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A local’s guide to Montenegro: sights, beaches, food and places to stay

With the country now off the red list – and summer still lingering – Emma Heywood of Undiscovered Montenegro picks the best lakes, mountains, beaches and towns to visit

From green lakes to the blue Adriatic coast to massive mountains in the north, Montenegro’s has a definite wow factor.

People come here looking for untouched nature and to escape the crowds and, apart from certain spots along the coast, this is easy to do. On Lake Skadar, one of the largest lakes in southern Europe, is the village of Virpazar, with plenty of boat trips available. But if you just drive along its south-western shore with an inflatable kayak, you can paddle out into a vast expanse of water and it feels like there is no one else there.

Further north, the Durmitor mountains and Biogradska Gora national park offer hiking in dramatic landscapes with only a handful of other walkers. The reward is epic views and the sense of stillness and majesty that I don’t think can be matched in many other places.

In the north-west wetlands is Rijeka Crnojevića, a town and a beautiful river, and the heartland of old Montenegro. The former royal capital was in Cetinje. I love the palace of the last king of Montenegro, now the King Nikola Museum . You get a good sense of the aristocratic, refined but still very Montenegrin and Slavic way in which the family lived.

Kotor town, on the bay of the same name, is Unesco-protected, and for a reason. It has incredible historic architecture, and it’s in a dramatic location, with vertiginous mountains on either side of what’s often referred to as a fjord but is actually a sunken riverbed. The walk up to the fortress of St John offers outstanding views.

Further north, towards the Bosnian border, the town of Plužine sits by Lake Piva, one of the biggest artificial lakes in the former Yugoslavia. Its bright blue waters and craggy grey mountains wouldn’t look out of place in Canada or New Zealand.

In the far south, the ancient seaport of Ulcinj, with its walled old town, has an amazing history, as it was on the Silk Road. It’s been part of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, and its population is mainly Albanian: it has a very different feel and identity from the rest of Montenegro.

My favourite is Jaz beach, north of Budva: it’s one of the longest beaches in Montenegro and hosts summer concerts and festivals. Another personal favourite, except in July and August, is Buljarica, a little further south. It’s a large sandy bay backed by wetlands, and a beautiful place to watch the sun go down.

In between is Perazića Do, which is marred by a huge unfinished hotel, but as long as you look away from the building site, the beach is gorgeous.

Velika Plaža, in the south beyond Ulcinj, is a very long sandy beach. There’s a choice of kitesurfing clubs along the sands, and not far away are the Ulcinj saltpans, visited by a range of migratory birds, including a huge flock of flamingos.

• Food and drink

One of my favourite restaurants is Konoba Galija (+3 823-346-1717, no website) at Buljarica. There’s always fresh seafood, delivered by their little fishing boat, which ties up on the beach.

Konoba Badanj in Virpazar is where I usually eat, and it’s great for a breakfast of priganice (little doughnuts with cheese and honey), before going kayaking or taking a boat trip on the lake.

In Kolašin, on the way to the Bjelasica mountains, Savardak restaurant always has a fire burning and serves meat cooked ispod sača (under a cast-iron bell), for maximum flavour and juiciness. This is an essential eating experience in Montenegro.

Adrenaline addicts will love the zipline in Plužine, and right beside it is restaurant and guesthouse Zvono . You can whoosh along the zipline and have a strong drink afterwards: it does typically hearty Montenegrin fare – excellent trout and meat dishes.

Montenegrin wine is fantastic, plentiful and part of the culture. Most families make their own, and there are about 60 professional wineries – Lake Skadar is home to some of the best. I recently discovered Lipovac , between Virpazar and Cetinje, which is in smart contemporary buildings but makes wine in traditional clay amphorae.

Where to stay

In Stari Bar, Stara Čaršija is a classy new hotel with a spa and restaurant (doubles from €61 B&B). It’s newly built but blends in with the Ottoman surroundings. Hotel Conte in Perast (doubles from €75 B&B), has a restaurant right on the waters of Kotor Bay, where you can eat fresh fish by candlelight.

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Visiting Montenegro: 25 Essential Tips for Travelling in Montenegro

If you are planning on visiting Montenegro here are essential tips you should know before you go travelling in this Balkan country. 

I have visited Montenegro ( Crna Gora -Black Mountain) twice so far. The first time I traveled for one week only. The second time I did two weeks Montenegro road trip covering the majority of the regions and a thousand kilometers of the country’s panoramic roads.

Before the first trip to Montenegro, my knowledge of the country was limited. I only saw a couple of images of the beautiful Kotor Bay which was enough to convince me to go travelling in Montenegro. Little did I expect that, although one of the smallest of Balkan countries, Montenegro is saturated with so much beauty at every turn.

Blessed with stunning landscapes, cute medieval coastal towns, mighty mountains, lakes, and canyons, Montenegro will make both nature and culture lovers fall head over heels for it. 

Yet, before enjoying the best of Montenegro , there is some travel planning that needs to be done. Having been to the country twice, I would like to help you get the best out of your trip. Keep on reading those 25 practical traveling in Montenegro tips that I believe you should know before you go.

Note:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. This helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

25 Useful Montenegro Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know about Travelling in Montenegro

Here you will find essential tips about traveling in Montenegro: from driving in Montenegro, accommodation advice places to see and skip, the best time for visiting, and some cultural and everyday life aspects of Montenegro.

Montenegro Travel Essentials- Quick Links

• My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Montenegro is self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates using Localrent search aggregator.
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Montenegro from your location.
• For a perfect stay: Use Booking to find your perfect accommodation in Montenegro.
• Must have : for traveling in Montenegro is Travel Insurance . Get a quote at World Nomads or SafetyWing .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls with TIM. 500 GB for 15 EUR!

Montenegro travel tips: getting around Montenegro

1. driving is the best way to see montenegro.

Being compact in size, Montenegro is an ideal road trip destination. Moreover, road-tripping Montenegro is just as much about the epic views and surprise stops as it is about the destinations. You will find yourself stopping every kilometer for endless photo opportunities!

That being said, renting a car is probably the most important tip I could give for traveling in Montenegro.

Self-driving will allow you to explore Montenegro in depth. Some of the best places in Montenegro can only be reached by car. This is simply because there is no public transport connection for remote places.

For example, even a quite well-known panoramic spot of Pavlova Strana is only accessible by car. There are no public buses passing it. 

Finally, public transport only takes you to the main touristy locations but there are so many smaller coastal towns and mountain villages which can be explored at ease only if you have your own wheels.

Last time I went to Montenegro I used DiscoverCars to rent my ride. Later on, I also discovered that Localrent is the other great car search website with equally competitive rates (if not more). With Localrent you will be renting from local suppliers, sometimes they do not even require a deposit!

• Distances in Montenegro are short but the roads are windy and narrow- always account for extra time

Most of the must-visit places in Montenegro are not far away from each other in terms of distances. However, you have to account for the lower speed limits due to narrow and windy roads. You might only have to drive for 15 KM, but it sometimes can take around 30min on a narrow mountain road.

My longest drive was from the Eastern part (Prokletje National Park) to Lake Skadar which took around 4.5 hours to finish 200 KM. This was due to narrow mountain roads, that consumed most of the time.

Nonetheless, everything is relatively very close. Usually, you will not have to cover that much of the distance. Therefore, you can expect around 1-2 Hours of driving per day, or even less, depending on where you are and how much you want to cover in one go.

• If you aren’t an experienced driver yet, road-tripping Montenegro might be challenging

Regardless of the convenience to move around with your own wheels, driving in Montenegro can be nerve-wracking. Most of the roads are narrow and windy, especially in mountainous areas.

If you are a new driver, scared of heights and hairpin turns, it might be a bit of a challenge. If you’re not sure about your abilities, you can order a transfer ride .

Some of the roads stretch along the cliffs and are wide enough only for one vehicle.  Therefore, extra caution is required- you must always be alert to the traffic coming from the opposite side.

Nonetheless, there is not much traffic on those remote roads, so take it slowly and you will be just fine. 

2. Book your car well in advance if you traveling to Montenegro in the summer

Talking about road tripping Montenegro brings to the other very important tip. Book your wheels well in advance!

During the summer months of July and August which are the high season in Montenegro, car rental prices shoot up to the skies. In general, car hire in Montenegro is more expensive than in Croatia. However, if you book your ride early enough, you can still get a really good deal for Montenegro car rentals. Especially, when booking a car for a week or longer.

From my experience, booking a car at least one month in advance for the summer months will guarantee you the best prices.

For the most competitive rates, check Discovercars or Myrentacar websites. The great thing with these two car search engines is that often there is no deposit required when booking your vehicle! 

Compare car rental prices in Montenegro

Rent a Car in Montenegro

Look for the best rates for your rental car at Localrent

3. Parking is a challenge along the Adriatic coast and Bay of Kotor

The convenience of having your own wheels comes at a cost when there is time to find a parking spot. It is not an exaggeration to say that parking can be a nightmare in Montenegro. Narrow streets and scarce parking spots are the reality of Kotor Bay and Adriatic coast towns. 

The most popular locations such as Kotor Old town, Budva, Sveti Stefan, or Herceg Novi are an extreme challenge when it comes to finding an empty parking spot (either paid or free). Even parking at smaller coastal towns like Perast, or Risan can be tricky during the peak season.

Expect to have to park a bit further away from the central parts of the above-mentioned locations, and have to walk a little bit.

4. Be aware of traffic from Kotor to Tivat airport during the peak times

If you are flying in and out from Tivat airport, it is conveniently located just around 15 minutes away from Kotor Old town. However, during peak hours, which in summer can start as early as midday, the commute time can reach up to one hour! And there is no shortcut to get to or from Tivat to Kotor. Have this in mind when planning your airport transfers.

RELATED READS: Make sure to also read 33 things to know about renting a car and driving in Montenegro – all the questions answered along with other useful tips. Click HERE to read this post.

Accommodation tips for staying in Montenegro

5. stay at guesthouses or homestays for the best local experience, or rent a studio/one-bed apartment in montenegro.

You can find any type of accommodation in Montenegro- from budget backpackers’ hostels to lux resorts- the choice is yours!

However, I would strongly recommend either going for a family-run guesthouse or renting out a studio or one-bedroom apartment .

Each of those options has great advantages to staying in a regular hotel.

If you are looking for a more local experience, homestays are ideal. There you will receive amazing treatment from the host. Also, they will be very helpful in case you have questions about the area you are visiting. Finally, this way you will contribute to the small business economy (as opposed to leaving your bucks at large monster hotel conglomerates).

Meanwhile, if you rent your own apartment, which is also very affordable in Montenegro, you will enjoy complete privacy and convenience as if you have your own home. Apartments are usually family-owned as well.

Often the hosts live next door and you get both- complete privacy and required assistance.

Moreover, in remote areas, such as Prokletije, Komovi mountains, or Lake Skadar, having a homemade breakfast, lunch, and dinner might be your only and the best option.

6. Book your accommodation for popular locations well ahead if you are travelling in Montenegro in summer

I cannot stress enough that booking your stay in advance during the summer months in Montenegro is a must! The most popular summer destinations are Kotor Bay and Adriatic Coast (Budva, Sveti Stefan especially). The best accommodation is booked out fast, and there might literally be nothing available at all.

Please do not make the same mistake as I did when I was traveling to Kotor Bay. On my two weeks road trip, I was doing some of my bookings on the go. While it worked out for mountain villages, I was in trouble with my last night at Kotor Bay. The studio apartment I was renting was not available for all the days I needed, but I thought it will not be a big deal to book something the night before.

Guess what- there was literally nothing available except some crazy expensive hotels or dorms. I ended up staying in some horrible hostel room in Dobrota (a small town next to Kotor), which by the way, cost just as much as a good studio flat in the same area during the peak season. Lesson learned.

7. Choose accommodation with parking when staying at the Adriatic coast and Kotor Bay

The earlier mentioned parking challenge leads to a very important tip: when choosing your accommodation in Montenegro, make sure it offers private parking.

Choose a place with a guaranteed parking spot, especially in places like Kotor Bay, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and other more popular coastal towns like Herceg Novi, Petrovac na Moru, Bar, and even Ulcinj.

Since streets are really narrow, and all the waterfront towns are squeezed into a small piece of land, it is expected that there will not be enough parking spots.

Therefore, if your selected accommodation says street parking is available- forget it! During the summer you will have a headache looking for a parking spot.

This does not apply to mountainous areas though- I have not encountered any problems in finding where to park when traveling around mountains.

Book Accommodation in Montenegro

Look for the best rates and perfect places to stay on Booking.com

How many days in Montenegro do you need?

8. you can see all highlights of montenegro in just one week.

As I have just mentioned above, Montenegro is one of the smallest countries not only in Europe but also in the World. Therefore, you don’t have to drive miles from one place to another to see it all. That makes visiting most of the best spots in Montenegro possible within just one week. 

From Kotor Bay, to Lovcen mountains, to Unesco protected Durmitor, National Park, to Piva and Tara canyons, and Lake Skadar, all the way through Adriatic coast with a stop to Sveti Stefan and even reaching Herceg Novi next to Croatian border-I cover it all on my first trip to Montenegro back in 2017.

However, if you want to tackle more off-the-beaten path places in Crna Gora, or take it slow, an ideal time to spend in Montenegro is about two weeks.

RELATED REEDS: Check my 2 WEEKS IN MONTENEGRO ROAD TRIP ITINERARY to help you plan a perfect trip to Montenegro. 

What to see in Montenegro (and what to skip)?

9. skip budva and capital podgorica. .

Talking about destinations to skip in Montenegro, Budva and Podgorica are two of them if you have limited time at hand. 

While some may argue that Budva is amazing, those would be the people who love partying and don’t mind overcrowded beaches.

Although Budva may be enjoyable during the low season, I would advise staying away from it during the summer. It is the most touristic place in the whole of Montenegro. Ideal for parties and nightlife, it would be a nightmare for somebody like myself, who loves peace and quiet, and the sounds of nature as opposed to loud music blowing out at every corner of the town.

Since I had more time during my two-week trip, I decided to stop in Budva early in the morning to check out its old town and a cave on a popular Mogren beach.

Since I was travelling during the peak season in July, I made sure to arrive as early as 7 am. Guess what, Mogren beach was already getting packed at that early time, while the old town of Budva was nothing close to quiet either. 

Podgorica is another place that travelers tend to hate. Before joining the club, I did a little bit of research and decided not to bother with the boring-looking capital as Montenegro has so many more interesting places to see.

10. Montenegro is not only Kotor Bay- visit the mountains, lakes, and canyons!

Although Kotor Bay is a spectacular absolute must-visit place, Montenegrin mountains and canyons will leave you speechless.

Montenegro means Black Mountain. As its name suggests, it is not hard to guess that the mountains are the heart of Montenegro.

When I first visited, little did I know about the beauty of the rural mountainous side of Montenegro. Endless rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, glacier lakes, and deepest Europe canyons took my breath away.

There are not enough words to describe the beauty of Sedlo Pass at Durmitor National Park. You must drive the P14 panoramic route to see it yourself.

Also, Piva canyon with its dozens of rock-carved tunnels and the turquoise color river is not to be missed. Followed by the deepest in Europe Tara river canyon which is also a must-see when visiting Durmitor national park.

For those of you who are travelling longer than a week- less explored remote Komovi and Prokletije mountains are places to go to.

• If you are into hiking- Montenegro is a perfect place to conquer the mountains

Continuing on mountain-related tips- Montenegro is a hikers’ haven. Here you can find every type of trail -easy strolls around picturesque Black Lake in Zabljak, mighty Bobotov Kuk summit in Durmitor , glorious Karanfili peaks in Prokletije, mysterious Lovcen mountain range, as well technical rock climbing opportunities.

Moreover, you can even hike in Kotor Bay (stairway to St Giovani fortress and Kotor ladder being two of the most popular city trails).

In short, your options are endless when it comes to hiking in Montenegro.

RELATED READS: Read my full guide to Bobotov Kuk hike in Montenegro .

11. Montenegro has 5 national parks – all of them are very different!

Montenegro is home to 5 national parks, each of which is unique in its own way: Durmitor, Lovcen, Lake Skadar, Biogradska Gora, and Prokletije National Park.

Unesco protected scenic Durmitor National Park is probably the most well-known. It is a great destination for hiking, water sports and skiing.

Lake Skadar National Park , home to hundreds of birds’ speeches, is a surprisingly underrated destination in Montenegro. Its extraordinary beauty has not yet been discovered by many, which makes Lake Skadar one of the best-kept secrets not to be missed when traveling to Montenegro.

Biogradska Gora is known for its virgin rainforests (one out of three remaining in Europe!). It offers a fantastic nature escape along with water activities and many hiking options.

Out of the beaten path on the east side of the country is a less-visited Prokletije National Park . It is part of the Accursed mountains or the Albanian Alps. Here you can find some of the most impressive Balkan hiking routes, even cross to Albanian side and merge into its legendary Valbona-Theth trail if you will.

Finally, Lovcen National Park , just 45 minutes away from Kotor Bay, is where Montenegro’s name originated from.

The landscapes of each of the above-mentioned national parks are completely different from each other. Therefore, if you decide to visit all of them, you will be enjoying unique sceneries and experiences.

• Montenegro is a perfect ecotourism destination- stay in a traditional mountain hut- katun

Montenegro ecotourism is increasing rapidly offering more unconventional stays in so-called “katuns”. Katuns are mountain huts where shepherds and their families live during the summer months.

Recently those cute little bungalows became a popular form of accommodation for tourism purposes. Some of the katuns are very basic, with just beds, while some of them may include a bathroom.

The best locations to experience how locals live are Durmitor and Prokletije National parks and the Komovi mountains.

12. Don’t miss a boat ride in Lake Skadar- the biggest lake in the Balkans

Talking about experiences, one of the must-do’s is a traditional boat ride in Lake Skadar.

Shared between Albania and Montenegro, Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. The larger and the prettier side of the lake belongs to Montenegro.

Although the lush green rolling hills dominated landscapes of the lake are gorgeous to admire from above, but gliding through the waters filled with meadows of lilies at a reach of your arm is a completely different experience. Even more, taking a dip in Lake Skadar’s clear waters on a hot day is a blissful experience.

Also, Lake Skadar is a dream come true for ornithologists. Here they can find a few hundreds of bird species to watch!

The easiest way to rent a boat is at Virpazar, which is the main town in the Lake Skadar area. You can either join a group tour or hire a private boat.

13. Visit Sveti Stefan for its views at a distance

Probably the most iconic place in Montenegro is Sveti Stefan islet. Postcard-perfect miniature island town turned to 5-star resort is only accessible if you are a guest. As much as it would be lovely to explore the alleyways in the little old town, distant views of Sveti Stefan are equally magnificent.

You can either see it from a high vantage point of Saint Sava Church, or/and walk the beautiful coastal park north of the island. Both options are great and enjoyable.

14. Go to Ulcinj for sandy beaches and off the beaten path experience. 

Out of almost 300 km of Adriatic coast, Ulcinj, the southern-most seaside town next to Albanian border, offers the best and the longest sandy beaches in the country.

Ulcinj is locally known for its longest 13 km sandy beach (Velika pliaza) with an honorary “blue flag” award. Thus, even during the busy summer months you can find a peaceful place to suntan and enjoy the sounds of the sea.

The Best Time to Go to Montenegro

15. the best time to go to montenegro depends on your preferred activity.

It is hard to pinpoint the ideal month to visit Montenegro. If you are into sunbathing and coastal life- summer is the time to go to Montenegro. The same goes for hiking- to avoid extreme cold, or heavy rains, the best time to trek is during the summer.

However, if you don’t mind taking some risk of encountering heavy rains, you might get lucky during the shoulder season which brings the benefit of fewer tourists and milder temperatures at the Adriatic Coast and Kotor Bay. Also, for the more adventurous of you, white water rafting in Tara canyon is more fun when the waters are wilder after the rain.

For winter sports, like skiing, winter is an ideal time to head to the Montenegrin mountains. Zabljak and Kolasin towns are the basis skiing locations.

• Be aware of heavy rains and floods when travelling off-season in Montenegro

Rain is very common in Montenegro, and it can totally change your travel plans. Even during the summer, you can expect heavy rainfall. On my first visit, we nearly had to cancel our white water rafting tour since the skies just went wild. When it rains it pours in Montenegro. Roads can even be too dangerous to drive on.

Also, since Montenegro is all covered in mountains, weather can be rather unpredictable. It can start as a sunny day, and end up with thunder and storms, or vice versa.

The same goes for the winter months, due to snowfall, some mountain roads become inaccessible. Like the scenic Durmitor ring- I have seen pictures online of it being completely covered in snow.

• Weather in the mountains is significantly cooler than at the Adriatic coast

It can be boiling hot by the beach, but as soon as you go higher to the mountains, it can get quite chilly, especially early morning and evening/night time. Pack some warm clothes if you are planning to visit Montenegro mountains.

How expensive is Montenegro? Cash or bank card?

Montenegro, although more expensive than its neighboring Albania, or Bosnia and Hercegovina, is still a very affordable travel destination. It is also still much cheaper than more popular Croatia.

16. The more inland in Montenegro you go the cheaper it gets. 

Talking about prices, as a rule of thumb, the coastal parts of Montenegro are significantly more expensive. Drive 30-45 min inland and you will find amazingly cheap and beautiful guesthouses and much lower food prices in restaurants.

Even such places as Lake Skadar which is just as beautiful in its own way as Kotor Bay, has accommodation and meals at a fraction of the cost you would pay at any of the coastal towns.

    17. Bank cards are accepted but cash is still the king

Although bank cards are accepted in bigger hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and petrol stations, you must always have the cash to pay for your stays at guesthouses and family-run cafes and restaurants.

More often than not I needed to use cash during my trip to Montenegro. Even for the remaining amount of my rental car (apart from the online reservation fee), I had to pay in cash.

FUN FACT: Montenegro, although not yet in European Euro, uses Euro as its currency.

18. Data is ridiculously cheap and plentiful on a tourist package . 

Can you guess how much data you will get for the 10 EUR 15 days data-only package? I bet you will say like emm…maybe 50Gb. Even more than that! 500 GB for only 10 EUR- good luck finishing it all!

  19. Tourism in Montenegro is growing rapidly, and so are the prices-visit soon!

I have visited Montenegro twice in 4 years span- and I could see that accommodation and meal prices almost doubled during this relatively short time. This doesn’t come as a surprise, as word about Montenegro as a dream vacation destination is spreading around really fast.

Nonetheless, Montenegro is still a very affordable country to travel around. It is still much cheaper than its neighbor Croatia. But growing rapidly in popularity, it is just a matter of time before Montenegro matches the prices of more expensive European destinations. 

Therefore, visit Montenegro soon!

Safety in Montenegro

20. montenegro is safe to travel.

Montenegro is in general a very safe country for travelers. It heavily depends on tourism, and local people are friendly towards visitors.

Of course, general precautions must be applied just like in any other country. Don’t leave your valuables unattended and be mindful of your belongings in very busy places such as Budva, as pickpocketing occasionally does occur in very crowded touristic spots.

Nonetheless, on not a single occasion did I feel unsafe in Montenegro. As a female traveler, I was totally fine to go to different places on my own, even hikes.

Always lock your car!

Theft from cars and pickpocketing at touristy places are the only things I found reported as a medium risk for theft. 

Food, Restaurants and Groceries in Montenegro

21. vegetarians will struggle in montenegro- a meat-loving country.

Montenegrin, just as any other Balkan country’s, cuisine is heavily loaded with meat dishes. Therefore, if you are a vegetarian, your choices will be limited. Pescatarians, on another hand, will enjoy sea and lake fish.

I eat fish occasionally, but most of the time I am vegetarian. That is why I was having a hard time finding exciting dishes on the menu in Montenegro. I managed to find a few vegetarian eateries in Kotor, and enjoyed homemade fish dishes at lake Skadar, but I was having a hard time in the mountainous areas where meat is mostly the only thing on the menu.

• However, there are options to book a dinner or breakfast with Eatwith . If you plan on visiting Budva, check out this vegetarian dinner option .

22. Don’t be surprised when you get the cheque at a restaurant before you finish eating. 

When it comes to cheques, restaurant etiquette in Montenegro is a bit different from what we are used to in many countries around the world. You will get your bill along with the meals served. If you want to order more food, you will get either an updated bill or an extra one for each of your orders. In this case, do the math yourself.

23. Smoking indoors is forbidden in restaurants and bars in Montenegro

Luckily, Montenegro joined the rest of the European countries and applied healthier lifestyle regulations by banning smoking indoors at cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Before this regulation took place, Montenegro was one of the highest tobacco-consuming nations. Which meant, that non-smokers had to suffer in public places. Not anymore!

24. Do your groceries before the weekend

One hot Sunday midday I was rushing to the nearby supermarket to get some cold juice and a few snacks for my road trip. I found the small local grocery store closed. I thought it was only closed as it is very small and for sure I will get what I need at a bigger supermarket. Wrong! Every single supermarket- bigger and smaller was closed along the way.

Apparently, even shopping malls do not work on Sundays and public holidays (I know we get a bit spoiled here in the UAE to have everything readily available 24/7).

What is the language in Montenegro?

25. language can be a barrier in montenegro.

Montenegrin is an official Balkans state language that belongs to the Slavic group. Other widely used languages in Montenegro are Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian and Albanian.

If you speak Russian, chances are you may understand some words in Montenegrin.

English, however. Is not as commonly spoken language, especially in remote areas. Tourists’ hubs like Budva, Kotor and Tivat will certainly have a higher number of locals that can communicate in English.

PRO TIP: you can utilize Google translate if you need to communicate non-English speaking locals, or get a menu translation (usually there is an English version everywhere). But have in mind that Goole still doesn’t support Montenegrin, so search in Serbian or Croatian- it will usually do the job for basic convos.

I hope you found these Montenegro travel tips useful! Do you have more questions about traveling in Montenegro? Feel free to comment or drop me an email!

Essential Montenegro Travel Resources for Your Perfect Trip

• Go on a tour: Look for the best guided tours in Montenegro at GetYourGuide or Viator.

To plan your trip to Montenegro with these useful travel guides:

• Read these 33 Great Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Montenegro .
• Get inspired and pick  The best places to visit in Montenegro .
• Plan your  road trip in Montenegro with my suggested 2-week itinerary  (can be trimmed to one week if you have less time, suggested route included).
• Check my post about Hiking the highest peak in Montenegro- Bobotov Kuk  if you love trekking and mountains.

MY TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

• Photo and video camera: Mirrorless Nikon Z6
• Main lens: Nikkor Z 24-70 mm f/4
• Wide-angle lens: Nikkor Z 14-30 mm f/4
• Drone: DJI Air 2s
• Pocket-sized camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 2
• Small Tripod: Gorilla Pod
• Travel tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Tripod (Ball Head)
• Photo and Video Editing software: Adobe Photoshop , Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Premier Pro

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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Must-see attractions in Adriatic Coast

The ancient walled town overlooking Mala Plaža is largely residential and somewhat dilapidated, a legacy of the 1979 earthquake. This is part of its charm…

Budva's best feature and star attraction is the Stari Grad (Old Town) – a mini-Dubrovnik with marbled streets and Venetian walls rising from the clear…

Clamber up the steps of this small Venetian fortress for photogenic views of the beach and the dramatic diagonal stratification of the limestone cliffs…

Drobni Pijesak

Adriatic Coast

Hidden in a secluded cove three minutes north of Rijeka Reževići, Drobni Pijesak is a 240m stretch of ‘ground sand’ (the literal translation of the…

Gradište Monastery

Perched on a hill overlooking Buljarica Beach, Gradište Monastery is a tranquil collection of stone buildings facing onto a central courtyard. The…

It's easy to be seduced by Budva's Old Town treats and beach scene, but if the smell of suntan lotion is getting a bit cloying, head for the hills and the…

If you're feeling the squeeze on Pržno's beach, take a wander up to lovely little Kamenovo. There are no hotels here and while you'll find a couple of…

King Nikola’s Palace

Presenting an elegant facade to the water, King Nikola’s Palace was built in 1885 and now houses a collection of antiquities, folk costumes and royal…

This quiet, boulder-strewn beach is great for snorkelling (bring your own gear) or simply slipping off and finding your own secluded swimming spot. Get…

Sveta Nedjelja Island

The small church on this islet is said to have been built in gratitude by a Greek sailor who was shipwrecked here. The current church replaces one…

Katič Island

One of two islets directly in front of the town beach, Katič can be visited via kayak or by hopping aboard a tourist boat; have a word to any of the chaps…

A small museum housed in a 17th-century customs building just inside Stari Bar's entrance explains the site and its history. From here, follow the green…

Sveti Nikola

Known locally as ‘Hawaii’, Sveti Nikola is Montenegro’s largest island, stretching to nearly 2km. Fallow deer wander about on this uninhabited green spot,…

Trg između crkava

Literally the 'square between the churches', this open area below the citadel provides a visual reminder of the once-cosy relationship between Orthodox…

Haj-Nehaj Fortress

If you wasted your youth playing Dungeons & Dragons or you just like poking around old ruins, the lonely battlements of Haj-Nehaj Fortress should be added…

Reževići Monastery

Hospitality has always been important at this atmospheric stone complex, just 2km south of Rijeka Reževići. Until the 19th century, the Paštrovići would…

The citadel at the Old Town’s seaward end offers striking views, a restaurant and a library full of model ships, rare tomes and maps displayed safely…

Praskvica Monastery

Sveti Stefan

Just off the highway in the hills slightly north of Sveti Stefan, this humble 600-year-old monastery, named after the peach-scented water of a brook that…

Roman Mosaics

Apart from the beaches, Petrovac’s most interesting attraction is also its least heralded. In 1902, the foundations of a Roman building complete with…

Sveti Stefan Beach

The main point of coming to Sveti Stefan is to spend as much time horizontal as possible, with occasional breaks for a cooling dip. The water here gets…

Old Olive Tree

There are over 100,000 olive trees in the Bar area, many of which have seen more than a millennium. At Mirovica near Stari Bar is a living witness that…

Miločer Beach

At the northern end of Sveti Stefan Beach, a path leads over a headland draped in pine and olive trees to the turquoise waters and pink sands of Miločer…

Ploče Beach

If the sands are getting too crowded in Budva itself, head out to this little pebbly beach at the end of a scrub-covered peninsula, 10km west of town …

Podostrog Monastery

From Podmaine Monastery, a walking track leads up the mountains for 2km to the fortified Podostrog Monastery. This was once a residence of Montenegro’s…

Šušanj Beach

Šušanj Beach is popular with Serbian holidaymakers. Beat the crowds in the succession of rocky coves that follow; they're perfect for snorkelling and…

St John the Baptist’s Church

Budva's largest church was built towards the end of the 12th century, and served as its Catholic cathedral until 1828. Parts of it possibly date from as…

Podmaine Monastery

On the surprisingly peaceful northern slopes of town, this Serbian Orthodox monastery features the same stripes of pink and honey-coloured stone as the…

Ladies' Beach

This lovely, boulder-strewn little cove – and its cave – are strictly for the ladies. It was given its name and status thanks to the high level of sulphur…

Ričardova Glava

Immediately south of the Old Town, this little beach has the ancient walls as an impressive backdrop. Wander around the headland and you'll come to a…

Slovenska Plaža

After the marina, the long sweep of Budva’s main beach commences, heralded by blaring local pop and endless rows of sun umbrellas and loungers (available…

Milena Canal

On the drive out to Velika Plaža, keep your eyes out for the murky Milena canal, where local fishermen use nets suspended from long willow rods attached…

Omerbašića Mosque

Just outside Stari Bar's main gate, this simple construction (dating from 1662) has a square stone base and an elegant minaret enclosed by a stone wall…

A walkway about a metre wide leads around the landward walls of the Stari Grad, offering views across the rooftops and down on some beautiful hidden…

St Nicholas’ Church

Bar first became the seat of a Catholic diocese in the 9th century and in 1089 it was elevated to an archdiocese, with the archbishop given the title …

Sapore di Mare

This pine-fringed rocky beach makes for a good break from the blaring pop and incessant preening of some of the more populated strips of sand near Mala…

Come July and August it's hard to see this little grin of a cove under all the suntanned flesh. If you're after a little more seclusion, go for a…

Hotel Albatros Beach

If you feel like getting your kit off without making your way to Ada Bojana, this bare-bum beach just down from the large Hotel Albatros is the place to…

Slovenska Obala

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Church of St Jovan Vladimir

This huge, modern, gold-topped cathedral can be seen from all across Bar. It's dedicated to Jovan Vladimir, the patron saint of Bar, who is considered to…

Elijah’s Church

Dedicated to the Old Testament prophet Elijah, this Orthodox church dates from the 14th or 15th century. It's often open, revealing some beautiful old…

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Montenegro: a tiny European treasure on the Adriatic Sea

What one of the world’s youngest countries lacks in size, it makes up for in nature, legends and centuries-old architecture.

Rolling hills, blue skies and endless pristine waters await in Montenegro

“Where exactly is Montenegro?” is the question I’ve been asked most since returning from the tiny Balkan nation, which is less than a 20-minute drive from Croatia’s Dubrovnik.

With Bosnia and Herzegovina to its west, Serbia to the north, and the rolling pastures of Albania to its south, Montenegro declared independence from Serbia in 2006, making it one of the world’s youngest countries.

And it’s a destination that is gearing up for its next chapter, after the last general election resulted in its controversial ruling party voted out after three decades in power.

“It’s hard to wake a sleeping horse,” says my driver Ratko, with a shrug, as we speed from Tivat Airport towards the newly opened One&Only Portonovi. “But we are rising up again.”

After 19 months of being grounded in the UAE, finally I hopped on a (very crowded) plane & flew to tiny Montenegro 🇲🇪. 10 mins after landing in Tivat, I’m on this ferry waiting to cross the water & the views/weather/vibes could not be any more perfect! #grateful #traveljourno pic.twitter.com/UpjJA4wuUS — Hayley (@HayleyScottie) July 3, 2021

It's a believable narrative, given that One&Only Resorts has selected the tiny country as the location for its first property in Europe. The ultra-luxury One&Only Portonovi (from €835 / $987 per night) on Boka Bay offers Venetian-style architecture, stunning manicured gardens, a cutting-edge wellness centre and a restaurant from a Michelin-lauded chef. Interiors subtly remind guests where they are in the world with touches such as traditional Montenegrin-style central fireplaces in every room, and the national mimosa flower detailed on the sunshine-coloured wall hangings in the hallways.

Located in the Bay of Kotor, the resort overlooks a spot that’s been called Europe’s southernmost fjord. While this is factually incorrect, given that the bay wasn’t carved by glaciers, the comparison is valid, thanks to towering mountains and alpine-like cliffs that plummet down into a narrow inlet of the Adriatic Sea.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hayley (@hayleyscottie)

The easiest way to explore Boka, as the locals call it, is via its impossibly blue waters. And what better way to begin that journey than in the mahogany-clad, Bond-esque speedboat that belongs to the One&Only resort.

Our captain, Pietr, tells us we’re headed to the ancient city of Herceg Novi, a rather apt choice given that former 007 agent Pierce Brosnan shot some scenes for his 2014 movie November Man here.

Tour guide and Herceg Novi native Ivan Mitrovski joins us aboard the boat, and requests that we make a quick stop at the Blue Cave on the other side of the bay. This natural cavern is the largest in the Lustica Peninsula and is famous for the iridescent blue hues that reflect through the cave as light bounces off its sandy shoreline. It’s the perfect place for my first dip in Adriatic waters.

Montenegro's sunniest city

Dried and changed, we continue to Herceg Novi, docking our boat in the tiny marina just in front of the open-air national stadium for water polo, the country’s national sport. Herceg Novi lies on the coast between the towering slopes of Orjen and the entrance to the Bay of Kotor. After visiting the city, Yugoslavian novelist, poet and Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andric wrote: “This city of eternal greenery, sun and stairs stays stuck between the sea and the hill as a place whose magic can be experienced more and more as a place with the soul.”

It’s certainly Montenegro’s sunniest city, averaging about 200 days of sunshine a year, and the stairs Andric mentions are everywhere because Herceg Novi is essentially split into two sections. The lower part of the city is home to the marina, pebble beaches and a long promenade, while the upper part, reached by countless flights of stairs, belongs to the Old Town, and is home to ancient churches, fortresses and stone buildings, many of which are constructed terrifyingly high along the cliff edge. One of the most famous landmarks is Forte Mare Mare, or Fortress of the Sea. Having been the city’s first line of defence since its creation in 1382, its worth a visit for both its storied history and its impeccable views of the water, mountains and city.

As we cut through a set of stairs running right by someone’s back garden, we pass an elderly woman who has her knee wrapped in what appears to be lettuce leaves. Mitrovski greets her cheerfully and she smiles, nodding her head.

“It’s cabbage,” he tells me. “It’s an old Montenegrin way of reducing inflammation, and she says it’s working.” Note to self: next time I’ve climbed too many stairs, I'll raid the salad drawer.

The next morning, the endless sunshine rises over the bay as we wake early for a drive east towards Porto Montenegro. This marina and village near Tivat has been at the heart of Montenegro’s development since 2009, and has garnered something of a name for itself as the Adriatic Monaco, hosting the Superyacht Rendezvous Montenegro and being home to the uber-popular Porto Montenegro Yacht Club.

Restaurants, galleries, wine bars and designer boutiques line the development's colourful Mediterranean-style streets and, at its centre sits the Regent Porto Montenegro hotel (from €240 per night), a five-star property that revels in its location with ship-inspired interiors and views over the marina.

Given the area’s seafaring history, it seems only right to take to the water again, so we head out to meet the team from Diving Centre Neptun. This family-run school has been in existence for more than 40 years and Boris, our dive instructor for the day, tells us that his dad used to be the master on the giant submarine on display at the Naval Heritage Collection Museum, located just behind our hotel.

Beneath the Adriatic waves

Coasting along, we ride almost as far as we can go before entering Croatian waters. A few minutes later and we're geared up and on our way down, sinking below the water under the shadow of the black mountain. There’s seagrass, lobsters, sea snails and abalone, and it’s obvious that while Montenegro might not rival destinations such as Egypt or the Maldives in terms of aquatic wildlife, there’s a whole other world waiting to be explored under these Adriatic waves.

Given that the country is still so young, its dive spots remain largely unexplored. But there's plenty to be seen and, according to the Neptun team, lots of wreck dives “with sunken patrol boats, torpedo boats steamships and sailing boats” along the coastline.

Having been below the water, it is time to explore more of the surface, and I am spoiled for choice as Boka is lined with countless ancient towns and villages, from Kotor’s charming Old Town to Risan, the oldest settlement in the area. I head for Perast, a small town teeming with old churches and with a formerly grand palazzi. My destination is the Perast Islands, which sit a few hundred metres offshore.

Made up of two small islets, the most famous is Gospa od Skrpjela, or Lady of the Rocks. This artificial island is steeped in local legend. The story goes that in the 15th century, some sailors found a picture of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the bay. From then on, after every successful voyage, the sailors would add more rocks to the same spot so that eventually an islet would jut out of the water and a church could be built on the top. They even bulked up the island’s mass by sinking enemy ships loaded with rocks below the surface.

Open to visitors, the church on the island now hosts weekly services and the adjacent museum has an impressive collection of 17th-century paintings and silver votives donated by seafarers around the world, who prayed to Our Lady of the Rocks in times of peril.

Opposite the church is Sveti Djordje, Perast’s smaller islet, which rises from a natural reef. Home to a Benedictine monastery and a large cemetery surrounded by cypress trees, it looks pretty but the locals believe otherwise and have nicknamed it the Island of the Dead.

Heading north: national parks and untouched lakes

A day later, it's time to leave the bay behind and explore what lies inland. Hiring a car, I drive north, navigating twisting, single-track roads and winding tunnels cut into steep mountain crevices as I edge towards Rudinice.

About three hours from the coast is Etno Selo Izlazak (from €50 per night). This family-run haven is one of several ethno villages found in rural parts of the country, each of which has been built to reflect the traditional way of Montenegrin living. Surrounded entirely by nature, Etno Selo Izlazak consists of a handful of wooden and stone Toblerone-shaped chalets. The silence here is pierced only occasionally by the ring of a cow bell or the bark of a dog from a nearby farm.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ETNO SELO IZLAZAK 🌄 (@etnoseloizlazak)

A timber frame terrace is where guests can enjoy dinner and drinks al fresco, or simply sit back and take in the view. And what a view it is: the piercing blue of Piva Lake lies directly beyond a canopy of spruce and fir trees and the peaks of Durmitor, Volujak and Ledenica rise in the distance.

About an hour north from here is the border between Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is also the access point for rafting on the Tara River, one of the country's most impressive waterways, which I tackle with the help of experts from Coridor X adventure centre.

River rafting on the Tara

This turquoise blue strip of crystal-clear water slices through the northern edge of Durmitor National Park, one of five in the country. It’s Unesco-protected and home to Europe's largest canyon. Winding through the mountains for more than 150 kilometres, the Tara is also a lot colder than the water at Piva Lake, as I discover when I go flying overboard.

Gasping at the shock of the cold water as it rushes over my head, I freeze for a few moments, before remembering that I need to catch the raft, which is picking up pace ahead.

Laughing heartily, the guide hauls me back into the boat. “It’s refreshing, right?” he says, with a smile.

Getting my travel adventure shoes back on today felt SO darn good #adventuretravel #riverrafting #montenegro pic.twitter.com/VoXNEH8ZEx — Hayley (@HayleyScottie) July 9, 2021

Shivering but safe, I rejoin the paddling effort as we navigate through the category three rapids. When the rushing water stills, I drink in the towering tree-lined vistas above. An animal call echoes down from the steep cliffs overhead and the guide tells me that the forests are home to bears, wolves, wild boar, deer and more.

Untouched and thriving with life, the landscape here is very different from what I saw on the coast, but equally beautiful. Watching me take in the scenery, one of the local men on board says: “You know that they say when god made Montenegro, he had a hole in his bag of treasures and all the mountains, rivers, lake and trees fell out in this one spot.”

The final stop on my Montenegro itinerary is Podgorica, the capital. I stay at the Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora (from €88 per night). Right in the heart of the city, it is within walking distance of the city centre and its parks, embassies and a newly pedestrianised area that is lined with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. Podgorica is a good place to base yourself if you want to visit Plantaze, the largest vineyard in Europe. It’s also less than a 45-minute drive from here to Skadar Lake, one of the country’s most popular destinations.

A lake of fairy tears

No matter which side you approach Skadar from you’ll be greeted by a huge green stretch of water dotted with white cones of karst covered in thick scrubs – dramatic and entirely captivating. I head out on the lake in a cun, a traditional wooden boat that has been used for centuries as the main means of transport on Skadar.

Departing from Virpazar harbour, I meander through the dark water along a reed-fringed channel, until the vast lake unfurls. Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans and is home to more than 260 wetland birds and more than 40 species of fish.

The boatman points to the nesting sites of pelicans, cormorants and terns as we sail through a forest of floating water lilies. At one point, the guide scoops his hands in the water and pulls up one of the plants, which, with a few snaps and knots, he turns into a necklace.

“If a fisherman came home empty-handed, at least he had a gift for his wife,” he explains as he hands me the necklace.

“Let me tell you another secret about Skadar,” interjects the boatman, ushering us closer.

“Once upon a time there was a fairy whose greatest wish was to have blue eyes, instead of the dark green eyes she was born with,” he begins.

“The fairy prayed and prayed for blue eyes, but no matter how much she desired it, her eyes stayed the same colour. After many years, she lost hope, and sunk into a great sadness crying endless tears, which dropped and rolled down the mountains; collecting in a puddle to form the lake we’re on today.”

I'm curious as to why he's told us such a sad story with a grin on his face, but I soon find out.

“Of course, there’s more. You see, when god looked at Skadar Lake and saw how beautiful it was and how the fairy had created it, he decided to give her the blue eyes she wanted. And now, until today, anyone from this area with blonde hair and blue eyes is believed to be of fairy descent.”

I smile at the fable, and take a closer look at the man's eyes – a bright piercing blue.

Getting there and Covid-19 information

Flydubai is the only UAE airline offering direct flights to Montenegro, with services operating seasonally from June to September to Tivat.

The flight time is just under six hours and economy fares start from Dh2,265 ($616). Alternative options are via a stop in Istanbul, or to fly to Croatia and drive across the border into Montenegro, which is 20 minutes from Dubrovnik.

During the global pandemic, Montenegro is welcoming tourists, vaccinated or unvaccinated. Travellers need either a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travelling or a proof of vaccination. Children under 18 are exempt.

Tourists may need to show proof of vaccination to enter theatres, cinemas, museums and galleries.

• The 11 Best Coastal Towns...

The 11 Best Coastal Towns in Montenegro

Montenegro’s stunning coast is a jewel on the Adriatic Sea. Discover the 11 best coastal towns in Montenegro, and get ready to book your tickets to this Mediterranean paradise.

Natural Feature

Architectural Landmark

In contrast to Budva, Perast is a sleepy idyll that’s epitomises the Mediterranean seaside. The tiny hamlet’s seafront is lined with stone palaces of a bygone era. Once home to powerful shipping families, Perast’s crumbling palaces have been restored into luxurious hotels and restaurants. Picture-perfect Perast lies in the centre of the Bay of Kotor and has views over the Verige Strait and the two island churches of Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George.

Perast, Montenegro

Perast | © Diego Delso/WikiCommons

5. Herceg Novi

At the northern end of Montenegro’s coast, Herceg Novi stands guard over the entrance to the Bay of Kotor. Often overlooked by more touristy towns like Kotor, Herceg Novi offers visitors a laid-back Montenegrin experience among locals. The pretty old town’s Bellavista square is a popular gathering point for coffee and late night drinks. The seven-kilometre-long seaside promenade is ideal for summer strolling, and Igalo’s sandy beach draws sun worshippers from May to October.

Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi | © Barbro Andersen/Flickr

6. Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan might well be the most beautiful coastal town in a country that is filled with beautiful coastal towns. The town is known for its namesake island which has evolved from a 15th century trading port to the most exclusive resort in Montenegro.

Sveti Stefan has excellent accommodation options at all budget levels, and it’s just 15 minutes from Budva, making this one of the best places to stay on the Budva Riviera . The location has everything going for it: accommodation on a private island, pink pebble beaches, a former royal residence and a mature forest park.

Sveti Stefan, Montenegro

Sveti Stefan island in Budva, Montenegro | © emperorcosar/Shutterstock

7. Petrovac

At the end of the Budva Riviera, Petrovac is a pretty Mediterranean town that epitomises the coastal Montenegrin lifestyle. The boardwalk is lined with small boutiques, where shop owners gather to chat over Turkish coffee with their neighbours. Seaside restaurants serve fresh-caught calamari and sea bass drizzled with garlic and parsley-infused olive oil. Tanned children build sandcastles with leather-skinned grandparents, who have been coming here for all of their lives. Petrovac is a true beach holiday destination.

Petrovac, Montenegro

Petrovac | © Olena Z/Shutterstock

On the south coast of Montenegro, Bar is mostly off the tourist radar but has some attractions that are well worth visiting. Visitors can wander among the ruins of the old town and visit the pop-up art galleries in the restored buildings. Stara Maslina is thought to be the oldest olive tree in the world at over 2,000 years old, and Bar’s colourful old town street shows the influence the Ottoman Turks left during their 500-year rule.

Bar, Montenegro

Bar old town | © Diego Delso/WikiCommons

On Montenegro’s southern border, Ulcinj is a dream destination for the young and intrepid. Endless sandy beaches and beautiful coves make Ulcinj one of the best undiscovered destinations in Europe. Ulcinj’s old town is over 2,000 years old and overlooks a sandy beach in the heart of the town. To the south, the Bojana River is lined with top-notch restaurants and rustic cabins for rent. Adventurers love to try their hand at kite-surfing and dancing in the sand at beach parties when the sun goes down.

Ulcinj, Montenegro

Ulcinj | © Jason Rogers/Flickr

Resort, Hotel

A tiny hamlet on the Budva Riviera, Pržno is the perfect, romantic destination for couples. The town is based around a pretty cove with a pebble beach and traditional restaurants lining the shore. Stay in the hamlet’s main resort, Maestral Resort and Casino , and spend relaxed days switching between the beach and getting massages in the hotel’s wellness centre.

Pržno, Montenegro

Pržno | © Bjoertvedt/WikiCommons | Bjoertvedt/WikiCommons

11. Krašići

The Krašići coast lies on the Bay of Kotor side of the Luštica Peninsula. The peninsula offers visitors looking for a remote getaway a semi-wild destination with swathes of olive groves and wild beaches. Along Luštica’s Krašići coast, visitors can enjoy the rustic atmosphere of Luštica while still being just 20 minutes away from other top coastal towns, including Tivat and Kotor.

Krašići, Montenegro

Lustica Peninsula | © nadtochiy/Shutterstock

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Adriatic Coast Itinerary: Road Trip Along the Adriatic Sea

Find out how to plan the perfect Adriatic Coast road trip with our detailed itinerary.

Travel at your own pace through majestic mountain ranges, stunning coastlines along the Adriatic Sea, captivating European cities, formidable fortresses, bewildering caves, historical architecture, and majestic bays from San Marino to Montenegro. This ~1,220-mile (1,963 km) road trip, mostly through the Balkan Peninsula, journeys through 6 countries (San Marino, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro) and at least 9 cities.

Travel Tips and Practicalities

Winetraveler selected Milan (MXP) as the starting point based on the ease of Winetravelers worldwide arriving in Milan (if you do decide to arrive in Milan, check this list of the best things to do ). You can easily tack on a few extra days to explore Milan.

For those just passing through with an overnight layover, there is a Sheraton  conveniently connected to the MXP airport. From Kotor, fly home via Podgorica (TGD) .

Renting a car or arranging private transfers will be your most convenient option.  Daytrip is an alternative option and offers flexible customizable private transfers with local drivers with the option of adding side trips.

This itinerary is perfect for all travelers (including travelers with babies or young children). For those traveling with little Winetravelers, all the hotels mentioned are family-friendly and at least fairly recently had cribs or Pack n Plays. Always confirm and reserve at the time of booking.

NOTE: Before traveling, visit the Embassies of Italy , Slovenia , Croatia , Bosnia and Herzegovina , and Montenegro websites for the most current visa and tourist information.

San Marino, San Marino

San Marino is a tiny country completely landlocked by Italy and situated on the slopes of Mount Titano in the Apennine Mountain range near the Adriatic Sea. It’s one of the world’s smallest countries with a claim to being the oldest surviving republic. This micro-state spanning 23.6 square miles is the third smallest country in Europe after Vatican City and Monaco. It contains rich history, medieval fortifications, charm, dramatic views, and of course, wine. Three defensive fortifications are perched on top of Mount Titano’s three peaks in the capital city. They’re connected by medieval stone walls and cobbled paths. As you explore fortresses, churches, and museums, you may be reminded of a time when Italy and other parts of Europe were made up of independent city-states.

The  Hotel La Grotta, San Marino  is a charming boutique family-friendly hotel arranged over 3 floors conveniently located in historic San Marino walking distance to all the top sites. 

RELATED: San Marino Itinerary: Top Things to Do in San Marino This Year

Venice, Italy

Winetraveler has previously covered Venice at length. As described by Winetraveler author, Kristy Wenz, Venice “is unlike any other, with a charm and intrigue all its own. Colorful buildings rise above the narrow canals. Uneven brick-lined walkways and quaint bridges (of which there are 400) beckon with romanticism. Gleaming gondolas float lazily past adorned with fire engine red plastic roses and mesmerized faces.”

Venice has plentiful hotel options. The Riva del Vin Boutique Hotel  offers deluxe rooms with canal views looking out toward the Rialto Bridge. Being near the Grand Canal and close to water taxi stops, it has a prime location, too. After just a short ~9 minute walk, you can be at the Basilica di San Marco and Piazza San Marco. The Bridge of Sighs is ~3 minutes longer.

If you’d like to get off the tourist trail, book a day or early evening tour with local Elisabetta Amadi . Discover lesser-known neighborhoods, eateries, churches, and historic landmarks.

RELATED: 25 Best Things to Do in Venice Italy This Year

Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled, a lake reminiscent of a fairy tale, is tucked between lush forestry and the Julian Alps. A quaint island with a church floats in the middle. Bled Castle, believed to be the oldest castle in Slovenia, is perched high above the lake on top of a gray cliff. Slovenia offers nearly unending possibilities for adventurous spirits. From mountains soaring above valleys, waterfalls, rivers, and lakes, to an underground world full of caves. It’s the perfect place to breathe in the fresh mountain air while seeking out active adventures by day and then indulge in fine dining paired with local Slovenian wines by night.

RELATED: 3 Day Itinerary: Bled, Slovenia for Adventurous Wine Lovers

Old Bled House  is a small 300-year old farmhouse featuring cozy home-style décor and walking distance to Lake Bled. It has a romantic rustic feel whilst being a welcoming retreat for families. Affordable two-bedroom suites make this house an attractive choice to comfortably accommodate families. The restaurant provides the opportunity to taste authentic Slovenian dishes. Across the hall from the restaurant is the Old Cellar Bled that boasts a selection of more than 70 different Slovenian wines, most of which are served by the glass.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

While the surrounding countryside is beautiful, the drive can be sobering at times. Parts of the drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park provide a stark reminder of a recent tragic past. You may pass by villages that appear to be completely abandoned with rundown homes that seem to have been destroyed and covered in bullet holes.

RELATED: 5 Epic Road Trips in Croatia Packed with Scenery, Food & Wine You Need to Try Out

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is the oldest and largest national park in the Republic of Croatia. Nearly 80% of the park is covered in forestry. The park is famous for its plentiful waterfalls and turquoise lakes.  The lake system is separated into the Upper and Lower lakes. The landscape is exceptionally biologically diverse. There are plentiful hiking trails around the falls, and ferries to take you to different hiking spots.

Winetraveler Tips : When in the national park, drive carefully to avoid large potholes that could result in flat tires. It’s recommended to purchase tickets to the park in advance. If you’re staying in Split you can get tickets with a tour included here , you can get tickets if you’re staying Zagreb complete with a full-day tour here .

Fenomen Plitvice is a resort blending luxury and wilderness with exceptional service. The quaint wooden houses/cabins are nestled in the woods within walking distance to the majestic waterfalls and located conveniently in the heart of Plitvice Lakes National Park. The restaurant on-site is aesthetically pleasing with a fireplace and charming wood furnishings. It is an excellent place to try local foods and local Croatian wine and beers.

Split, Croatia

Soaring mountains, long tunnels, and quaint towns surround you en route to Split. For those with time, stop at the Krka National Park on the way. Sites not to miss include the Cathedral of St. Domnius, Diocletian’s Palace, Kliss Fortress, Split Marina, Pjaca Square, and Gregory of Nin Statue. Snack on a cheese plate and try local wines at Paradox Wine & Cheese Bar . The Tribidrag Riserva Grabavoc was recommended and delightfully enjoyed.

Winetraveler Tip : For Game of Thrones fans, the Klis Fortress is a beautiful fortress on a mountain that had been used as the city of Meereen on the show.

Prima Life Spalato is an affordable hotel option connected to a shopping center and within walking distance to many of the top sites.

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Expansive countryside, vineyards, and mountain views will surround you while heading to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Buildings shattered with bullet holes provide a reminder of not-so-distant past strife with turmoil. Mostar is known for its old Turkish homes and its famous reconstructed bridge, Stari Most . Stroll along cobbled pathways with shops, restaurants, and surrounding mosques. Taste local dishes, such as Čevapčići, Ražnjići, and Kajmak, and local wine and beer at Podrum, located just a two-minute walk from the bridge.

Winetraveler Tip : Pay a small entrance fee by the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for an unobstructed view of the iconic Stari Most.

If time permits, while traveling to Dubrovnik, pass through Neum. This will extend the duration of the trip, but many will find the views of the Adriatic Sea to be worth it.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The walled medieval town of Dubrovnik is considered to be the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The top things to do in Dubrovnik , as previously covered by Winetraveler, include: meandering along the city walls, wine tasting within the medieval walls, visiting the Lovrijenac Fortress, basking in the sun at Banje Beach or Sveti Jakov Beach, sipping wine overlooking the sea, taking a 20-minute ferry to Lokrum Island, strolling the streets, kayaking the waters, and taking the cable car up to Srd Hill at sunset. For a truly unique experience for the more adventurous Winetravelers, head over to Edivo Underwater Winery that combines diving and wine tasting. It is only an hour from Dubrovnik. Click here to read Winetraveler’s full article detailing the best things to do, see, and drink in Dubrovnik.

The lovely seaside Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik  provides enchanting views of the Adriatic Sea and the ancient old town, restaurants facing the Adriatic, an indoor swimming pool, a beach, gardens, and a spa and fitness center. If you get a sea view room, the balcony is the perfect place to sip on wine overlooking the walled town.

RELATED: Croatian Wine? Here’s Why You’ve Probably Never Tried It

Kotor, Montenegro

Breathtaking views are offered from nearly anywhere you venture in Montenegro. Shortly after entering Montenegro, taste quality wines at the quaint family-owned  Savina Winery while soaking in the dazzling bay and mountain views. The setting up on a hill is pleasant and calming, and the captivating views are visible from the tasting terrace, tasting room, and the vineyards slanted up the slope. Advanced reservations are required.  

Stay or stop in Perast as you continue southward to Kotor. The charming small town of Perast, with a population of fewer than 400 people, looks out toward the narrowest part of the bay, Verige Strait, and two islets: the small island of  St. George , and the artificial man-made island of  Our Lady of the Rocks  with a small Roman Catholic Church resting on top. Legend claims the latter was built by residents of Perast piling rocks and sinking ships around the spot fishermen found an icon of the Virgin Mary until the islet was formed.

Kotor lies along the edge of the majestic Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska). The turquoise bay appears to slice apart the dramatic grayish-colored mountains with speckled shrubbery encircling the city. Medieval city walls extending for nearly 3 miles surround Kotor’s Stari Grad (Old Town) and up into the mountain above the city forming a loop. The grayish-colored stone walls blend into the mountain slopes during the day. At night, the weaving walls are illuminated showcasing the perimeters of the defensive structure.

Climb up the old city walls that snake up the mountainside to the  Castle of San Giovanni , and dine and wine in Kotor’s old town. Take day tours to Njegos Mausoleum , a must-see monument in Lovćen National Park for epic views and fascinating history, and Skadar Lake, the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula. Tour nearby wineries, such as Vinarija Ivan, Vinarija Mrkan , Vinarija Vukmirović , and Vinarija Mašonović .

Stay at the historic Hotel Cattaro . The hotel is a member of the Historic Hotels of Europe and shares a portion of the town’s old walls located in Armory Square. Many rooms overlook the iconic clock tower.

RELATED: How to Spend a Perfect 3 Days in Montenegro

Winetraveler Tip : Enhance your stay in Montenegro with the knowledge of a local guide. 360Monte provides an excellent privately guided day trip so you can make the most of your visit to Kotor and beyond.

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Alpine Mountains, the Via Dinarica Trail, and Magnificent Kotor Bay

Hiking montenegro and the adriatic coast.

Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia

From $5,195

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

From soaring limestone peaks in the north to classic Venetian towns along the blue Adriatic, Montenegro is one of Europe's hidden gems—uncrowded and perfect for WT-style hiking. We'll hike our way from the alpine world of Durmitor and Biogradska Gora national parks to the gorgeous coast at the Bay of Kotor, Europe's southernmost fjord. Along the way, we hike sections of the Balkans' Via Dinarica, a “mega trail” from Slovenia to Albania (and named Best New Trail by Outside magazine in 2014), discover Montenegro's cultural patchwork, and sample delightful cuisine that reflects the region's blend of east and west. Our finale finds us hiking along the Bay of Kotor, one of the most spectacular settings on the entire Adriatic Coast.

Arrive: Sarajevo, Bosnia

Depart: Dubrovnik, Croatia

• Enjoy storied Sarajevo, with visits to Sebilj Square and the historic Latin Bridge
• Hike in pristine Durmitor National Park, along magnificent Kotor Bay, and on the Via Dinarica
• Explore the ancient woodlands of Biogradska Gora and the Tara River Canyon, one of Europe's deepest gorges
• Discover Kotor, with its Greek, Roman, and Venetian heritage
• Sample the cultural tapestry of Montenegro's cuisines

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in hotels and comfortable inns
• All meals included except 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Aziza Hotel

Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Day 1 (1 night)

North Story

Žabljak, Montenegro

Days 2-3 (2 nights)

Bianca Resort and Spa

Kolasin, Montenegro

Days 4-6 (3 nights)

Hotel S Family Jovicevic

Rijeka Crnojevica, Montenegro

Day 7 (1 night)

Set on a tributary of Lake Skadar, this simple hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and a terrace with views of the river. The on-site restaurant is open all day, and you'll enjoy breakfast right beside the river.

Forza Mare Hotel and Resort

Kotor, Montenegro

Days 8-10 (3 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Vlatko Bulatovic

Denitza Petrova

Stanislav Simicic

What the Trip is Like

This trip is rated Level 3, Moderate , according to our trip grading system. It is a hiking journey with day hikes of four to six hours on most days over moderate to steep mountain terrain. The hiking itinerary is planned as we have described it in the preceding pages. However, as in any mountain trip, we will remain flexible with regard to weather and other local conditions in choosing our routes. And do remember that apart from the coastal areas, the tourism infrastructure in Montenegro is still in development and the services, facilities, and quality of hiking trails can be basic.

Although we are not at altitude, the trails can be rocky and narrow, and there is a lot of limestone, which can get slippery when wet. You will carry just a daypack on the hikes. Hiking boots that go above the ankle are recommended for the extra support, as well as hiking poles.

Rooms in the hotels and inns we stay in are not always of uniform or international size. However, our leaders try their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Please note that single rooms in European hotels tend to be small by US standards. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.

Extend Your Trip

Dubrovnik Extension

From $2,095

Client Testimonials

"Beautiful country with wonderful hikes, made all the better by our leader and guide!"

Forestville, CA

"Really great trip. Sarajevo is a fascinating city and Montenegro is beautiful."

Bedford, MA

"I have trekked all over; this is my 4th trip with Wilderness. This trip was top shelf in all ways—the guides, the group, the hiking, the natural beauty/history/culture, activities, etc."

Gresham, OR

"Loved this trip! The pace was perfect—around five hours of hiking each day, late lunch, several hours for rest, relaxation, exploration of the towns we were in, followed by evening dinner. We all agreed that this trip should be advertised as a culinary expedition: the variety and quality of meals was amazing!"

Plymouth, MI

"Montenegro is a very unspoiled destination with spectacular scenery and wonderful people. Accommodations were lovely and the restaurants charming and atmospheric."

"The trip exceeded our expectations. The diversity of the experience of hiking in the mountains and then along the coast was tremendous. We did not expect to see such jaw-dropping scenery and to experience so much local interaction, especially with regard to the array of meal experiences we had."

Concord, CA

"Montenegro is a beautiful country. On most of our hikes we were alone on clean trails with fantastic views. It felt like we were being shown an undiscovered part of the country."

Del Mar, CA

"One of the best trips of my life! A wonderful mix of culture, history, nature, glorious scenery, outdoor activity, and relationships—in a part of the world that few can name or locate on a map."

Marguerite A.

Richfield, OH

"The Trip Leader's enthusiasm for the country and her wonderful personality contributed so much toward making this a fabulous trip."

Bexhill-on-Sea, England

"This was a great trip. The planning and execution were perfect."

Santa Clara, CA

"We felt fortunate to experience the landscape and learn the history of a part of the world we knew little about. The scenery was breathtaking, the cultural aspects mind-expanding. Our guides were knowledgeable, considerate of our abilties and interests, and delightful."

Sara N. & George D.

Seabeck, WA

"An excellent trip with a variety of hiking, beautiful scenery and cultural experiences. Much to my surprise I enjoyed the cultural and unusual dining experiences."

El Cajon, CA

"Fantastic variety on the trip between Sarajevo, the Montenegro mountains, and the coast."

Suzanne & Brady M.

Friendswood, TX

"Our 8th WT trip overall. The design and execution of the trip whetted our appetite for more travel of this type."

"This was an excellent trip in a relatively new country to travel in. The hotels were excellent, and the food was great."

Milwaukee, WI

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From $6,095

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

Trip Download Itin

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

Crossing The Adriatic Sea: Italy To Montenegro

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

It’s no secret that flying is our preferred method of travel, we are Jetsetting Fools , after all.. Even in Southeast Asia – the land of Travel-by-Bus – we relied on planes to get us from city to city. Every once in a while, however, we choose a different route – as was the case when it came to crossing the Adriatic Sea.

After our month-long stay in Lecce, Italy , we wanted to explore the western coast of the Balkans along the Adriatic – and we chose Kotor, Montenegro as our first stop. However, getting there by plane, especially in the off-season, was proving to be difficult.

One itinerary could be: train from Lecce to Brindisi, fly to Rome (going the wrong way!), fly to Zagreb, Croatia , fly to Dubrovnik and, finally, a bus to Kotor. We did find a flight from Rome to Podgorica, Montenegro, but not within our budget, and would still require backtracking to Rome and a 3 hour bus ride to Kotor. Plan C provided the most direct route: Crossing the Adriatic Sea via ferry from Bari, Italy to Bar, Montenegro.

Simple enough, right? The Montenegro Lines ship cross the sea twice a week on an overnight, nine-hour journey. Single bed rooms with private bath are available for €80 and a second passenger can shack up in the room and squeeze onto the twin-size bed for an additional €44. We thought that was a pretty good deal for one night’s lodging and transportation. It seemed to be a solid plan…except that the February schedule wasn’t yet posted and it was already near the end of January.

Through a series of emails we learned that the ferry may not operate in February because “the boat will probably go on shipyard for some weeks.” To me, that sounds like the boat needs some maintenance. With news of recent ferry incidents I became torn: I really wanted our plan to work, but at the same time, did I want to spend nine hours in the middle of the Adriatic Sea on a boat that required repairs? I somehow convinced myself that they wouldn’t run a broken ferry – and when the February schedule finally came out, we booked it.

We made the mistake of reading reviews after we booked the tickets and a feeling of dread blanketed the impending trip. I imagined soiled sheets, dirty toilets and loud, all-night drunkards roaming the hallways. And, in a final unsettling twist, we received an email the day before our departure letting us know the boat would be leaving an hour earlier than scheduled. My anxiety level was heightened as my mind raced with an amazing series of “we should haves.”

Even though it was the most efficient route we found, the process still wasn’t direct. We needed to take a train from Lecce to Bari, walk through the old town to the ferry terminal, hitch a ride to the ticket counter – then back to the ferry terminal – then board the boat. While we thought it would be a little hectic, it actually was quite a smooth process.

The train, where we had the car almost completely to ourselves, was one of the nicest we’ve been on in Italy and the panoramic windows provided a stellar view of the setting sun. The walk through Bari took us past high-end retail shops, filled with evening shoppers and others just strolling about. In the Bari Old Town – still a walled city with gated entrances – we wound through the narrow alleys and explored the two main churches, both so different from the architecture of Lecce’s Baroque Churches .

Once we found the Bari Ferry Terminal, we were told to wait for the shuttle bus to take us a couple miles away to the ticket office. Why there isn’t a ticket office inside the terminal seemed ludicrous to me, but no one else seemed to be bothered by the inefficient process. With passports stamped and boarding passes in hand, we made our way through customs, onto the boat and into our room.

We were delightfully surprised to find a decent size room, freshly washed and pressed sheets on a comfortable bed and a clean bathroom with a shower and provided toiletries. The restaurant was nicely decorated (possibly a bit overly decorated) and the wait staff wore white, long-sleeve shirts and bow-ties. It was far from a Carnival cruise, but we were starting to relax and our dire thoughts were shifting to images of a good night’s sleep.

The boat was open to wander, so we braved the chilly air and made our way from the stern to the bow, watching as cars and semis were loaded into the bowels of the boat. Just before departure, as smoke was blowing from the stacks and men in bright neon vests were preparing to unleash the lines from the dock, a few people started investigating the hull of the boat with a flashlight.

The longer they looked, the more my nerves stood on end and my bright mood was starting to dim. But suddenly, the man in charge started hollering, the lines were untied and we were off into the black night of the Adriatic Sea. We watched as we left Bari, Italy in the distance and screamed, “Ciao Italia!” into the crisp air and to no one in particular until we could no longer see the city lights.

In an effort to get as much sleep as possible, we headed straight to the room and settled in. With the hum of the engine and the steady rocking of the sea, I was lulled into sleep in no time. Unfortunately, it didn’t last long, as the steady rocking became more dramatic and we could feel the ship pitching and lurching in the swells.

I peered out the window, expecting to see nothing but darkness, but was alarmed to see more white caps than black sea. As the waves crashed against the boat, the spray shot so high into the sky that it was beyond my view. Unsure of whether it was normal or something to be concerned about, we lay in bed with our eyes wide open and our minds alert.

Just as we were about to fall back to sleep, the boat would again plunge and tilt – more than once sending our backpacks skidding across the room and the items we’d placed on the shelf crashing to the floor. We could hear the sounds of other passengers getting seasick and the only way we could keep from doing so ourselves was to lie flat on our backs and sway with the motion.

If I could have been sure that we weren’t going to capsize, I think I could have actually enjoyed it. The sensation was similar to a ride at an amusement park, but this ride was powered by the force of nature and was lasting well beyond the standard five minutes.

Hours had passed when the constant jarring movements started to ease. The sun was rising and I could see land outside the window. Land! We made it! Just as I felt I could finally fall asleep, we were jolted out of bed by the sharp knocking on the door letting us know it was time to check out.

We both worried that our legs would reject solid ground, but found that if we just kept moving, we could at least walk. At lunch, even after being on land for six hours, I swore I was going to fall off the chair and literally held onto the table to keep myself upright. It would be 36 hours until the swaying would stop.

We’ve since learned that high southerly ‘Yugo’ winds cause havoc on the Adriatic and was most likely the reason for the early departure. We were probably never in any serious danger, just in for a miserable ride. All the same, I think we’ll stick to flying…

Montenegro Lines no longer operates the route, or at all! However, the Croatian company Jadrolinija operates a ferry from Bari to Dubrovnik, Croatia . The summer sailing schedule is available here .  

Looking for what to do once you arrive? Have a peek at our extensive Travel Guides to Croatia and Montenegro !

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This Is The Cheapest Region Of The Mediterranean For Tourists

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Home to some of the world's oldest nations and being distinct for its turquoise waters, the Mediterranean is one of the most visited holiday destinations globally, drawing in millions of tourists year-round, but especially in the warmer months when it's sunny out.

The only problem is that certain Mediterranean destinations can hit your wallet, from Ibiza, Spain's leading leisure island, to Mykonos, the party capital of Greece, to Amalfi, Italy's pristine coast dotted with colorful towns, all three of which are eye-wateringly expensive .

Luckily, not all Med spots have exorbitant prices , and though a majority of the most popular do, this region of the Ancient Sea is not only incredibly cheap to visit but arguably its most beautiful:

The Adriatic Is The Cheapest Part Of The Mediterranean

In case you didn't know, the Mediterranean is divided into 11 parts, all bearing different names-Aegean, Ligurian, Balearic-but belonging to the same sea nonetheless.

One of those, the Adriatic, is bordered by some of Europe's most budget-friendly countries.

The world may know the Adriatic as Italy's ‘eastern' coast, where the iconic dry stone, conical roof houses of Puglia, the resort city of Rimini, and the floating city of Venice are located, but across the narrow body of water, the Mediterranean's northernmost lies the Balkan Peninsula .

The ‘Balkan' countries comprise much of Southeastern Europe, with five of them straddling parts of the Adriatic coastline. They are close neighbors, but they have surprisingly distinct cultures, making the peninsula a melting pot of the sorts:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

Before we discuss prices, let's briefly go through each one of them:

How Do Balkan Countries Compare?

Slovenia has the second shortest coastline in the Adriatic, at only 28 miles.

Due to its proximity to Austria and Hungary, it has more of a Central European character than a Mediterranean one.

Its neighbor to the south, Croatia, on the other hand, claims much of the Adriatic for itself.

As the meme goes, it's almost as if Bosnians said they wanted to swim, and Croatia replied a sharp ‘no': the Croatian coast comprises over 90% of the Balkan side of the Adriatic, getting narrower and narrower, all but fencing off Bosnia's access to the sea.

Needless to say, Croatia is the leading Balkan destination , highly sought-after for its millennia-old Dalmatian cities, with Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik to name a few, paradisaical islands and pebbly beaches bounded by crystalline waters.

Bosnia does have a coast, albeit a 12-mile long one (they've got Croatia to thank for that), leaving Montenegro, the next country in line, as Croatia's strongest competitor.

Stone-built, cobblestone-laden towns, scenic beaches, you know how it goes.

Finally, at the southern end of Montenegro's 183-mile-long coast, we have Albania, the Adriatic's best-kept secret , where tourists will find sandy beaches, which are surprisingly rare in this part of the Mediterranean, and most importantly, significantly lower consumer prices.

Adriatic Countries Are Remarkably Cheap

Speaking of affordability – we know this is what you came here for – we're not sure you've realized this by now, but a vacation in the Adriatic will hardly break the bank .

That is, if you're sticking to the Balkans and avoiding Italy altogether:

Balkan Adriatic states are remarkably affordable: in Montenegro, ordering a cevapi – a minced meat flatbread bap served with onions – and a drink at an inexpensive restaurant will cost you less than ten bucks on average, and the same goes for Bosnia and Herzegovina:

It makes up for its lack of an extensive coast with cheap eats – eating in inexpensive restaurants will set you back a mere $5 on average each time – and accommodation, as cheap as $26 per night on average, according to Budget Your Trip .

Croatia is probably the most expensive of all, being dubbed a ‘mini Italy' due to its rising cost of living, but if you're willing to sacrifice some comfort, you should expect to pay only $25 for a dorm bed, and there's plenty of delicious, $3 takeaway calzoni to be had in downtown Split.

Slovenia is not that cheap either: the official currency is the euro, and it's a developed country that enjoys high standards of living.

That being said, an overnight at the three-star Art Hotel in Piran, part of the Slovenian Riviera and Split without the crowds, costs an acceptable $82 per adult.

You're probably not coming all the way to the Mediterranean to sleep in hostels and be frugal, however, and that's why you should consider spending most of your time in budget traveler paradise Albania instead:

Albania Is The Cheapest Country Out Of Them All

This is the cheapest Balkan country by a mile, and somewhere you go to escape the crowds in Croatia and Montenegro and live it up in a resort by the sea without depleting your own savings.

Don't believe us? Check these out:

You can book a standard double room with a pool view at the Adriatik Hotel, part of the BW Premier Collection in Durres, one of Albania's liveliest coastal cities, for only $104 this spring per adult , or the majestic Santa Quaranta Premium Resort in Sarande for $56 each as a couple.

Sarande is part of the Albanian Riviera, where rare, white-sand Balkan beaches are concentrated.

It's the perfect home for exploring the southern provinces of the country, which are famous not only for their swimming sites but also for their Greco-Roman ruins.

Eating out in Sarande, you'll likely see your account balance decrease by a negligible $20 per day , unless you're actively looking to splurge on fine dining, and in that case, it's still approximately $46 you'll be billed.

Yep, Albania is dirt cheap .

Why Are Adriatic Vacations So Cheap?

You may be wondering why vacations in the Adriatic Sea are so cheap when island-hopping in super yachts around the Aegean or partying in the Balearics seems to be reserved for the super-wealthy only, but there's a simple answer to this:

Most Balkan countries are years behind in development compared to their European counterparts, and in the case of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania, they're not members of the economic powerhouse that is the European Union.

In general, Western countries provide more complex social protections, be it in the form of benefits or robust worker rights.

Not to mention, local purchasing power is elevated. Taxes are much higher, too, as the welfare state and living standards need to be upheld.

To put it simply, the Balkans are poorer countries – most notably Bosnia and Albania – with lower consumer prices, at least for the odd American visitor. It's not that prices are particularly low for locals themselves.

It's the weaker currency that makes your tourist dollars stretch much further .

$1 equals 0.011 Albanian lek, for instance, and judging by the country's mininum wage , set at a disparaging $421, you soon begin to understand how a Mediterranean gem boasting immense cultural value and gorgeous beaches can be such a bargain.

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The post This Is The Cheapest Region Of The Mediterranean For Tourists appeared first on Travel Off Path .

Want something vastly different from your typical vacation? Perhaps you're looking for "party" sailing with your friends? Or do you simply want to explore the coast's natural and cultural wealth, as well as relax at the luxury marinas? Do you have any experience with family "team building" on sailboats? The fun begins when the wind hits your sails!

Quick overview:

Top activities.

• Kitesurfing

Length of the sea coast:

Length of natural sandy beaches:

The winds are dominated by south winds, and in the summer months by the Mistral wind. The average summer temperature is 27.4 ° C Average number of sunny days per year: 240

Largest bay:

Bay of Kotor

More information on sailing in Montenegro can be found in the Guide for Small Boats and Sailboats .

The brochure Safety and Security of Navigation, Information for Sailors contains all of the information for sailors, as well as important contact information.

Every vessel's entry and departure from Montenegro's territorial waters is announced on VHF Ch. 16, Maritime Operations Center (VTS Montenegro), which monitors and manages maritime traffic in Montenegrin waters.

The Maritime Operations Center provides all information about the safety and security of navigation in Montenegro's waters.

At the right address, you can get a reliable weather forecast!

The best months for sailing are May and September! Keep track of the most favorable sailing weather conditions on the Institute of Hydrometeorology and Seismology official website, where you can also find nautical and e-navigation charts.

What are your expectations for sailing in Montenegro?

Want a long coast adorned with especially beautiful islands? Feel pulled to experience life in traditional Montenegrin cities, to visit clean and hidden beaches, to bask in your own hidden corner on an island, to dine in fishing villages and restaurants serving traditional seafood delicacies, and to relax at luxury marinas? 

Montenegro is the ideal new sailing destination

Why? Because of its stunning scenery, favorable weather conditions for sailing ( 240 sunny days per year ), and multimillion investments in luxury marinas - one of which (Porto Montenegro) offers a giant anchorage for superyachts up to 250 m long, and the other (Luštica Bay) is part of a complex with its own golf course and the most luxurious five-star hotels. 

The winds in this part of the Adriatic are even, dominated by the South wind , and dominated by the Mistral in the summer months. If you are a beginner, the Bay of Kotor area provides a natural shelter that is ideal for peaceful sailing.

Regattas in Montenegro

There are numerous regattas, or yacht and boat races, to choose from, including the Arsenal Cup, Fascination Cup, PMYC regatta, Race of a Thousand Islands, and others.

Where should you go sailing in Montenegro?

You can sail the Montenegrin coast in a week, but you can spend the same amount of time cruising the Bay of Kotor! Allow the breeze of the Mediterranean to carry you away and guide you! Where do you begin? Montenegro's Adriatic coast is divided into two sections: the Bay of Kotor (which includes Tivat, Kotor, and Herceg Novi) and the coasts of Budva, Bar, and Ulcinj.

There are marinas with essential services in five cities: Tivat (Porto Montenegro, Kalimanj), Budva, Kotor, Herceg Novi and Bar. Attractive mooring locations are: Trašte Bay, Kruče Bay, Oblatno, Maljevik, Bigova, Sveti Marko Island and others.

What are the most important documents you must have?

Bring your passport and identification card (ID card) with you. Furthermore, you must have the navigation permits that the maritime police may request, especially if you are coming with your own vessel. If you want to stop in ports, islands, or cities where you can rent a car or a motorcycle, you'll need an international driver's license. It is also helpful to have health and travel insurance.

Tivat - a city with one of the most beautiful ports in the Mediterranean

Perhaps, like many celebrities, you will make Porto Montenegro your second home. What distinguishes one of the most beautiful Mediterranean ports? The secret is a fantastic natural location combined with world-class environment and services!

Its luxury hotels and seaside villas , restaurants serving traditional cuisine, bars, and a wide range of sports and cultural activities will charm you.

Sailors' favorite destination - Boka Kotorska

Kotor remains a popular sailing destination for good reason, as sailing through the Bay of Kotor is full of surprises.

The bay appears small at first, but then it expands into four bays with many coves formed by mountains soaring  more than a thousand meters! Impressive enough?

Admiration and awe grow in width and height with the constant change of course. Along the Bokelj coast, the natural wall protects small fishing villages and towns. It is also a picture frame for two islands in front of the famous city of Perast.

The Adriatic preserves the enchanting medieval town of Kotor for you

Kotor, one of the best preserved medieval towns on the Adriatic, is nestled in the southeast of Boka Bay, where the sea reaches more deeply into the mainland than it does around other cities.

Throughout the year, cruisers arrive at this tourist meeting point, in the port right next to the Adriatic Highway. Discover the wonders of Kotor for yourself.

Herceg Novi, the city of artists, will be your favorite host!

Herceg Novi will captivate you with its light and peace, medieval fortresses, and numerous picnic areas, all tucked away in greenery and flowers. Can you imagine all of its beauty of hidden swimming bays and small romantic harbors in the area, spectacular diving spots, the intriguing Mamula Island, charming stone houses in old mountain villages, and traditional flower festivals?

But don't even try to imagine much; instead, come and experience Herceg Novi for yourself! You will learn about the world-class marina D-Marin Portonovi , which has 238 berths and can accommodate yachts and superyachts up to 120 meters in length.

Budva as a synonym for coastal beauty and entertainment

You will fall in love with the city of Kadmo and Harmony, not only as a fan of day parties on the beach, but also as a fan of "until dawn" nightlife in bars and discos.

Budva Riviera has a wide range of sandy beaches where visitors of all ages can participate in water, air, and land sports. You'll have no trouble finding your favorite restaurant because the best traditional and international cuisine restaurants will satisfy even the most sophisticated palette. There is a wide range of hotels and apartments available.

Traditionally a port city - Bar

Did you know that this is Montenegro's largest port? Port Bar is a well-known, spacious, and clean port city with a lovely promenade. Discover its beaches one by one while relaxing in the shade of pine and olive trees.

Stari Bar is an archeological treasure trove through which you should not rush. Take the chance to see relics of times past, as you experience the evolution of civilizations over thousands of years. You should also visit the other Bar shore, which runs along Skadar Lake!

The Oriental spirit of Ulcinj

Another old town full of pirate secrets awaits you here! Feel the oriental spirit that gives the city its unique charm, as well as the natural attractions such as healing beaches, the river Bojana -  which gives birth to the nudist island "Ada Bojana" - with its delta, Šasko Lake, Valdanos Bay, and birds on Solana. But wait, there's more!

The Mistral wind on Velika Beach (Long Beach) attracts kitesurfers , and fish restaurants on Bojana, along with the sunset, are must-sees in Montenegro. Convinced Montenegro is the perfect sailing destination? We hope to see you sailing around Montenegro very soon!

Explore Montenegro's offer:

City fortresses.

Conquer what was intended to be unconquerable! Climb high fortresses, get lost in ancient city streets, and explore mighty walls and towers!

City Sacral objects

Set out on an adventure to discover Montenegro's rich spiritual life and religious heritage! Numerous monasteries, cathedrals, and mosques stand showcasing their architectural beauty, ancient works of art, and timeless permanent value to communities throughout the centuries.

Adventure Cool & quirky events

Check out the event calendar and stay up to date with all events happening throughout Montenegro - from live music concerts to theaters and carnivals.

Looking for ideas for your trip?

See how others experienced their time in Montenegro. We would love hearing from you - share your Montenegro moments with following hashtag: #MontenegroWildBeauty #GoMontenegro

Discover unique Montenegro

So small you could drive across it in an afternoon. Don’t just skim through it but try to truly absorb it’s essence.

Explore destination year-round

Although small country it is incredibly diverse. See how much it can offer you:

Travel responsibly

Did you know? In 1991, the Montenegrin authorities adopted a declaration by which the country became the first ecological state in the world .

Keys for Understanding Montenegro

Eat like a local, meet cultural heritage (unesco), try organic adventure, privacy settings.

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