Top 10 must-see places
The Best places to visit in Montenegro
Montenegro is a hidden gem in the Balkans, offering visitors stunning scenery, rich history, and a unique blend of cultures. From its picturesque coastal towns to its rugged mountain ranges and pristine national parks, Montenegro has something to offer every type of traveler. In this article, I'll take you on a journey through the top 10 best places to visit in Montenegro, sharing insider tips and recommendations on the must-see sights and experiences. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a nature lover, Montenegro is sure to capture your heart and leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So grab your backpack, and let's dive into the best of Montenegro!
Seaside
Kotor Old Town
This is a truly charming historic town which should not be missed. Nestled between steep granite cliffs and a glistening expanse of water sits Kotor, the real gem of Montenegro and far and away the best town to visit in the country.
With such a picturesque location, Kotor is unsurprisingly a popular stop for cruise ships sailing the Adriatic and day-trippers popping over from Dubrovnik. But, if you’re visiting this region, don’t even think about just passing through.
It's ideal for a weekend trip: a seaside town where the scent of spring catches up with the salty smell of the sea from all sides. The city belonged to the Italians for about 400 years, hence the whole appearance: red tiles, narrow streets, and calm vibes that spreads through the streets of the city.
I do recommend you to climb the fortress, from here you will have an excellent view of the Kotor Bay (don't forget to take water with you, as there's nowhere to buy it along the way). If you'll have some free time - get off the main path and take a look at the Church of Sveti Juraj, the entrance there is not so obvious - only a hole in the fortress wall. All the tourists remain right behind the wall, and a small Italian paradise will open in front of you.
The entrance fee for the Fort - €8.
This is a truly charming historic town which should not be missed. Nestled between steep granite cliffs and a glistening expanse of water sits Kotor, the real gem of Montenegro and far and away the best town to visit in the country.
With such a picturesque location, Kotor is unsurprisingly a popular stop for cruise ships sailing the Adriatic and day-trippers popping over from Dubrovnik. But, if you’re visiting this region, don’t even think about just passing through.
It's ideal for a weekend trip: a seaside town where the scent of spring catches up with the salty smell of the sea from all sides. The city belonged to the Italians for about 400 years, hence the whole appearance: red tiles, narrow streets, and calm vibes that spreads through the streets of the city.
I do recommend you to climb the fortress, from here you will have an excellent view of the Kotor Bay (don't forget to take water with you, as there's nowhere to buy it along the way). If you'll have some free time - get off the main path and take a look at the Church of Sveti Juraj, the entrance there is not so obvious - only a hole in the fortress wall. All the tourists remain right behind the wall, and a small Italian paradise will open in front of you.
The entrance fee for the Fort - €8.
Veslo Camp
If you, like me, don't really like beaches packed with tourists, where there is no place for an apple to fall, not to mention laying out your towel before swimming, then I have the perfect place for you - Veslo Camp.
This is a small but very cozy campsite near Tivat. You can come here by car with a tent, or you can just sunbathe during the day and swim in the cleanest Adriatic Sea. It is located on the seashore, and not in the bay, which is an additional advantage for the purity of the water. The entire camping area is hidden from annoying tourists in the shade of pine trees, which creates a warm atmosphere for relaxation. There is no a sandy beach here, instead, the coast is an array of stone, but it is quite convenient both for sunbathing and going into the water. On the campsite itself there are equipped toilets and showers, as well as changing rooms and a small cafe.
The price is about 20 euros for 2 person, a car and a tent.
If you, like me, don't really like beaches packed with tourists, where there is no place for an apple to fall, not to mention laying out your towel before swimming, then I have the perfect place for you - Veslo Camp.
This is a small but very cozy campsite near Tivat. You can come here by car with a tent, or you can just sunbathe during the day and swim in the cleanest Adriatic Sea. It is located on the seashore, and not in the bay, which is an additional advantage for the purity of the water. The entire camping area is hidden from annoying tourists in the shade of pine trees, which creates a warm atmosphere for relaxation. There is no a sandy beach here, instead, the coast is an array of stone, but it is quite convenient both for sunbathing and going into the water. On the campsite itself there are equipped toilets and showers, as well as changing rooms and a small cafe.
The price is about 20 euros for 2 person, a car and a tent.
Lovcen National Park
Less than an hour’s drive from Kotor, visiting Lovćen National Park is easily one of the best things to do in Montenegro so don’t miss it! I do recommend hiring a car and taking one the most scenic road in the whole country (this zig zag road on the google maps). As the narrow track winds higher the views get better and better. Now take your time and explore the area of the park independently, especially around sunset.
If you like non-standard routes, then you can go to the Mausoleum itself by an old military road. Just before the tunnel, turn right and head up the old stone road. From this side, you will have amazingly beautiful views of the entire Kotor Bay: mountain ranges, fluffy forests and the emerald Adriatic Sea. It is quite simply spectacular, especially at sunset. And to my personal happiness - the complete absence of tourists on the route.
Less than an hour’s drive from Kotor, visiting Lovćen National Park is easily one of the best things to do in Montenegro so don’t miss it! I do recommend hiring a car and taking one the most scenic road in the whole country (this zig zag road on the google maps). As the narrow track winds higher the views get better and better. Now take your time and explore the area of the park independently, especially around sunset.
If you like non-standard routes, then you can go to the Mausoleum itself by an old military road. Just before the tunnel, turn right and head up the old stone road. From this side, you will have amazingly beautiful views of the entire Kotor Bay: mountain ranges, fluffy forests and the emerald Adriatic Sea. It is quite simply spectacular, especially at sunset. And to my personal happiness - the complete absence of tourists on the route.
Lake Skadar
Another incredible gem of Montenegro is the Lake Skadar (Skadarsko jezero) that lies on the border of Albania and Montenegro and is the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula.
If after the noisy coast you are looking for solitude and relaxation combined with incredible nature, then you should definitely come here. Here you can ride a small boat on the lake itself, or rent a kayak or sup and enjoy the views slowly sailing through the clearest water of the lake. For me, this is a place of power, where even a few hours help to completely reboot and be alone with yourself and your thoughts.
Another incredible gem of Montenegro is the Lake Skadar (Skadarsko jezero) that lies on the border of Albania and Montenegro and is the largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula.
If after the noisy coast you are looking for solitude and relaxation combined with incredible nature, then you should definitely come here. Here you can ride a small boat on the lake itself, or rent a kayak or sup and enjoy the views slowly sailing through the clearest water of the lake. For me, this is a place of power, where even a few hours help to completely reboot and be alone with yourself and your thoughts.
Mountains
Durmitor national park
In the north of the country there is a unique and unexpectedly beautiful Durmitor National Park. If you get tired of the sultry heat on the coast, then peaceful hiking in the park is the just the ticket.
Here you will find difficult routes for advanced hikers, as well as small routes for several hours with an easy degree of difficulty. For some leisurely hikes, there are 18 different lakes to explore - the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), the Snake Lake and etc. In this post, I have collected all the detailed information about Durmitor, including route maps, food and accommodation tips.
Planning to come in winter? During the colder months, Durmitor transforms into the premier ski and winter hiking spot in Montenegro.
In the north of the country there is a unique and unexpectedly beautiful Durmitor National Park. If you get tired of the sultry heat on the coast, then peaceful hiking in the park is the just the ticket.
Here you will find difficult routes for advanced hikers, as well as small routes for several hours with an easy degree of difficulty. For some leisurely hikes, there are 18 different lakes to explore - the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), the Snake Lake and etc. In this post, I have collected all the detailed information about Durmitor, including route maps, food and accommodation tips.
Planning to come in winter? During the colder months, Durmitor transforms into the premier ski and winter hiking spot in Montenegro.
Canyon Tara
The Tara River Canyon is a place of unique beauty. The river squeezed between the highest green mountains, the emerald water of a mountain river, the purest air. I could sing odes to all this beauty.
For those who are looking not only for solitude and the beauty of nature, but also for adrenaline, there are several options here. First, rafting on the Tara River. I promise you will remember this trip on a raft forever, tn the deepest canyon in Europe, so be ready to experience the best of it - powerful streams of the river, mountains around, a lot of fun and energy. It is best to book a place on a boat in late April - early June, when the Montenegrin heat is not yet so strong and the river is full-flowing, towards the middle of summer the river begins to dry up, and instead of riding on the waves, you will rather enjoy dragging a knee-deep raft in the water, and somewhere even less.
If you don’t want to get your feet wet, then there is another option where you can catch adrenaline by the tail while staying dry. Zipline ride across the Đurđevića Tara Bridge. In this post, I shared in detail which zipline to choose and how much it costs.
My personal advice, when planning your trip, safe a few days for the mountainous area, you will definitely not regret it. There are a lot of cozy and unique campsites, stunning views that even the luxurious Alps can envy, delicious local restaurants serving rich meat dishes. All this will definitely be remembered for years.
The Tara River Canyon is a place of unique beauty. The river squeezed between the highest green mountains, the emerald water of a mountain river, the purest air. I could sing odes to all this beauty.
For those who are looking not only for solitude and the beauty of nature, but also for adrenaline, there are several options here. First, rafting on the Tara River. I promise you will remember this trip on a raft forever, tn the deepest canyon in Europe, so be ready to experience the best of it - powerful streams of the river, mountains around, a lot of fun and energy. It is best to book a place on a boat in late April - early June, when the Montenegrin heat is not yet so strong and the river is full-flowing, towards the middle of summer the river begins to dry up, and instead of riding on the waves, you will rather enjoy dragging a knee-deep raft in the water, and somewhere even less.
If you don’t want to get your feet wet, then there is another option where you can catch adrenaline by the tail while staying dry. Zipline ride across the Đurđevića Tara Bridge. In this post, I shared in detail which zipline to choose and how much it costs.
My personal advice, when planning your trip, safe a few days for the mountainous area, you will definitely not regret it. There are a lot of cozy and unique campsites, stunning views that even the luxurious Alps can envy, delicious local restaurants serving rich meat dishes. All this will definitely be remembered for years.
Biogradska Gora
Biogradska Gora - a national park located next to Kolašin area. On the territory of the park you will find well-marked hiking trails, including a 3 km route around the lake, kayaks and boats renting service and quite tasty local restaurant. By the link, as always sharing the route from Gaia App.
If you have time, you can choose longer routes leading deeper into the park, from where you can enjoy a stunning view of the lake itself.
Mrtvica Canyon
For some crazy reasons Mrtvica Canyon rarely mentioned in any guidebooks. I myself learned about this unique place only thanks to the local hiking community - PSK Montenegro Guide. By the way, if you want to feel the real Balkan spirit, then I highly recommend looking at their schedule of weekend hikes. This is a local club of tourists in Podgorica, almost every weekend they gather and go to explore some route in Montenegro for one day. At one time, I tried not to miss the weekend with them, it was this club that showed me how beautiful Montenegro is, and how unique it is in its natural beauty.
So Mrtica Canyon one of the best hiking rotes in Montenegro and it should be added to your itinerary if you are a travel lover. First of all, this place is famous for the fact that here you will find an old Yugoslav military trail blown into the rocky cliff of the canyon wall.
The trail starts from Međuriječje, which is located about 40 km from Podgorica on the way to Kolašin. After less than half an hour's walk, you will be greeted by a bridge that was built by Knjaz Danilo I 1858 in honor of his mother. The path through the forest will lead you to a spacious meadow where the first major break is traditionally taken. Just a few minutes away is the Gate of Wishes and after it the beautiful scenery of the waterfall and the Morača tributary canyon itself. The last stop is usually Mala Plaža. After a short rest, you have to return the same way. Route map is here!
I advise you to bring snacks and a thermos of tea with you. What could be more wonderful than a lunch with a view like that!
For some crazy reasons Mrtvica Canyon rarely mentioned in any guidebooks. I myself learned about this unique place only thanks to the local hiking community - PSK Montenegro Guide. By the way, if you want to feel the real Balkan spirit, then I highly recommend looking at their schedule of weekend hikes. This is a local club of tourists in Podgorica, almost every weekend they gather and go to explore some route in Montenegro for one day. At one time, I tried not to miss the weekend with them, it was this club that showed me how beautiful Montenegro is, and how unique it is in its natural beauty.
So Mrtica Canyon one of the best hiking rotes in Montenegro and it should be added to your itinerary if you are a travel lover. First of all, this place is famous for the fact that here you will find an old Yugoslav military trail blown into the rocky cliff of the canyon wall.
The trail starts from Međuriječje, which is located about 40 km from Podgorica on the way to Kolašin. After less than half an hour's walk, you will be greeted by a bridge that was built by Knjaz Danilo I 1858 in honor of his mother. The path through the forest will lead you to a spacious meadow where the first major break is traditionally taken. Just a few minutes away is the Gate of Wishes and after it the beautiful scenery of the waterfall and the Morača tributary canyon itself. The last stop is usually Mala Plaža. After a short rest, you have to return the same way. Route map is here!
I advise you to bring snacks and a thermos of tea with you. What could be more wonderful than a lunch with a view like that!
Lipa cave
Lipa Cave (Lipska pecina) is one of the largest cave monuments in Montenegro. An amazing portal from the sultry heat to the cool +10 degrees. The cave, with its beautiful and wild system of 2.5 km of passages and halls.
This is a karst cave situated close to Cetinje and you simply must visit while in Montenegro.
Entrance price - 12,90 € for Adults and 7.90 € for children from 5 to 15 years.
For more info click here.
Captain's Lake (Kapetanovo jezero)
And in conclusion, I share one more of my favorite weekend trekking routes - hike to the Captain's lake. Definitely one of the most attractive and dynamic walks through the small and beautiful Montenegro.
You need to arrive at Bare Bojovića, from where you have about 5.7 km (1.30 h) to Captain's Lake, where you can take a longer break for breakfast. After the break, continue by road towards Velje Duboko (8.5 km), i.e. 2.30 hours of walking without breaks, continue through the Mrtvice canyon (about 10 km along a narrow path), which you should cross in 5 hours, and another 4.5 km to Međuriječje. The full route can be found here.
The track comes out quite intense, but no less beautiful for that. You will be able to capture not only the amazing lake, but also the Mrtvica Canyon, which I mentioned a little higher.
Start planning your trip!
- Accommodation. From cosy guesthouses in the mountains to lavish beachside hotels, there’s plenty of accommodation options in Montenegro to suit every style of traveller and budget. Check accommodation rates in Montenegro here!
- Car rentals. Exploring Montenegro by car is a great way to cover a lot of places quickly. You can compare car rental prices here or check this budget company.
Feel free to contact me
