Take a scenic car ride or boat to Perast. Admire its baroque architecture.
- Enjoy a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George islets, exploring their history and beauty.
- Relax by the water in Perast and enjoy a seafood lunch.
Days 7-10: Budva's Old Town & Beaches - Coastal Buzz
- Travel to Budva. Explore the Venetian-era old town and its Citadel for panoramic views.
- Relax on Mogren Beach or explore other nearby beaches. Enjoy the coastal vibe.
- Experience Budva's nightlife or enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the promenade.
Days 11-12: Sveti Stefan & Petrovac - Picturesque Stops
- Visit the iconic Sveti Stefan for photos and enjoy the surrounding beaches.
- Continue to Petrovac, explore its fortress (Castio), and relax on its sandy beaches.
Days 13-14: Lake Skadar National Park - Birdlife & Boat Trip
- Travel to Lake Skadar National Park. Enjoy a boat trip on the lake, observing the diverse birdlife and traditional fishing villages.
- Explore some of the lake's islands and monasteries. Consider kayaking on quieter sections of the lake.
Days 15: Cetinje - Former Royal Capital
- Travel to Cetinje, the former royal capital. Explore its historic buildings, museums (National Museum), and the Cetinje Monastery.
Days 16-18: Lovćen National Park & Journey North
- Travel to Lovćen National Park. Drive the scenic roads and enjoy the views.
- Climb to the Njegoš Mausoleum on Jezerski Vrh for panoramic vistas of Montenegro. Enjoy some hiking trails in the park.
- Begin your journey north towards Durmitor National Park, perhaps stopping in a smaller town along the way.
Days 19-22: Durmitor National Park - Black Lake & Hiking
- Arrive in Žabljak, the gateway to Durmitor. Explore the beautiful Black Lake (Crno Jezero) with a walk around its perimeter.
- Enjoy a day of hiking in Durmitor National Park, choosing a trail based on your fitness level and interests. Consider trails around other glacial lakes.
- Experience the mountain atmosphere of Žabljak.
Days 23-24: Tara River Canyon - Views & Optional Activities
- Visit the impressive Đurđevića Tara Bridge and admire the views of the Tara River Canyon.
- Consider zip-lining across the canyon or a short rafting excursion if time allows.
Days 25-27: Biogradska Gora National Park - Primeval Forest
- Travel to Biogradska Gora National Park. Explore the beautiful Biogradsko Lake with a walk or a rowboat.
- Enjoy hiking through one of the last primeval forests in Europe, taking in the unique ecosystem.
Days 28-30: Plav & Gusinje - Alpine Scenery
- Travel to the Plav & Gusinje region in the northeast, surrounded by the Accursed Mountains.
- Explore Plav Lake and enjoy the views of the surrounding peaks. Consider a short hike.
- Visit Gusinje and experience the local atmosphere, with the dramatic Prokletije mountains as a backdrop.
Days 31-33: Prokletije National Park - Rugged Peaks (Optional Hike)
- Explore the stunning Prokletije National Park. Admire the rugged peaks and glacial landscapes.
- Consider a day hike into the park if you are prepared and have appropriate gear. Otherwise, enjoy the views from accessible viewpoints.