Croatia Destination Highlight – Montenegro
Dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains, and beautiful coastlines are on offer in this wonderful country.
Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Montenegro is a small but diverse country that beckons visitors with the allure of its laid-back way of life.
The Montenegrin Adriatic coast is 295 km long, with 72 km of beaches, and with many well-preserved ancient old towns. Inland, the sprawling mountain ranges, pristine nature parks, and lakes offer a stark contrast.
At Adventures Croatia, we are experts at planning holidays to Croatia and the surrounding countries. Our friendly and knowledgeable team have over 12 years of experience in crafting unique, exclusive, and personalized vacations that are tailored to your dreams.
Is Montenegro Worth Visiting?
Holidays in Montenegro promise an exciting mix of pristine scenery, rustic charm, and a rich history. The country synthesizes modern comfort and rural charm; ancient sites blend into coastal living and immersive natural beauty.
Montenegro is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground, with many activities including hiking, biking, canyoning, and white-water rafting on offer. From Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans to Biogradska Gora National Park, there is an abundance of nature waiting to be explored.
The warm Montenegrin hospitality is something to be admired. Locals welcome travelers with open arms, eager to share their age-old customs and culinary delights.
Due to its proximity to Dubrovnik, a day trip to Montenegro is very possible. During this time you can explore some of the highlights along the Adriatic coast, including the famous Bay of Kotor.
Our Popular Tours to Montenegro
- Explore Croatia, Monaco, and Montenegro: A 12-day custom itinerary exploring the best of these 3 countries.
- Adriatic Wonders – Immerse Yourself: A 21-day tour through Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, and Montenegro.
- Croatia Active Multi-Sport Vacation: A 15-day custom itinerary perfect for the active adventure seeker.
Top places in Montenegro
Many of the top places to visit in Montenegro surround the Bay of Kotor and are easily accessible by a day trip from Dubrovnik.
Here are our recommendations for must-visit destinations in Montenegro.
Bay of Kotor
Stretching 17 miles long, the Bay of Kotor is a natural harbor with various towns and islets to explore. Often likened to a fjord, it resembles a butterfly shape and enchants visitors with its serene waters and breathtaking backdrops.
Limestone cliffs, part of the Diantic Alps, rise sharply on either side of the bay, framing the beautiful scenery. Hike up Pestingrad for the best views out over the bay.
Cruise along the waters via boat to best appreciate the beauty of your surroundings, stopping off at the two islets in the bay, Our Lady of the Rocks and Sveti Nikola. The bay can also be explored on a kayak or paddleboard.
Kotor
Situated in the southern end of the Bay of Kotor, this picturesque coastal town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and laid-back seaside living.
Wander through the old town, a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is filled with winding cobblestone streets, charming squares, and historic buildings. Make sure to visit the Kotor Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, which is one of Kotor’s most iconic landmarks.
Old walls encircle the town, remnants of an ancient defense system. If you are brave enough to take on the 1,355 steps up to the top, you’ll be greatly rewarded with incredible panoramic views out over the Bay of Kotor.
Perast
This small, tranquil town sits in the middle of the Bay of Kotor. With the town stretching less than a mile along the bay, it is the perfect place to unwind and embrace the slow pace of life that the locals live.
Stroll along the waterfront, stopping for ice-cream or a coffee in one of the local cafes, followed by heading down to one of Perast’s beaches for a swim in the clear turquoise water.
Durmitor National Park
Rugged peaks, blue glacier lakes, and dense forests characterize this wonderful park. The Tara River Canyon, Europe’s deepest canyon and a UNESCO biosphere reserve, snakes through the landscape.
Containing over 50 limestone peaks and covering 39,000 acres, Durmitor National Park offers incredible hiking opportunities for visitors. Kayaking and white-water rafting down the river are also available for the more adventurous.
During the winter months, Durmitor National Park turns into a ski resort, offering pristine slopes and cozy chalets amidst a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
Budva Riviera
Budva is known for its beautiful sand beaches and vibrant nightlife, seamlessly blending a laidback and luxurious lifestyle.
The old town is a charming maze of narrow streets and ancient stone buildings. Make sure to visit the Citadel and the Church of St. Ivan.
The beaches in Budva are some of the best in Montenegro, ranging from sandy beaches with a wide range of amenities to secluded coves and hidden bays. Some of our favorites include Mogren Beach, Kamenovo Beach, and Sveti Stefan Beach.
How to Get to Montenegro from Croatia?
Montenegro is situated just east of Dubrovnik and can be reached easily by a scenic car drive. From Dubrovnik, it is approximately 50 miles to Perast, 58 miles to Kotor, and 70 miles to Budva.
Dubrovnik airport is situated just 15 minutes from the Croatia-Montenegro border. If you are wanting to fly directly into Montenegro, there are two international airports to choose from. Podgorica airport is in the heart of the country and Tivat airport allows for easy access to Montengro’s Adriatic coast.
Our travel experts here at Adventures Croatia are here to help assist you with planning and booking your trip. Our pre-planned private journeys include private transfers to all of your destinations.
What to Expect From a Holiday in Montenegro
Holidays in Montenegro offer the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re lounging on beautiful beaches, exploring historic towns, hiking in national parks, or indulging in local cuisine, Montenegro promises an unforgettable experience that caters to a wide range of interests and preferences.
Planning a Montenegro Tour with Adventures Croatia
Are you looking to extend your Croatian holiday into Montenegro? From customized travel plans to Croatia to pre-planned private journeys, our team at Adventures Croatia are here to help you plan your perfect vacation. To start the planning process, give us a call at 1-800-818-8015 or email [email protected].