What to Do in Montenegro: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Visit the Bay of Kotor

The Bay of Kotor is a spectacular natural wonder located in the southwestern part of Montenegro. It’s a stunning fjord-like bay that’s surrounded by towering mountains and dotted with charming coastal towns. The bay is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

One of the best ways to experience the Bay of Kotor is to take a boat tour. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and the crystal-clear waters while learning about the history and culture of the region. You’ll also get a chance to visit some of the charming towns along the coast, such as the old town of Kotor itself.

Kotor’s old town is a maze of narrow streets and ancient architecture that’s well worth exploring. It’s a great place to get lost and discover hidden gems such as tiny squares and beautiful churches. You can climb the city walls for a panoramic view of the bay or visit the Maritime Museum to learn about the region’s seafaring history.

The Bay of Kotor is also a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. You can explore the rugged mountains that surround the bay or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. The bay is home to an abundance of wildlife, including birds and marine life, making it a perfect destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, the Bay of Kotor is a must-visit destination in Montenegro. So why not add it to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this stunning location for yourself?

Hiking in Durmitor National Park

Durmitor National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts in Montenegro. This stunning wilderness area is located in the northwestern part of the country and is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Balkans.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Durmitor National Park, and with good reason. The park has over 200 kilometers of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience, from gentle walks to challenging treks.

The park’s most famous hike is the Bobotov Kuk trail, which takes you to the summit of Montenegro’s highest peak. The trail is challenging, but the views from the top are well worth the effort. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Another popular hike is the Black Lake trail, which takes you around a series of stunning alpine lakes. The trail is relatively easy and is suitable for hikers of all levels. Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and spot some of the park’s wildlife, such as wild goats and eagles.

Durmitor National Park offers an unforgettable hiking experience, regardless of which trail you choose. With rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests, the park boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery in Europe. So why not don your hiking boots and discover the splendor of this hidden gem in the Balkans?

You might also be interested in the National Park Prokletije, where you can find insanely beautiful mountain landscapes and exciting trekking trails.

Explore the old town of Budva

Budva is a charming coastal town located on the Adriatic Sea, on the southwestern coast of Montenegro. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. One of the highlights of visiting Budva is exploring its old town.

Budva’s old town is a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and charming squares. The town has a rich history dating back over 2,500 years, and this is reflected in the architecture and cultural attractions found throughout the old town. You can spend hours wandering the narrow streets, admiring the architecture, and soaking up the atmosphere.

One of the most iconic sights in Budva’s old town is the Citadel. The Citadel was built in the 15th century and is one of the best-preserved fortifications on the Adriatic coast. From the Citadel, you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the sea beyond.

Another must-see attraction in the old town is the Church of Saint John. The church was built in the 7th century and is one of the oldest buildings in Budva. Inside the church, you can admire the beautiful frescoes and other works of art.

If you’re interested in history and culture, you might want to visit the Budva City Museum. The museum is located in a 17th-century palace and features exhibits on the town’s history and cultural heritage.

Finally, no visit to Budva’s old town would be complete without a stroll along the town’s famous city walls. The walls were built in the 15th century and offer stunning views of the town and the sea.

In conclusion, exploring Budva’s old town is a must-do activity when visiting Montenegro. With its charming streets, ancient architecture, and rich cultural heritage, the old town of Budva is a true gem of the Balkans.

Take a boat trip on Skadar Lake

Skadar Lake is the largest lake in the Balkans and is shared by Montenegro and Albania. This stunning lake is a nature lover’s paradise, with crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and abundant wildlife. One of the best ways to explore Skadar Lake is by taking a boat trip.

Boat trips on Skadar Lake are available throughout the year and offer a unique perspective on the lake’s natural beauty. You can choose from a range of boat trips, from short excursions to full-day tours. Most boat trips depart from the town of Virpazar, located on the lake’s northern shore.

During your boat trip, you will have the opportunity to see some of Skadar Lake’s most beautiful sights. You will sail past hidden bays, sandy beaches, and lush green islands. You can also spot some of the lake’s diverse wildlife, including rare birds, otters, and turtles.

One of the highlights of a boat trip on Skadar Lake is visiting the small fishing villages that dot the lake’s shoreline. These villages are a glimpse into traditional Montenegrin life and offer a chance to experience the local culture and cuisine.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a swim in the lake’s refreshing waters or try your hand at fishing. Skadar Lake is known for its delicious carp and other freshwater fish, and many of the local restaurants serve fresh fish caught that day.

In conclusion, taking a boat trip on Skadar Lake is a must-do activity when visiting Montenegro. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and charming fishing villages.

Visit the Ostrog Monastery

The Ostrog Monastery in Montenegro is an impressive destination for visitors. It’s built into a sheer cliff face and has stunning architecture, beautiful frescoes, and a deep spiritual significance. The Upper Monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can see the tomb of Saint Basil of Ostrog, take part in religious services, and learn about the monks' way of life. The monastery is considered a place of healing and pilgrimage for people of many faiths. It’s a must-visit site for travelers interested in history, art, or spirituality. Don’t miss the chance to discover the magic of this ancient and holy site.

Go rafting on the Tara River 

Rafting on the Tara River is a thrilling and unforgettable experience for adventurers visiting Montenegro. The Tara River is one of the most stunning rivers in Europe, surrounded by pristine forests, canyons, and waterfalls. It offers a variety of rafting routes suitable for all levels, from calm stretches for beginners to challenging rapids for experienced rafters.

During the rafting trip, visitors will be accompanied by experienced guides who will ensure their safety and provide information about the river and the surrounding landscape. They will also provide all necessary equipment, including life jackets and helmets.

The most popular rafting route on the Tara River is the famous “Tear of Europe” canyon, which is the deepest canyon in Europe and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The route is approximately 18 kilometers long and takes around three to four hours to complete. Along the way, visitors will encounter several rapids, including the famous “Nail” and “Ludnica” rapids, which are sure to provide an adrenaline rush.

Rafting on the Tara River is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of Montenegro and experience an exciting adventure. It’s an activity suitable for families, groups of friends, and solo travelers, and can be enjoyed throughout the spring, summer, and fall months. Don’t miss the chance to add this thrilling experience to your Montenegro itinerary.

Try the local cuisine 

Montenegro has a rich and diverse culinary scene that offers a variety of delicious dishes. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Montenegro:

1. Cevapi — Grilled meat sausages, typically made with a mix of beef and pork, served with flatbread, onions, and kajmak (a creamy dairy product).
2. Njegusi Pršut — A cured meat made from smoked pork.
3. Pljeskavica — A grilled meat patty made from beef or pork, served with various toppings such as cheese, onions, and ajvar (a roasted red pepper spread).
4. Burek — A savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat, often eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
5. Riblja čorba — A fish soup made with various types of fish, vegetables, and spices.
6. Kacamak — A hearty cornmeal porridge often served with cheese and sour cream.
7. Kiflice — A type of bread roll filled with cheese or ham.
8. Pastramka na žaru — Grilled trout, often served with roasted vegetables and potatoes.
9. Kačamak — A traditional dish made from potatoes and cheese.
10. Rakija — A traditional fruit brandy often served as a digestif after meals.

Montenegro’s cuisine is a perfect reflection of its cultural and geographical diversity, offering a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Don’t miss the chance to try some of these mouth-watering dishes on your next visit to Montenegro.