Forget what you thought you knew about European travel destinations—the best places to visit in Montenegro are the kind of spots that make you question why this country isn’t on everyone’s radar yet. From incredible national parks to seaside towns that redefine “charm,” Montenegro is where adventure and relaxation meet, without the crowds.
Montenegro: a country that’s compact, unassuming, and—let’s be honest—probably not at the top of your European bucket list. But oh, how wrong you’d be!
Nestled between Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Albania, Montenegro is like that hidden gem you almost missed but can’t stop raving about once you’ve found it. It offers travelers the best of both worlds—beaches and mountains, ancient towns and modern luxury, and all without the crowds of the more well-trodden European destinations. And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love discovering an epic destination before everyone else jumps on the bandwagon?
In this guide, I’ll take you through 10 of the best places to visit in Montenegro, with enough insider tips to make you feel like you’ve been there a thousand times.
10 Best Places to Visit in Montenegro
1. Kotor Bay
You know how some places just look too good to be real? That’s Kotor Bay. As you drive into the bay, it feels like you’re gliding into a Mediterranean fjord, with towering mountains and blue-green water all around you.
The winding roads around the bay lead you to quaint villages, each with its own charm. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding. This entire area is hands down one of the most photogenic spots in the country, and you’ll be snapping pics like it’s your job.
Spend a lazy day on the shores sipping Montenegrin wine while watching the boats glide in and out of the bay. And if you’re feeling fancy, book a table at one of the many upscale seafood restaurants to enjoy fresh fish with a view of the bay.
2. Kotor Old Town
You haven’t truly been to Kotor until you’ve gotten lost in its maze-like Old Town. Trust me, getting lost here is half the fun. This medieval beauty is what happens when ancient stone buildings, secret alleyways, and a splash of Venetian influence come together. The whole place is like a living, breathing museum—but one that smells of fresh bread and espresso.
Here’s what you do: start at St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, then wander aimlessly. Stop at a tiny local bakery for some priganice (Montenegrin doughnuts), explore the hidden courtyards, and accidentally stumble into the Maritime Museum. Before you know it, you’ll have your bearings, and that’s when it’s time to tackle the San Giovanni Fortress hike. Let’s not sugarcoat it, the 1,350 steps are no joke, but the panoramic view of the bay? Totally worth feeling like a stair-climbing superhero.
My advice? Skip the midday heat. Either go first thing in the morning or right before sunset when the light is golden, the crowds are thinner, and the experience is otherworldly.
3. Lake Skadar National Park
Imagine this: glassy waters reflecting the surrounding mountains, lily pads floating lazily on the surface, as if they’re whispering secrets to the river, and not a care in the world. This place is perfect for when you need to hit pause, get out on the water, and just… exist.
Hop in a kayak and or boat and sail along the lake, navigating through tunnels of greenery and spotting some of the 280 species of birds that call this place home (hello, Dalmatian pelicans!). If you’re a birder, you might actually lose your mind here. Not into birdwatching? No worries. There are dozens of tiny islands, old monasteries, and fisherman’s villages to explore. One of the coolest things you can do is to stop by Grmožur Island, aka “Montenegro’s Alcatraz.”
After your adventures on the water, head to Pavlova Strana Viewpoint. This spot overlooks the Crnojević River as it lazily winds through rolling green hills before meeting Lake Skadar, creating a scene so picturesque, it looks almost too perfect.
4. Durmitor National Park
In case you’ve forgotten what real, untamed wilderness looks like, Durmitor National Park is here to remind you. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend a week hiking, rafting, skiing—depending on the season—and still only scratch the surface. The park is home to Montenegro’s tallest peaks, thick forests, and more crystal-clear glacial lakes than you can count. Black Lake (Crno Jezero) is a stunner, with its ever-changing hues of emerald and sapphire and thick pine forests.
What sets Durmitor apart, though, is its variety. One minute, you’re hiking around the calm, mirror-like Crno Jezero. The next, you’re speeding down the Tara River on a white-water raft, screaming your head off (in the best possible way). The Tara River Canyon is the second deepest in the world, and rafting here is not for the faint of heart. But if heart-racing adventure is your thing, this is bucket-list material.
Winter visitors get an entirely different vibe, as Durmitor turns into a snowy wonderland. I’m more of a “sit by the fire with mulled wine” type, but if you’re into skiing or snowboarding, the slopes here are legit. And after a day in the mountains, make sure to hit Žabljak for hearty Montenegrin stews and endless glasses of rakija.
5. Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks
If Kotor is Montenegro’s well-known beauty queen, Perast is its quiet, stunningly graceful sister. Nestled along Kotor Bay, Perast is all about baroque palaces, cobbled streets, and slow living. We arrived expecting a quick visit and ended up losing half a day wandering through its sleepy charm.
The star here is Our Lady of the Rocks, an island with a story that feels like folklore come to life. Local sailors built this artificial island by dropping stones into the bay, and every year, they still toss rocks into the water to keep it alive. You can visit by boat, but the real magic is sitting on the shore, looking out at the island with its little church rising out of the water.
Perast also knows how to do a good seafood meal, and I’m not just talking fancy stuff. Think simple, grilled-to-perfection fish that’s so fresh it probably swam right onto your plate. Wash it down with some local white wine, and trust me—you’ll be extending your stay.
6. Ostrog Monastery
If you’re looking for a place that feels otherworldly, Ostrog Monastery is it. I mean, how often do you get to visit a monastery that’s literally carved into the face of a cliff? The 17th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery is like something straight out of a fantasy film. It’s perched high above the valley, almost like it’s defying gravity, and you can’t help but wonder, how on earth did they build this? As you wind your way up the steep, narrow road, the sight of the white stone structure clinging to the cliff becomes more and more awe-inspiring.
The air up here is cooler and crisper, and there’s a sense of calm that seems to wash over you as you get closer. Even if you’re not religious, you can’t help but feel something spiritual in the air—it’s as if the mountains themselves are standing in silent reverence. Inside, the walls are covered with intricate frescoes that have survived centuries, and you’ll find pilgrims lighting candles and offering prayers. But what really sticks with you are the views. Standing on the terrace, you can see the entire Zeta Valley unfold below, stretching out as far as the eye can see.
7. Lovćen National Park
You can’t come to Montenegro and not visit Lovćen National Park. It’s practically a rite of passage. This park is all about dramatic scenery and cultural significance. Perched on Mount Lovćen is the Njegoš Mausoleum, the resting place of Montenegro’s beloved ruler and poet, Petar II Petrović-Njegoš. Reaching it involves climbing 461 steps—sure, it’s a bit of a workout, but the 360-degree view from the top is pure magic. You can see all the way to the Adriatic on a clear day, and it’ll make you feel on top of the world.
But the real secret of Lovćen is in its trails. They wind through dense forests, across rocky plateaus, and up to scenic lookouts that’ll leave you speechless. Don’t forget to pack snacks—hiking here works up an appetite, and you’ll want to be well-fueled when the views keep stealing your breath.
8. Sveti Stefan
And then there’s Sveti Stefan—Montenegro’s mic drop moment. This tiny, iconic islet connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway looks like something out of a movie. It’s the kind of place where, if you’re not careful, you’ll convince yourself you belong among the rich and famous guests who stay here.
While the island is now a luxury resort (meaning, unless you’re a guest, you can’t exactly roam around), the surrounding beaches and nearby viewpoints are open to everyone. And oh boy, are they worth the visit. I parked myself on a beach nearby and spent the day soaking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, and pretending I had a reservation at the exclusive hotel.
The nearby Budva Riviera is famous for its beaches and nightlife, so if you’re feeling social, head into town for a cocktail and some good old-fashioned people-watching. If not, stay by the water and just soak up the laid-back Mediterranean vibes.
9. Žanjice Beach
One of the absolute best beaches in Montenegro has to be Žanjice Beach, located on the Lustica Peninsula. It’s not as crowded as some of the more famous spots like Sveti Stefan or Budva, which means you get a more serene, less touristy experience—but still with that crystal-clear Adriatic water you’re after.
Žanjice has this pebbly shore that slopes gently into the sea, perfect for a refreshing swim. The beach is surrounded by olive groves and lush greenery, which makes it feel like a secret hideaway. What’s great about Žanjice is that you can take a boat trip to the nearby Blue Cave, a natural wonder where the water glows an almost otherworldly shade of blue thanks to the sunlight filtering in through the cave.
10. Cetinje and the Horizont Cafè terrace
Cetinje might fly under the radar compared to Montenegro’s more famous spots, but that’s exactly why it’s worth the visit. This former royal capital has a charm that sneaks up on you, with its grand old buildings, quiet streets, and rich history. Take a stroll through the town, visit the Cetinje Monastery or King Nikola’s Palace, and get a real sense of Montenegro’s royal past.
But here’s the hidden gem: the Horizont Café, perched up high with one of the best views in the region. It’s the kind of spot you stumble upon, order a drink, and suddenly realize you’re in no rush to leave. From this terrace, the entire Montenegrin landscape seems to unfold before your eyes—mountains stretching into the horizon and rolling hills below. It’s the perfect place to relax after exploring, especially as the sun starts to set, casting the town and the surrounding nature in a warm glow. Order a coffee or a glass of local wine, sit back, and enjoy the view—this is Montenegro at its most peaceful and beautiful.
FAQs About Visiting Montenegro
How to get to Montenegro?
Getting to Montenegro is relatively easy! The country has two main airports: Podgorica Airport (the capital) and Tivat Airport (closer to the coast and popular tourist areas). If you’re coming from Europe, you’ll find direct flights from many major cities. From the airport, it’s best to rent a car or take a taxi/shuttle to your destination—public transport options are limited but improving.
There are also ferry routes from Italy (Bari) to Bar, Montenegro’s major port city, which is a cool way to arrive by sea.
How easy is it to drive in Montenegro?
Driving in Montenegro is fairly easy, especially if you’re used to European roads. However, keep in mind that some of the coastal and mountain roads are narrow and winding, so you’ll want to drive carefully. Renting a car is highly recommended if you want to explore at your own pace, especially for visiting national parks and less accessible areas. Just remember, Montenegrins drive on the right side of the road, and renting a car is straightforward with plenty of agencies available at the airports.
Is Montenegro safe for tourists?
Yes! Montenegro is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Violent crime is rare, and most travelers find the country very welcoming and easy to explore. Just take the usual precautions, especially in busy tourist areas.
Is Montenegro affordable?
Yes! Montenegro is still quite affordable compared to Western Europe. You’ll find reasonably priced accommodations, food, and transportation, particularly outside the major tourist hotspots like Sveti Stefan. While prices have risen slightly in popular destinations, you can still enjoy a great meal for under $15, and a night in a charming guesthouse for $50-70. Even luxury accommodations offer good value compared to nearby countries like Italy or Croatia.
What’s the best time to visit Montenegro?
Montenegro is beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on what you’re after. If you’re into beach time and sunshine, the summer months (June to August) are ideal. For hiking and sightseeing, spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) offer mild weather and even fewer tourists, making it easier to explore places like Durmitor National Park or Lake Skadar. Winter is best if you want to ski in Durmitor or enjoy Montenegro’s peaceful off-season vibes.
What’s the currency in Montenegro?
Montenegro uses the euro (€), despite not being part of the European Union. It’s easy to exchange money or use ATMs, and credit cards are widely accepted in most places.
Montenegro proves that the most unforgettable adventures often come from the least expected places. The best places to visit in Montenegro will leave you with a suitcase full of memories and a strong urge to come back. Ready to see what all the fuss is about? Time to make it happen.
Keep reading:
10 Best Things to Do in Fuerteventura, Spain
Dreaming of a Canary Islands escape? Fuerteventura has it all: endless beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a vibe that’s both relaxed and lively. In this guide to the best things to do in Fuerteventura, I’ll take you through everything worth exploring—ready to dive...
Lake Skadar National Park, Montenegro – Travel Guide
Looking for a place where time slows down and nature takes center stage? Lake Skadar National Park, Montenegro is your answer. With its endless water lilies, rare bird sightings, and postcard-worthy views, this hidden gem feels like a world away from the usual tourist...
Andros, Greece: Island Guide, Best Places to See & More
Looking for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation? Andros, Greece, is the true hidden gem of the Cycladic islands, offering endless things to do, from scenic hikes to pristine beaches, all without the crowds. [dssb_sharing_buttons icon_placement="icon"...
Tags: best places to visit in Montenegro; best places to see in Montenegro; best things to do;