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.