Montenegro Holidays

For a country with such a compact coastline, holidays in Montenegro pack a mighty punch. This is a land of striking contrasts, where dramatic mountains drop down to meet the glittering Adriatic Sea. You'll find ancient walled cities just a short journey from modern marinas, and deep forests not far from sun-drenched beaches. It's a destination with universal appeal, whether you're looking for family fun, historical discovery, or simply a spot to relax by the water. With around 300 kilometres of coastline and 117 beaches, you're never far from your next swim.

Discover Montenegro's coastal towns and resorts

The Montenegrin coast is dotted with towns that each offer something different. From lively resort hubs to quiet, historic ports, you can easily hop between them to get a full picture of this varied country.

Budva

Often seen as the centre of Montenegrin tourism, Budva is the place to be for energy and atmosphere. Its medieval walled old town, Stari Grad, is a maze of narrow streets and squares, while the wider Budva Riviera offers long stretches of beach like Slovenska Plaža. Nearby, you'll find the iconic islet of Sveti Stefan, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway. For a change of pace, the three-kilometre-long beach at Bečići is just a few minutes away.

Kotor

Set within the impressive, fjord-like Bay of Kotor, the UNESCO-protected Old Town of Kotor is a must-see. You can spend hours exploring its cobblestone streets, discovering old churches and lively squares. For a rewarding challenge, you can climb the 1,350 steps up the ancient city walls for panoramic views across the bay. The town is also known for its large cat population, celebrated in local souvenir shops and even its own small museum.

Herceg Novi

Guarding the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, Herceg Novi is a town built on layers of history. Its 600-year-old centre feels like a living museum, with a 14th-century stronghold and a 19th-century clocktower standing as local landmarks. The town is built on a hillside, meaning you're almost always guaranteed a great view of the sea.

Tivat and Porto Montenegro

For something more glamorous, head to Tivat. The town is home to Porto Montenegro, a sleek marina filled with superyachts and lined with designer boutiques and waterfront restaurants. It's a great place for an evening stroll and a bit of people-watching. You can also relax on nearby urban beaches like Belane Beach.

Perast

Just along the bay from Kotor lies Perast, a quiet and charming town with a distinct Venetian feel. Its waterfront is lined with elegant old mansions and seafood restaurants. From here, you can take a short boat trip out to the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a beautiful 17th-century church.

Petrovac

This family-friendly resort has a relaxed vibe and a colourful, crescent-shaped main beach. The pink-hued pebbles create a unique look next to the clear blue water. A waterfront promenade lined with trees makes it a pleasant place for a walk, with plenty of cafés and restaurants to stop at.

Montenegro's impressive natural landscapes

Beyond the coast, Montenegro's interior offers some of Europe's most wild and beautiful scenery. National parks provide a sanctuary for wildlife and a playground for adventurers.

Durmitor National Park and Tara Canyon

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Durmitor National Park is a world of glacial lakes, dense pine forests, and rugged peaks. It's ideal for hikers and nature lovers. Within the park, you'll find the Tara Canyon – one of the deepest river canyons in the world. Its dramatic scenery is best explored through tours and activities such as guided walks.

Lake Skadar

Straddling the border with Albania, Lake Skadar is the largest lake in Southern Europe and a vital habitat for birdlife. You can explore its tranquil waters and floating lily pads on a gentle boat trip, stopping at small fishing villages and island monasteries along the way.

A taste of Montenegro

Montenegrin food is hearty, fresh, and full of flavour, drawing influences from its landscape. Some local specialities to try are:

• Buzara: shellfish cooked in a wine, garlic, and tomato sauce
• Black risotto: made with cuttlefish ink
• Njegusi prosciutto and cheese: traditionally produced in the mountains
• Priganice: a type of doughnut often served sweet with honey or savoury with cheese

When it comes to popular drinks, a glass of rakija, a strong fruit brandy, is a local tradition.

When to visit Montenegro

The best time for a beach holiday is from May to October, when the weather is warm and the sea is pleasant for swimming. June is a great choice for warm temperatures with slightly fewer crowds, while July and August are the peak summer months, bringing lively events like Kotor's International Summer Carnival. For a quieter trip with warm seas, September is an ideal time to visit. Most coastal resorts tend to quieten down from November to April.

With its blend of coastal beauty, historic towns, and rugged nature, Montenegro offers a truly memorable holiday.