Best of Montenegro: History, Drama, and a Whole Lot of Fun!
TL;DR Ready to explore the best of Montenegro? Let’s start by letting you in on a little secret. Montenegro is very small, and that is its superpower! In a single day, you can swim in the Adriatic, hike alpine peaks, or ski down those peaks, walk through medieval towns, or raft one of Europe’s wildest rivers.
This 360 Monte guide breaks down what actually makes Montenegro worth visiting – and how to experience it without rushing and missing the point.
Table of Contents
- Why Montenegro feels different
- Biogradska Gora National Park: A Prehistoric Rainforest
- Durmitor National Park: mountains that stay with you
- The coastline, Bay of Kotor, and Blue Cave
- History you can walk through
- Day trips from Kotor that just make sense
- Tips from experience
- What most people get wrong
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Why Visit Montenegro? Why Montenegro Feels Different
Montenegro still feels personal. Locals talk. Distances are manageable. Landscapes are not curated for tourists. They’re lived in. So, even though you can visit many countries today, it is hard to experience one.
I had a guest on our Kotor to Perast tour say, ”I expected the nice views. I didn’t expect silence.” That’s Montenegro. And the more outside coast you go, the quieter it feels.
Montenegro just works. Especially for travelers who are into day trips. Those who want variety without constant packing and moving.
Biogradska Gora National Park: A Prehistoric Rainforest
Biogradska Gora is one of Europe’s last primeval forests. The calm from the moment you step in.
What Makes Biogradska Gora Special
- Ancient trees that have stood for centuries
- Biogradsko lake, perfectly reflecting the surrounding mountains
- Hiking trails for all ages and fitness levels
Things to Do at Biogradska Gora National Park
- Picnic by Biogradsko Lake
- Rent a boat and explore the lake
- Spot deer, birds, and other native wildlife
- Longer hikes that reward you with quiet viewpoints
- Sign up for a vertical mile or Bjelasica trail run
In my experience, even the casual visitors leave feeling recharged. The scenery does half the work.
Durmitor National Park: Mountains That Stay With You
Durmitor National Park doesn’t shout. It doesn’t need to.
Things to Do in Durmitor National Park
Glacial lakes. Sharp peaks. Open plateaus. Trails that feel honest. Visit Black Lake, zipline accross and explore Tara River Bridge, and go for whitewater rafting on Tara River as a quick intro to Durmitor.
If you plan on spending more than 2-3 days in Durmitor National Park, make sure to gear up and go for a hike. Bobotov Kuk, Prutaš Peak, Crvena Greda, are all excellent choices. Oh, and make sure to visit Devil’s Lake and drive the scenic Durmitor ring road.
The Coastline, Bay of Kotor, and Blue Cave
Montenegro’s coast changes quickly. And that’s the point. Here are a few stop to make when visiting:
The Bay of Kotor
Expect Calm water, steep mountains, and tone towns pressed between sea and rock.
Kotor Bay feels more like a fjord than the Adriatic and it is often called Europe’s most southern fjord, even though it’s a submerged river canyon. If on a boat, from the water, you’ll understand the scale. Churches on tiny islands. Palaces built right at sea level. No wasted space.
Blue Cave
Blue cave is a perfect swim stop, not a landmark. Sunlight hits the water at the right angle. The cave glows. That’s it. No tricks.
A guest once asked if it was “worth the boat ride.” They didn’t ask again after jumping in.
Budva Riviera
This is the energetic coast. Long beaches. Beach bars. Old Town walls above the water.
Budva mixes history with movement. You can swim all day, walk medieval streets in the evening, and still find food at midnight. It’s busy in summer. That’s not a flaw. That’s the deal.
Bar
Bar is where modern Montenegro meets everyday life. You’ll find long, open beaches, olive groves, and fewer tour buses. Old Bar sits inland, partly in ruins, quiet and honest. It’s a good stop if you want space and fewer crowds.
Ulcinj
Different rhythm. Different look. Ulcinj feels almost Mediterranean-African in tone. Velika Plaža stretches for 13 kilometers (8 miles). Sand, wind, kitesurfers, room to breathe. This is the coast for slow days, long walks, and sunsets that last longer than planned.
Each coastal town feels separate. Together, they explain Montenegro.
History You Can Walk Through
From UNESCO listed Kotor with its narrow streets, to Lovcen Mausoleum and even further inland, in Montenegro you’ll discover something fascinating behind every corner. Whether on a walking tour in Kotor, hiking 461 step to reach the worlds highest Mausoleum, or simply want the peace and quite of Ostrog Monastery, Montenegro will not dissapoint.
Here, each stone step and rock is steeped in history, culture, and herritage. Come thirsty. There’s a lot to learn!
Best of Montenegro: Day Trips From Kotor That Just Make Sense
Kotor’s location saves time. Base here and enjoy the rest of Montenegro withouth a suitcase or a backpack. Here are the top day trips you can do:
- Great Montenegro Tour
- North Montenegro Tour
- Lake Skadar Tour and Biogradska Gora
- Durmitor Hiking Tour
- Kotor to Perast Tour
These are, to name a few, top choices for day trips and excursions in Montenegro. Feeling lucky?
Use promo code MNE2026 and get 10% off on your booking.
Not staying in Kotor? We offer pick-up and drop-off services from Budva, Tivat, and Herceg Novi.
Tips From Experience
- Don’t underestimate driving times in the mountains.
- Start early. Heat builds fast in summer.
- Bring layers – even on the coast.
- Eat local food when you can. It’s filling and simple.
- Use guided day trips for longer distances.
What Most People Get Wrong
- ”Montenegro is just beaches.”
It’s mostly mountains. - ”Small country = fast travel”
Roads are scenic, not fast. - ”I’ll see everything”
You won’t. And that’s fine. - ”I don’t need planning.”
You don’t need much – but you need some.
FAQs
Is Montenegro good for first-time visitors?
Yes. Montenegro is excellent for first time visitors. It’s compact and easy to combine experiences. Top suggestion: A guided Great Montenegro Tour by 360 Monte is one of the best ways to explore and experience Montenegro in a single day.
How many days do you need?
7-10 days works well. You can manage to spend time on the coast (preferably Kotor Bay), and go more inland – exploring the likes of Durmitor National Park or Biogradska Gora.
Is Montenegro expensive?
Montenegro has somewhat of seasonal prices yet it is more affordable than Western Europe, especially inland. Even though you can pay with card, still bring some cash with you. Just in case.
Is Montenegro safe?
Yes, Montenegro is one of the safest countries in Europe. Standard travel awareness applies though.
When is the best time to visit Montenegro?
May-June and September-October. Less crowds and the weather is good so you can still manage to do some swimming, skiing even, and other outdoor activities.
Can I base myself in Kotor?
Yes. Kotor is highly recommended place as a base to explore Montenegro from. From there it is easy to explore the rest of the country.
Conclusion
Montenegro doesn’t overwhelm. It rewards attention. If you like variety, nature, and places that still feel real, this country delivers more than its size suggests. So there you have it. Best of Montenegro to help you out in planing your 2026 visit!
