Traveling to Montenegro promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Nestled along the Adriatic coast, this small Balkan country boasts a diverse range of attractions, from picturesque coastal towns to rugged mountain landscapes. Here’s a guide to help you arrange your travel to Montenegro in the best possible way:
Explore the Coastal Gems during your travel to Montenegro
1. Kotor: Step back in time as you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Kotor’s well-preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t miss landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, the Maritime Museum, and the ancient city walls, which offer panoramic views of the bay.
2. Budva: Known for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and historic Old Town, Budva is a must-visit destination along the Montenegrin coast. Explore the medieval streets, relax on the sandy beaches, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal gem.
3. Perast: A charming coastal town nestled between the mountains and the sea, Perast is famous for its baroque architecture and stunning views of the Bay of Kotor. Visit the picturesque Our Lady of the Rocks island, explore the town’s museums and churches, and savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
Discover Natural Wonders:
1. Durmitor National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Durmitor National Park, home to rugged mountains, deep canyons, and pristine glacial lakes. Hike to the iconic Black Lake, marvel at the Tara River Canyon, and enjoy outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, and skiing.
2. Lake Skadar: Explore the largest lake in the Balkans, Lake Skadar, a paradise for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Take a boat tour to discover hidden coves, lush wetlands, and medieval monasteries dotting the lake’s shores.
Experience Cultural Treasures:
1. Cetinje: Delve into Montenegro’s rich history and culture in the charming town of Cetinje, once the royal capital of Montenegro. Visit the Cetinje Monastery, the Presidential Palace, and the Museum of King Nikola to learn about Montenegro’s royal past and cultural heritage.
2. Ostrog Monastery: Perched dramatically on a sheer cliff face, Ostrog Monastery is one of Montenegro’s most iconic religious sites. Pilgrims flock to this spiritual sanctuary to pay homage to Saint Basil of Ostrog and experience its serene atmosphere and panoramic views.
Enjoy Local Cuisine:
1. Seafood Delights: Indulge in the flavors of Montenegrin cuisine by savoring fresh seafood dishes such as grilled fish, octopus salad, and seafood risotto. Visit local restaurants and taverns along the coast to sample authentic coastal specialties paired with regional wines.
2. Traditional Delicacies: Taste traditional Montenegrin dishes such as grilled meats, hearty stews, and savory pies made with local ingredients like lamb, veal, and cheese. Don’t miss trying local specialties like Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and cicvara (cornmeal porridge).
Montenegro Practical Travel Tips:
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Transportation: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Montenegro, allowing you to navigate its scenic roads and reach remote destinations. Alternatively, buses and taxis are available for travel between major cities and towns.
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Accommodation: Montenegro offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to guesthouses and apartments. Consider staying in the historic old towns for a truly immersive experience.
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Currency: Montenegro’s official currency is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in major cities and towns, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and transactions.
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Language: Montenegrin is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Learning a few basic phrases in Montenegrin can enhance your travel experience and help you connect with locals.
With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm Mediterranean climate, Montenegro offers a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re drawn to its historic towns, pristine national parks, or sun-drenched beaches, a journey to Montenegro is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, embark on your adventure, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonders during your travel to Montenegro. .
Best time to travel to Montenegro
The best time to travel to Montenegro largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you’re seeking. Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Here are some considerations for each season:
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Summer (June to August):
- High season: Montenegro is bustling with tourists during the summer months, especially in coastal areas like Kotor and Budva. The weather is hot and sunny, making it perfect for beach activities, swimming, and outdoor exploration.
- Festivals and events: Summer is the season for festivals and cultural events, including music festivals, traditional celebrations, and outdoor concerts.
- Crowds and prices: Expect crowds and higher prices for accommodation and activities during the peak summer months. Booking in advance is advisable.
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Spring (March to May):
- Mild weather: Spring is a delightful time to travel to Montenegro, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. It’s ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring national parks.
- Fewer crowds: Spring sees fewer tourists compared to the summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful travel experience.
- Lower prices: Accommodation and travel prices are generally lower in the spring compared to the peak summer season.
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Autumn (September to November):
- Mild weather: Similar to spring, autumn offers mild temperatures and pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Harvest season: Autumn is harvest season in Montenegro, with local markets brimming with fresh produce such as grapes, olives, and figs. It’s a great time to sample authentic Montenegrin cuisine.
- Lower crowds: As the summer crowds disperse, autumn offers a quieter and more authentic experience, particularly in coastal towns like Kotor.
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Winter (December to February):
- Mild coastal weather: Along the coast, winters are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. It’s a quieter time to visit, offering a more intimate experience.
- Skiing in the mountains: Inland regions, particularly in the Durmitor and Bjelasica mountain ranges, offer excellent skiing opportunities during the winter months.
- Cultural events: Winter in Montenegro is marked by traditional festivals and holiday celebrations, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.
The best time to travel to Montenegro depends on your interests and preferences. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of summer, the mild weather of spring and autumn, or the quiet charm of winter, Montenegro offers every traveler plenty of options throughout the year.
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Important phone numbers for your travel to Montenegro
Police – 92
Fire service – 93
Emergency – 94
Information bureau – 988
Information and assistance on the roads – 9807
Distances between cities in Montenegro
from airport Tivat to Budva – 20 km
from Budva (old town) to Bechichi – 2 km
from airport Tivat to Bechichi – 23 km
from Budva to Dubrovnik – 107 km
from airport Tivat to Herzog Novi – 25 km
from Budva to Petrovac – 20 km
from airport Tivat to Milocher (ST. Stephan) – 28 km
from Budva to St. Stephan – 9 km
from airport Tivat to Petrovac – 40 km
from Herzog Novi to Dubrovnik – 50 km
from airport Tivat to Bar/Sutomore – 65 km
from Petrovac to St. Stephan – 2 km
from airport Tivat to Dubrovnik – 80 km
from airport Tivat to Ulcjin – 95 km
Hotels and restaurants in Montenegro
Montenegro offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxurious resorts to charming boutique hotels, as well as diverse dining experiences showcasing the best of Mediterranean and Balkan cuisine.
Hotels:
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Regent Porto Montenegro (Tivat): This luxurious waterfront hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a spa, swimming pools, and access to the exclusive Porto Montenegro marina.
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Aman Sveti Stefan (Budva): Set on a private island connected to the mainland by a causeway, Aman Sveti Stefan offers unparalleled luxury and privacy. The hotel features beautifully restored stone cottages, world-class dining, and a serene beachfront setting.
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Hotel Forza Mare (Kotor): Nestled along the shores of Kotor Bay, Hotel Forza Mare offers boutique accommodations with modern amenities and panoramic sea views. The hotel’s restaurant, La Bocca, serves Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood.
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Hotel Cattaro (Kotor): Housed in a historic building within Kotor’s old town, Hotel Cattaro blends contemporary design with traditional architecture. Guests can enjoy stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace with views of the bay, and a restaurant serving locally inspired cuisine.
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Hotel Monte Rosa (Perast): Situated in the picturesque town of Perast, Hotel Monte Rosa offers boutique accommodations in a restored 18th-century building. Guests can relax on the hotel’s terrace overlooking the bay or explore nearby attractions such as Our Lady of the Rocks.
Restaurants:
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Konoba Catovica Mlini (Kotor): Located in a converted 17th-century mill, Konoba Catovica Mlini offers a charming ambiance and delicious Montenegrin cuisine. Dishes feature locally sourced ingredients such as fresh seafood, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables.
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Stari Mlini (Budva): Situated in a historic stone mill overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Stari Mlini specializes in Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on seafood. Guests can dine on the outdoor terrace surrounded by lush gardens and panoramic views.
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Konoba Kod Pera na Bukovicu (Perast): Tucked away in the narrow streets of Perast, Konoba Kod Pera na Bukovicu offers traditional Montenegrin dishes in a rustic setting. The restaurant’s menu includes hearty stews, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
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Cafe del Mare (Herceg Novi): Set on a seaside promenade in Herceg Novi, Cafe del Mare is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views. The menu features a variety of Mediterranean and international dishes, as well as cocktails and local wines.
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Konoba Bokeski Gusti (Kotor): Located near Kotor’s old town, Konoba Bokeski Gusti offers panoramic views of the bay and a menu inspired by traditional Montenegrin cuisine. Dishes include fresh seafood, homemade pastas, and local specialties like Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and sir (cheese).
These are just a few recommendations to consider when planning your stay and dining experiences in Montenegro. Whether you’re seeking luxury accommodations, charming boutique hotels, or authentic local cuisine, Montenegro offers something for every taste and budget.
Post Office and Communication services in Montenegro
Post office is open from 9:00am till 14:00 and you can use telephone cards to make a call from the city telephone boxes. Telephone cards are for sale in post offices and newspapers shops. You can call abroad from any city phone.
International codes for calling from Montenegro
international calls 8 + 10
+ is a code of the country 381 or 382
+ code of the city + phone number
City codes:
Budva, Bechichi, Petrovac, St. Stephan, Milocher – 86
Igalo – 88
Prices for umbrellas and plank beds
All the beaches in Montenegro are municipal, though some are in domain of the hotels. Entrance to the beaches for the guests of the hotels is free, but plank beds and umbrellas cost 3 -5 euro (2 plank beds and 1 umbrella).
On the territory of the hotels near swimming pools all the plank beds and umbrellas are provided for free.
What is needed to enter Montenegro?
Entry requirements for Montenegro may vary based on your nationality and the current COVID-19 situation. It’s crucial to check the most recent information from official sources such as the Montenegrin Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the embassy or consulate of Montenegro in your country before traveling. However, typically, travelers to Montenegro may need the following:
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Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Montenegro.
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Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Montenegro. Check the visa requirements for your country before traveling.
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COVID-19 Requirements: Due to the ongoing pandemic, additional health measures may be in place. This could include providing proof of vaccination, a negative PCR test result, or quarantine requirements. Make sure to check the latest COVID-19 entry requirements for Montenegro before your trip.
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Travel Insurance: It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including those related to COVID-19.
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Other Documents: Depending on your purpose of visit, you may need additional documents such as proof of accommodation, proof of sufficient funds, or a return ticket.
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Customs Regulations: Be aware of any customs regulations, especially if you’re bringing in goods or currency exceeding certain limits.
Please note that entry requirements can change rapidly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, so it’s essential to stay updated with the latest information from official sources before planning your trip to Montenegro.
Hello, what is the distance from Budva to Kotor? We plan to stay in Budva for a couple of days but would like to visit Kotor, just putting together our travel plans to Montenegro, would appreciate your advise. Thank you!
Hi, the distance between Budva and Kotor is 22.8 km. If you drive via E65/E80 it will take approximately 30 -40 minutes.
What is the most popular travel destination in Montenegro?
I think the most popular travel destinations in Montenegro are Kotor, Budva and St Stephan island.
As far as I know one of the most popular places in Montenegro is Sveti Stephan island.
Hello, I also like Sveti Stephan! The beaches in this area are great! I highly recommend this travel destination! Also, Budva is great for vacations in summer!
What is best beach in Montenegro? I would like to book a hotel nearby and save time for other things to do and see in beautiful Montenegro! Thanks a lot in advance!
Hello, I think these are the best beaches in Montenegro: Becici Beach, Mogren Beach, Jaz Beach, Sveti Stefan Beach, Dobrec Beach and Lucice Beach.
Hello! I would recommend Becici Beach and St Stephan beach. These are the most comfortable and clean beaches, located close the hotels.