Montenegro, a small country in southeastern Europe, is a hidden gem for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural experiences. From stunning beaches to rugged mountains, Montenegro offers a diverse range of landscapes to explore. This country is often overlooked by tourists, but it also has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. Here are some top places to visit in this beautiful country.
Where is Montenegro?
Montenegro is a small country located in southeastern Europe. It is situated on the Balkan Peninsula, bordered by Croatia to the west, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the northwest, Serbia to the northeast, Kosovo to the east, and Albania to the southeast. Montenegro has a coastline along the Adriatic Sea to the southwest. The capital and largest city of Montenegro is Podgorica. The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin. Montenegrin is a standardized variety of the Serbo-Croatian language, which is also spoken in neighboring countries like Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo. Serbo-Croatian itself is a pluricentric language, meaning it has several regional varieties that are mutually intelligible. The specific variant spoken in Montenegro is influenced by the local dialects and has some distinctive features. It's worth noting that Montenegrin is very similar to Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian, and speakers of these languages can generally understand each other with ease.
Tivat – your first stop in Montenegro
Tivat is a coastal town in Montenegro and has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years. Tivat offers a combination of natural beauty and historical sites. One of the main attractions in Tivat is Porto Montenegro, a luxury marina complex that has transformed the town into a glamorous yachting destination. Porto Montenegro features stylish shops, restaurants, and bars, and it attracts a wealthy international crowd. In addition to the marina, Tivat has several other attractions worth exploring. The town has a charming old town area with narrow streets, churches, and a lively atmosphere. The Maritime Heritage Museum in Tivat showcases the region's seafaring history, while the Naval Heritage Collection features a collection of naval artifacts.
Tivat is also a gateway to the beautiful Bay of Kotor, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bay is known for its stunning landscapes, medieval towns, and picturesque coastal scenery. From Tivat, you can easily visit popular destinations like Kotor, Perast, and Herceg Novi.
Kotor
Kotor Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic and one of the most popular destinations in Montenegro. The town is surrounded by impressive walls and fortifications that were built during the Venetian period. Just wander through its narrow streets, discover charming squares, and marvel at the architecture, including the impressive St. Tryphon's Cathedral. This Roman Catholic cathedral is a significant landmark in Kotor. Its beautiful architecture and interior decor, including intricate frescoes and ornate details, make it a must-visit attraction for history and art enthusiasts.
After this warm-up you can embark on a climb up the ancient city walls that surround Kotor. The hike takes you to the fortress of San Giovanni, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the town, the Bay of Kotor, and the surrounding mountains. The climb can be a bit challenging but is well worth the effort.
The Bay of Kotor is a stunning natural wonder, often referred to as Europe's southernmost fjord. Take a boat trip around the bay to admire the breathtaking landscapes, visit the small islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Budva
Budva is a popular coastal town in Montenegro, known for its picturesque beaches, historic old town, and vibrant nightlife. It is located on the Adriatic Sea and is considered one of the main tourist destinations in the country. The highlight of Budva is its medieval walled old town, which dates back to the 15th century. Within the walls, you'll find narrow streets, ancient buildings, churches, and squares, all preserved in a charming and picturesque setting. The old town is a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and it attracts visitors with its historical and cultural significance.
Budva is also famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town boasts around 35 beaches, ranging from sandy stretches to rocky coves. Some popular beaches in Budva include Mogren Beach, Jaz Beach, and Slovenska Beach.
In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Budva is known for its vibrant nightlife. The town has numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties that cater to different tastes and preferences. During the summer season, Budva becomes a hotspot for partygoers and music festivals.
Durmitor National Park
Durmitor National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Located in the northwestern part of Montenegro, the park features stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. Visitors can hike, bike, or ski through the park's many trails, or take a scenic drive through the park to see its natural beauty. The park is also home to several rare and endangered species, including the Balkan lynx and the brown bear. The park is also home to the Tara River Canyon, the second deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon.
Sveti Stefan Island
Sveti Stefan Island is a picturesque islet located off the coast of Montenegro. Once a fishing village, the island has been transformed into a luxury resort with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets of the island's old town, which is filled with traditional stone houses and charming cafes. The island's beaches are also a major draw, with crystal-clear waters and soft sand perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Biogradska Gora National Park.
Biogradska Gora National Park is located in the central part of Montenegro. The park is home to one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe. Visitors can hike through the forest, which is filled with towering trees and diverse wildlife. The park also features the stunning Biogradska Lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and offers breathtaking views. In addition to hiking and sightseeing, visitors can also enjoy fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities in the park.
Lovcen National Park.
Lovcen National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and culture. Located in the southwestern part of Montenegro, the park is home to the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegos, a famous Montenegrin poet and philosopher. Visitors can climb to the top of the mausoleum for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. The park also features numerous hiking trails, including the famous Ladder of Cattaro, which offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor.
Ostrog Monastery.
The Ostrog Monastery is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Balkans and a must-see historical site in Montenegro. Built into a sheer cliff face, the monastery is a stunning example of medieval architecture and engineering. Visitors can explore the two main churches, the Upper and Lower Monasteries, and see the relics of Saint Basil of Ostrog, the monastery's founder. The views from the monastery are also breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Cetinje Royal Palace.
The Cetinje Royal Palace is located in the former royal capital of Cetinje. Built in the 19th century, the palace was the residence of the Montenegrin royal family and is now a museum. Visitors can explore the palace's grand halls, royal apartments, and impressive art collection. The palace also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the city of Cetinje.
Stari Bar.
Stari Bar is a well-preserved medieval town located on a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The town was founded in the 9th century and was an important trading center during the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore the town's narrow streets, ancient walls, and impressive fortress. The town also has several churches and mosques, including the Church of St. George, which dates back to the 12th century. Stari Bar is a must-see for anyone interested in history and architecture.