Montenegro tours & holidays

Home to both Mediterranean summers and Balkan winters, the best time to visit Montenegro depends on what you’re after.  

July and August see heavy coastal tourism with beaches, hotels and restaurants packed with summer sun seekers but if you don’t mind the crowds, it’s a great time to soak up the sun, take a boat ride and swim in the coves.  

The best time to visit Montenegro is during the shoulder months of autumn and spring – April, May, September and October. This is when the country enjoys the warmth without the crowds and is ideal for sightseeing and quality time with locals.  

November to April is the winter period when the inland temperature can drop to below freezing, but if you can brave the cold, then this is a wonderful time to see the country from a different perspective and avoid crowds altogether. Plus, Kotor’s Old Town in the winter is a sight to see—think Christmas markets, a Winter Carnival and a festive atmosphere.  

Montenegro is small but mighty, and its geography is seriously impressive – within just a few hours, you can go from sunbathing on a beach along 292 kilometres of Adriatic coastline to hiking in some of Europe’s most rugged mountain terrain. Its diverse landscapes include coastal plains, dramatic karst formations, rivers, lakes and the iconic Bay of Kotor.  

With both Mediterranean and mountain climates, it’s a great spot for everything from sailing, swimming and snorkelling to hiking, exploring caves and hanging out in both nature and medieval towns.  

1. Durmitor National Park

This UNESCO World Heritage site is shaped by ancient glaciers and filled with crystal-clear lakes, mountains and pine forests. This is a beautiful spot to take a stroll or a guided hike along the shores of Black Lake, or rent a boat and get right in there. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike and explore the trails or nearby town – you won’t be at a loss on things to do. 

2. Kotor

Visiting Kotor is an obvious choice in Montenegro – a 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage site on a secluded bay and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in southeastern Europe. Explore historic landmarks like the Cathedral of St. Tryphun and Armoury Square and if you want the best views of the Bay of Kotor, hike up to the Fortress of Sveti Ivan or follow the old fortification walls into the hills.  

3. Budva

Budva is the place to be if you’re after sun, sea and a bit of nightlife – think of it as a mini-Miami with a Montenegrin twist. You’ve got beautiful sandy beaches, a charming walled Old Town to wander and plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. If that sounds like a bit too much, head to Uvala Dobrec for a quieter spot on a pebble beach.  

4. Cetinje

Montenegro’s former capital is now a laidback village with mountains as the backdrop. Take a walk by elegant old mansions and soak up a slower pace, then dive into some history at the Cetinje Monastery, where you can check out Orthodox relics, including the hand of St. John the Baptist.  

5. Lovcen National Park

This spot is for hikers, history lovers and anyone who just loves a good view. Lovcen National Park is known for its mountain landscapes you can hike your way through and if you’re up for a climb, take on the stairs to Njegos Mausoleum at the summit of Jezerski Vrh – on a clear day, you can see all the way to Albania from up here!  

Things to try in Montenegro

Cevapi  

Countries in the Balkans love their meat and Montenegro is no exception. Cevapi are small, spiced meat patties – usually made from pork, lamb or chicken – grilled and sometimes skewered with onions and peppers. Occasionally, you may find them shaped into meatballs.  

Buzara  

Montenegro is not lacking in coastal towns and the closer you get to the sea, the more seafood that dominates the menus. Buzara is a classic coastal seafood dish simmered in a garlicky wine sauce with parsley and tomatoes.  

Burek  

A regional favourite and traditional breakfast, Burek is found in nearly every bakery and loved for its simple, delicious goodness. Made with flaky dough and filled with options like mincemeat, cheese, spinach or potatoes, it’s a great grab-and-go comfort food.  

Njegusi Prosciutto  

Prosciutto... but in Njegusi. Smoke-dried in the mountain village of Njegusi and known for its flavour, this region’s prosciutto is best enjoyed on a classic platter with fresh bread, local cheeses, olives, grapes and figs. 

Baklava  

This sweet treat has roots in Turkish and Greek cuisine but is one of the most loved desserts across the Balkans. Baklava is a rich, layered pastry filled with chopped nuts and topped with syrup or honey.  

Rakija 

It may not be for everyone, but if you're into a little alcoholic beverage action, then you’ll have to try Rakija on your trip – Montenegro's national alcoholic drink. It’s a strong fruit brandy traditionally made from plums, grapes or apricots and is a staple across the Balkans for a warm welcome or celebratory toast.  

Montenegro’s history has been shaped by a mix of influence from the Illyrians – its first known Iron Age inhabitants – followed by the Romans, Byzantines, Slavs and later powers like ancient Greece, Turkey, Venice, Austria-Hungary and Yugoslavia. This mix creates a unique blend of Mediterranean and Balkan influences with a deep sense of independence, strong family ties and warm hospitality.  

The country declared independence from Yugoslavia in 2006 and Montenegro today reflects a culturally rich and ethnically diverse country anchored in strong community values.  

Montenegrin identity is rooted in its traditions, art, literature, language and especially music and dance, which often feature the gusle, a traditional string instrument. Festivals like Kotor and Tivat Carnivals and Fasinada are lively celebrations that preserve historic legends, customs and traditions.  

The official currency of Montenegro is the Euro (EUR).  

Major credit cards are generally accepted by large shops and restaurants, particularly in tourist areas and larger towns. They may not be accepted by small vendors such as family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns or areas, so make sure you carry enough cash, just in case!  

ATMs are found widely throughout Montenegro, so withdrawing cash should not be problematic in most areas, especially in city centers and shopping areas. It may be harder to find an ATM in smaller towns, though, so lean on your leader for advice on if you should take out cash before you leave urban areas.