Is Montenegro a good place for a holiday?

Montenegro might not be the first place you think of when planning a holiday, but it's truly a hidden gem that deserves more attention. With its spot on the Adriatic Sea in Southern Europe, this country presents stunning natural scenery, ancient old towns, and deep cultural roots. Even though Montenegro is quite small compared to other European countries, it packs a punch with unique and memorable experiences for any traveler seeking something different.

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Foto: Shutterstock
Foto: Shutterstock

Key Highlights

  1. With its breathtaking mountain views and lovely beaches, Montenegro is a hidden gem in Southern Europe.
  2. In this country, you can wander through old towns filled with history and see amazing buildings from the past.
  3. For those who love being outdoors, Montenegro has lots of activities like hiking, sailing, and different water sports to try out.
  4. The coastal towns of Kotor, Budva, and Sveti Stefan are places where you can really see how beautiful Montenegro is.
  5. If you're into trying new foods, the seafood and ham here give you a great taste of what Montenegrin cuisine is all about.

A Hidden Jewel on the Adriatic

Montenegro coast
Montenegro coastfoto: Shutterstock

Montenegro's coastline, or the Montenegrin coast as it's also known, is like a treasure that not everyone knows about on the Adriatic Sea. It's where tough mountains dive into clear blue waters of the Adriatic, creating breathtaking views and loads of fun stuff to do outside. You've got everything from sandy beaches to hidden little spots along this stretch.

montenegro - Hidden Jewel on the Adriatic
montenegro - Hidden Jewel on the Adriaticfoto: Shutterstock

So if you're up for chilling on the beach, checking out old towns, or getting your adrenaline pumping with some adventure activities, this slice of paradise by the sea has got you covered.

A Growing Favorite Among UK Travelers

small settlements along the bay
small settlements along the bayfoto: Shutterstock

Lately, Montenegro has turned into a top pick for folks from the UK wanting to find somewhere new and thrilling. With its breathtaking views, deep history, and wallet-friendly costs, it's become the perfect spot for a getaway. For many from the UK taking their first trip to the Balkans, Montenegro is where they head to enjoy its lovely seaside towns, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. No matter if you're in the mood for chilling by the beach or diving into some adventures,Montenegro offers something special for every kind of visitor.

Montenegro has a rich history

Ulcinj old town was major fortress to defend against sea treats
Ulcinj old town was major fortress to defend against sea treatsfoto: Flickr/ 2mag7- I'm just busy being myself!

Montenegro is a place full of interesting history. When you walk through the old towns, it's like going back in time because of the cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and historic buildings that fill these areas. Kotor is one example where you can see medieval architecture up close and enjoy beautiful views of the Bay of Kotor. Budva's old town also stands out with its Venetian walls and tight passages. By visiting these places, people get to dive deep into Montenegrin culture and discover stories from the past. The country has everything from Roman ruins to Ottoman influences showing how rich Montenegro's history really is.

Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Montenegro

Prokletije mountains have highest peak in Montenegro
Prokletije mountains have highest peak in Montenegrofoto: Darko Šarčević

Montenegro is famous for its stunning landscapes, and there are a bunch of places you really should check out to see the country's natural beauty. With towering mountains all around and pretty coastal towns sprinkled here and there, the Bay of Kotor looks just like a fjord from a fairy tale. Taking a boat trip to the nearby island called Our Lady of the Rocks is something you can't miss; it has this beautiful church with an interesting backstory. For those who love a bit of adventure, diving into activities in Europe's deepest canyon, known as Tara River Canyon, will give you both an adrenaline rush and breathtaking views over wild terrains.

From Pristine Beaches to Rugged Mountains

Lucice beach
Lucice beachfoto: Shutterstock

Montenegro is a place with lots of different sceneries, like untouched sandy beaches and tough mountain ranges. During the summer months, it's great for checking out Montenegro's gorgeous coastline, where you can find super clear waters and sandy shores. If you're into chilling on the beach or diving into water sports, there’s something here for everyone who loves the sea. Away from the coast, in Montenegro's rugged mountains, adventure seekers have loads to do. From hiking and biking over hills to climbing rocks - these activities offer a chance to dive deep into nature’s beauty and enjoy breathtaking views.

Adventure Awaits: Hiking, Sailing, and Water Sports

Tara rafting
Tara raftingfoto: Park prirode Piva

Montenegro is like a playground for those who love adventures, with lots of different outdoor activities to choose from. It doesn't matter if you're someone who gets excited by adrenaline-pumping activities or if you just enjoy being in nature, Montenegro has something that'll make everyone happy. Here's what adventure lovers can do in Montenegro:

  1. Walking through the breathtaking Tara River Canyon, which is among Europe's deepest.
  2. Sailing or kayaking along the coastline lets you find secret spots and quiet beaches.
  3. Giving water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing a go for some fun times on the water.
  4. Going on guided walks to see all sorts of cool places in Montenegro, from rugged mountains and spotless lakes to old forests.

A Journey Through History in Montenegro's Old Towns

Montenegro's old towns feel like you're walking through a history book that's come to life. In places like Kotor Old Town, which is protected by UNESCO, it feels as though the medieval era never ended. With its narrow paths and quaint squares surrounded by historic buildings, every step tells a story of times long past. For anyone who loves diving into history or just wants to experience the vibe of an ancient town that has stood the test of time, visiting Kotor Old Town is something you shouldn't miss. It’s not just about seeing; it’s about feeling connected to the centuries-old culture and stories embedded in its walls.

Unveiling the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor

Kotor old town is an experience for itself
Kotor old town is an experience for itselffoto: Shutterstock

Kotor, recognized by UNESCO and a top spot in Montenegro, is famous for its well-kept old town. With its narrow lanes, quaint squares, and historic buildings, it's like stepping back in time. As you walk through Kotor's ancient walls, you get to dive deep into the area's rich history and culture. The architecture here is pretty impressive too; it mixes styles from Venetian times with Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian touches. There are lots of gems to find here as well - from the iconic St. Tryphon Cathedral to the Maritime Museum packed with stories of sea adventures past. For anyone visiting Montenegro exploring this old town should definitely be on your list.

The Ancient City of Budva and Capital Podgorica

Budva old town
Budva old townfoto: Shutterstock

Budva, nestled in Montenegro, is a treasure trove of history with its medieval old town. Surrounded by old walls, it's filled with narrow streets and historic buildings, creating a cozy vibe. It's not just about the past; Budva boasts lively nightlife, attracting those who love to mix historical exploration with fun evenings out. In contrast, Podgorica presents a modern side of Montenegro. Although it doesn't share the deep-rooted history of Kotor or Budva, Podgorica captivates visitors with its new architecture and dynamic cultural life.

Montenegro's Coastal Splendor

zanjice plaza, Montenegro Tourism
foto: Shutterstock

Montenegro is truly a gem when it comes to its coast. With towns that look like they've jumped out of a postcard and the breathtaking Adriatic coast, it's something you can't miss. Sveti Stefan stands out as a real highlight with its cute little island vibe and sandy shores. Along the Adriatic coast, there are loads of lovely coastal towns and resorts where you can kick back, enjoy nature's beauty, and just relax. From the Bay of Kotor stretching all along to Montenegrin coastline, this area shows off what Montenegro does best – stunning beaches that are perfect for anyone looking to soak up some sun or find peace by the sea.

Sveti Stefan: A Picture-Perfect Islet

Sveti stefan peninsula is centuries old settlement
Sveti stefan peninsula is centuries old settlementfoto: Shutterstock

Sveti Stefan is a charming small town and an eye-catching little island that's become a famous symbol of Montenegro. This special place stands out for its breathtaking beauty, with buildings that have red roofs sitting on a tiny island linked to the bigger land by just a slim path. The town has this cozy feel to it, making it really popular among people who are on their honeymoon or those looking for some luxury travel experiences. While only guests staying at the Aman resort can actually go onto the island, there are plenty of spots along the coast where anyone can catch amazing views of Sveti Stefan. No matter if you're spending your time in this small town or just taking in its beauty from a distance, visiting Sveti Stefan should definitely be on your list when you're in Montenegro.

Budva Riviera and the Bay of Kotor

becici beach
becici beachfoto: Shutterstock

In Montenegro, you'll find two breathtaking coastal spots: the Budva Riviera and the Bay of Kotor. With its sandy shores, clear blue waters, and lively nightlife scene, the Budva Riviera draws in folks who love soaking up the sun during the day and partying at night. The heart of this area is Budva itself, where old-world charm meets modern fun. On another note, nestled among high mountains lies a place that looks like a fjord - that's the Bay of Kotor for you. It's peppered with cute little towns along its coast that are just too pretty to miss out on. If chilling out or diving deep into history sounds appealing to you then places like Kotor and Perast in this bay should definitely be on your list.

A Taste of Montenegrin Cuisine

seafood is a delicacy
seafood is a delicacy foto: Shutterstock

Montenegrin cuisine brings a delicious slice of the country's food traditions to your plate. With influences from the Mediterranean and lots of fresh stuff to cook with, it's something that'll make any foodie happy. In places by the sea, seafood like fish and shellfish is pretty common and cooked in ways that bring out great flavors without making things too complicated. Montenegro has got this thing for cured hams too, which you're likely to find served up in traditional meals. Whether you're eating at a restaurant with views of the ocean or tasting local dishes in a small mountain town, trying out Montenegrin cuisine is an experience you won't forget.

Discover Traditional Dishes and Seafood Specialties

seafood is a must try
seafood is a must tryfoto: Shutterstock

Montenegro is a dream spot for anyone who loves food, showing off its unique culture through what people eat. The meals here are rich and full of taste, using fresh stuff from around the area. For starters, there's "kačamak," which is made from cornmeal and can be topped with things like cheese, meat or veggies.

prosciutto and 'njeguski' cheese, paired with homemade olives are delicacy
prosciutto and 'njeguski' cheese, paired with homemade olives are delicacyfoto: Shutterstock

Then you've got to try "pršuta," a type of Montenegrin ham that's been aged and dried just right. With Montenegro sitting by the Adriatic Sea, seafood plays a big part in their cuisine too. You'll find delicious fish dishes along with mussels and oysters especially if you're hanging out in coastal places like Kotor or Budva. So when you're visiting Montenegro make sure not to skip on these tasty treats!

Dining Experiences: From Trendy Cafes to Authentic Restaurants

In Montenegro, everyone can find a place to eat that they like. In well-known spots like Kotor and Budva, you'll come across trendy cafes where the vibe is chill and there's plenty of drinks and snacks to choose from. For something that feels more genuine, try out local restaurants serving up traditional Montenegrin cuisine. These places often get their ingredients right from the area and give you a real taste of what food in this country is all about. Whether it's a small family-owned spot or somewhere fancier, Montenegro has lots of different eating options for whatever you're in the mood for. So whether you just want something quick or are looking to sit down for a fancy meal, Montenegro has got you covered.

Where to Stay in Montenegro

Hotel
foto: Shutterstock

In Montenegro, you'll find a variety of places to stay that match what you're willing to spend and what you like. Along the coast, there are fancy resorts with amazing views and all the best things like spas and their own beaches. For those watching their wallets, cities and towns across the country have lots of affordable guesthouses and apartments. Staying in these spots lets you really get a feel for local life and culture. So no matter if it's luxury or something more wallet-friendly you're after, Montenegro has just the right accommodation for your visit.

Luxury Resorts to Budget-friendly Guesthouses

In Montenegro, you've got a whole bunch of places to stay that range from fancy resorts to cozy, wallet-friendly guesthouses. For those who love a bit of luxury on their vacation, there are plenty of upscale resorts by the sea. With these spots, you get breathtaking views and your own slice of beach along with fancy stuff like spas and restaurants serving up delicious meals. On the flip side, if saving money is more your thing or you just want to keep things simple, there's no shortage of affordable guesthouses and apartments all over the place. Staying in these lets you dive deep into Montenegrin culture for a genuine experience. So no matter what kind of accommodation floats your boat—be it lavish comfort or something easy on the pocket—Montenegro has got you covered.

Recommendations for Every Type of Traveler

Montenegro is a place that has something for everyone. For those who love being in nature, you can head to the rugged mountains of Durmitor or Lovcen National Parks and see some really amazing views. If lying on the beach is more your thing, places like Budva and Ulcinj have beautiful sandy beaches where you can chill out. In towns like Kotor and Herceg Novi, people interested in history will find old medieval towns full of stories. And if you're into adventure, Montenegro won't disappoint either; there's kayaking on Lake Skadar or going whitewater rafting through Tara River Canyon. So no matter what kind of fun you're after—be it relaxing by the sea, exploring culture-rich old towns, hiking up mountains or seeking thrills in outdoor adventures—Montenegro delivers.

Ease of Travel for UK Tourists

Getting to Montenegro from the UK is pretty straightforward and doesn't take much hassle. From big airports in the UK, you can catch direct flights either to Podgorica, which is Montenegro's capital city, or Tivat, a lovely coastal town. The flight usually lasts between 2-3 hours - so it's quite quick! On top of that, since Montenegro uses Euro as its currency, folks from the UK find it super easy to handle their money while they're visiting. Because it's not too far away and getting there is a breeze, lots of people from the UK choose Montenegro when they want a nice break without any fuss.

Direct Flights and Best Times to Visit

Montenegro has great flight connections with the UK, offering direct flights from big airports like London and Manchester. The journey doesn't take too long, which is handy for travelers from the UK. If you're wondering when's the best time to head over to Montenegro, it really comes down to what you enjoy doing. During the summer months of June through August, Montenegro becomes a hotspot for tourists thanks to its sunny weather and warm temperatures. It's perfect if you love hanging out at the beach or getting involved in outdoor activities. But if crowded places aren't your thing, think about going in spring or autumn instead. With fewer people around and still lovely weather, these seasons offer a nice balance for your visit.

Visa Requirements and Travel Packages

UK tourists traveling to Montenegro do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, it is important to note that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. If you're planning to visit Montenegro as part of a travel package, make sure to check the details regarding visa requirements and any additional documents that may be required.

Travel packages are a convenient way to explore Montenegro, as they often include accommodation, transportation, and guided tours. Consult with a travel agent or tour operator for the best packages and itineraries that suit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Montenegro Safe and Welcoming for Tourists?

Montenegro stands out for its friendly locals who love showing off their beautiful country to visitors. It's seen as a safe spot for tourists, including those from Britain, thanks to its low crime rates and welcoming vibe. With such a reputation for safety and hospitality, Montenegro is the perfect place for a holiday getaway.

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