One Day in Montenegro: How to Spend It and What to Do
So, How to Spend One Day in Montenegro?
Montenegro’s coastline, historic towns, and mountain views make it perfect for a short visit. This guide covers what to see in Montenegro in one day. Whether arriving by cruise ship, taking a day trip from Dubrovnik, or exploring for a single day, here are some of the best scenarios to help you plan your Montenegro 1-day itinerary.
One Day in Montenegro – Scenario Number One
Morning: Exploring Kotor’s Old Town & City Walls
Start your day in Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This medieval town sits in the Bay of Kotor, often called ‘Europe’s most southern fjord.’ Stroll through Old Town’s cobblestone streets, filled with historic sites, small cafés, and local shops.
- Visit the Main Square, Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and the Maritime Museum.
- Hike the San Giovanni Fortress for stunning views. It takes 1,350 steps and about 30-40 minutes.
Tip: The higher you climb, the better the view.
Mid-Morning: Boat Trip to Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks
Take a short boat ride to Perast, a baroque town along the bay. Walk along the waterfront, admire Venetian-style buildings, and enjoy the peaceful setting.
From Perast, visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a historic church and museum. According to legend, sailors placed stones here as a vow of gratitude. Inside, see seafaring artifacts and beautiful frescoes. Nearby, Saint George Island features an ancient monastery and cypress trees, adding to the scenery.
Book a Kotor private tour to explore Kotor, Perast, and Our Lady of the Rocks with a guide.
Tip: Ask the guide to show you the rock the icon was suposedly found on.
Afternoon: Exploring Budva’s Old Town & Beaches
Drive down to Budva, a lively coastal town.
- Walk through Budva’s Old Town, a walled city with medieval streets and ancient churches.
- Climb the Citadel for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Visit Mogren Beach, a perfect spot for swimming and relaxation.
Tip: Make sure to visit the museum of Budva. A small place but an underated experience.
Evening: Sunset at Kotor Cable Car
Return to Kotor and end your day with a sunset ride on the Kotor Cable Car. As you ascend Mount Lovćen, watch the Bay of Kotor glow in golden hues.
Exploring Montenegro’s Heartland – Scenario Number Two
Morning: Scenic Crnojević River & Pavlova Strana Viewpoint
Drive to the Crnojević River, known for its horseshoe bend. Stop at Pavlova Strana, one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Montenegro for stunning photos. Walk along the riverbank, cross old stone bridges, and admire historic mills. Rent a kayak if you want a closer look at the river.
Mid-Morning: Boat Ride on Lake Skadar
Visit Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, and a birdwatcher’s paradise. Take a boat ride, spot Dalmatian pelicans, and visit monastery-covered islands. If time allows, explore Grmožur Island, known as “Montenegro’s Alcatraz.”
Safety Tip: Try not to go to the island as it is also called ‘the Snake Island’.
Lunch in Virpazar
Stop for lunch in Virpazar, a lakeside town. Try freshly caught fish with local wine.
Day Trip Suggestion: Book a Lake Skadar Tour and spend an incredible day exploring Montenegro’s stunning nature.
Afternoon: Ostrog Monastery
Visit Ostrog Monastery, a 17th-century pilgrimage site built into a sheer cliff. Explore the upper and lower monasteries and experience its peaceful atmosphere.
Tip: Spend some time just breating in the air and try to sense the positive vibration this places carries.
Evening: A Relaxing End in Nikšić
End the day in Nikšić, Montenegro’s second-largest city. Walk through Trebjesa Park and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Tip: Try Nikšićko beer, Montenegro’s most famous brew.
Adventure in the North – Scenario Number Three
Morning: Whitewater Rafting on the Tara River
Start your day with Tara River rafting, an exciting way to see one of Europe’s deepest canyons. The river’s clear waters cut through towering cliffs and lush forests.
Mid-Morning: Đurđevića Tara Bridge & Zipline
Visit the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, a famous engineering marvel. Try the zipline for a thrilling ride over the canyon.
Lunch in Žabljak
Drive to Žabljak, the gateway to Durmitor National Park. Have lunch and try local dishes like kačamak (cheesy polenta) and roasted lamb.
Afternoon: Black Lake Hike
Visit Black Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by pine forests. Walk the 3.5-km (2.17 miles) trail around the lake, rent a kayak, or relax by the water.
Evening: Sunset in Durmitor
Find a scenic spot in Durmitor National Park and watch the sunset over the mountains.
Tip: Sunset at Vražje Jezero (Devil’s Lake) is an excelent option
One Day in Kotor from a Cruise Ship: Top Things to Do
If you have one day in Kotor from a cruise ship, explore the town and its surroundings.
Kotor Walking Tour
Take a guided tour and visit:
- The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon – A Romanesque cathedral from the 12th century.
- The Maritime Museum – Showcasing Kotor’s naval history.
- Clock Tower & Arms Square – The heart of Old Town, and much more.
Hiking the City Walls
For breathtaking views, hike Kotor’s city walls. You can do this on your own or book a private tour for a guided experience.
Kotor Private Tour (Kotor, Perast & Budva)
Book a private shore excursion to see more of Montenegro in one day:
- Kotor & Perast – A great choice for short visits. Explore both towns and visit Our Lady of the Rocks.
- Kotor, Perast & Budva – Extend the trip to Budva and explore 2,500 years of history.
Conclusion
One day in Montenegro offers a mix of history, nature, and adventure. Whether exploring Kotor, Durmitor, Budva, or Lake Skadar, you’ll discover incredible sights.
Which one-day itinerary will you choose?
