What to See in Montenegro

Montenegro is a true gem of the Balkan Peninsula, attracting tourists with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and the warmth of its locals. Despite its small size, this country offers a wide range of experiences for any traveler. Here are five must-visit places in Montenegro.

1. The Old Town of Budva (Stari Grad Budva)

Budva — is one of the main cultural and historical landmarks of Montenegro and one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. Famous for its rich history, medieval architecture, and narrow streets, it attracts thousands of tourists every year.

With over 2,500 years of history, the Old Town of Budva is believed to have been founded by the Greeks or Illyrians. Over the centuries, it has been ruled by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Ottomans, and Austrians, all of whom left their mark on the city’s architecture and culture.

Аlso interesting: 5 best hotels with a pool in Budva

Though much of the town was destroyed during the 1979 earthquake, it has been meticulously restored, retaining its authentic charm. Today, Budva’s Old Town stands as a prime example of Mediterranean architecture in the Balkans. Enclosed by well-preserved stone walls, it exudes the atmosphere of a medieval fortress. Its narrow, winding streets, lined with cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops, add a special allure.

Climbing to the top of the Citadel—the fortress located at the highest point of the Old Town—offers a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

2. Lipa Cave

Lipa Cave is one of the largest and most fascinating caves in Montenegro, located near the town of Cetinje. This natural attraction draws tourists with its impressive underground landscapes, captivating stalactites, stalagmites, and other karst formations.

Lipa Cave consists of several large chambers and numerous underground corridors. Its unique beauty lies in the diverse karst formations that have been forming for millions of years. Stalactites, stalagmites, underground lakes, and limestone formations create an unforgettable spectacle. The temperature inside the cave remains constant at around 10-14°C, so visitors are advised to dress warmly, even in summer.

Lipa Cave is situated 5 km from Cetinje and about 35 km from Budva, in the southwest of the country. It is one of the largest caves in the Balkan Peninsula, with over 2.5 km of explored underground corridors.

How to get to Lipa Cave:

• Organized tour: Many tourist agencies in Budva and Kotor offer organized trips to the cave, including transportation.
• By bus: You can take an intercity bus to Cetinje and from there, take a taxi or arrange a transfer to Lipa Cave.
• By car: The easiest way is to rent a car. The drive from Budva takes about 40 minutes, and from Cetinje about 10 minutes. There is convenient parking available near the cave entrance.

3. Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska)

The Bay of Kotor is one of the most beautiful natural bays in the world, often compared to the fjords of Norway. Start your journey by visiting the Old Town of Kotor.

Kotor’s Old Town (Stari Grad Kotor) is one of Montenegro’s most popular tourist attractions and a true architectural treasure, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Located in the picturesque Bay of Kotor, this town has a history that spans over two thousand years. Its narrow streets, ancient buildings, fortifications, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-see.

Kotor was founded during the Roman Empire and has been known since the 3rd century BC. Over the centuries, it has experienced the influence of various cultures, including the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Austrians. Thanks to this, Kotor has preserved its unique architecture, featuring narrow streets, ancient buildings, fortifications, and a rich cultural heritage.

The Old Town of Kotor is surrounded by the mighty stone walls of St. John’s Fortress, which began construction in the 9th century and were completed between the 14th and 17th centuries. These walls rise more than 260 meters up Mount St. John, creating the city’s distinctive silhouette.

The streets of Kotor resemble a labyrinth, where you can get lost among ancient stone buildings, cathedrals, palaces, and cozy squares. It’s a place where history is felt at every step. The cobblestone streets, small cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops create a unique atmosphere of a Mediterranean city with centuries of history. A walk here is a true immersion into the past.

Cruises along the bay are also very popular, offering a fantastic way to explore the picturesque coastline, historic towns, and unique islands. Most cruises around the Bay of Kotor last between 2 to 4 hours and include stops in Perast, on the island of Our Lady of the Rocks, and other scenic locations.

The small but very picturesque town of Perast, located on the shores of the Bay of Kotor, is one of the gems of the region. Its architecture reflects the influence of the Venetians, who once ruled the area. Despite its compact size, Perast is renowned for its palaces and churches:

• St. Nicholas Church — the main church of the town, notable for its tall bell tower.
• Bujović Palace — one of the most famous Venetian palaces in Perast.

Perast impresses with its tranquil atmosphere, ancient buildings, and stunning views of the bay and islands.

One of the most famous landmarks of the Bay of Kotor is the island of Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela). This artificial island was created in the 15th century, and it is home to the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks. According to legend, sailors found an icon of the Virgin Mary there and decided to create the island by throwing rocks into the sea and sinking old ships. Every year, on July 22, a local celebration called “Fašinada” takes place, during which locals throw stones into the water to maintain the island.

The island and the church are must-see stops during a cruise. Inside the church, you can see unique icons and exhibits related to the history of seafaring.

The second island near Perast is the Island of Saint George. Unlike the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, this one is natural and less visited by tourists. It is home to a Benedictine monastery, founded in the 12th century, and an old cemetery for the noble families of Perast. Visiting this island is usually restricted, but it is well visible from the cruise ship.

4. Kotor Cable Car

The Kotor cable car is one of the newest and most popular tourist attractions, offering a ride to the top of Mount Lovćen, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains. Opened in July 2023, the cable car has quickly become a favorite among visitors.

Key features of the cable car:

• Starting point: Near Kotor’s Old Town.
• Ending point: On the Lovćen mountain plateau, within the national park.
• Length of the route: Approximately 3.9 km.
• Ride time: Around 11 minutes.
• Maximum altitude: About 1,350 meters.

The cable car cabins feature large panoramic windows, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning views during the ascent. As you ride up, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of the Bay of Kotor, one of the most beautiful bays in the world, as well as the surrounding mountains.

Mount Lovćen is a fantastic natural viewpoint. However, what truly makes this place special are the incredible sunsets that can be witnessed from the summit.

Why sunsets from Mount Lovćen are so special:

• Panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor: From the summit, you have a spectacular view of the entire bay with its charming towns, Mediterranean coves, and anchored yachts. In the evening, the sun’s rays reflect off the water’s surface, creating golden highlights.
• Mountains bathed in sunlight: Lovćen National Park is surrounded by majestic mountains, which take on magical shades of pink and purple during sunset. This creates a stunning scene, especially as the sky gradually changes colors.
• The city of Kotor in the evening glow: The old town of Kotor, with its red rooftops and ancient walls, looks enchanting during sunset. The light creates a cozy and romantic atmosphere, and from this viewpoint, you can watch the city prepare for its evening life.
• The sea and sky merging into one: As the sun sets behind the horizon, the line between the sea and sky becomes almost indistinguishable, giving a sense of infinity. It’s the perfect place for peaceful, meditative moments while enjoying nature.

Tips for visiting:

• Timing: It’s best to arrive at the cable car closer to the evening, aiming to reach the top about 30-40 minutes before sunset. This will give you enough time to secure the best spots for viewing.
• Clothing: Since it can be chilly at the top, especially during sunset, bring a light jacket or scarf.
• Camera: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone, as the sunsets here provide fantastic photo opportunities.
• Restaurant at the summit: Near the top station of the cable car, there is a restaurant where you can enjoy dinner with a stunning view of the bay and mountains.

The cable car ride is an unforgettable experience, offering incredible emotions. The combination of the breathtaking natural beauty, the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains, and the mesmerizing views makes this trip truly special. Watching the sunset from the top of Lovćen is a moment when time seems to stand still, leaving you alone with the grandeur of nature.

5. St. Nicholas Island and “Hawaii” Beach

St. Nicholas Island is a picturesque island located just off the coast of Budva and is one of the region’s most popular summer attractions. Locals often call the island “Hawaii” due to its enchanting beaches and crystal-clear waters, reminiscent of exotic islands. The island lies just 1 km from Budva’s coast.

The beach on St. Nicholas Island, known as “Hawaii” Beach, is a favorite spot for tourists and locals alike. It’s the perfect place for nature lovers, those seeking relaxation, and anyone wanting to swim in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Features of “Hawaii” Beach:

• Natural beaches: The island has several pebble beaches and small rocky coves. The water here is incredibly clean and clear, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
• Pristine sea: Thanks to its remote location, the sea around the island remains clean and calm, even during the peak tourist season. The water has a rich turquoise hue, and the depth increases gradually, making the beach suitable for families with children. However, it’s advisable to wear special shoes due to the pebbly shore.
• Infrastructure: While the island retains its natural beauty, “Hawaii” Beach offers a few bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine and refreshing drinks. Sun loungers and umbrellas are also available for rent, with a set of two loungers and an umbrella costing 20 euros.
• Peace and privacy: St. Nicholas Island is a great alternative to the busier beaches of Budva. While it can also get crowded, the island’s spacious beaches and remote coves provide plenty of room for a peaceful retreat.

How to get to St. Nicholas Island:

The island is easily accessible by water taxi, which runs between the Budva coast and “Hawaii” Beach every half hour. The boat ride takes just 5-10 minutes and costs around 6-7 euros. You can also rent a private boat or use the services of local boat operators.

St. Nicholas Island, or “Hawaii” Beach, is a true paradise for those who want to enjoy the beauty of nature, clean beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere. Just a few minutes by boat from the bustling Budva, and you’ll find yourself on an island where you can fully relax, soaking in the sea, sun, and serenity.