Here, you’ll find a list of TOP-25 must-see attractions in Montenegro, along with a map, prices, and travel tips. Discover the best places to visit and craft your perfect travel itinerary. The list comes with a personal—though subjective—rating from the author to help you decide whether a particular spot is worth your time. After all, vacations aren’t endless, but Montenegro’s beauty certainly is.
Table of Contents
- Montenegro’s Must-See Attractions: Map & Key Points
- Montenegro’s Top 25 Landmarks
- 1. Prokletije Mountains & Grebaje Valley
- 2. Ostrog Monastery
- 3. Sveti Stefan Island
- 4. Grlo Sokolovo Viewpoint
- 5. Biogradska Gora National Park
- 6. Durmitor National Park & Black Lake
- 7. The Engineering Marvel: Đurđevića Tara Bridge
- 8. Sedlo Mountain Pass
- 9. Piva Lake
- 10. Skadar Lake
- 11. Tara River Zipline
- 12. Tara River Rafting
- 13. Montenegro’s Highest Peak: Bobotov Kuk
- 14. Bay of Kotor
- 15. Kotor’s Old Town
- 16. The Romantic Town of Perast
- 17. Herceg-Novi
- 18. Podgorica: The Capital for Tourists
- 19. The Blue Cave
- 20. Budva & Its Old Town
- 21. The Mediterranean Charm of Petrovac
- 22. Ulcinj & Montenegro’s Longest Beach
- 23. Lovćen National Park
- 24. Lipa Cave
- Travel Tips for Visitors
It will be difficult for you to plan your dream trip to Montenegro without these websites
Montenegro’s Must-See Attractions: Map & Key Points
Montenegro has far more attractions than just 25. In fact, this list could easily expand to 50-70 locations. For example, Kotor alone boasts over a dozen historic churches, fortresses, chapels, and other architectural landmarks. That’s why, in this ranking, each entry represents an entire location (e.g., a town or a national park) rather than individual sites. You’ll find detailed city guides linked within the descriptions.
If a particular place is missing from this list, it’s likely because it’s not worth visiting. For instance, Bar and Tivat, in my opinion, aren’t worth your precious vacation time. Neither has a proper beach or a medieval old town. While Bar technically does have one, it’s located 5 km from the city center.
Below, you’ll find an interactive map with all the top attractions pinned. You can click and zoom in to plan your route more efficiently.
For those renting a car, I also recommend checking out my article on self-drive itineraries in Montenegro, which includes several ready-made routes with suggested timings.
Must-See Attractions in Montenegro
Now, let’s dive into the most breathtaking places you simply must visit. Grab a cup of tea—this will take about 10-15 minutes to read.
1. Prokletije Mountains & Grebaje Valley
One of Montenegro’s most stunning yet least-known destinations. The reasons for its low tourist numbers are simple: the Prokletije Mountains (also known as the “Accursed Mountains”) are located in the most remote part of the country. No public transport reaches this area, and driving here from the coast takes 4-5 hours. Plus, most visitors come to Montenegro for the beaches, not for the mountains.
Grebaje Valley is a picturesque alpine valley surrounded by towering cliffs. It’s a paradise for hikers, with over 40 marked trails. Visitors usually stay in chalet-style lodges, enjoy hearty meals in rustic taverns, and spend their days exploring the stunning landscapes.
- Coordinates: 42.512957653017054, 19.77995805862953
- Part of Prokletije National Park.
- Entrance Fee: Technically free
- How to Get There: Only by car or taxi from Gusinje
- Recommended Stay: At least 1-2 full days (some visitors stay for a week)
- Winter Note: The valley is inaccessible in winter due to over 2 meters of snow.
📌 For a detailed guide on hiking trails and activities in the Prokletije Mountains, check out the full article.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 10/10
If you love mountains even a little, this place is a must-visit—it won’t disappoint. The ideal itinerary is to spend three days here:
Day 1: Travel from the coast, arriving in the afternoon.
Day 2 & 3: Explore the mountains.
Afterward: Drive along a stunning scenic route to Durmitor National Park and Tara River Canyon (more on that below).
2. Ostrog Monastery
This centuries-old monastery is one of the most sacred sites in the entire Balkan Peninsula. It was built almost a kilometer above sea level, carved into a cliffside, and remains open to visitors today. Besides being a major pilgrimage site, it’s also a top tourist attraction in Montenegro.
- Coordinates: 42.67497249422872, 19.030534970471543
- Official Website: manastirostrog.com
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Recommended Visit Duration: 1.5–2 hours, including the stair climb
- Best Time to Visit: November – March
📌 A detailed overview of the monasteries of Montenegro.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 9/10
A truly powerful and spiritually charged place. However, its biggest drawback is the sheer number of tourists. During peak season, buses line up on the narrow mountain road, the parking lot overflows, and the serpentine roads become jam-packed. Even if you’re not particularly religious, Ostrog Monastery is a must-see. You can skip some of the other religious sites, but this one is essential.
3. Island of Sveti Stefan
Originally a humble fishing village on a small rocky islet, Sveti Stefan has since transformed into a luxury private resort catering to the wealthy and elite. Like Ostrog Monastery, it is frequently referred to as a symbol of Montenegro.
In 2009, the abandoned hotel was leased for 30 years to the Swiss hospitality group Aman Resorts, which renovated the site and reopened it as the five-star Aman Sveti Stefan Island resort.
The island is entirely occupied by the hotel, a church, and a restaurant. Access is strictly limited to hotel guests or those dining at the restaurant. For everyone else, entry is prohibited.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the hotel was shut down, and as of early 2025, it remains closed with an uncertain future.
- Сoordinates: 42.25615178441459, 18.89171253710291
- Room rates (when open): from $700 to $7,000 per night
- Dinner at the restaurant: approx. $300
- Viewing options: Only from the road or the nearby beach
- Time needed: 15 minutes
📌 Complete guide to Sveti Stefan Island, its history, and useful travel tips.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 5/10
An overrated attraction. Yes, it’s beautiful, but Montenegro is full of stunning locations. Visiting it essentially means driving up, taking a look, and leaving. You might as well take a swim while you’re there.
4. Grlo Sokolovo Viewpoint
A hidden gem far from the tourist crowds, Grlo Sokolovo is a spectacular viewpoint right on the border with Albania. Ideal for those wanting to experience the beauty of the Albanian Alps without traveling too far from Podgorica or the coast. Just 25 km from the capital, this spot is perfect for a quick mountain escape.
The hiking route is only 500 meters from the parking area, making it accessible for all fitness levels.
- Location: Above the Cijevna River Canyon
- Coordinates: 42.48482, 19.5439
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: Open 24/7, though there’s no lighting at night
- Time needed:1–1.5 hours (including the walk)
- Public transport: Not available – only accessible by car
⭐ Author’s Rating: 7/10
Highly recommended for those who aren’t planning to visit the northern mountains. If your itinerary already includes Bobotov Kuk, Sedlo Pass, or the Prokletije Mountains, you can probably skip it. Still, the panoramic views of Albania are stunning, though Montenegro is full of breathtaking lookouts.
5. Biogradska Gora National Park
One of Montenegro’s five national parks, Biogradska Gora is a well-known attraction among both tourists and locals, who often visit with their families for weekend getaways.
The park features:
✅ Several marked hiking trails
✅ Biogradsko Lake at its center
✅ A 3.5 km “health trail” around the lake
✅ A restaurant and boat/kayak rentals
✅ Picnic areas, BBQ spots, and fishing (license: €20/day)
- Coordinates: 42.90072146956059, 19.59554533155308
- Opening hours: 24/7
- Entrance fee: €5 per person, €1 for parking
- Accessibility: 1 hour by car from Podgorica via an excellent toll road (no mountain passes)
- Time needed: 2 hours (for the lake trail) or 3+ hours (with boat/kayak rental)
📌 Complete guide to Biogradska Gora National Park
⭐ Author’s Rating: 5/10
Lacks scale and grandeur. Its biggest advantage? Easy access via good roads with no serpentine passes. The trails and scenery are beautiful, but similar lakeside hikes in Durmitor National Park are far more impressive. A good choice for families with young children, but not suitable for strollers due to rocky paths.
6. Durmitor National Park & Black Lake
One of the most breathtaking regions in Montenegro. If you look at the Montenegro attractions map from earlier in this article, you’ll see that this area is packed with must-visit spots. Plan 2–4 days here because one day simply isn’t enough.
At the heart of the region lies Durmitor National Park, home to the glacial Black Lake. The park boasts:
✅ Numerous hiking trails, including a scenic loop around the lake
✅ A ski lift leading to a mountaintop viewpoint
✅ Snake Lake and several other stunning natural sites
Durmitor National Park is also home to Montenegro’s highest peak – Bobotov Kuk, which will be covered later.
- Coordinates: 43.14842758076092, 19.096774233432747
- Opening hours: Daylight hours (usually 8 AM – 7 PM)
- Entrance fee: €5 per person
- How to get there:
- The nearest town is Žabljak, 3 km from the park
- Direct buses from Podgorica make it easy to visit without a car
- Time needed: 1 full day for the lake trail and ski lift, but 2–3 days are recommended for the surrounding highlights
📌 Complete guide to Durmitor National Park, Đurđevića Tara Bridge, Tara River Canyon, Sedlo Pass, and more
⭐ Author’s Rating: 10/10
A top-tier must-see attraction in Montenegro. Do not skip this region – it is breathtaking. Whether you have three days or just a weekend, find time for Durmitor National Park. It is a highlight of any Montenegro trip. Check the full guide linked above for recommended itineraries.
7. Đurđevića Tara Bridge – A Masterpiece of Engineering
Looking for man-made attractions in Montenegro? One of the top places to visit is the Đurđevića Tara Bridge, which spans the Tara River Canyon. This site is a stunning fusion of natural beauty and human engineering.
The Tara River Canyon is one of the deepest in the world, sometimes ranked second globally. The Đurđevića Tara Arch Bridge, built in the 20th century, was constructed to connect remote regions of Montenegro to the coast. It has been destroyed and rebuilt over time, but today, it remains an active bridge, serving as a crucial transport link for thousands of people on both sides of the river.
If you’re visiting Durmitor National Park, the bridge is just 20 km away, making it easy to combine the two visits. However, traveling across the entire country solely to see the bridge isn’t worth it.
- Coordinates: 43.15056817467392, 19.29476150153561
- Opening hours: Open 24/7 year-round
- Entrance fee: Free
- Time needed: 30 minutes (You can grab a coffee or have lunch with a view of the bridge.)
📌 More details: For history, viewpoints, and coordinates of the best photo spots, check the article on Durmitor National Park (see section #6).
⭐ Author’s Rating: 10/10
Another must-see in Montenegro. While not worth a trip on its own, combine it with Sedlo Pass and Durmitor National Park for an unforgettable experience. The scale, beauty, and breathtaking canyon views make this bridge a truly impressive landmark.
8. Sedlo Pass – Montenegro’s Most Breathtaking Mountain Road
Another must-visit destination in the list of Montenegro attractions.
The Sedlo Pass is an incredibly scenic mountain pass near Durmitor National Park. It is also part of Montenegro’s highest-altitude road, with an elevation of just over 2,000 meters.
Expect no guardrails, endless hairpin turns, and sheer drops just half a meter from your car. Throughout the route, you’ll find benches with scenic views, and there’s even a 5m x 3m photo frame at one of the best viewpoints—perfect for epic pictures! (See the photos above.)
The pass is named Sedlo (meaning “saddle”) due to its distinctive shape resembling horse-riding gear.
- Coordinates of the photo frame with the best view: 43.104279467930645, 19.020144541433442
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: Open 24/7, but keep in mind the road often closes in winter due to heavy snowfall. Some years, it was already closed by November 1st.
- Time needed: 15–20 minutes
- Public transport: None. You must drive.
📌 More details: For an in-depth guide, check the Durmitor National Park article (linked in section #6).
⭐ Author’s Rating: 10/10
Both the road and the pass are absolutely stunning. The only downside is that the road runs along steep cliffs with no guardrails—so just don’t look down!
9. Piva Lake – A Disappointing Experience
Piva Lake is a man-made reservoir, originally the Piva River before being dammed 50 years ago. If you’re driving from Durmitor National Park to the coast via Sedlo Pass, you won’t miss it.
The lake stretches 45 km, with a scenic road running alongside it, often providing stunning views and photo stops. The internet is full of rave reviews, claiming this is a Montenegrin gem worth visiting for 1–2 days. Honestly, I don’t know who writes those reviews, but I wouldn’t include Piva Lake on a “best places to visit” list.
🚫 Why?
- No access to the water
- No beaches
- No swimming opportunities
- All you can do is drive along the lake and stop for a few photos.
- Montenegro has hundreds of viewpoints—and most of them are even better.
- Coordinates: 43.166381206297395, 18.86190033477794
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: Open year-round
- Time needed: Around 1 hour, including stops
- Public transport: None – car access only.
📌 More details: For a comparison of Piva and Skadar Lakes, check the detailed guide.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 2/10
One of Montenegro’s biggest disappointments. It’s highly praised in rankings, but in reality, you can’t even get close to the water. If you’re already heading to Durmitor National Park, drive along it. Otherwise, skip it.
10. Skadar Lake – A Better Alternative to Piva
Another lake frequently compared to Piva in online reviews. Unlike Piva Lake, Skadar Lake is a natural lake, straddling Montenegro and Albania. About 40% of its area belongs to Albania, while 60% is in Montenegro.
Skadar Lake is also a national park, home to over 280 species of birds, making it a major stop for migratory birds.
🚫 The downsides:
- Only one proper beach
- 95% of the shoreline is swampy
- Very few accessible viewpoints
The most popular activity? A boat tour on the lake, which starts from the village of Virpazar.
- Coordinates of Virpazar village: 42.24606138330194, 19.091892452035946
- Opening hours: Daylight hours only
- Entrance fee: €5
- Boat tour price: Approx. €30 per boat
- Time needed: 2 hours (with a boat tour). Without a boat, there’s not much to see from the shore.
📌 More details: See section #9 for a detailed comparison with Piva Lake.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 6/10
A beautiful lake, but nothing extraordinary. We took a boat tour, had coffee in Virpazar, and moved on. It feels more like a birdwatching reserve than a tourist destination. By autumn, the lake gets heavily covered in water lilies. If you have extra time, visit and see for yourself. Otherwise, explore other attractions in Montenegro instead.
11. Zipline Over the Tara River Canyon
An incredibly cool, extreme, and breathtaking activity. It is heavily advertised in Montenegro. In reality, there are about twenty ziplines in the country—even near Budva. But the most exciting ones are located near Đurđevića Bridge, in the Tara River Canyon (see point 7 in this ranking).
There are three different ziplines here, all offering stunning views of the bridge and the canyon. This attraction is suitable for both kids and adults. One of the ziplines is over a kilometer long, and the flight speed ranges from 80 to 100 km/h. Highly recommended!
- Coordinates of the most extreme zipline over the Tara River: 43.14778861371496, 19.291442126201417
- Located just 50 meters from the bridge
- Open during daylight hours; closed in winter
- Official website: tarazipline.me
- Price: Around €40
- Time required: There are almost never queues. Preparation takes 5–10 minutes, and the flight itself lasts about 1 minute.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 7/10
Expected more. The main disappointment was that the flight lasted only 30 seconds, yet they charged €40. I was hoping for more speed and adrenaline. But the views are stunning! The flight takes you over a deep gorge. You can come to the bridge, watch others ride, and decide on the spot whether you want to try it.
12. Rafting on the Tara River
Another awesome adventure in the north of the country, in the Tara River Canyon. You’ll see rafting ads all over Montenegro. The main routes are also near Đurđevića Bridge, where you’ll find ticket offices. From there, they’ll take you by jeep to the starting point.
- Same coordinates as in point 11.
- Several rafting trips run daily from June to September.
- You can come without a booking, but you might have to wait 1–2 hours for the next trip.
- Price: Around €50–70 if purchased on-site.
- Time required: About 3 hours from when you board the jeep to the end of the trip.
📌 More cool activities and excursions in Montenegro in the article (link).
⭐ Author’s Rating: 10/10
10/10. If your budget and time allow, this is a must-do. The water color here is insane, and the rapids are amazing! If you’ve tried rafting in Turkey or other countries, this one is at least as good.
13. The Highest Peak in Montenegro: Bobotov Kuk
Bobotov Kuk is located in Durmitor National Park and stands at 2,523 meters above sea level. There is still some debate over Montenegro’s highest peak. Zla Kolata, in the Prokletije Mountains on the Albanian border, is 12 meters higher than Bobotov Kuk. However, most of Zla Kolata is in Montenegro, while the summit is said to be 50 meters into Albania. Because of this, Bobotov Kuk is considered the highest peak in Montenegro.
The mountain is open for hiking, with two marked and safe routes. One is challenging, with an elevation gain of just over 1,000 meters, starting from Black Lake in Durmitor National Park. The other is easier, with a 750-meter elevation gain, starting from Sedlo Pass. Both routes can be completed within daylight hours.
- Peak coordinates: 43.12779, 19.03422
- The hike is free; no guide required.
- From November onward, the mountain is covered in snow, and hiking is only possible from May.
- Time required: The difficult route takes about 8–10 hours, while the easier one takes around 6 hours (for someone with an average fitness level).
📌 Detailed guide and starting point coordinates in point 6.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 10/10
If you love mountains and hiking, then 10 points out of 10.
10/10 if you love mountains and hiking. This is not just about breathtaking views and a scenic route—it’s also about the achievement of conquering Montenegro’s highest peak. Package tourists don’t come here. 😉 In reality, the hike isn’t too difficult, and I recommend it to everyone who enjoys active travel. If you like it, there are similar peaks in Europe that you can climb: Mount Olympus in Greece and Mount Etna in Sicily.
14. Bay of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor, also known as Boka Kotorska, is the symbol of Montenegro and its most famous landmark. It’s a massive area that includes around 40 different sights. The Bay of Kotor is a natural inlet often called the southernmost fjord—yes, like in Norway. It’s surrounded by mountains on all sides.
Since ancient times, the shores of the bay have been inhabited by Romans and Greeks, with some of the first towns appearing here centuries ago.
Today, the entire bay is lined with towns, and every day, 1 to 3 massive cruise ships dock here, bringing in thousands of tourists.
So, what should you see in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor? The towns of Kotor, Perast, and Herceg Novi. Each one has medieval architecture, fortresses, defensive walls, and much more. The area is packed with boat tours, oyster farms, fishing spots, the Blue Grotto, and plenty of other cool attractions.
- Bay of Kotor coordinates: 42.4745, 18.73163
- Open to tourists year-round and free to visit.
- Almost no beaches, but a paradise for history lovers.
- Time required: If you have a car, you can drive around the entire bay in one full day at a good pace. Ideally, plan for 2–3 days.
📌 Detailed guide on the Bay of Kotor, what to see, and what to do.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 8/10
It’s the country’s most famous landmark, visited by most tourists. From Budva, for example, it’s only 20 km to the Bay of Kotor—it would be a shame not to visit. Downsides? No beaches, cold water, and short daylight hours due to the surrounding mountains. Plus, no open sea or sunsets. But if you love old towns, narrow medieval streets, fortresses, churches, and stunning mountain landscapes, you’ll find plenty of that here.
15. The Old Town of Kotor
Although Kotor itself is a major attraction, you could spend an entire day wandering through its medieval streets. This is arguably the largest and most impressive Old Town in Montenegro. Here, you’ll find dozens of amazing sites: from a fortress on the mountain to ancient churches, defensive walls, and 15th-century fountains.
The only downside? The crowds. This is where cruise ships dock every day, unloading thousands of tourists who flood the Old Town for guided tours.
- Coordinates of Kotor’s Old Town: 42.42492596403171, 18.77014453243162
- Open to visitors 24/7, year-round.
- Entry to the Old Town is free, but museums, fortresses, and chapels require a ticket. Prices here are among the highest in Montenegro, likely due to wealthy cruise tourists.
- How much time to plan: Four hours should be enough. If you’re short on time, you can rush through in an hour—though that won’t include the hike up to the fortress. Lovers of medieval architecture often spend the whole day here.
📌 Full guide to Kotor and its attractions.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 9/10
Getting here is easy from Budva and any town in the Bay of Kotor. Even if you’re not staying in Kotor, plan a half-day visit. It’s the best medieval architecture you’ll find in Montenegro. Other towns have a similar charm, but on a much smaller scale. Just keep in mind—there’s no beach here!
16. The Romantic Town of Perast
Perast is a small, peaceful town on the shores of the Bay of Kotor. You could call it a miniature version of Kotor—quieter and more romantic. The entire town can be walked through in just 30 minutes. Its medieval architecture and breathtaking bay views, along with fresh oysters from local farms, make it a must-visit.
Tourists also come here for a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks. The island is just a 5-7 minute boat ride away and features a scenic promenade and a church. The island is only 200 by 100 meters in size. Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed on the neighboring island of St. George.
- Coordinates of Perast: 42.486425649506764, 18.69855657903298
- Open to visitors at all times.
- How much time to plan: While you can explore the town in an hour, plan 3-4 hours to fully enjoy it. Definitely take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks—it’s a fantastic experience. Also, visit an oyster farm and try fresh oysters, mussels, and a glass of wine (if you’re not driving).
📌 Complete guide to Perast and its attractions.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 9/10
Perast may resemble Kotor, but it has a completely different vibe—much quieter and more intimate. The two rocky islands off its coast only add to the town’s romantic atmosphere. If you’re driving around the Bay of Kotor, don’t skip Perast! If you’re not careful, you might pass it in just 40 seconds on the bypass road and not even notice.
17. Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi is the westernmost city in Montenegro, located at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor. Because of its position, it gets more sunlight and has warmer waters than other towns in the bay. In terms of population, it’s similar to Kotor, but the city is stretched along the coastline. Here, you’ll find medieval architecture like in Kotor, but also beaches. Plus, the 8 km seaside promenade running the length of the city makes it even more attractive.
Herceg Novi is just 6 km from the Croatian border and only 45 km from Dubrovnik, one of the most beautiful cities on the Adriatic. If you’re still deciding between Montenegro and Croatia for your vacation, check out this guide comparing the two destinations.
- Coordinates of Herceg Novi: 42.451064845729626, 18.537576250853697
- Open to visitors at all times.
- How much time to plan: You could easily spend several days here—it has both beaches and historical sites. The Old Town is almost as impressive as Kotor’s, and the 8 km promenade is perfect for long seaside walks. However, 3-4 hours is enough to explore the Old Town and hike up to the fortress. You can also take a boat from here to visit the Blue Cave or the abandoned Yugoslav submarine base.
📌 Complete guide to Herceg Novi’s attractions.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 9/10
Kotor, Perast, and Herceg Novi are the gems of the Bay of Kotor—each unique in its own way. I highly recommend visiting all three. If you’re on a tight schedule:
– Go to Kotor for medieval architecture.
– Visit Perast for a boat trip and island excursion.
– Choose Herceg Novi for a relaxed mix of beach and sightseeing over a couple of days.
18. Podgorica: Montenegro’s Capital for Tourists
Podgorica is the economic and political center of Montenegro, home to the country’s main international airport. Usually, when traveling, capital cities are full of exciting landmarks. But in the case of Podgorica… there’s really not much for tourists to see.
The list of attractions in Podgorica is five times smaller than in Kotor. As a result, most tourists skip the city altogether. And honestly? If you don’t visit Podgorica during your trip, you won’t be missing much.
- Coordinates: 42.441230595922534, 19.262852613507953
- How much time to plan: A couple of hours is enough to see the city’s highlights.
📌 Complete guide to Podgorica for those who still want to visit.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 2/10
There’s really not much to do here. Most of the so-called “attractions” feel forced. However, if you’ve already seen everything else in Montenegro, you could visit for half a day—but keep your expectations low.
If you enjoy non-touristy places, Podgorica might be worth a quick stop. Otherwise, you can safely skip it and not feel like you missed anything.
19. The Blue Cave
This is a natural sea cave with stunning blue waters. If you visit at the right time, the colors will be truly mesmerizing. Plus, you can swim inside!
The Blue Cave is only accessible by boat—there’s no way to reach it from land. The best starting point is the town of Herceg Novi, but an even better option is Žanjic Beach.
- Coordinates: 42.37416746072693, 18.596286142055433
- Visiting the cave itself is free, but you need a boat to get there. Boat tours cost €15 from Žanjic Beach and start from €25 from Herceg Novi.
- How much time to plan:
- From Herceg Novi – about 2.5–3 hours for the whole trip.
- From Žanjic Beach – around 1.5 hours.
📌 A more detailed description of the Blue Cave can be found in the Herceg Novi guide (Point 17).
⭐ Author’s Rating: 8/10
This is an amazing natural attraction, and I highly recommend it. However, there are a few things to keep in mind: calm waters and sunny weather are crucial to see the cave at its best. You can swim inside, and boat operators provide masks for snorkeling.
20. Budva and the Old Town
Without exaggeration, Budva is the country’s main tourist hub. Every year, it welcomes more visitors than any other Montenegrin city. The surrounding coastal villages have even been named the Budva Riviera. Among all the coastal towns, Budva has the best infrastructure—it’s a year-round city with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
The biggest difference between Budva and towns like Kotor, Perast, or Herceg Novi is its location—Budva is on the open Adriatic Sea, not in the Bay of Kotor. That means warmer water, more sunshine, longer days, and stunning sunsets every evening.
- Coordinates: 42.27844984617715, 18.83745770552846
- How much time to plan:
- If you’re not staying in Budva and just want to explore the Old Town, 2 hours will be enough.
- Ideally, spend a full day—explore the Old Town, kayak to a nearby uninhabited island, and relax at Mogren Beach.
- You could even spend your entire 2-week vacation here—Budva is large, and there are plenty of attractions in the area.
📌 For a detailed guide to Budva, including sightseeing, restaurants, and beaches, check out this link.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 9/10
Budva is fantastic! It has the best location—right in the center of the Montenegrin coast, making it the perfect base for traveling around the country. It has beaches, medieval architecture, islands, and modern infrastructure.
21. Mediterranean Petrovac
A small town of just 3,000 people, which almost completely empties in winter. But in summer, Petrovac becomes a fantastic beach resort. Officially known as Petrovac na Moru, it’s a perfect mix of relaxation and convenience.
Petrovac has a prime location—right between Budva and Bar, two of Montenegro’s larger towns. It’s also easily accessible from Podgorica via the E80 highway—just 50 km from the capital, and you’re at the coast. Because of this, many locals from Podgorica come to Petrovac for weekend beach trips.
With its long sandy beach, Mediterranean landscapes, and many nearby attractions (within a 50 km radius), Petrovac is a great choice for a vacation. You can easily spend two weeks here, especially if you have a car and love exploring.
- Coordinates: 42.205595390902744, 18.94076409377164
- Best time to visit: May to October
- How much time to plan:
- Petrovac is small—you can see the whole town in about 2 hours.
- If you want to hike to nearby beaches along the scenic coastal trails, add another 2 hours.
📌 For a full guide to Petrovac and the best beaches in the area, check this link.
⭐ Author’s Rating: 7/10
Petrovac may not have as much infrastructure as Budva, but it’s a great town with fantastic beaches and plenty of nearby sights. Perfect for:
✅ Active travelers with a car.
✅ Relaxation seekers who can spend days on the beach without needing entertainment.
If you’re looking for nightlife or a city vibe, Petrovac is too quiet—it’s a beach town, not a party town.
22. Ulcinj – Montenegro’s Most Underrated City
At first glance, Ulcinj might not seem special, and many tourists skip it due to its remote location. But Ulcinj holds several unique records:
- The southernmost city in Montenegro, meaning it has the warmest and sunniest climate—300+ sunny days per year!
- The most “Albanian” city in Montenegro—over 50% of the population are Albanians.
- Home to Montenegro’s longest beach, Velika Plaža—a 13 km stretch of sand (while most Montenegrin beaches are less than 1 km).
Ulcinj offers a mix of medieval history, stunning beaches, coastal forest trails, and amazing sea views from almost every apartment since the city is built on a hillside.
- Coordinates: 41.923124643180316, 19.20543996912452
- How much time to plan:
- The Old Town and city center can be explored in about 2 hours.
- If you’re staying here for a beach vacation, 2–4 days is perfect to visit all the sights and beaches.
📌 For a detailed guide to Ulcinj, its beaches, and surroundings, check this link (including a bonus section on the abandoned salt flats!).
⭐ Author’s Rating: 8/10
I love Ulcinj for its architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and long, uncrowded beaches—a rare find in Montenegro!
Keep in mind:
This is a predominantly Muslim area, as most Albanians here follow Islam.
In peak season, it does get crowded, though not as much as Budva.
If you want to experience a different side of Montenegro, Ulcinj is the place.
23. Lovćen National Park
Lovćen National Park is located at the summit of Mount Lovćen, about 30 km from Budva and the coastline. The park includes two peaks, the mausoleum of one of the most famous rulers of the Njegoš dynasty, and the ancestral village of the Njegoš family.
This place is not only incredibly scenic but also holds great historical significance for the Montenegrin people.
- Coordinates of the viewpoint with a stunning panoramic view: 42.401040218487616, 18.836863543660343
- Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Ticket price: €5 per person + €8 for access to the peak = €13 total
- Time needed: About 60 minutes to explore the peak, viewpoint, and Njegoš Mausoleum. Additionally, plan a visit to the village of Njeguši, Montenegro’s first capital Cetinje, and take plenty of photos of the breathtaking Bay of Kotor from various viewpoints.
📌 Detailed guide to Lovćen National Park and its surroundings
⭐ Author’s Rating: 5/10
Here’s my take: If you’re planning to visit more impressive mountains in Montenegro, like Durmitor or the Prokletije range, you can skip Lovćen. It lacks the sheer scale and “WOW” factor. Plus, you can drive all the way to the summit, which takes away the adventure of a challenging hike! However, if you’re not planning to explore Montenegro’s inland mountains, Lovćen is a great option for a day trip from the coast.
24. Lipa Cave – A Must-See in Montenegro
Lipa Cave is the largest karst cave in Montenegro and one of the biggest in the entire Balkan Peninsula. Located not far from the coast and Lovćen National Park, it’s easy to combine both visits in one trip.
Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as five large halls. The entire tour is guided and lasts about 60 minutes—you cannot enter without a guide.
- Ticket booth & parking coordinates: 42.367128218845046, 18.953089629533107
- Official website (check for updated hours & info): https://lipa-cave.me/
- Ticket price: €15.9 per person (discounts for children & family packages available)
- Time needed: 90 minutes (including waiting time, the short train ride to the cave entrance, and the guided tour).
📌 Full review of Lipa Cave – check the detailed guide here!
⭐ Author’s rating: 6/10:
If you’ve already explored caves in places like Malaysia, Mexico, Georgia, Lipa Cave won’t surprise you—it’s relatively modest in comparison. However, if this is your first cave experience, you’ll love it! Just don’t forget warm clothes—inside, it’s a constant +10°C with strong winds year-round.
Travel Tips
Most travelers visit Montenegro for a 7 to 14-day vacation. Even if you stay for two weeks, you won’t be able to see everything on this list—you’ll need to prioritize. Here are some essential tips to maximize your trip:
✅ Renting a car is a game changer.
Montenegro has an affordable and straightforward car rental system. The roads are decent, reckless drivers are rare, and rental companies are quite tourist-friendly. Everything you need to know about renting a car in Montenegro: deposits, insurance, police checks, road conditions, and more.
With a car, you’ll have complete freedom.
Public transport is limited—many attractions are inaccessible without a car, and buses often require transfers. The only well-connected route is along the coast.
The best base for sightseeing is somewhere along the Budva Riviera: Budva, Bečići, or Petrovac.
Important:
Many people associate Montenegro only with the sea and beaches. But in reality, the mountains have even more incredible sights to offer! Be sure to plan some trips to Montenegro’s mountainous regions for a more diverse and unforgettable vacation experience.
Final Thoughts:
Hopefully, this guide has helped you create your own list of must-see attractions in Montenegro. If you plan your trip wisely, I’m sure Montenegro will not disappoint you—and with the right preparation, it could become one of the best trips of your life!
Resources to help you plan your dream trip to Montenegro
- WayAway: Cheap flights and best deals.
- Car rental in Montenegro:
- LocalRent – works with local rental companies. Leader in car rental in Montenegro.
- DiscoverCars – a large international platform.
- Budget-friendly vacation packages to Montenegro: CheapOair.
- Hotels and apartments all over the country:
- Trip.com – the most popular accommodation booking platform
- TripAdvisor compares the prices among dozens of other booking services and offer the best price
- Tours, excursions and activities (including extreme ones):
- GetYourGuide – more than 800 tours
- Viator – 1000+ excursions and activities throughout the country
- Comprehensive travel insurance: EKTA
- Internet and Calls:
- Airalo eSIM in Montenegro
- Drimsim – universal sim card for frequent traveler
- Taxi and airport transfers: Intui.Travel