Things To Do
in Montenegro
Montenegro is a small Balkan country where rugged mountains meet the Adriatic Sea. Its dramatic Bay of Kotor and the limestone peaks of Durmitor National Park showcase striking contrasts within a compact area. Medieval towns cling to coastal cliffs and pine-fringed valleys hide glistening lakes, inviting exploration at every turn.
Friendly locals, hospitality, and a flavorful, rustic cuisine make Montenegro a memorable destination for all types of travelers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the quiet streets of Podgorica's Old Town, soaking in the morning light on centuries-old stone houses. Pause at a local kafana for aromatic coffee and freshly baked burek as the city slowly awakens. Admire the Ottoman-era Sahat Kula clock tower as it chimes, setting the tone for an immersive urban exploration.
Wander to the Millennium Bridge and capture panoramic views of the Morača river valley from the walkway. Visit the modern art museum to view contemporary Montenegrin works, enjoying the bright midday atmosphere. Let the blend of Soviet-era architecture and sleek new structures inspire your urban curiosity.
Savor a leisurely dinner at a riverside restaurant, sampling grilled trout and seasonal vegetables under twinkling lights. Toast with a glass of Montenegrin Vranac wine as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in warm hues. Conclude your evening with a peaceful riverside promenade, feeling the gentle breeze of the Morača.
Drive south to Lake Skadar, Europe's largest bird reserve, and embark on a serene boat ride at dawn when the water reflects the sky like glass. Listen for the calls of pelicans and herons as you glide past limestone cliffs and submerged oak trees. The crisp morning air and gentle lapping of waves will immerse you in the lake's untouched beauty.
Dock at the riverside village of Rijeka Crnojevića for a lazy lunch of fresh carp cevapi and homemade cheese. Wander its cobblestone lanes and cross the iconic Osmanagić Bridge, taking in the panoramic views of lush hills and water channels. Engage with local fishermen to learn about age-old techniques still used on these ancient waterways.
Return to Lake Skadar's shoreline for a sunset hike to a nearby viewpoint, where the sky erupts in fiery oranges. Relax at a lakeside guesthouse with a glass of rakija and the distant sound of crickets. Let the tranquil ambiance lull you into the peaceful rhythm of rural Montenegro.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (mid-range, per night) | $60-120 |
| 🚗Car rental (per day) | $25-60 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week for two | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty from mountains to coast
- Compact size makes it easy to combine city and nature
- Delicious, rustic cuisine and good value for money
- Friendly locals and rich cultural heritage
- Limited public transport between some towns
- Summer crowds can be intense on the coast
- Some mountain roads are winding and require careful driving
- English may be less widely spoken outside major towns
- "Dobar dan" - Hello / Good day
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Gde je toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Govoriš li engleski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Živjeli!" - Cheers!
- "Izvinite" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Montenegro
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views over the winding town and the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, best at sunset.
Picturesque palazzi against the calm water; a classic Adriatic postcard setting.
Emerald lake surrounded by pine forests and rugged peaks, ideal for reflections.
A dramatic cliffside location offering sweeping valley views and a sense of grandeur.
Vertical limestone walls and turquoise river provide powerful drama for action shots.
Food in Montenegro
Montenegro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked ham from Njeguši, typically served thinly sliced with crusty bread and cheese.
Must-Try!
A traditional cornmeal porridge often served with kajmak (clotted cream) and cheese.
Grilled minced meat sausages served with flatbread and a dollop of kajmak.
Seafood (often mussels or shrimp) cooked in a garlic-tinish tomato-wine sauce.
Local wines from coastal and inland producers; pair with meals for a full Montenegrin experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market offering fresh produce, cheeses, smoked meats, olives, and bakeries; great for sampling local ingredients.
Coastal markets where you can find seafood, fresh herbs, olives, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and friendly eye contact are common; address people formally unless invited to use first names.
Dress modestly and behave quietly when visiting churches and monasteries.
Ask for permission before photographing locals, especially in villages or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Montenegro
Ensure a smooth experience
In most restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is appreciated for good service; 10-15% for excellent service. Taxis and tour guides also welcome a small gratuity.
Credit cards are widely accepted in towns and tourist areas; carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lush landscapes, milder temperatures, and blooming wildflowers make coastal towns photogenic and ideal for hikes without summer crowds.
Hot days along the coast with busy beaches and vibrant nightlife; inland areas stay cooler in the mountains. Reserve accommodations early.
Pleasant weather and fewer tourists; ideal for road trips, vineyard visits, and photography of fall colors.
Snow in the mountains enables winter sports; coastal towns are quieter; some high-altitude roads may close, so plan with flexibility.
Montenegro at Night
Hiking in Montenegro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Summit routes and scenic lakes with varying difficulty for hikers.
Ancient forest trails around a pristine lake, suitable for leisurely to moderate hikes.
High alpine terrain offering challenging treks and dramatic mountain scenery.
Airports
How to reach Montenegro by plane.
Main international gateway for Montenegro, located near the capital. Regular flights to major European hubs and limited long-haul connections.
Convenient for the Bay of Kotor and coastal towns; many seasonal flights with European operators.
Nearby international airport in Croatia, a common option for visitors to the southern coast; cross-border driving or bus connections available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with strong regional identities; mix of heritage and modern culture.
Communities contributing to a diverse cultural landscape and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and national teams draw sizable crowds.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Montenegrin cuisine adapts well: enjoy dairy, legumes, grilled vegetables, cheeses, and mushroom dishes; ask for olive oil–based preparations or lighter broths.
Rely on grilled meats, seafood, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and rice-based dishes; request separate utensils and confirm sauces are gluten-free.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Montenegro.