Montenegro is a stunning blend of Italy and Greece—and, in many ways, even more beautiful. It offers everything a traveler could wish for on a European trip: pristine beaches, majestic mountains, charming old towns, historic churches, serene lakes, and excellent restaurants. A visit to Montenegro is truly a traveler’s dream come true. The country was part of the former Yugoslavia and is now a popular destination in the Balkans. And the best part is it is not an Expensive destination.
HOW TO REACH MONTENEGRO
The best way to reach Montenegro depends on where you're coming from:
By Air: Montenegro has two international airports:
Podgorica Airport – located in the capital city and well-connected to several European cities.
Tivat Airport – situated on the coast, ideal for travelers headed to Kotor, Budva, or other seaside towns.
By Road: This is the most convenient way to enter Montenegro if you're already in the Balkans. The country shares borders with Albania, Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, and Croatia. You can:
Drive your own vehicle.
Rent a car (ensure you have full paperwork, green card insurance, and cross-border permission).
Hire a car with a driver through local transfer agencies—prices depend on group size and luggage. There are a number of Agencies which offer this service.
I personally used www.daytrip.com. for transferring from Himare in Albania to Kotor in Montenegro. The car and the driver both were very good and the journey in spite of being long was very comfortable and scenic. The driver will stop as per your convenience and there is no rush from his side.
The charges depend on the number of people and the luggage pieces. One big suitcase per person is already mentioned in the prices. You may select the car as per the size of the party travelling else the site will suggest the options.
We were a party of 4 with 3 big suitcases and few handbags and the car suggested by the Company was a Mercedes SUV - VERY VERY Comfy.
From Albania: There are no direct flights between Albania and Montenegro. Most flights go via Serbia, making the journey unnecessarily long. The best option is to travel by road. (Please see above for my transfer)
The Shiroka–Muriqan border crossing (near Shkodër, Albania) is commonly used.
Border control checks passports and visas. Ensure your documents are in order.
By Sea: Montenegro’s coastal town of Kotor is a popular stop for cruise ships coming from various countries. This makes it accessible by sea and adds to its charm during the cruise season. Lot of Tourists visit the country through Cruise.
Montenegro - Perast
EASY VISA ACCESS
Entering Montenegro is relatively hassle-free. The country offers an e-Visa system, allowing travelers to apply online with ease. Even better, holders of valid Schengen, UK, or US visas do not need a separate Montenegrin visa, making it a convenient destination for many international tourists. The best part is unlike Albania, used Visa is not a prerequisite.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The ideal time to visit Montenegro is during the summer months, when the weather is sunny and perfect for beach outings and coastal exploration. However, late June to the end of August tends to be crowded and expensive, with peak-season tourism in full swing.
To enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons:
May to mid-June
September to October
These months offer a more relaxed experience while still letting you enjoy the natural beauty and historic charm of the country.
WHERE TO STAY
The Montenegrin coast is the most popular region for tourists and offers a variety of stunning locations with excellent accommodation options. Some of the top coastal towns to consider include:
Budva – Known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Sveti Stefan – A picture-perfect island resort (often photographed), ideal for luxury stays.
Kotor – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a beautiful bay, historic Old Town, and cruise ship port.
Tivat – A modern marina town with luxury yachts and upscale resorts.
Perast – A peaceful and picturesque village ideal for romantic or quiet getaways.
All these towns offer a range of accommodations—from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses—and are great bases for exploring the rest of the country.
KOTOR
Kotor is truly the gem of Montenegro. Nestled on the Bay of Kotor along the Adriatic Sea, this small and picturesque town is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Balkans. Its stunning setting draws tourists and cruise ships alike—many of which dock overnight.
Kotor has everything a traveler dreams of: the sea, dramatic mountains, an enchanting old town, charming cafés, lively restaurants, beaches, boat trips, and historic forts. Kotor has everything to offer and is a destination in itself. One need not go elsewhere after visiting Kotor.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOTOR
View from Air BnB - Kotor Accommodation in Kotor is limited, especially hotels, which are few and pricey. The best option is to rent an apartment or a BnB, many of which offer fabulous views of the bay. Kotor also makes a perfect base for exploring nearby coastal towns like Perast, Tivat, and Budva.
If you are lucky enough to get an apartment with a balcony view over the bay, you may not find yourself wanting to leave.
One such place where I had stayed had such lovely views. It was located atop a hill and the views of the bay from there were breathtaking. You may just sit on the Balcony for hours sipping wine and admiring the views.
KOTOR OLD TOWN
The heart of Kotor is its Old Town, a beautifully preserved medieval enclave. Here, you'll find:
Narrow cobbled alleys
Centuries-old churches
Stone buildings
Lively squares
Souvenir and artisan shops selling bags, jewelry, clothes, and more
Lots and lots of open-air restaurants
The atmosphere is joyful and festive, often accompanied by live music or local musicians playing at open-air restaurants. Most eateries serve pizza, pasta, and seafood, which are favorites among tourists. You can choose where to dine based on the menu and the vibe—each place has its own charm.
SAN GIOVANNI FORTRESS
One of the top experiences in Kotor is hiking up to San Giovanni Fortress. It’s a bit of a climb, with numerous steps, but the panoramic view from the top is absolutely worth the effort. If visiting in summer, hike early in the morning or late in the evening, as the sun can be harsh and temperatures can soar.
CHURCHES & CATS
Despite its small size, Kotor is home to several historic churches—some dating back centuries, though parts have been rebuilt over time.And one of the quirkiest and most heartwarming things about Kotor? Cats. They are everywhere—lounging on restaurant chairs, wandering the alleys, or snoozing in shops. In fact, the town has embraced its feline residents so fully that you’ll even find cat-themed souvenirs and a small cat museum.
BEACHES & COASTLINE
Kotor doesn’t have many large beaches, but it does offer several small pebbled ones, along with paved coastal areas where visitors sunbathe and swim.
SERPENTINE ROAD
If you're an adventurous driver or cyclist, don’t miss the famous Serpentine Road—a steep, winding road with 9 hairpin turns leading up the mountain behind Kotor.
The road is narrow and often congested, as it’s a single-lane route used by both directions of traffic.
Despite this, there are a few viewpoints where you can stop briefly to take in the jaw-dropping views of Kotor Bay below.
The road’s condition isn't perfect, but it’s definitely drivable and worth the effort. Many bikers and cyclists take on the challenge for the thrill and the scenery.
Serpentine road with 9 hairpin bends - Kotor LOVCEN NATIONAL PARK
The Serpentine Road from Kotor leads to Lovcen National Park, one of Montenegro’s most scenic and culturally significant destinations. Lovcen is actually the name of the mountain that dominates the landscape, its slopes covered in dense, dark forests, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere.
GETTING THERE
You can either drive up via the Serpentine Road, a thrilling and scenic route filled with sharp hairpin bends, or
Take the cable car that runs directly from Kotor to Lovcen, offering a spectacular aerial view of the bay and surrounding mountains.
ENTRY & EXPLORING THE PARK
Entrance fee to Lovcen National Park: €3 per person (no charge for cars)
Once inside, you can drive through the park at your own pace. The roads are in good condition, and Google Maps works well.
You’ll find beautiful viewpoints, quiet forest roads, and scenic spots perfect for photos or short walks.
NJEGOS MAUSOLEUM
One of the main highlights of Lovcen is the mausoleum of King Petar II Petrovic-Njegos, a beloved Montenegrin ruler, poet, and philosopher.
Entry fee to the mausoleum: €8 per person
To reach it, you'll need to climb a large number of steps—but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea on clear days.
If you choose not to climb all the way up, don’t worry—the views from the base are impressive as well.
There's ample free parking at the base of the mausoleum, and the area is equipped with:
A restaurant offering full meals
A café serving coffee, cold drinks, ice cream, and snacks
DRIVE TO CETINJE
Cetinje From Lovcen, a scenic downhill drive takes you to Cetinje, a charming historic town that once served as the capital of Montenegro.
The town has a laid-back atmosphere, with old government buildings, monasteries, and embassies from its days as a royal capital.
You can take a relaxed drive through the town or stop for a short walk to soak in its quiet elegance.
WHY LOVCEN IS A MUST-VISIT
Lovcen offers a perfect blend of:
Breathtaking natural beauty
Cultural and historical importance
Panoramic views and serene forests
Whether you choose to hike, drive, or take the cable car, a visit to Lovcen is an essential part of any Montenegrin itinerary.
SVETI STEFAN
Sveti Stefan - Montenegro Sveti Stefan is one of the most iconic and photographed locations on the Montenegrin coast. This small island, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, is a luxury resort reserved exclusively for guests staying there—general public access is restricted.
However, you don’t need to enter the island to enjoy it. In fact, the best views are from the nearby viewpoints, particularly the one accessible by road above the island. The sight of the terracotta-roofed buildings against the backdrop of the Adriatic Sea is simply breathtaking.
Sveti Stefan is located about 6 km from Budva and can be easily visited on your way down from Lovćen National Park.
BUDVA
Budva is a bustling town on the Montenegrin Riviera, known for its vibrant nightlife, long sandy beaches, and historic Old Town (Stari Grad). It’s much larger and livelier than Kotor, making it especially popular with the younger crowd and those seeking a beach holiday with modern comforts.
BUDVA OLD TOWN (STARI GRAD)
A walled medieval town with narrow, cobbled streets, ancient churches (some dating back to the 9th century), and a vibrant mix of souvenir shops, cafés, restaurants, and gelato stalls.
The fortification wall surrounding the old town is walkable until 4:00 PM, offering good views of the sea and rooftops.
Budva Old Town Entry points to the Old Town are spread across several archways/gates.
While charming, Budva’s Old Town feels less intimate and picturesque than Kotor’s in comparison.
Parking Tip: Free parking is difficult to find. Several paid parking areas are available near the Old Town, usually charging €5.
BEACHES IN AND AROUND BUDVA
Budva’s coastline offers several beautiful beaches, each with its own vibe:
1. Morgen Beach
Located near the Old Town
Two beaches are connected via a small tunnel
Small but very popular and crowded due to its central location
2. Slovenska Plaza
The longest beach in Budva, about 1 km long
Lined with restaurants, bars, and beach clubs
Great for long walks, swimming, and enjoying beachside food
3. Jaz Beach
Located outside Budva
Known for its large free parking and family-friendly atmosphere
Features clear water, soft sand, and multiple restaurants
Quieter than the central beaches
4. Becici Beach
Another well-known beach with a lively promenade
Paid parking available (around €5)
Popular for its water sports, cafés, and beautiful sea views
Great spot for both relaxation and activities
SUMMARY
Sveti Stefan is best admired from above—not worth entering, even if possible.
Budva is ideal if you're looking for a beach town with nightlife, modern amenities, and a wide variety of places to stay and eat.
Its Old Town is worth a visit, but Kotor’s is more charming and atmospheric.
Budva is also more commercial and crowded, especially during the summer, but perfect for a day at the beach, dining, or shopping.
TIVAT
Tivat is a small but growing coastal town on the Montenegrin Riviera, best known for being home to one of the country’s two international airports, making it a convenient entry point for visitors.
While the town itself is relatively small, it has recently developed a modern promenade that has quickly become a hotspot for tourists. This area is filled with:
Seaside hotels
Trendy restaurants
Designer shops
Yachts docked at Porto Montenegro, the town’s luxury marina
Tivat offers a more modern and upscale experience compared to its historical neighbors like Kotor and Perast, making it a good base for those seeking comfort, convenience, and a cosmopolitan vibe.
PERAST
If you’re looking for a peaceful, romantic escape, Perast is the place to be. This picturesque town feels like it was lifted from a fairy tale, with:
Laid-back waterfront cafés and restaurants, reminiscent of Mykonos
Historic stone buildings, churches, and a beautiful bell tower
Breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor
A charming promenade lined with ice cream stalls, souvenir shops, and shaded benches
View from Perast Promenade
ACCESS & PARKING
Perast is just a short drive from Kotor.
Cars are not allowed inside the town. You’ll need to park outside and walk in.
There are two main parking areas—one if you're arriving from Kotor, and another from the opposite direction.
Parking is free, but spaces fill up quickly, especially in summer.
If you're staying overnight in one of the small hotels or BnBs, golf carts are available to transport guests from the parking area.
ISLANDS OF PERAST
Perast is most famous for the two tiny islands that lie just off its coast:
1. Our Lady of the Rocks
A man-made island, created by sinking old ships and piling up rocks.
According to legend, sailors began building the island after discovering an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea.
It houses a beautiful church and museum, and can be reached via short boat ride from Perast.
Boat trips are readily available and are inexpensive and scenic.
2. St. George Island
A natural island housing a monastery, surrounded by cypress trees.
It is not open to tourists as nuns live in the monastery, but it can be viewed from a boat or from Our Lady of the Rocks.
View of Perast from the island
WHY VISIT PERAST?
Perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more romantic vibe.
Less crowded than Kotor or Budva.
Ideal for a day trip or even a peaceful overnight stay.
Evenings are very tranquil, and the town nearly empties out after sunset, making it perfect for relaxing strolls along the waterfront.
If you continue driving past Perast, the road eventually leads to the border with Croatia
KOTOR BOAT RIDE
One of the top attractions in Kotor, a boat trip across the stunning Bay of Kotor is almost a must-do for every visitor. You’ll see countless tour operators offering these trips all along the promenade—and for good reason. This experience blends natural beauty, history, and a touch of luxury, all from the comfort of a scenic boat ride.
TOUR TIMINGS & COST
Boat trips typically run three times daily:
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
You can choose any slot based on your schedule—prices remain the same across all time slots.
Price range: €30–€45 per person(Prices may be cheaper online or during late-evening bookings for the next day)
BOAT & STARTING POINT
Boats usually accommodate 8–12 passengers along with a driver/guide.
All trips start from Kotor Port and return there after the circuit.
STOPS & HIGHLIGHTS
Blue Cave
A magical sea cave where the sunlight reflects through the water, illuminating it in brilliant shades of blue.
Swimming is allowed, and many visitors do take a dip—but be prepared:
Water is cold
Visibility underwater isn’t much despite clarity (There are not fish there due to the number of Boats)
Don’t forget to wear your swimsuit and carry towels if you plan to swim.
Submarine Tunnels (Hiding Stations)
These are Cold War-era tunnels carved into the mountain along the shore.
Used to hide submarines, the entrance was camouflaged, and the depth reaches about 7 meters—enough to conceal naval vessels.
Fascinating to witness up close. (Similar submarine tunnels also exist in Albania.)
Mamula Island
An old Austro-Hungarian-era prison, now transformed into a luxury resort.
Boats do not dock here, but you get a clear view of the impressive structure from the water.
Fun Fact: On one of the nearby hilltops, you can spot a house rumored to belong to Johnny Depp!
Our Lady of the Rocks
The highlight of the trip, this is a man-made island with a church built on it, inspired by a local legend that someone saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary here.
The island was created by sinking ships and throwing rocks into the sea.
Most boats dock here, and visitors are given about 20 minutes to explore.
Details:
Entry fee to the church: €4
Restroom: Available (€1 usage fee)
Snack shop: Offers ice cream and light refreshments
The island is very popular and crowded, as all tours stop here
From nearby Perast, boats go directly to Our Lady of the Rocks and back for only €5, but this trip covers only the island, not the other sights included in the full Kotor tour.
Our Lady of the Rocks
St. George Island
A natural island close to Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a monastery where nuns live.
Landing is not permitted, but the view from the boat is serene and photogenic.
OVERALL EXPERIENCE
This 3-hour boat tour is an unforgettable way to explore the bay. From caves and Cold War tunnels to mystical islands and pristine waters, it offers a unique mix of history, nature, and culture. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this is one of the best-value experiences in Kotor.
Book online for potential discounts
Bring sunscreen, water, swimwear, and a towel
Morning and evening tours are more comfortable in summer due to heat.
Podgorica – The Capital City
As a matter of fact, there isn’t much to do in Podgorica. After experiencing the charm of Montenegro’s coastal fairy-tale towns like Kotor, Budva, and Perast, Podgorica feels quite flat and underwhelming. The entire city can be explored in less than a day.
There are a few places of note—such as some churches, bridges, and the town center—but overall, it lacks the appeal or atmosphere of a destination worth allocating time to. Most tourists don’t visit Podgorica unless they’re stopping briefly for a connecting flight.
My Recommendation: Skip Podgorica unless absolutely necessary. If you do find yourself there with a few hours to spare, consider renting a car and heading out to Durmitor National Park—a true gem of northern Montenegro.
Durmitor National Park – A Hidden Paradise
Located about two hours by car from Podgorica, Durmitor National Park offers a stark contrast to the capital. The drive itself is a scenic adventure—meandering through rivers, dense forests, meadows, and mountains, offering views that look straight out of a painting.
The Black Lake
The centerpiece of Durmitor is the Black Lake, a glacial lake nestled between towering mountain peaks. The views and the scenery is exceptionally breathtaking.
It’s essentially two lakes connected by a narrow passage and surrounded by pine forests and wildflowers.
You can walk the entire loop around the lake (about 1.5 hours)—a tranquil, refreshing experience.
In case going to Durmitor than worth a visit - MUST DO IT
Entry and Parking:
Entry ticket to the park: €5 per person
Parking: €3 per hour (recommended to pay for at least 3 hours). As it takes about 1.5 hours to go around the lake and another one hour to reach the lake and back to the car park.
The lake is around 30 minutes from the entrance window. You walk through amazingly beautiful forests with huge trees. As per the guided map here there are number of hiking trails from these forests too and one can go on these too.
Facilities:
A restaurant and clean (but paid) toilets near the lake: €1 to use
Free public toilets available, but they are not very clean
Tara Canyon and Bridge
After visiting Black Lake, drive around 45 minutes to Tara Canyon—one of the deepest canyons in Europe.
Park near the Tara Bridge (parking is free) and enjoy jaw-dropping views over the canyon and river below.
Several adventure activities are offered here, such as:
Ziplining over the canyon
Rafting in the Tara River
Booking with any adventure sports company includes transport to and from the activity points.
Devil’s Lake and Fish Lake
These smaller lakes, tucked deeper within Durmitor, are not to be missed.
The water here is a stunning shade of blue, and the surrounding meadows are often covered with tiny colorful flowers.
It’s a peaceful, fairy-tale-like setting that’s ideal for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the beauty.
Many tourists choose to camp near these lakes.
Durmitor National Park is a true Montenegrin gem. Not to be missed if visiting Podgorica. The experience is stunning, and unforgettable. Skip Podgorica and invest your time here. You won't regret it.
Summary in a Nutshell
Avoid Podgorica - Go only if you have flights from there
Must Visit Durmitor National Park
The Montenegrin Riviera is a place to be. Stay in Kotor and try get a Bnb with good views
Hire a car and travel to small towns nearby
Cross into Montenegro by road if coming from a nearby country
People having US Visa, UK visa, Schengen Visa do not need a separate visa
Old towns at both Kotor and Budva are must visit.
