Choosing just nine of the most beautiful places in Montenegro is tough, but we love a challenge. Bursting at the seams with majestic mountains, gleaming lakes and breathtaking beaches, holidays in Montenegro prove that good things do indeed come in small packages. Whether you hike up Durmitor National Park’s limestone cliffs or cruise along Lake Piva’s emerald-hued waters, your camera roll is sure to be filled with postcard-perfect pictures. Feeling inspired? Read on and prepare to be blown away by this Balkan beauty...
- Durmitor National Park
- Budva
- Kotor
- Porto Montenegro
- Perast
- Ostrog Monastery
- Sveti Stefan
- Lake Piva
- Herceg Novi
1
Durmitor National Park
Best for: natural beauty
Hats off Mother Nature, Durmitor is a pristine masterpiece. One of Montenegro’s five national parks and an UNESCO World Heritage site, it boasts soaring limestone peaks, deep canyons, glacial lakes, healing natural springs and lush woodlands. No matter the season, outdoor adventurers will get their fill of excitement and incredible natural beauty here. There are activities aplenty – mountaineering, hiking, biking, swimming, bungee jumping, skiing, snowboarding, rafting and more.
Image by Ana Kutija
2
Budva
Best for: culture by the coast
A scenic summer destination, Budva is ideal for history buffs and sun-seekers alike. Glimpse into the past as you weave through the Stari Grand’s (Old Town) marble streets steeped in 2,500 years of history. Wander through the ancient churches and Venetian-style buildings dotted throughout the town or venture up to one of many viewpoints for pretty panoramas. One of our favourite spots is the square in front of Santa Maria del Punta Church, which offers swoon-worthy views over the coast. Ready to relax? From the Old Town, follow a charming seaside path down to Mogren Beach (one of our best beaches in Montenegro) for some well-earned sunbathing and a refreshing dip.
Image by Ana Kutija
3
Kotor
Best for: mountain-backed bays
Kotor is next up on our list of the most beautiful places in Montenegro. Sitting pretty at the end of an inland bay that gives any Norwegian fjord a run for its money, this fortified town is a must-visit. Trek up the majestic Lovcen mountain range with a local guide, then lounge by the glistening Adriatic Sea for some well-deserved R&R. Although popular with day trippers, the walled Old Town boasts enough winding streets and medieval charm to make it a lovely weekend getaway. It's also home to the Maritime Museum, which explores local seafaring history, and the Kotor Cathedral – one of only two Roman Catholic cathedrals in Montenegro.
Image by Frank Heuer/LAIF-REA
4
Porto Montenegro
Best for: marine magic
A stroll through Porto Montenegro promises to be memorable. Dubbed the ‘Monaco of Montenegro’, this state-of-the-art marina in the Bay of Kotor was built on the foundations of an old Yugoslav naval facility. Today, it’s home to more than 600 berths for shimmering yachts and superyachts (which are well worth snooping at from the shore…). Stylish restaurants, elegant hotels and trendy boutiques border the water’s edge, while kayaking and sailing await those who love watersports.
Image by Nick Prideaux / Connected Archives
5
Perast
Best for: peaceful walks
Pretty Perast easily earns a spot on our roundup of beautiful places in Montenegro. Perched along the picturesque Adriatic coastline, this lovely old town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. During your visit, we recommend making a pit stop at Gospa od Skrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) – one of Perast’s most popular attractions. This small island is also home to an informative museum and centuries-old church, accessible by a boat taxi. Afterwards, treat yourself to a delicious meal in one of the town’s many seafood restaurants and breathe in the salty sea air.
Image by Frank Heuer/LAIF-REA
6
Ostrog Monastery
Best for: religious architecture
Ostrog Monastery blends natural beauty with human craftsmanship. Carved almost entirely into a cliff, this building is Montenegro’s most significant destination for Orthodox Christians, and for obvious reasons, it also draws in visitors year after year. Built within two large caves, the upper monastery is the main prayer site, home to a candle room and a cosy courtyard. Don’t miss out on this religious treasure when exploring Montenegro.
Image by Neil Bussey/Getty Images
7
Sveti Stefan
Best for: charming photos
Search ‘Montenegro’ online, and the tiny island of Sveti Stefan will likely appear on your screen. Connected to the mainland via a stone walkway, this fairytale-like island is characterised by its sun-kissed terracotta rooftops. Just 15 minutes from Budva, Sveti Stefan is one of Montenegro’s most sought-after spots. A big hit among the rich and famous, the small islet was once a fishing village, and to this day, the old town remains mostly unchanged with its narrow streets, small churches and family-run shops.
Image by Julia Pavaliuk/Getty Images
8
Lake Piva
Best for: pristine water
You can’t write about beautiful Montenegro scenery without mentioning the lovely Lake Piva. This man-made lake was created in 1975 and lies in Pluzine, in the northwestern part of the country. Fringed by dense, lush forests and teeming with trout and chub, this turquoise lake is a haven for fishing enthusiasts. And that’s not all – Lake Piva is Montenegro’s largest artificial reservoir, with water so clean it’s fit for drinking. Cruise through the calm water while admiring the views, or visit the Pluzine Old Town and Piva Monastery, just a few miles away.
Image by suc/Getty Images
9
Herceg Novi
Best for: beachside bliss
Last up on our list of the most beautiful places in Montenegro is Herceg Novi. Step back in time with a visit to Kanli Kula Fortress, Spanjola Fortress and Savina Monastery. Or soak up the sights on a relaxing walk along the promenade, where many a charming cafe and stylish restaurant await your arrival. Calling all water babies, this coastal town is also one of the top spots for aquatic activities, offering everything from fishing and sailing to kayaking and snorkelling.
Image by Ana Kutija
Written by Amy Larsen
