Our planet is full of incredible places to explore. Some are more popular, but there are plenty of hidden gems. Montenegro is one of those places.
Montenegro offers an incredible experience for first-time visitors by combining dramatic landscapes with coastal towns and vibrant seaside resorts. Here are some must-do things when visiting Montenegro for the first time.
Explore the Bay of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor will take your breath away. The crystal-clear waters lapping on the sand, twinned with the rugged mountain backdrop, create a juxtaposition that shouldn’t work but does.
The Bay is nestled along the Adriatic coast and has a history of trade dating back to the Middle Ages. As such, the surrounding UNESCO-listed towns are charming and full of history. Kotor is home to stunning Venetian architecture, framed by fortified walls stretching up the mountainside.
Northwest of Kotor is a smaller town, Perast. The town is largely pedestrianised, meaning you can stroll through at your own pace. Make time to hop on a boat and visit Our Lady of the Rocks.
Discover Montenegro’s mountain landscapes and National Parks
Montenegro is ideal for those wanting a bit more of an adventurous trip. Head to Durmitor National Park for views that were forged by glaciers and some of the most beautiful lakes in the Balkans. Horse riding, rafting and quad biking are all unique ways to explore the park and keep you wanting more.
As Montenegro is so small, you will be pleasantly surprised by how easily you can combine coastal relaxation with adrenaline-fuelled action all in the same day if you want to.
Experience the Adriatic coast beyond the beaches
The Bay of Kotor is one spectacular stretch of coastline, but Montenegro has loads to choose from if you are seeking a seaside break.
For a Montenegro holiday packed with both a vibrant nightlife scene and calm, sandy beaches, head to Budva. Here, both vibes mesh seamlessly, taking you from day to night without needing to plan too much.
Sveti Stefan is home to the apex of luxurious resorts in Montenegro. All your needs are taken care of effortlessly, allowing you to relax and enjoy the island views. This is always a popular choice as people are increasingly seeking out quieter resorts.
Try traditional Montenegrin food
Wherever you go, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating and drinking. Montenegro has an incredible passion for seafood along the coast, and you can be sure it is as fresh as it comes. Buzara, a shellfish dish, is the perfect starter to any meal – remember to order lots of bread to mop up the sauce!
If you are in the mountain’s, smoked meats are everywhere. Njeguški Pršut is the perfect place to start. The origin of this smoked ham is a 45-minute drive from Kotor, so make a day of it and sample the authentic product.