Montenegro, a small country in the Balkans, gained independence as a republic in 2006 and quickly emerged as a sought-after tourist spot. Every year, more and more tourists visit the region to enjoy its picturesque medieval villages, stunning mountains, and awe-inspiring beaches.
Montenegro’s moderate and Mediterranean temperature and opportunities for athletic hobbies such as mountain biking and whitewater rafting have made tourism the main driver of the country’s growing economy.
Having a holiday in Montenegro is even more enticing because it offers the opportunity to experience all that Montenegro has to offer despite being a smaller nation than Wales. Prioritizing the greatest places to visit in Montenegro is a must for savvy visitors before the rest of the world discovers its numerous charms. Let us dive into one of the most beautiful small nations you have ever heard of.
1. Ulcinj
The southernmost point of Montenegro, Ulcinj, is a historic seaport near the border with Albania. It held the title of the capital of the Adriatic Sea pirate guild in its early days. Long Beach, also known as Plazhe e Mahed, attracts many visitors due to its sandy beach and popularity within the city. Today, the city’s numerous stunning beaches are what it is most well-known for.
The outlying island of Ad Bojana boasts a collection of stunningly beautiful beaches. Walking down the coastal promenade in Ulcinj and indulging in a delicious kebab or a rich cup of coffee adds to the memorable experiences of the trip. The rising minarets that grace its mosques enhance the city’s distinctive attractiveness.
2. Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan, located along the Budva Riviera, is an exceptionally picturesque destination that stands out. Buildings with terracotta roofs fill the rocky island where the structure is located. A tiny isthmus connects it with the mainland. Sveti Stefan became home to a society focused solely on fishing starting in the 15th century. In the 1950s, someone decided to nationalize the small community.
People living there were evicted, and the settlement of Sveti Stefan became a luxurious hotel. Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren, and Kirk Douglas attended the event. Its reputation decreased during the dissolution of the old Yugoslav federation.
The Sveti Stefan Hotel, a member of the Aman Resorts, opened its doors to the public in 2010. Although Stevi Stefan is a stunning and one-of-a-kind location, there is a significant drawback: only hotel guests can enter the hamlet. Guests and tourists can enjoy the two pebble beaches on each side of the isthmus.
3. Perast
Perast boasts stone-crafted mansions and medieval churches, giving it a unique charm. The northwest of Kotor shares the stunning sea resembling a fjord. Two of the city’s most attractive chapels, Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George, are on separate little islands.
Upon returning to the beach, visit the Church of St. Nikola. The bell tower offers a stunning view of the bay and the town below. This city, situated on the bay, lacks a beach. However, the stone jetties along the waterfront are highly sought-after locations for sunbathing and relaxation.
4. Durmitor National Park
Surrounded by the mountain settlement of Žabljak, Durmitor National Park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Dinaric Alps house the park, boasting the Durmitor Massif’s high-altitude peaks, 18 glacial lakes, and the second-deepest canyon in the world, carved by the Tara River.
During the warm weather season, people are drawn to activities such as whitewater rafting, camping, and hiking. During the winter season, skiing and snowboarding attract the most attention. The park is home to various animals, including wild boars, brown bears, and the greatest number of butterfly species in Europe. Additionally, there are 163 different kinds of birds in the park.
5. Budva
Budva boasts several significant cultural institutions, including the boyhood house of Serbian writer and politician Stefan Mitrov Ljubiša. Situated at the center point of Montenegro’s coastline, Budva boasts a scenic Old Town, numerous beaches, and renowned cultural institutions.
Budva attracts the most tourists in Montenegro because of its vibrant nightlife. Revelers gather in the city’s numerous pubs, clubs, and restaurants throughout the evening. During the day, they unwind at one of the thirty-five beaches in the area. Consider visiting the adjacent Bečići on the Budva Riviera for a more laid-back spot. It boasts a wonderful sandy beach and a relaxed atmosphere.
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