Montenegro, a small yet stunning country nestled along the Adriatic, offers a surprising wealth of landscapes, history, and cultural treasures. While it might be lesser known than its Mediterranean neighbours, this hidden gem is quickly becoming one of Europe’s top emerging destinations. From fantastic mountain scenery and dramatic coastlines to medieval towns and remote natural parks, the country beckons travellers seeking adventure, history, and natural beauty. I had the pleasure to visit last summer and fell in love with it. Here is why Montenegro should be on your adventure travel bucketlist.
The town of Kotor is undoubtedly one of Montenegro’s crown jewels, offering visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty and historic charm. Sitting at the edge of the Bay of Kotor, Kotor’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a maze of cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and ancient churches. The town's fortifications, dating back to the 9th century, offer some of the best panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding peaks. For those with energy to spare, a hike up the Ladder of Kotor is an exhilarating challenge with more than 70 switchbacks leading to the top of St. John’s Hill, where the views are nothing short of breathtaking. If climbing isn’t your style, a more relaxing option is the Kotor Cable Car, which offers sweeping views of the bay below.
Beyond Kotor, the Bay of Kotor itself is a must-see. This fjord-like inlet is surrounded by towering cliffs, making for some of the most scenic boat tours in the region. Numerous tours depart to explore the bay’s less accessible spots, including the Blue Cave. Here, the sunlight reflecting off the crystal-clear waters creates a mesmerizing blue glow, inviting visitors to take a refreshing swim. Another highlight is the small island of Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a beautiful Catholic church with artwork by the famous 17th-century painter Tripo Kokolja.
For a quieter experience, the town of Perast, located just a 20-minute drive from Kotor, offers a more serene atmosphere. This small, charming town is dotted with churches and Venetian-style palaces, making it a delightful place to stroll along the waterfront. The iconic Church of Sveti Nikola, with its soaring bell tower, is a standout, while the nearby island of Gospa od Škrpjela is steeped in legend. The island, which was created by local fishermen in the 15th century, is home to a beautiful church adorned with paintings and silver votive offerings.
Moving inland, Montenegro’s national parks offer some of Europe’s most unspoiled natural landscapes. Lovćen National Park, a short drive from Kotor, is famous for its black mountains, which give Montenegro its name. The park is home to the striking mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, the revered poet and ruler of Montenegro. The climb of over 400 steps to get to the tomb rewards visitors with spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains. For those who enjoy hiking, Lovćen offers a network of trails through its diverse landscape, with the Wolf Trail being a popular choice.
Another must-visit natural attraction is Biogradska Gora National Park, one of Europe’s last remaining primeval forests. With over 200 species of birds and numerous hiking trails, the park is a haven for nature lovers. The serene Lake Biograd, nestled in the heart of the park, is a beautiful spot for a leisurely walk around its shores or a peaceful boat ride. The park’s untouched beauty earned it UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status in 1977, and it remains a pristine example of Europe’s natural heritage.
Further north, the Tara River Canyon, located within Durmitor National Park, offers some of Montenegro’s best adventure opportunities. The Tara River, one of the longest and deepest in Europe, runs through the canyon, which reaches depths of up to 1,300 meters. Rafting along the river is a popular activity, as is zip-lining across the canyon. The views from the top of Mount Ćurevac are simply stunning. Durmitor National Park itself is a year-round destination, offering skiing in the winter and hiking and climbing in the warmer months.
On my hikes in the country I often brought the Turkish-inspired burek (pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach, reminiscent of spanakopita). If you are after a local culinary experience, look for grilled kebabs (čevapčići), stuffed cabbage leaves (sarma), hearty bean soup with bits of meat (pasulj), goulash (gulaš), and the decadent artery-clogging karađorđe vasnicla—breaded veal cutlets stuffed with cheese. Syrupy baklava is also commonly found, offering a sweet touch to any meal.
For history buffs, a visit to the old royal capital of Cetinje is a must. Set at the foot of the Eagle’s Cross Mountain, the town is home to Cetinje Monastery, a vital spiritual and cultural centre for Montenegro. The town’s historic buildings and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for exploring Montenegro’s past.
For those interested in Orthodox Christianity, the Ostrog Monastery, perched 900 meters above the Zeta valley, is one of the country’s most important religious sites. This awe-inspiring structure, built into the cliffside, attracts pilgrims from across the globe, and visitors can experience a sense of awe just by visiting the site.
Travelling south along the coast, the bustling town of Budva offers a vibrant mix of history and nightlife. While it is known for its lively summer scene, Budva also boasts a well-preserved Old Town, complete with Venetian walls and narrow streets. The Citadel, located at the end of the town, offers stunning views of the sea and nearby islands. Budva is also home to several beautiful beaches where the clear waters invite swimmers to relax and enjoy the sun. Just a short drive away, Sveti Stefan is a picturesque fortified island that is now home to a luxurious five-star resort. Though it’s closed to the public, visitors can still enjoy the views from the mainland.
South of Budva, the coastal town of Bar offers a more tranquil experience. Known for its ancient ruins, the town of Stari Bar sits atop a hill, surrounded by dramatic cliffs. Its history dates back to the 6th century, and the site is a fascinating place to explore for those interested in Montenegro’s past. Similarly, the town of Ulcinj, with its Ottoman-influenced Old Town, offers a glimpse into the country’s complex cultural history.
Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica, is often overlooked in favour of the coast, but it offers plenty of charm for those willing to explore. The Old Town, Stara Varoš, is a reminder of the country’s Ottoman past, with its cobbled streets and ancient buildings. The nearby Ribnica River and Fortress add to the historical atmosphere, making Podgorica a place for those keen on a deeper dive into Montenegro’s diverse history.
Montenegro is a land of contrasts, where ancient history blends seamlessly with breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you are hiking through its rugged mountains, exploring its medieval towns, or relaxing along its pristine shores, this small but captivating country offers something for every traveller.
We offer several great tours of Montenegro. For a deep-dive I recommend Discover Montenegro & Bosnia-Herzegovina and Adventures in Albania and Montenegro, while for hikers, I recommend Balkans Hiking Adventure on the Via Dinarica, a tour I did myself and loved.
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