If you’re wondering what to do in Herceg Novi, here are the best day trips from Herceg Novi, including top attractions in Montenegro, the Bay of Kotor, and even Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Herceg Novi, located at the entrance of the stunning Bay of Kotor, is an ideal base for exploring Montenegro’s most breathtaking destinations. Whether you’re looking for historical sites, boat trips to hidden gems, or thrilling outdoor adventures, there are plenty of incredible day trips from Herceg Novi to choose from.
Perast, Budva and Kotor Day Trip – A UNESCO Heritage Journey
Highlights: Kotor Old Town, Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast, Budva Old Town
One of the most popular day trips from Herceg Novi, Kotor, Perast, and Budva are must-visit destinations filled with history, culture, and stunning coastal scenery. This tour offers a perfect blend of medieval charm, Venetian heritage, and breathtaking Adriatic views.
What to See and Things to do in Perast
Our Lady of the Rocks – Picturesque artificial island, home to a historic church and museum with more than 500 years of tradition.
Baroque Architecture – Stroll along Perast’s waterfront, lined with elegant palaces and stone houses. Visit the Museum of Perast, located in gorgeous Bujović Palace. Visit St. Nicholas’ Church, the bell tower, and hike up the Velja Street to see Perast and the islands from a different perspective.
What to See and Things to do in Kotor
Kotor Old Town – Explore the maze of medieval streets, Venetian squares, and centuries-old churches. Main Attractions of Kotor’s Old Town include St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, Clock Tower, St. Luka’s and St. Nichola’s Churches, and Maritime Museum.
San Giovanni Fortress – Climb 1,350 steps for panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor.
Walk the Promenade or Hike Vrmac Peninsula – If you fancy a day at the beach, visit Dobrota where you can jump in for a swim, walk along the promenade or have a quick drink at one of the bars. Nature’s paradise – Vrmac, offers incredible opportunity for leasurley hikes, spending time in nature and spectacular 360 views of the bay.
Where to Eat in Kotor
With plenty of restaurants in Kotor to choose from, there is one that stands out among the crowds – Resto Bar Taraca, specializing in vegan and vegetarian food.
What to See in Budva
Budva Old Town – Discover one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic, filled with narrow stone alleys, charming squares, and ancient churches.
Citadel Fortress – Enjoy panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea and Budva’s red-roofed old town from this historic fortress.
Mogren Beach – Just a short walk from Old Town, this scenic beach is perfect for relaxing by the crystal-clear sea.
Where to Eat in Budva
Look no further than Astoria. This incredible hotel and restaurant offers some of the best menus on Budva’s Riviera.
Shore Excursion Option: If you’re arriving in Montenegro via cruise ship, fancy a private tour and still want flexibility, a private shore excursion covering Kotor, Perast, and Budva is an excellent way to explore. These tours offer comfortable transportation, pick-up and drop-off services, guided visits, and flexible itineraries to ensure you make the most of your time.
Boat Tour Option: Book a full-day boat tour from Herceg Novi that includes a scenic boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, Blue Cave Tour, Submarine Tunnels, and more!
Lovćen National Park and Cetinje – A Scenic Mountain Adventure
Highlights: Lovćen National Park, Njegoš Mausoleum, Old Royal Capital Cetinje
If you love spectacular mountain landscapes and cultural heritage, this day trip from Herceg Novi is perfect.
Mini Montenegro Tour
Start your day ascending the old Austro-Hungarian road or a Cable Car to reach Lovcen National Park.
Lovćen National Park – Enjoy spending time at the highest Mausoleum in the world and visit the most famous viewpoint in Montenegro. Pay a visit to the tomb of Petar Petrović Njegoš II.
Njeguši Village – Famous for Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and cheese, it’s the perfect spot for an authentic Montenegrin meal.
Cetinje – Visit the Old Royal Capital and wander around its historic streets. Make sure to visit the museums and the Monastery of Cetinje.
Tour Option: Book a day trip from Herceg Novi that includes a guided visit and traditional lunch.
Top Recommendation for a private tour to Lovcen National Park and Cetinje – Mini Montenegro Tour
Full Day Trip – Great Montenegro Tour
Blue Cave Tour From Herceg Novi
Highlights: Blue Cave. Depending on the boat tour, they might stop along the way to explore the Bay of Kotor.
A Blue Cave tour from Herceg Novi is one of the most exciting excursions, taking you to experience the treasure of Lustica Peninsula.
Things to do at the Blue Cave
You can only access the Blue Cave from the sea, so the best solution is to go on an organized tour to the Blue Cave. While there, make sure to check off a few boxes:
- Bring snorkeling gear
- Make sure you get the tour that will get there around noon-ish for the best display of the light
- Enjoy the light spectacle as the light reflects off the sandy sea bed, making colors truly incredible
- Splash around with your hands and create turquoise bubbles.
- BE CAUTIOUS! Some smaller boats enter the cave, so keep an open eye.
Tour Option: Book a Kotor Bay Cruise to experience the Blue Cave and other attractions of the Bay of Kotor in a day!
Tara River Canyon & Durmitor National Park
Highlights: Tara River Rafting, Black Lake, Durmitor Mountains and Outdoor Activities
For those seeking adventure, a day trip from Herceg Novi to Durmitor National Park and the Tara River Canyon offers an unforgettable experience.
What to See and Things to do at Durmitor National Park
White-Water Rafting – Navigate through the emerald-green waters of Europe’s deepest canyon.
Đurđevića Tara Bridge – Walk across this spectacular bridge and try the thrilling zip-line.
Sightseeing and Exploring – Visit Black Lake, surrounded by towering mountains and lush pine forests. Take a drive around the scenic Durmitor Ring Road, and visit Devil’s Lake!
Hiking in Durmitor – With 40 peaks over 2000 meters (cca 6562 feet), Durmitor is hikers’ paradise! Try conquering Bobotov Kuk (the highest peak of Durmitor) or its royal highness, Prutas Peak – the King of South Durmitor
Tour Option: Join a Tara rafting, North Montenegro tour, or Durmitor hiking tour and experience the wild beauty of Montenegro.
Lake Skadar Tour – Experience the Biggest Lake in the Balkans
Highlights: Boat Tour, Birdwatching, Wine Tasting
Skadar Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts.
What to See & Things to do at Skadar Lake
Boat Tour on Skadar Lake – Cruise through lily-covered waters and junp in for a swim. Make sure to have a spin around Montenegro’s ‘Alcatraz’ – the famous Grmožur Island, and visit Godinje village.
Birdwatching – Spot rare species like Dalmatian pelicans and herons.
Wine Tasting – Visit local wineries in Virpazar to sample Montenegro’s famous Vranac wine.
Tour Option: Book a Skadar Lake tour from Herceg Novi.
Biogradska Gora – A Pristine Rainforest Escape
Highlights: Biogradsko Lake, Ancient Forest, Scenic Hiking Trails
One of Europe’s last remaining primeval forests, Biogradska Gora is a hidden gem for nature lovers and a continuation to our Lake Skadar Tour!
What to See and Things to do at Biogradska Gora National Park
Biogradsko Lake – A stunning glacial lake surrounded by dense forest, perfect for a relaxing walk or boat ride.
Ancient Forest – Explore lush forests with centuries-old trees and diverse wildlife.
Hiking Trails – Discover scenic trails through untouched nature, offering spectacular views.
Tour Option: Book a Lake Skadar and Biogradska Gora day trip from Herceg Novi, including transport and a guided nature walk.
Dubrovnik Day Trip – Visit The Pearl of the Adriatic
Highlights: UNESCO Old Town, City Walls, Game of Thrones filming locations
Just an hour’s drive from Herceg Novi, Dubrovnik is one of the most stunning cities on the Adriatic coast.
What to See and the Things to do in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik Old Town – Walk through the cobblestone streets and explore historic palaces.
City Walls – Enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and Dubrovnik’s iconic red rooftops.
Fort Lovrijenac – Known as the Red Keep in Game of Thrones, this fortress offers fantastic views.
Travel Tip: Since Dubrovnik is in Croatia, bring your passport for the border crossing and be aware that during the peak season the border might be busier than usual.
From historical towns and breathtaking boat tours from Herceg Novi to mountain adventures and cross-border trips, Herceg Novi is an incredible base for exploring Montenegro and beyond. Whether you’re looking for history, nature, or adventure, these Herceg Novi day trips offer something for every traveler.
Final Thoughts
Even though it is a small country, Montenegro surely packs a punch. Want a hassle-free experience? Book your next Montenegro day trip with us and explore the best destinations with expert guides and comfortable transport.
