Montenegro Summer Vacation Guide
Why visit Montenegro?
Well, for starters, it boasts some of Europe’s most captivating historical sites dating back to the 12th century! Among these, the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks stands out—a charming Roman Catholic church perched atop a hill, offering stunning views of the Bay of Kotor.
Moreover, Montenegro is renowned for its safety, making it an ideal destination for travelers. Often combined with road trips through neighboring Balkan countries, it offers both convenience and adventure. Additionally, it’s a budget-friendly option, with plenty of value-for-money deals on accommodations, day trips, and excursions.
Food enthusiasts will delight in the diverse culinary offerings, blending flavors from the Adriatic Sea and Mediterranean traditions. From seafood delicacies to grilled meats and fresh vegetables, Montenegro’s cuisine is a true delight for the senses. And let’s not forget the warm hospitality of the Montenegrin people, always eager to share travel tips and immerse visitors in their culture.
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DISCOVER KOTOR
Kotor holds the prestigious title of being at the top of the UNESCO cultural heritage list. Among Montenegro’s many beautiful towns, the Bay of Kotor stands out as the country’s crown jewel.
Renowned for its safety, this charming town boasts a walled fortress with cobblestone streets, offering a delightful blend of delectable gastronomy and rich historical sights for all travelers to enjoy.
- Staying in Kotor is my top choice for accommodation in Montenegro. The area offers a range of beautiful options, from complexes and apartments to peaceful stone houses near the beaches. If you’re fortunate, you might even have the sea just a few meters from your doorstep, perfect for a refreshing swim or soaking up the sun. If you find booking accommodation within Kotor challenging, you can explore options in nearby Perast or Dobrota, both just a 5-10 minute ride from the city center.
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- Kotor Bay Excursions: Embark on a boat trip around the bay and soak in the sights of its treasures, including tunnels, the enchanting Blue Caves, the historic Mamula Fortress, and the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks church. Marvel at the beauty of the bay itself, where charming stone architecture nestles amidst towering green hills, creating a picturesque harmony. The options for an organized excursion in the Bay of Kotor are also very budget friendly and you can choose options from 3hrs to 8hrs tours or even private tours.
- Embark on a stroll through Kotor’s rich history by dedicating an afternoon (as summer mornings can be scorching!) and evening to exploring the Kotor Castle and the charming streets of Old Town. Take in the breathtaking views, browse the souvenir shops, and perhaps indulge in a refreshing drink amidst the Old Town’s ambiance. Private tours options are also available.
- Savor the local cuisine: Take a leisurely stroll around the Kotor fortress and Kampana Tower, where you’ll find bustling food and street markets offering an array of souvenirs, fruits, and street food delights. Delight your taste buds with a dish from the nearby mussel farms by the beach, indulge in grilled ribs or burgers near the Old Town walls, or perhaps experience the unique taste of underwater-aged wine at a platform overlooking the sea. Private food tasting tours are also available.
DISCOVER BUDVA
If you’re drawn to vibrant city life and a blend of modern architecture with historic charm, Budva is a must-visit. With tall hotels, bustling streets, and big shopping centers, it offers a dynamic urban experience. Enjoy a variety of local and modern cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and entertainment options, including clubs and casinos.
- Discover the Budva Riviera in the morning for an unforgettable experience. Budva’s beaches boast clear waters, vibrant vibes, and seaside restaurants and bars. Begin your beach adventure at the renowned stretches of Jaz Beach and Mogren Beach.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Budva Old Town, where you can dine or browse for souvenirs. This well-preserved medieval walled city features narrow streets, ancient churches, and bustling squares, offering a charming glimpse into its rich history and vibrant culture. Private Budva Tours are available.
- Discover Budva in the evening and experience firsthand why this magnificent medieval walled city is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and thriving arts scene. From clubs and bars to casinos, Budva offers it all. The combination of modern architecture, colorful lights, and tall hotel buildings against the backdrop of the Budva Fortress with its narrow stone streets and traditional shops creates an unforgettable atmosphere that is a must-visit.
SEE THE SUNSET ABOVE SVETI STEFAN
Sveti Stefan provides numerous viewpoints where you can pause and freely savor the most stunning and colorful sunset views. Sunset holds a special allure in Sveti Stefan, as the hues of the setting sun mingle with the tranquil sea, the crimson pebbles along the shore, and the orange-tinted rooftops of the luxurious residences on the island.
You can also explore Sveti Stefan in the morning by diving into the red-colored pebble beach or taking the trail to Park Milocher, known for its unique and well-groomed flora and breathtaking views. The coastal road offers an amazing panorama of Budvanska Riviera and Milocher Beach.
Sveti Stefan is also an excellent place to stay for your summer vacation if you enjoy tranquil vibes and don’t mind driving to see other attractions. However, it’s worth noting that Sveti Stefan is not a lively nightlife destination, and options for shopping and dining are limited.
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EXPLORE SKADAR LAKE & CRNOJEVICA RIVER
For an unforgettable experience you can book a 3-5 hour boat excursion starting from Virpazar Village for a day trip to Skadar Lake. These outings are packed with fun, offering scenic rides on traditional wooden boats, chances to take a refreshing dip in the calm waters, and opportunities to spot water lilies, wildlife, and vibrant birdlife. You’ll get to explore UNESCO-protected islands, discover hidden passages, and visit charming fishing villages. For an even closer encounter with nature, consider renting a kayak for a more personal tour of the lake.
Before departing Virpazar Village, be sure to dine at the local fish taverns, such as Pelican Restaurant or Konoba Demidžana. On the opposite side of the river, you’ll find endless vineyards producing the renowned red wine known as “Vranac.” If you’re a wine enthusiast, consider arranging a visit to one of these wineries.
Make sure you don’t pass up the opportunity to climb up to the Pavlova Strana Viewpoint, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic vistas of the Crnojevica River. Don’t forget to snap a photo from this spot—it’s an absolute must!
VISIT THE NIJAGARA WATERFALLS
You really shouldn’t miss the chance to set aside some time to experience the serene beauty of Nijagara Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear, emerald-green waters of the Cijevna River. While the waterfall itself may run dry during the summer months, the surrounding area offers a tranquil and enchanting atmosphere for a leisurely stroll but also for a refreshing swim!
Don’t miss the chance to dine at the Nijagara restaurant, conveniently located beside the falls. Nijagara is just a 10-minute drive from Podgorica, but be sure to have your own transportation as there’s no public transit available. The area also offers plenty of parking space for visitors.
There are also organized tours that include a visit to Nijagara Waterfalls.
PUT ON YOUR ADVENTURE SHOES
If you’re an adventure enthusiast who loves these kinds of activities on vacation, Montenegro has a wide range of organized excursions to choose from, with many offering hotel pick-up services. You can explore hiking trails in Lovcen National Park, embark on a thrilling rafting trip on the Tara River, experience paragliding in Budva or Sveti Stefan, zip-line across the Djurdjevica Tara Bridge, go canyoning in the Skurda River, and much more!
GET PREPARED BEFORE GETTING THERE
Get your SIM DATA CARD
My first recommendation upon arriving in Montenegro (you can even do it while waiting for your luggage) is to get a SIM card with unlimited data for your stay. You’ll come across many ads with QR codes for SIM card activation in the airport, and it’ll greatly enhance your vacation experience. Choose the Unlimited Data e SIM packages of TravelSim for your vacation to Montenegro to already arrive stress free. While Wi-Fi is available in almost every hotel, shop, and restaurant, the freedom of unlimited data is invaluable and essential, especially if you enjoy driving and exploring on your own.
Choose your transportation
I recommend renting a car or motorcycle for your Montenegro vacation. Public transportation is limited which could mean waiting a while for a bus to take you where you want to go, and taxis/private drivers can be costly. With large distances to cover, vehicle rentals offer the most flexibility and value, especially considering Montenegro’s well-maintained road network. Plus, local drivers are courteous and respectful, ensuring a smooth and safe travel experience.
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The parking situation
However, make sure to book accommodation with included parking or arrange parking separately during your stay. Parking can be challenging in tourist spots like Sveti Stefan, Budva, and Kotor, even for experienced drivers. Exercise caution when navigating narrow roads, and don’t be surprised if you encounter dead ends or double-way streets. Patience is key.
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