Montenegro holidays: our travel guide
Montenegro is a small country with big scenery: a bay that looks like a fjord, medieval towns by the water and mountains rising straight behind the beaches.
Kotor
The old town sits at the head of the bay below steep mountains. Photo: Faruk Kaymak / Unsplash
Montenegro: the fjord of the Adriatic
Montenegro lies between Croatia and Albania and is one of the smallest countries in Europe. Even so, you can fit in beaches, old towns and mountain walks in a single week. The best-known part is the Bay of Kotor, a deep inlet ringed by steep mountains that is often compared with a fjord. Kotor and its surroundings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The country uses the euro, although it is not in the EU, and distances are short. From Dubrovnik in Croatia it is a couple of hours by car to Kotor, and many combine the two.
Montenegro is one of the countries in Europe we cover. Further south is Albania.
Perast
The island church of Our Lady of the Rocks off Perast. Photo: Secret Travel Guide / Unsplash
Things to do in Montenegro
Kotor: explore the old town, then climb the steps to the fortress above for the view over the bay.
Perast: a small baroque town by the water, with boats out to the island church of Our Lady of the Rocks.
Budva: an old town by the sea and beaches all around, liveliest in summer.
Sveti Stefan: the famous islet hotel, seen from the beach and the road above.
Durmitor and the Tara Canyon: mountains, lakes and rafting in the north.
Lake Skadar: boat trips among water lilies and birdlife near the Albanian border.
The Bay of Kotor
Photo: Dragisa Braunovic / Unsplash
Where to stay in Montenegro
Kotor: old town and bay, and a good base for day trips.
Perast: quiet and romantic by the water.
Tivat and Luštica: marinas and new luxury hotels.
Budva and Bečići: beaches and nightlife.
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Hotel Cattaro, Kotor
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Hotel Cattaro: in the heart of Kotor old town
A hotel inside the old town, on the square just through the main gate. Step straight out into the lanes in the morning, before the cruise passengers arrive.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Cattaro
One&Only Portonovi: luxury at the mouth of the bay
A large luxury resort by the water near Herceg Novi, at the outer end of the Bay of Kotor.
Book your stay: See rooms at One&Only Portonovi
The Chedi Luštica Bay
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
The Chedi Luštica Bay: by the marina on Luštica
A modern hotel by the marina on the Luštica peninsula, with the sea right outside and a short drive to Tivat airport.
Book your stay: See rooms at The Chedi Luštica Bay
When is the best time to visit Montenegro?
May, June and September are often best for the coast, with warm weather and fewer visitors. July and August are the hottest and busiest. The mountains in the north are best from June to September. Check the current entry rules before you travel.
Frequently asked questions about Montenegro
Where should I stay in Montenegro?
Kotor is best for the old town and day trips around the bay, and Perast for peace. Tivat and Luštica have new luxury hotels and marinas, while Budva and Bečići suit those who want beaches and nightlife.
What currency does Montenegro use?
Montenegro uses the euro, although it is not a member of the EU.
Can you do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Kotor?
Yes. It takes a couple of hours by car, depending on the queue at the border. Many tour operators run day trips, but a night in Kotor gives you the old town without the crowds.
What is Montenegro famous for?
The Bay of Kotor, the old towns of Kotor and Budva, the islet of Sveti Stefan and the mountains of Durmitor National Park.
When is the best time to go to Montenegro?
May, June and September are best for the coast. The mountains in the north are best from June to September.