20 Ultimate Things to Do in Montenegro (2024 Edition!)
Montenegro is a country where the sand of the Adriatic Sea merges with the indescribable greenery of the mountains, offering travelers magical views. From my first visit, Montenegro captivated me with its towering chains of massive mountains rising before my eyes, the indescribably blue sea, national parks that have retained a touch of wilderness, fairy-tale towns with authentic charm, and friendly locals.
Things To Do In Montenegro
I wouldn’t be wrong to say that this country is now experiencing its own renaissance. Tourism is rapidly developing, and more and more travelers are discovering Montenegro and its indescribable natural beauty. The country has everything that attracts travelers: massive mountains creating stunning landscapes and the Adriatic coast. It also offers well-maintained resorts and cozy towns and villages.
Let’s not forget the cuisine – you must try the hearty and delicious traditional dishes. In this guide, you will find everything you could wish for and more – discover the best things to do in Montenegro.
Kotor
Along the shores of Kotor Bay, many stunning towns are scattered. One of the most visited places is Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers a charming old town, cozy cafés, and a path of over a thousand steps to the mountain summit.
In Kotor, take a stroll through the old town. The narrow cobblestone streets, music in the air, café aromas, and beautiful architecture create a stunning atmosphere. It’s also worth visiting St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and the Cat Museum.
Another attraction in Kotor will require some physical effort, but all the hard work will be well worth it. Climb approximately 1,400 steps along the Kotor Wall to reach the summit. There, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Kotor Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the Adriatic Sea.
Tip: While visiting Kotor, don’t miss the opportunity to explore more. Take a boat trip to the Blue Cave, visit the towns around Kotor Bay, or try a cruise around the bay.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Kotor.
Ladder of Kotor
The Ladder of Kotor refers to an ancient stone path that winds its way up into the mountains. This path offers extensive hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. The path, built in the 19th century, was crucial for transportation and trade.
The path stretches from Kotor up to the former capital Cetinje, with a vertical elevation difference of one kilometer. Why is it called a ladder? The trail is steep and has numerous sharp turns. This gives it a unique character and a certain charm, allowing hikers to constantly enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Kotor, the city panorama and the mountains. The Ladder of Kotor also provides unforgettable sunsets.
Tip: The Ladder of Kotor trail ends when you reach the P1 road. Completing the entire route will take 4–6 hours, so plan your time accordingly. If, after finishing the trail, you don’t want to spend time hiking back down, you can call a taxi to return to the city. If you are hiking during the warmer months, I recommend starting early in the morning before the sun gets too hot.
Also read: Best things to do in Kotor
Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi is a town located in the southern part of Montenegro, near the border with Croatia. Though it’s the country’s oldest resort, it’s now surpassed in popularity by towns like Budva, Tivat, and Kotor.
Herceg Novi offers mud baths, mineral spring sanatoriums and stunning beaches. Active travelers can go on a self-guided kayaking tour or take a boat trip around the Luštica Peninsula. For a romantic sunset, there’s a 6-kilometer promenade from Igalo through Herceg Novi to Meljine.
During my trip around Montenegro, I stayed at the Hotel Perla. I really liked that the hotel was located near the promenade, so every evening I could go for a walk and watch the sunset.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Herceg Novi.
Durmitor National Park
One of the best things to do in Montenegro is visit the impressive Durmitor National Park. It’s a true gem of Montenegro, mesmerizing visitors with majestic mountains, breathtaking canyons, incredibly blue lakes, and rivers.
The pride of Durmitor National Park is Black Lake, located at an altitude of 1,416 meters and constantly fed by melting mountain snow. In fact, when I visited, the lake’s water sparkled in the sunlight, and its color was nowhere near black. However, without the bright sun and with shadows playing over it, it does appear quite dark. Moreover, the mountains towering in the background create a picture-perfect scene worth capturing multiple times.
Another remarkable feature of Durmitor National Park is the famous Tara Canyon, the deepest in Europe and the second largest worldwide. Those who prefer more relaxed activities should walk through the canyon’s valleys. It’s also essential to cross the impressive bridge connecting both sides of the canyon, often hailed as one of the most beautiful in the world. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, you must try the zip line over Tara Canyon.
In addition to its stunning natural wonders, Durmitor National Park offers many active leisure options. You can enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, cycling, caving, and fishing. It’s best to book all activities online in advance.
Tip: The best time for challenging hikes in Durmitor National Park is from mid-June to the end of September, as other months can be dangerous. You can find hiking maps for Durmitor National Park here.
Ulcinj
Near the Albanian border in southern Montenegro lies Ulcinj, once known as the pirate capital of the Adriatic Sea. Today, Ulcinj is a unique town in Montenegro, predominantly inhabited by Muslims. It has a peaceful seaside promenade with beautiful mosques, excellent restaurants, and cafés.
On the outskirts of the town lies the 12-kilometer-long Velika Plaža beach, the longest in Montenegro. The water here is very shallow, making it ideal for families with young children. The beach also attracts kite surfers, as the shallow water and prevailing winds are perfect for this sport. If you want to learn more about kite surfing, you’ll find numerous kite surfing schools at the southern end of Velika Plaža.
Budva
One of the oldest towns on the Adriatic coast, Budva, today holds the title of the country’s largest resort. Here, travelers will find everything to meet the diverse needs of different tourists. Pristine beaches await those looking to soak up the sun and swim in the sea.
When visiting Budva, be sure to explore the beautiful old town, encircled by defensive walls that hold centuries of history from the Middle Ages. Stop by the Citadel and its museum, and don’t miss St. Ivan’s Church.
The nightlife won’t disappoint fun seekers, and the wide network of cafes and restaurants is ready for those who want to sample the local cuisine. For those who want to relax on the beach, there is a wide variety of options. In the city, people flock to Mogren Beach, while outside the city, they prefer Jaz and Becici beaches.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Budva.
Piva Canyon
Piva Canyon captivated me the most with its indescribable turquoise colored river, which meanders gracefully between the towering mountains. Of course, the best views of the Piva are from above. And although the road to the summit is not the easiest and will be a real challenge for those afraid of heights, the views from the top are worth it all.
The turquoise water of the river, the greenery of the mountains, the grandeur of the canyon, and the bridge connecting the riverbanks below – every single spot seems worthy of a photo. Piva Canyon is one of the best things to do in Montenegro!
Lovcen National Park
The national park, located in the southwestern part of the country, mainly attracts visitors due to the famous mausoleum of the renowned Montenegrin poet and ruler Njegoš. Situated at an altitude of 1,657 meters, the mausoleum appears majestic, surrounded by lush green mountains. Not only is the mausoleum itself impressive at such a height, but the journey to reach it is as well. To get here, you will need to climb up more than 450 steps, but the journey won’t feel long as you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views.
Although Lovcen National Park is somewhat smaller than Durmitor, it offers equally impressive mountain views and enchanting sunsets. There are numerous hiking trails winding through the Lovcen mountains. You can also try cycling, and for those traveling in winter, a range of winter activities is available.
Discover: Full-Day Tour to Lovcen National Park & More.
Fortress Gorazda
If you are traveling through Lovcen National Park, be sure to stop by Gorazda Fort as you descend towards Kotor. Together with several other fortifications (Vrmac, Trojica, and Grabovac), the fortress was a key Austro-Hungarian military base in the southern Adriatic. Its primary purpose was to defend the road leading to Kotor. The fort was built between 1884 and 1886 and acquired its current form in 1907.
The fort is designed like a labyrinth, with long halls and spacious rooms. Above the central part of the fort stands a massive 100-ton rotating Gruson turret, manufactured in Germany, which once housed the fort’s main armament. During World War I, the fortress was used by the Austrians. Today, the fort is abandoned, but from Gorazda, located at an altitude of 452 meters, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Bay of Kotor. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset!
Tivat
A contrasting, colorful, and versatile Montenegrin resort, Tivat is the first place many visitors see when they arrive in the country, as tourist-packed planes land here. The stunning duet of sea and mountains in Tivat contrasts with modern architecture, large shopping centers, and plenty of entertainment for visitors.
In addition to relaxing on the beaches or by the hotel pool, you can admire the luxury of Porto Montenegro. If you enjoy visiting museums, stop by the Archaeological Museum or the Naval Heritage Museum. For a peaceful time surrounded by nature an quiet walk, you can choose Marina Park. You can also explore Buca Palace, a beautiful building representing Renaissance architecture, which hosts exhibitions and concerts.
Tip: If you’re staying in Tivat for a few days, set aside time for a boat trip or cruise around Bay of Kotor.
Perast
On the shores of the Bay of Kotor lies the indescribably beautiful town of Perast, attracting travelers with its charm. Like many towns in this country, Perast, like many tiny towns in this country, offers a stunning mix of sea and mountains. It’s also known for its Venetian architecture and ancient churches. Take a stroll through the town and admire the grand Venetian-era palaces. Be sure to visit St. Nicholas Church, with its bell tower visible from afar as you approach Perast. If you have more time, stop by the Perast Museum – a great opportunity to learn more about the town and its history.
In front of Perast are two small islands: one of them is Our Lady of the Rocks, with a chapel (a man-made island with the famous Church of Our Lady). You can reach the island by boat from Perast very quickly, and you can book a tour here.
Sveti Stefan
Of course, one of the best things to do in Montenegro is to visit Sveti Stefan. This little town, located on the Adriatic coast near Budva, is one of the most photographed landmarks in Montenegro. Sveti Stefan is situated on a small island that becomes a peninsula during low tide. The town gained fame in the 1950s when it was transformed into a luxurious resort, attracting guests like Marilyn Monroe and Sophia Loren.
Today, this charming place is a five-star resort, accessible only to guests staying at the Aman Sveti Stefan. Even if you don’t have the budget for an overnight stay, you can still enjoy the view of Sveti Stefan from the main road. You can also join a tour to get a closer look at this beautiful island.
Cetinje Monastery
The Cetinje Monastery, located in the historical capital of the country, was founded in 1484. About two centuries later, the monastery was completely destroyed but was subsequently rebuilt. Its long history has resulted in the accumulation of a truly large and valuable collection of art.
The monastery’s museum displays historical relics, a collection of books, old manuscripts, and ceremonial items used by kings. Paintings and icons also illustrate the country’s rich history. This monastery is a symbol of the nation’s historical past, preserving highly significant relics such as the right hand of St. John the Baptist and the icon of the Virgin Mary.
Lake Skadar
The largest lake in the Balkans, Lake Skadar, stretches across two countries: most of it lies in Montenegro, while the rest is in Albania. Tourists are drawn not only by its beauty and stunning combination with the surrounding mountains but also by its rich diversity of flora and fauna. Over 250 species of birds live here, including the rare Dalmatian pelican. Therefore, Lake Skadar is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Along the shores of the lake, you’ll find authentic villages that have withstood the test of time, as well as ancient monasteries and fortress ruins.
Tip: Take a boat trip on Lake Skadar – it was an unforgettable experience for me. You can also hike around the area, observe birds, or enjoy wine tastings, as there are many vineyards nearby.
By the way, the best view of Lake Skadar is from the Pavlova Strana viewpoint. The blue sky, lush greenery, and winding river will be among the most beautiful scenes you’ll take home from Montenegro.
Sutomore
Sutomore is a resort town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast and a highly popular spot in the country. The 5-kilometer sandy beaches, sheltered by pine forests, are one of its main highlights.
The main beach stretches about 2.5 kilometers and is equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes, restaurants, windsurfing, catamarans, and possibilities for diving. The sand is said to have healing properties, beneficial for people suffering from rheumatism. For these reasons, Venetians often used to come here three centuries ago to regain their strength after living in the humid climate of Venice.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Sutomore.
Lipa Cave
One of the most important and enjoyable things to do in Montenegro is to visit the famous Lipa Cave. Here, you can witness the stunning beauty of the underground world, as the cave is filled with formations of stalactites and stalagmites. The cave was first accidentally discovered by a dog that fell into it through a hole but managed to safely escape through another opening.
Today, Lipa Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Montenegro, enjoyed by both children and adults. The visit begins with a ride on a miniature train to the cave entrance. From there, you will join a guided tour and explore the cave, which has been carved over thousands of years by dripping water and its underground river.
Tip: Don’t forget that the cave can only be accessed at specific times, and the temperature inside is around 8 – 10 degrees Celsius, so it’s a good idea to bring warmer clothing.
Ostrog Monastery
The Ostrog Monastery is the second most important spiritual center in Montenegro, located in the cliffs at an altitude of 900 meters above sea level. The monastery was founded in the 17th century by one of the four main saints of Montenegro, St. Basil of Ostrog. As if carved into the massive Ostroška Greda cliff, the Ostrog Monastery has been attracting large crowds of tourists from all over the world for 300 years. Here, you can see the relics of St. Basil and enjoy stunning mountain views.
This monastery is unique in the world, as it is visited not only by Orthodox Christians but also by Catholics and Muslims. Nearby, there are healing springs, with the water being bottled and distributed free of charge to pilgrims. Currently, 12 monks live in the monastery.
Tip: Entrance to the Ostrog Monastery is free, but keep in mind that visitors are required to cover their shoulders, arms, and knees. Women must also cover their heads with scarves.
Nevidio Canyon
The rugged yet beautiful landscape of the Durmitor massif is adorned by an extraordinary gem – the Nevidio (Unseen) Canyon. This is the last canyon to be discovered in Europe, and its narrow, picturesque gorges particularly attract adrenaline enthusiasts. Special tours are organized here, during which, to conquer the canyon, you need to climb wet rocks, jump from several meters high, swim through narrow crevices, dive, and descend from cliffs and waterfalls with or without ropes.
An adrenaline rush is guaranteed, but this adventure is only for the bravest. Although I haven’t visited this canyon myself, locals tell me it’s one of the country’s most impressive spots for extreme activities. Tours to the canyon run from May to October, and you can book them online here.
Stari Bar
During my trip through Montenegro, I unexpectedly discovered the historic town of Stari Bar, located at the foot of Mount Rumija. Built in the Middle Ages, the town is best known for the ruins of a once-grand fortress and the aqueduct constructed during Ottoman times. The once-thriving town was devastated by an earthquake in 1979, which destroyed the aqueduct and left the town without water. The residents had no other choice but to abandon their homes and relocate to the coast, where they founded a new town Bar. Walking through Stari Bar was one of the most fascinating experiences I had in Montenegro.
Interestingly, there is a place in Stari Bar called Podgrad (Undertown), where people still live today. This small community has a few old inns, shops, artisan workshops, and a meat market. There are also two mosques and the Catholic Church of St. Mary.
Also read: ……..
Korita Circuit
While visiting Montenegro, I was looking for a unique and less touristy place, so I set off from Podgorica on the 65-kilometer-long Korita Circuit. The ever-changing landscapes, mixed Mediterranean scents, wild horses grazing everywhere, deep history, and impressive mountains kept surprising me.
The route also has four viewing platforms with benches, from which you can enjoy the stunning nature of Montenegro. This place is definitely worth visiting as one of the best things to do in Montenegro!
Tip: Some parts of the route are bumpy, so I recommend taking this route with a larger car or a jeep.
How To Get To Montenegro
For those planning to travel to Montenegro, it’s worth noting that the country has two airports: Podgorica and Tivat. Podgorica Airport is the main airport in Montenegro, located about 20 km from the country’s capital, Podgorica. Tivat Airport is situated on the Adriatic coast. Both airports are relatively small, but very compact and capable of handling a large number of travelers.
Several international airlines, such as Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines, fly to both Tivat and Podgorica airports. However, the cheapest flights to Montenegro are operated by Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet.
I flew to Podgorica from Warsaw, but if I were to travel to Montenegro again, I would choose to fly to Tivat. It’s more convenient for accessing Montenegro’s tourist destinations from this airport.
Climate In Montenegro
In Montenegro, the climate varies across different parts of the country, which is why there are three climate zones. The coastal area experiences a Mediterranean climate, with an average of 240 sunny days per year. In summer, air temperatures exceed 30°C, and the water temperature reaches around 27°C. Winters on the coast are mild – temperatures rise to 12°C, and near the sea, they are even a few degrees higher.
Summer air temperatures in the central plains can rise above 40°C. Mountainous regions experience cool summers and cold winters, with heavy snowfall and occasional severe snowstorms. In the northern part of the country, particularly in the Dinaric Alps, snow stays on the ground for three months during winter, allowing ski resorts to operate.
I traveled around Montenegro in mid-June and didn’t experience a single drop of rain during the entire trip. The temperature in Durmitor National Park was slightly cooler than on the coast, but for light hikes, that was actually an advantage.
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Places To Stay In Montenegro
Montenegro offers travelers a wide range of accommodation options. You can stay in budget or high-end hotels, mountain cabins, or simple guesthouses. I was surprised by the accommodation prices, as they were significantly lower than in other European countries when I visited Montenegro in 2022. Although I’ve heard from other travelers that prices have risen sharply since then, even if that’s true, Montenegro is still worth visiting.
Below, I’ve listed a few hotels in larger cities and more interesting areas of the country, taking different budgets into consideration. I hope you’ll find the best accommodation option among them.
Hotels In Kotor
- Hotel Marija is located in the heart of Kotor, making it easy to reach the main attractions of the old town.
- Hotel Porto In – a conveniently located hotel near Kotor’s old town.
- Boutique Hotel Astoria – a unique hotel situated in the 13th-century Buca Palace, a UNESCO-protected site in the old town.
Herceg Novi Hotel Choices
- Garni Hotel Bokeška Noć – a hotel located just a 5-minute walk from the beach.
- Stanica B&B – a highly-rated hotel by customers, located on the seafront promenade in Herceg Novi.
- Lazure Hotel & Marina – a luxury hotel offering stunning views of the Bay of Kotor.
Hotels In Budva
- Garni Hotel MB – a hotel located just a few hundred meters from the beach.
- Hotel Villa Gracia – a well-rated hotel situated close to several beaches in Budva.
- Hotel Imperial Conference & Spa – a luxury hotel with a pool, spa services, and a variety of other amenities.
Getting Around Montenegro
You can travel around Montenegro by bus, train, or rental car. Buses are not fast or comfortable and often lack air conditioning, so long journeys can be tiring. If you don’t plan to rent a car, it’s better to travel by train, as the country has a fairly well-developed railway network.
If you don’t want to adjust to the public transportation schedule, rent a car. Recently, I’ve mostly been using Discover Cars because they offer some of the lowest prices on the market and provide full coverage insurance.
If you don’t plan to drive into the mountains, driving in general will be easy, as the roads in Montenegro are good and free to use.
Montenegro Tours & Activities
Traveling to Montenegro captivates visitors with the opportunity to try a variety of activities. You can embark on a guided tour for a few hours around the Adriatic gem – the Bay of Kotor, or explore towns such as Budva or Tivat. Those looking for more active experiences can go on a day trip by mountain bike, try Via Ferrata climbing, or enjoy an adrenaline-filled zipline ride over the Tara Canyon. I also highly recommend taking advantage of the unique opportunity to try rafting on the Tara River. It’s one of the most memorable things to do when visiting Montenegro.
Discover: Book your tour in Montenegro right here.
Faqs About Things To Do In Montenegro
How many days in Montenegro is enough?
Montenegro is not a large country, but it is full of amazing places to visit. I spent 10 days traveling around the country. I believe this is enough time to enjoy the beaches and see all the main attractions.
What is the best time to visit Montenegro?
If you want to enjoy warm weather, plan your trip to Montenegro in the summer. During this time, the weather is dry, sunny, and temperatures typically rise to around +28°C. Of course, if you’re not a fan of the heat, it’s better to visit Montenegro in May or September.
What is Montenegro best known for?
Montenegro is most famous for its stunning coastline stretching along the blue Adriatic Sea. I recommend visiting the country if you want to combine relaxing at hotels and beaches with actively exploring the country.
Is Montenegro using the euro?
Although Montenegro is not part of the European Union or the Eurozone, it adopted the euro in 2002. Additionally, card payments are widely accepted, although it’s always a good idea to carry some cash.
What food to try in Montenegro?
Montenegrin cuisine is dominated by meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, so you can try a variety of gourmet meals here. I recommend trying fish soup (riblja čorba), grilled calamari (lignje na žaru), grilled meat (Gaiduk), and small pork and veal kebabs (Ražniči).
If you travel to Lovcen National Park, be sure to stop by the village of Njegusi, which is famous for its prosciutto – smoked dried ham (pršut).
Book your flight
Skyscanner is my favorite tool for finding the cheapest flights and flight combinations. Using the Multi-city or Explore Everywhere features, I always discover great travel deals.
Rent a car
Discovercars.com is my top choice for comparing car rental prices for any road trip around the world. The booking experience is always smooth and easy.
Find your acommodation
Booking.com is my trusted platform for finding the best accommodation deals. For trips across Asia, I prefer using Agoda, which often provides lower prices.
Travel insurance
If you're from the USA, I highly recommend VisitorsCoverage for its excellent insurance plans. For Europeans, Truetraveller provides top-notch coverage at the best rates.
Explore more with Tours
Some destinations truly come to life with a guide who knows their history and secrets. When I want to make the most of my time, I always use GetYourGuide.
Protect yourself online by VPN
No matter where I go, I always use NordVPN for secure browsing and to ensure I can access websites that might be blocked in certain countries.
Disclosure: I only suggest companies that I personally rely on. If you use the affiliate links in my posts to book services, I’ll earn a small commission, with no extra cost to you.
Here you have it – the 20 best things to do in Montenegro, so what’s your favorite?!
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
