Quickly go to Montenegro now before the travel influencers find it! Joking i’ve already been and I’m the best around. Right? Right! Please say yes for a well needed self esteem boost.
Montenegro is a picturesque nation all the way down the bottom end of Europe. It is cradled between its Balkan buddies Albania and Croatia and opposite that sexy boot of Italy. Even though most people (including you, be honest) picture former Soviet Union countries to be grey and colourless, Montenegro isn’t like that and to be fair most former Soviet Union countries aren’t like that so shame on you for having that thought process. Montenegro actually boasts a rich tapestry of natural wonders. From its rugged mountain ranges to its enchanting Adriatic coastlines and historic medieval villages, Montenegro offers a complete and captivating experience which should not be missed.
To truly explore Montenegro and its stunning areas, about 10 days is what you’ll need. Montenegro’s compact size and easy accessibility make it a breeze to explore its wonders in just a short time. Whether you’re seeking some religious enlightenment, breathtaking landscapes, or the distinctive experiences that Montenegro has to offer, these 10 unmissable things to see will craft a perfect itinerary for your Montenegro adventure!
10 Unmissable Things To See In Montenegro
1. Perast
If you like non-threatening charming towns then Perast is the place for you. Perast is an enchanting coastal town that beckons travellers from all around the globe and possibly out of space, who knows, stranger things have happened. I will be the first one to admit Perast has timeless beauty and rich maritime heritage. As you wander its cobblestone streets, you will find yourself surrounded by well-preserved Baroque architecture and elegant homes that whisper stories of its illustrious past. The town’s centre piece is the iconic Clock Tower of Saint Nicholas, a historic landmark that graces the town’s skyline. With its breathtaking scenery set against the Bay of Kotor, Perast is an irresistible destination for those seeking a glimpse of Montenegro’s charm and history.
2. Our Lady Of The Rocks
In the middle of Kotor Bay lies a church on a island but here’s the catch it’s not a real island. Allegedly around the 15th century (1452 if you wanna get specific) there was these two seamen (i.e. sailors not what you are thinking of) who found an icon of the Madonna (Different Madonna) and child on a rock slap bang in the middle of The Bay Of Kotor. After finding the icon the seamen vowed to build a church (people had a lot of time on their hands back then) on the exact spot the icon was founded.
From that day onwards fisherthem from the surrounding areas would travel across the bay to lay rocks, stones and even sink ships to help create the foundations of which Our Lady of The Rocks sits today.
You can see, plus visit Our Lady of the Rocks by taking a short boat ride across the bay from Perast for the small price of 5 euros per person with a further 2 euros per person to actually step inside the church itself.
3. Kotor Old Town
Kotor Old Town is in you guessed it Kotor Bay. Nestled at the foot of imposing mountains and hugging the tranquil waters of the Bay of Kotor, Kotor’s Old Town is a and I don’t use this word often, stunning destination.
Kotor Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, historic charm and a really unnecessary obsession with cats. Like I mean ridiculous. There are cats everywhere, there are cat shops, there is even a cat museum.
The town itself is surrounded by ancient city walls while the majestic St. Tryphon Cathedral, built in the 12th century, stands proudly and a bit egotistically in the centre. As you walk the maze that is the narrow alleyways, you’ll discover quaint squares, bustling cafes, and boutique shops to tickle your fancies.
For the adventurous souls out there, a visit to Kotor would not be complete without conquering the Kotor Fortress.
Perched high above the town, this formidable structure dates back to the 9th century. The journey to the fortress begins at the base of the town (duh) and entails a steep ascent along a winding path up.
Once at the summit, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of The Kotor Bay from below.
4. Kotor Bay
This might come off abit like i’m cheating because it’s basically a combination of everything above BUT The Bay of Kotor is stunning. Okay maybe I do use that word often. The Bay of Kotor is without a doubt the hidden gem of Europe with its perfect scenery, towering mountains which expand from above, refreshing crystal clear Adriatic waters and a secret Soviet Submarine Tunnel.
Yeah you read that right whilst the Bay of Kotor is celebrated for its well-known beauty, it also holds a fascinating secret, beneath its pristine waters. These intriguing tunnels were carved into the cliffs during the Cold War, serving as a shelter for submarines. There is a 3 hour, 40 euro boat tour which explores the Bay of Kotor and also takes you to investigate these tunnels as part of the package.
There is a few other spots included with the 40 euro boat tour of Kotor Bay. One of them being the blue caves. These perfect grottoes are renowned for their mesmerising colours. The interplay of sunlight, sea, and the unique limestone formations of the caves produces an otherworldly blue glow.
5. Budva Old Town
Who doesn’t love an old town, come on! Perched along the Adriatic coast Budva Old Town is a captivating gem with its historic charm and vibrant nightlife. That’s right, if you wanna get boozy and have a boggie than Budva is where it’s at. Enclosed by sturdy medieval walls which by the way you can walk on for 2 euros, this ancient settlement is a delight to visit with its narrow alleys, cosy squares, and well-preserved architecture.
The Old Town exudes an irresistible blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences, resulting in a unique character that immerses you in the town’s rich heritage. The picturesque St. John’s Church, with its commanding presence, serves as a focal point within the Old Town’s confines.
6. Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan is a tiny little island nestled perfectly actually, a bit too perfectly in my opinion, on the coast of Montenegro. It is a former fishing village but in the 1950’s Sveti Stefan was converted into a high profile resort. It is so high profile in fact that you can’t just rock up unannounced. If you aren’t staying at the resort itself you will need to pay a whooping 25 euros to even be allowed to cross the bridge to the resort and you will also need to be accompanied by a tour guard at all times. It is the North Korea of beach resorts.
If going into the resort isn’t your cup of tea and you’d rather enjoy the iconic red-roofed stone buildings, which by the way date back to the 15th century from a far then not to worry as placed slightly to the left of Sveti Stefan is a postcard perfect beach. If you also have ADHD like me and struggle to sit still on a beach then there is a sea walk you can do which offers brilliant photo opportunities. As seen below:
7. Hawaii Island AKA Sveti Nikola
The island is famous for its stunning sandy beaches and pristine waters which offer fantastic chillaxing opportunities on its shores. The island is literally slap bang opposite Budva. The easiest way to get to the island is by boat (obviously) which cost 6 euros return and takes literally 5 minutes from Budva.
It is often referred to as “Hawaii” by locals due to its resemblance to the famous Hawaiian islands. Sveti Nikola Island is also the largest island in the Budva Riviera. There isn’t much to do on the island except for sunbathe or swimming in the surrounding waters but the scenery is unbelievable.
8. Old Ribnica Bridge
Old Ribnica Bridge is the oldest bridge in Podgorica the capital of Montenegro. It spans across the Ribnica river, the river which runs through Podgorica. Put both those two facts together and you have the cleverly named Old Ribnica Bridge a spectacular stone bridge with an arch structure. The bridge dates back to the Ottoman period and was likely built during the 16th century. The bridge is still operating today and can be found in the Stara Varoš.
Stara Varoš is one of the older and more historic parts of Podgorica, and the bridge is situated in this charming neighbourhood, which is known for its traditional architecture and historic atmosphere.
9. Lake Skadar
Lake Skadar is the overachiever of lakes. It spans across two countries (Montenegro & Albania) don’t worry I knew you were wondering. The lake also goes by the name lake Shkodra and you will be happy to know it is the largest lake in Balkans. It offers a stunning and diverse natural landscape as it is surrounded by mountains, wetlands and small picturesque villages.
It also has more birds than Leonardo DiCaprio (that is a London play on words there and if I do say so myself extremely witty). Lake Skadar has over 270 different species of birds dotted all around the lake. The best way to see the lake is by boat of course. I would personally recommend taking the 3 hour boat tour with Kingfisher Tours. You will be taken expertly across the iconic lily pads and into the open waters of Lake Skadar where you are then free to bird watch or take a dip in the cooling waters below.
10. Orthodox Temple Of Christ's Resurrection
When you’re gallivanting through Europe, you’re bound to stumble upon some religious sites, and Montenegro is no exception. Behold the tongue-twisting marvel known as The Orthodox Temple of Christ’s Resurrection, a jaw-dropping architectural gem snuggled in the heart of Podgorica.
Constructed in the latter part of the 20th century, this holy haven proudly flaunts ceiling art that could give Rome’s finest a run for its money.
Riveting review
Very good blog. I didn’t know much about Montenegro. It is now on my list of places to go. Thank you Adsventures.
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