Montenegro is a country of contrasts—towering peaks, mirror-still lakes, and a coastline kissed by the Adriatic. From ancient stone towns to wild national parks, there’s magic to be found in every corner. If you’re searching for the most breathtaking places in Montenegro, this guide will take you there.
Montenegro may be small, but it packs in more beauty than countries ten times its size. From Venetian coastal towns to untouched alpine wilderness, it’s a place where every turn in the road reveals something spectacular. We embarked on a two-week road trip in the heart of summer and came back utterly smitten.
Of all the places to see in Montenegro, a few stand out above the rest. Perast, with its crumbling palaces and island churches. Durmitor National Park is a land of soaring peaks, glacial lakes, and deep canyons. And then of course there is Biogradska Gora, one of Europe’s last primeval forests, which has some of the best hiking in the country.
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Practical Tips for Visiting Montenegro
TOP PICKS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS
- PERAST: Heritage Hotel Leon Coronato
- KOTOR: Villa Eagle Eye Montenegro
- ŽABLJAC: PeaksView Chalets
- PLUŽINE: B&B Konak
HIGHLY RATED TOURS
- BAY OF KOTOR: Kotor Bay Highlights Boat Cruise
- BAY OF KOTOR: Private day tour
- NORTH MONTENEGRO: Durmitor & Monasteries
- SKADAR LAKE: Lake & Monasteries Boat Tour
LOCAL SIM CARD: Purchase your electronic simcard before heading out to Uzbekistan
HOW TO GET AROUND: If you are embarking on a tour of the country, you will need to rent a car. Compare prices and find the cheapest rental option online with Rentalcars.
MORE INSPIRATION: Read all my Montenegro travel guides
SUSTAINABILITY TIP: Stay local! Projects like the development of “katuns“—traditional shepherds’ huts—offer authentic experiences while directly benefiting local families. Staying in these accommodations allows you to immerse yourself in Montenegrin culture and contribute to the preservation of rural traditions.
20 Beautiful Places in Montenegro to Travel
1. Herceg Novi
READ MORE| Unforgettable things to do in Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi is Montenegro’s sunniest town, perched on the edge of the Bay of Kotor. It was where we started our two-week trip through Montenegro. The town was built in 1382 and still has traces of Ottoman and Venetian influences making it well worth a visit. Additionally, it is much less visited than the other starlets in the bay, making it the perfect spot to ease into the country.
Climb Kanli Kula Fortress or Forte Mare for some of the best views in Montenegro, stretching over the bay’s deep blue waters. Stroll the Pet Danica Promenade, a 7-kilometer coastal path, dotted with stone arches, a remnant of the train line that operated here until 1968. I preferred the stretch between Herceg Novi and Meljine as it was decidedly less touristy, and the restaurants served fresher food!
Herceg Novi has a plethora of beaches available for those looking to work on their tan. Along the Pet Danica, concrete slabs jut out into the sea and are a favorite amongst locals for sunbathing. Alternatively head to Coppas Beach which offers sunloungers and umbrellas for the price of €4/day.
Where to stay in Herceg Novi
- RECOMMENDED STAY | Palma Apartments
- BEACH FRONT ACCOMMODATION | Boka Apartment 5
- INSIDE STARI GRAD (OLD TOWN) | Apartment Milica
- LUXURY PICK | One&Only Portonovi
2. Perast
READ MORE| A comprehensive guide to Perast
Perast was my favorite place in Montenegro. In fact, I loved it so much that at the end of my trip I added on a few extra nights in this little town. Tucked between towering mountains and the glassy Bay of Kotor, this tiny Venetian town feels untouched by the modern world.
Here you will find no traffic, the town is made up of a one-kilometer stretch of road, just stone palaces, sleepy waterfront cafés, and a bell tower chiming in the distance. Truth be told, there is not much to “do”. If, like me, you are a bit of a dopamine addict, glued to your phone, Perast will provide the perfect antidote.
Wander past crumbling baroque mansions and climb St. Nicholas’ Church bell tower for sweeping views over the bay. Take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny man-made island built, legend says, stone by stone. Little boats ferry visitors from and to the island multiple times an hour from the harbor of Perast.
Many a visitor will spend an hour in Perast before clambering in the car to visit the next highlight on their list. Resist the urge, and book yourself a night instead. As the sun dips, the crowds vanish, and Perast returns to its quiet rhythm—fishermen untangling nets, waves lapping against the shore, candlelit dinners along the water. This is where the true magic of Perast unfolds
Where to stay in Perast
- RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATION | Heritage Hotel Leon Coronato
- BUDGET STAY | Bella Vista Zmukic
- MIDRANGE PICK | Apartmani Armonia
- LUXURY PICK | Heritage Grand Perast
Take a tour: Take a budget-friendly Bay of Kotor day tour combining the Lady of the Rocks Church, Perast, Blue Cave and Mamula. This is a full-day boat tour.
3. Old Town Kotor
Kotor was the place I was most looking forward to visiting during our road trip through Montenegro. Enclosed by ancient walls and framed by brooding mountains, this UNESCO-listed town has been shaped by Venetian rule, Ottoman sieges, and maritime trade. Its labyrinth of medieval streets leads to sun-dappled squares, where the scent of baked burek drifts from tiny bakeries. Undeniably quant, but boy was it overshadowed by the frenzy of tourists that descended upon the town.
The best views are to be found by climbing the San Giovanni Fortress, once a strategic defense against invaders. You will want to head up early in the morning to avoid the blistering heat. Trust me on this one, we started ascending at 07.30 am and were heading down by 10.00 am.
During the warmest hours of the day make sure to visit St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, an architectural gem dating back to 1166. Then, visit the tiny Cats Museum, a quirky nod to the town’s centuries-old love affair with its feline residents. Said residents are absolutely everywhere, and very used to being pet by strangers.
As dusk settles, lanterns flicker against stone façades, music spills from hidden wine bars and the large crowds of visitors start to thin out. This was my favorite time to explore the tiny historical center of Kotor! Locals started congregating together and the feline community sighed with relief at being able to, once again, lounge around in peace.
Where to stay in Kotor
- WHERE WE STAYED | Villa Eagle Eye
- HOTELS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE OLD TOWN | Antika Guesthouse // Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro
- HOTELS WITH A VIEW | Apartments Vuković // Villa Preciosa
- BUDGET ACCOMMODATION | Porta del Mare Apartments
4. Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan is Montenegro’s most iconic sight, a tiny islet of terracotta rooftops floating in a turquoise sea. Once a humble fishing village, it became an exclusive retreat for royalty and film stars, adding an air of mystery to its medieval charm. The luxury retreat, Aman Sveti Stefan, has been closed since 2020.
Despite the hotel being closed, the island remains private. We decided to spend half a day relaxing on Sveti Stefan Beach. The beach is made up of unique pink pebbles, meaning it is pretty but not super comfortable! Alternatively wander through Miločer Park, shaded by cypress and olive trees. Hike up to Praskvica Monastery, where monks have lived for centuries, and soak in panoramic views of the coast.
PRACTICAL | Parking is easy, with a large lot just off the beach costing €2 per day (to be paid in cash).
5. Old Town Budva
When visiting Budva, make a beeline for Old Town. Enclosed by thick stone walls and kissed by the Adriatic, this is one of the oldest Montenegro places, shaped by Greek traders, Roman settlers, and Venetian sailors over 2,500 years. Sunlight spills onto quiet squares, salt hangs in the air, and worn limestone streets whisper stories of the past.
Climb the Citadel Fortress for a view that stretches from terracotta rooftops to the endless blue sea. Step inside St. John’s Church, where a Madonna and Child icon has watched over sailors for centuries. Or, my absolute favorite activity in Budva, walk along Budva’s fortress walls. We took a stroll along the ramparts right before sunset, watched restaurants set up before the evening rush, locals taking in their washing and little squares buzzing with snap-happy visitors.
GOOD TO KNOW | We visited in August and after dusk, Budva turned into party central, think neon lights, loud music, and drunken tourists spilling out of various types of bars. Personally, I was not a fan of the vibe and we left shortly after dinner.
6. Pavlova Strana Viewpoint
Pavlova Strana Viewpoint is the kind of place that stops you in your tracks. Perched high above Lake Skadar, it offers one of the most beautiful places to visit in Montenegro, where the river winds through emerald-green hills in a near-perfect horseshoe bend.
We first visited the nearby village of Rijeka Crnojevića and took a guided boat tour on Skadar Lake, more on that below! From the village, we drove 7 minutes up to the viewpoint, just in time for golden hour. The Rijeka Crnojevića River does tend to run low in the summer, so you will not get the famous mirror effect. Nevertheless, the view is still spectacular! After the sun had set, we made our way back to the small town to grab something to eat in one of the three local taverns.
PRACTICAL | The viewpoint is right off the main road. We got lucky and were able to park the car on a sandy patch of road alongside the viewpoint. This might not be possible in high season and you might consider walking up from the village instead.
GET ON THE LAKE | Book a boat tour from Virpazar or opt to take a tour
7. Skadar Lake
Lake Skadar is Montenegro at its wildest—a vast, shimmering stretch of water spilling across the border into Albania, its surface broken only by the drift of lily pads and the slow flight of Dalmatian pelicans. Protected as a national park, it’s a place where nature still calls the shots, a sanctuary of hidden inlets, quiet fishing villages, and more than 280 species of birds.
The best way to experience it? From the water. In Virpazar, boat tours and kayak rentals are everywhere, though the well-trodden routes can feel a little crowded. We paddled past tangled reeds and tiny islands, skimming the lake’s surface at our own pace—beautiful, but slow going.
For something more immersive, the nearby village of Rijeka Crnojevića is the better bet. We booked a boat ride here, after extensively reading through various Tripadvisor reviews. Booking in advance is wise, but you can also turn up and find a local captain waiting by the river’s edge.
For those planning a Montenegro itinerary, Skadar is unmissable. Whether you come for birdwatching, a swim in its clear waters, or a quiet afternoon with local wine in a lakeside village, these can all be done from the shores of Rijeka Crnojevića.
Where to stay on Skadar Lake (Virpazar)
WHERE WE STAYED | Studio and winery Kalimut
SUSTAINABLE PICK | Ethno Lodge AB // Eco Villas Merak
INSIDE THE VILLAGE | Hotel Pelikan
8. Karuč Viewpoint
Karuč is the kind of place you stumble upon and never forget. A tiny, timeworn fishing village tucked along the shores of Lake Skadar, it feels untouched by the modern world—just a handful of stone houses, wooden boats bobbing in the shallows, and silence, broken only by birdsong.
We drove here from Virpazar, on a spectacular road hugging the shores of the lake. Once a winter retreat for Montenegro’s ruling dynasty, Karuč remains blissfully quiet. While the village itself does not offer much to do, it does hold one of the best views in all of Montenegro: The Karuč Viewpoint.
Simply head to the village and park your car in one of the many available spots. When we arrived, a few locals immediately fluttered to our side offering guesthouses, kayak rentals, and boat rentals. Unlike Virpazar it did not feel pushy or crowded through, Karuč is a great alternative pièd-a-terre for exploring the lake.
WHERE TO STAY | There are only a handful of accommodations in Karuč that are online. If you cannot book online, I would head over there are and book on the spot.
9. Ostrog Monastery
READ MORE | 14 Monasteries and churches in Montenegro worth visiting
Ostrog Monastery is one of the most sacred places in beautiful Montenegro, a 17th-century Serbian Orthodox site dramatically carved into sheer cliffs. Dedicated to Saint Basil of Ostrog, whose relics rest in the Church of the Presentation, it has long been a pilgrimage destination. Though much of the monastery was destroyed by fire in the early 20th century, its two cave churches survived, their frescoed walls blackened by candle smoke and time.
The monastery is divided into two sections. The Lower Monastery houses the Holy Trinity Church and a fresh spring believed to have healing properties. From here, pilgrims—some barefoot—climb 3 kilometers up to the Upper Monastery, where stone steps lead to the revered Church of the Presentation.
Upon entering the Upper Monastery, visitors and pilgrims are required to cover their shoulders and knees. We saw many women also covering their heads, although this was not obligatory.
PRACTICAL | A well-marked parking area lies between the two levels, with a 10-minute walk up steep, often slippery steps—proper footwear is essential. I managed to slip and bruise my back badly on our way back down.
Take a tour: Combine a visit to Ostrog Monastery with the Durmitor National Park and Tara Canyon in a packed day tour from Kotor.
10. Tara River Canyon
Carving through 1,300 meters of sheer limestone cliffs, the Tara River Canyon is the deepest canyon in Europe. It is lined with dense forests, a turquoise river cutting through the center, and the iconic Đurđevića Tara Bridge arching high above the river. One of Montenegro’s best places for adventure and also home to the famous 800-meter zip line across the canyon (€10-€25 a person).
As someone with a crippling fear of heights, I decided to forego the zipline and instead booked a white water rafting trip. Unfortunately, the low water levels and a conveyor belt of boats, made it felt a little like Disneyland. For real thrills, visit in spring (April–June) when the snowmelt transforms the river into a rushing force, perfect for high-adrenaline rapids.
Getting here is easiest by car, we based ourselves in Pluzine and drove from the village to the Đurđevića Tara Bridge. The road was one of the most spectacular I have ever driven. With tunnels cutting through rock faces, panoramic views flitting by our window, and many a viewpoint aching to be captured on my camera.
PRACTICAL | If you cannot make it up to the Tara River Canyon, you can book a full-day white water rafting tour with pick up and drop off in Kotor. Perfect if you do not have a car or are short on time!
Where to stay in Plužine
- WHERE WE STAYED | B&B Konak
- ACCOMMODATIONS WITH A VIEW | Apartment LAKEVIEW // Vista apart Pluzine
11. Piva Lake and Canyon
Piva Lake is a vast turquoise reservoir tucked between towering limestone cliffs. Formed by the Piva Dam, it stretches for 45 kilometers, winding through steep canyon walls that rise dramatically from the water’s edge. One of the top places Montenegro has to offer, it’s quite honestly the most jaw-dropping lake I have ever seen. And so blue!
The best way to experience it? By water. Rent a kayak or take a boat tour in the little town of Pluzine. The surrounding mountains offer excellent hiking trails, while the Piva Monastery, relocated stone by stone to escape the rising waters is equally worth a visit.
Getting here is an adventure in itself. The P14 road, a winding, panoramic route from Žabljak, offers breathtaking views—just be ready for hairpin bends and sheer drops. We ended up basing ourselves in Pluzine for a few days so we could hike and go white water rafting in the nearby Tara River Canyon.
Where to stay to visit Piva Lake (Plužine)
- WHERE WE STAYED | B&B Konak
- ACCOMMODATIONS WITH A VIEW | Apartment LAKEVIEW // Vista apart Pluzine
12. Lovćen National Park
Lovćen National Park is where Montenegro scenery is at its most dramatic—peaks rolling into the horizon, forests stretching into the valleys, and winding roads revealing breathtaking views at every turn. At its highest point, Jezerski Vrh (1,660m), sits the Njegoš Mausoleum, a striking tribute to Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, the poet, ruler, and philosopher who shaped Montenegrin identity.
Reaching the mausoleum means climbing 461 stone steps, but at the top, the entire country unfolds beneath you—the Bay of Kotor, Lake Skadar, and even Albania on a clear day. At the top of the stairs, you will find a small café serving surprisingly good coffee and homemade lemonade. Inside, a 28-ton granite statue of Njegoš rests beneath a domed ceiling covered in golden mosaic. We went just before closing and had the place almost to ourselves.
The park itself is perfect for hiking, with trails leading through beech forests and past old shepherd huts. Arrive by car from Cetinje or Kotor, following winding mountain roads that are an adventure in themselves. Check out various hiking trails on Alltrails ranging from 4 km to 18 km. Download the map in advance as the connection in the park is spotty!
PRACTICAL | The drive up from the Bay of Kotor is an experience in itself. The road twists through 25 tight hairpin bends, snaking higher and higher above the fjord-like bay. While beautiful, you will want to be a sure-footed driver to undertake it. The narrow roads are shared with large busses, which seem to take up the entire road. What ensues is a live game of Tetris, or how can we maneuver past each other without falling into the below ravine.
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM (hours may vary in winter); Park Entrance Fee: €3 per person
Mausoleum Entrance Fee: €5 per person
13. Luštica Peninsula
Luštica Peninsula juts between the Bay of Kotor and the open sea, this rugged peninsula feels worlds away from Montenegro’s busier coastal towns. We drove here from Kotor on a day trip and I loved how untouched it was: olive groves tumbling into the sea, stone villages from decades ago, and tiny beaches hugging the coastline.
In hindsight, I would probably have booked a hotel here to explore the Bay of Kotor. While I absolutely fell in love with the scenery of the bay, most places felt crowded, overpriced, and, sadly, lacking in authenticity. With large cruise ships sailing through the tiny bay multiple times a day, the view was often a wall of glass rather than panoramic fjords.
The peninsula is perfect for hiking quiet trails, kayaking through hidden coves, or swimming in the deep blue waters of Žanjic and Mirista Beach. Inland, small family-run farms produce olive oil, cheese, and wine—slow-travel treasures waiting to be discovered. At the very tip of the peninsula lies the famous Blue Cave.
We originally drove up to visit Rose, one of the oldest fishing villages on the coast. Getting here is easiest by car from Tivat (30 minutes) or Kotor (45 minutes), following scenic roads! When we stayed in Herceg Novi there were various tourism agencies in the old town offering a boat ride to/from Rose. Might be a better bet as finding parking was rather tricky.
Where to stay on Luštica Peninsula
- BY THE SEASIDE | Apartments Barizon
- QUIET GETAWAY | Klinci Village Resort
14. Biogradska Gora
Biogradska Gora is one of Europe’s last primeval forests, untouched for millennia. Tucked in the Bjelasica Mountains of northern Montenegro between Kolašin and Mojkovac, this national park is a haven of ancient trees, glacial lakes, and misty green valleys, making it one of the most magical Montenegro destinations and probably my favorite hiking spot in the country.
The heart of the park is Biogradsko Lake, a still, emerald-green expanse reflecting the towering peaks above. From here, trails wind through the forest. While over 50 kilometers of marked hiking trails crisscross the park, most visitors stick to three: the Biogradsko Lake Loop (3.4 km), Mount Bendovac Hike (13.7 km), and the Crna Glava Summit Hike (13 km). We took the trail to Bendovac, a steady climb that rewards you with sweeping views—challenging, but perfectly manageable if you’re used to being active.
A small parking lot (free of charge) appears just as you enter the park, and from there, it’s a short walk to the Visitors Centre near the lake. Maps are available, though the main trails are well-marked, making it easy to lose yourself in the wild without ever truly getting lost.
Where to stay to visit Biogradska Gora (Kolašin)
- WALKING DISTANCE FROM TOWN | Chalet Kolasin Montenegro
- LUXURY PICK | Modern Harmony
- SUSTAINABLE PICK | Komovi Eko Katun Martinovica 1750 // Dulović – KATUN POTOCI
15. Lipa Caves
Beneath the rolling hills near Cetinje, Lipa Cave stretches into the earth. One of Montenegro’s largest cave systems, its sprawling chambers, and winding passages create an otherworldly landscape of towering stalactites and underground rivers. Unlike the tight, narrow caves some may expect, Lipa is spacious and well-ventilated, making it comfortable even for those with claustrophobia. My partner who suffers from severe claustrophobia came with me on the visit and was perfectly happy!
Located just 5 km from Cetinje and an easy 45-minute drive from Kotor or Podgorica, the cave is best reached by car. Once there, we were escorted onto a short train ride taking us to the entrance, where a guided tour led us deep into its echoing caverns.
PRATICAL | The caves are much colder inside so you will want to bring warm clothes. Additionally, a solid pair of shoes is advised as the surface inside is uneven and oftentimes slippery.
Opening Hours: Tours daily at 10:00, 11:30, 13:00, 14:30, and 16:00
Entrance Fee: €14 per adult (family packages available)
16. Durmitor National Park & the Black Lake (Crno Jezero)
Many travelers stick to the Bay of Kotor when they head to Montenegro, but personally, I much prefer the Durmitor National Park. It is quieter, prices are considerably lower (1/3 of the price to be precise) and the scenery reminded me a lot of my favorite place in Europe: The Dolomites in northern Italy.
Durmitor National Park is a vast wilderness of jagged peaks, deep canyons, and alpine forests in northern Montenegro. A UNESCO-listed landscape, Durmitor is simply spectacular, even if you are not a mountain goat like yours truly. And the most jaw-dropping place was the Black Lake or Crno Jezero.
To enter, visitors must pay a €5 national park fee (free for children under 7), which grants access to the lake and surrounding trails. The easiest hike is the Black Lake Loop (3.5 km), a gentle walk hugging the shoreline. For those craving adventure, trails lead deeper into the park—to Zminje Lake (6 km round trip) or the more demanding ascent of Bobotov Kuk, Montenegro’s highest peak (2,523m).
We walked a 30-minute walk from Žabljak to the entrance of the park. This turned out to be a very good move as finding parking would have been just about impossible. Cars lined the road for many kilometers leading up to the entrance of the park.
Where to stay in Durmitor National Park (Žabljac)
- RECOMMENDED | Nadgora SkyHouse
- ACCOMMODATION WITH VIEWS | Peaksview Chalets // Etno Villas Tara & Petra
- WALKING DISTANCE VILLAGE CENTRE | Casa di Pino Eco Lodge
- LUXURY PICK | NORTH STORY – Luxury Chalet – Apartments & rooms
- SUSTAINABLE PICK | Etno katun Djedov do
17. Fortress Gorazda
Fortress Gorazda is the kind of place you don’t plan to visit—but stumble upon and never forget. Built in the late 19th century by the Austro-Hungarians, the fortress was once part of Kotor’s defense system. Its thick stone walls, rusting cannons, and eerie underground tunnels once a bastion of military strength. Today, it has become a haven for photographers.
We found it by chance, our hotel is just around the corner. Perched high above Kotor, this veritable hidden gem in Montenegro offers one of the best views over the Bay of Kotor, especially if you come here for sunset. There are no signs to indicate the location, but you can find it in Google Maps!
PRACTICAL | When we visited the fortress was abandoned and the infrastructure crumbling. Don a pair of solid shoes and be careful when clambering up on the roof.
18. Savina Monastery
Savina Monastery is a peaceful retreat just 2 km from Herceg Novi, hidden among cypress trees with sweeping views over the Adriatic. A Serbian Orthodox monastery with roots dating back to 1030, it feels untouched by time—white stone walls, terracotta rooftops, and the scent of wild herbs in the air.
The complex consists of three churches: the Church of the Assumption, an 18th-century blend of Baroque, Romanesque, and Byzantine influences; the Smaller Church of the Assumption, a simple 11th-century structure; and the Saint Sava Church perched 300 meters above in the forest. The latter wasn’t open when we visited.
Across from the main church, a small museum houses religious relics, though without English explanations, much of its history remains untold. Parking is available inside the monastery gate although we opted to park right outside as it was easier to navigate with the car.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 08.00 am – 6.00 pm; Sunday 08.00 am – 12.00 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
Where to stay in Herceg Novi
- RECOMMENDED STAY | Palma Apartments
- BEACH FRONT ACCOMMODATION | Boka Apartment 5
- INSIDE STARI GRAD (OLD TOWN) | Apartment Milica
- LUXURY PICK | One&Only Portonovi
19. Savin Kuk Peak
Savin Kuk Peak (2,313m) rises above Durmitor National Park, its rocky slopes visible from the mountain town of Žabljak. I wanted to reach the peak as it offers a beautiful view over the various glacial lakes of the National Park, including Crno Jezero (the black lake). To get up there are two ways: Hike, or take a rickety old chairlift up.
As we were short on time, we opted to clamber aboard the chairlift, a two-stage ride that swayed and creaked and had me questioning the sanity of my decision. To get one, one must jump. Yep, you read that right. Unlike newer chairlifts, these do not slow down for passengers to get on. Neither do they have a protective metal bar providing some semblance of security, after jumping on, it is entirely up to you if you actually make it up.
Once you reach the top of the second ride, a 20-minute hike takes you to the summit. Simply follow the throngs of people heading up, you cannot miss it!
If you have more time, and the stamina, skip the cable car and opt to hike 7 kilometers to the top. With al elevation gain of 900 meters, this hike is not for the faint-hearted!
Tickets: The cable car costs €10 return (€7 for children)
Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, but check before visiting—this is Montenegro, and schedules often run on mountain time.
Where to stay in Durmitor National Park
- RECOMMENDED | Nadgora SkyHouse
- ACCOMMODATION WITH VIEWS | Peaksview Chalets // Etno Villas Tara & Petra
- WALKING DISTANCE VILLAGE CENTRE | Casa di Pino Eco Lodge
- LUXURY PICK |NORTH STORY – Luxury Chalet – Apartments & rooms
- SUSTAINABLE PICK | Etno katun Djedov do
20. Morača Monastery
Tucked deep within the Morača Canyon, the Morača Monastery feels like a place lost in time. Built in the 13th century, legend says its yellow stone was passed hand to hand by devoted believers, carried across kilometers to create one of the prettiest places in Montenegro. Today, its thick stone walls and red-tiled roofs stand in perfect contrast to the wild, untamed mountains beyond.
Step inside the tiny St. Nicholas Church, where faded frescoes whisper stories of centuries past. In the larger Church of the Dormition, light filters through arched windows, illuminating a magnificent 17th-century fresco by Georgije Mitrofanović, an artist who later founded a painting school within these very walls. Outside, the monastery gardens offer a peaceful retreat—if you’re lucky, you might even spot one of the resident monks tending to the grounds.
We arrived by car and parked the car in the large parking lot just above the monastery. A short stone path leads down to the monastery. Just watch out for tour buses—they arrive fast and leave even faster.
Take a tour: Combine three beautiful monasteries in one full-day tour leaving from Budva, Podgorica or Kotor. Visit Ostrog Monastery, Morača Monastery and the Cetinje Monastery.
Montenegro Places to Visit Map
Have a look at the interactive Google Map to get an idea of where all the most beautiful places in Montenegro are located.
Responsible & Sustainable Travel in Montenegro
TAKE PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport is a great way to explore Montenegro sustainably, especially around the Bay of Kotor, where Blue Line buses connect towns like Kotor, Perast, Risan, and Tivat. Buses run frequently, with tickets costing around €1.50, payable in cash to the driver. Routes follow the coastline. Check times online via Omio.
DRINK TAP WATER: Tap water throughout the country is drinkable. Bring your reusable water bottle with you and simple fill it up instead of purchasing single-use plastic bottles.
STAY IN A LOCALLY RUN ACCOMMODATION: Opt for lodgings bearing recognized eco-labels, such as the EU Eco-label or Green Key International. These certifications signify a commitment to environmental standards, ensuring your stay supports sustainable practices.
SUPPORT COMMUNITY LED INITIATIVES: Projects like the development of “katuns“—traditional shepherds’ huts—offer authentic experiences while directly benefiting local families. Staying in these accommodations allows you to immerse yourself in Montenegrin culture and contribute to the preservation of rural traditions.
Practical Tips for Visiting Montenegro
LANGUAGE SPOKEN: In Montenegro, locals speak Montenegrin. Around the bay of Kotor, we found that most everyone working in tourism spoke English, the more North we traveled the less English was spoken.
CURRENCY: Montenegro uses the Euro (€), even though it’s not part of the EU. Most places accept card payments but always carry cash for small purchases, bus tickets, and rural areas.
CROSSING BORDERS: If planning a day trip to Albania, Bosnia, or Croatia, ensure you have a green card (insurance document) for rental cars. Border crossings can be slow in summer, so arrive early.
What is the most beautiful part of Montenegro
Montenegro was one of the few countries that had me gushing at every corner. Picking a handful of pretty places feels like a betrayal, but if I had to choose I would opt for Lake Skadar, Biogradska Gora, and Perast.
Which area is best to stay in Montenegro
That depends on what type of holiday you are looking for. If you want to head into the mountains, base yourself out of Žabljak, looking to explore the Bay of Kotor then opt for Perast or Luštica Peninsula. While excursions on Skadar Lake can be done while based out of Virpazar.
Is Montenegro a cheap place to visit
Montenegro can be affordable, but prices vary by location. In Kotor and Budva, mid-range hotels cost €50–€90 per night, while budget stays start at €25. Inland and national parks offer better value, with guesthouses from €15–€40. Visiting off-season (spring or autumn) helps secure lower rates and fewer crowds.
MORE TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR VISITING MONTENEGRO
PERAST | A detailed guide to slow visiting Perast
HERCEG NOVI | Explore the lesser-known Herceg Novi
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