Top 11 Places to Visit in Montenegro [2024]

Montenegro is a European country often overlooked by travelers. How many times have you heard someone talk about a trip to Montenegro? When Ignacio told me it was his favorite country in Europe, I was a bit skeptical, but his enthusiasm sparked my curiosity. So, we decided to spend 2 months exploring this beautiful destination. Now, Montenegro has become one of my favorites too. If you’re looking for a destination for your next trip, we’ve prepared a guide with the best places to visit in Montenegro.

1. Kotor – the most famous city to visit in Montenegro

Kotor is easily the most popular city in Montenegro, and for good reason. It sits along the coast, surrounded by a stunning fjord and towering mountains. The Kotor Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and the impressive cathedral, is charming and full of history. And if you’re up for it, hiking the city walls offers incredible views you won’t forget!

2. Perast

Perast is another charming village located along the Kotor Bay coastline that you must visit. Here, you’ll find the beautiful Our Lady of the Rocks island, with its stunning buildings and cobblestone streets. It’s definitely worth a visit to stroll around or enjoy a coffee at one of the local cafés.

3. Tivat, the Most Luxurious Place to Visit in Montenegro

Tivat is known for its luxury and modern lifestyle. At Porto Montenegro marina, you’ll see impressive luxury yachts and designer boutiques. It’s a truly stunning destination for those seeking elegance and sophistication, making it one of the top places to visit in Montenegro.

4. Budva: The Best Place to Stay in Montenegro

Budva is one of Montenegro’s most popular destinations, famous for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. The Old Town is a must-visit, while Mogren and Jaz beaches are stunning highlights. We chose Budva as our base and, after living there for two months, we’re convinced it’s the perfect spot. It’s close to many of Montenegro’s top attractions, offers plenty of great restaurants, and has some of the most beautiful beaches.

5. Sveti Stefan: The Most Beautiful Island to Visit in Montenegro

Sveti Stefan is a small island featuring a luxury hotel near Budva. It’s a picture-perfect destination, surrounded by sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. While access to the island is reserved for guests with bookings, you can still enjoy breathtaking views from the nearby beach. Sveti Stefan is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Montenegro.

6. Stari grad Bar

Stari Bar is an ancient ruined town that takes you back in time. Wander through its old streets and visit the castle. While there’s not much else to see besides the ruins, skipping this place would have been a big mistake. In Stari Bar, we had the best food in Montenegro—an unforgettable experience!

7. The Kotor Serpentine: Montenegro’s Most Scenic Road

The Kotor Serpentine isn’t a single destination but a winding mountain road that offers breathtaking views of the fjord and the Adriatic coast. It’s the perfect spot for capturing incredible photos and undoubtedly the most impressive road you can experience in Montenegro.

8. Piva Canyon

Piva Canyon, located in northern Montenegro, is a bit far from Budva and the other spots mentioned in this article, but it’s absolutely worth the trip. This stunning canyon features a turquoise lake surrounded by majestic mountains—a truly breathtaking sight!

9. Ostrog Monastery: The Most Spectacular Church to Visit in Montenegro

Ostrog Monastery is a breathtaking religious pilgrimage site built into a cliffside. Its unique location and panoramic views make it one of the top places to visit in Montenegro. Prepare for a long walk to the Monastery from the parking though!

10. Cijevna Waterfalls: A Hidden Gem Near Podgorica

The Cijevna Waterfalls are located on the Cijevna River near Podgorica. While they may not be as large as Niagara Falls, they are absolutely beautiful. Plus, it’s one of the few must-see places near Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica.

11. The Largest Lake in the Balkans: Lake Skadar

Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans and an important wildlife haven. The lake spans across the border, with one part located in Montenegro and the other in Albania.

Podgorica: The Capital of Montenegro

You might have noticed that we didn’t mention Montenegro’s capital, Podgorica, on our list of places to visit. Why? Well, it’s often overlooked by tourists. The city lacks the historical and architectural charm found in other parts of Montenegro, like Kotor or Budva. We visited Podgorica once, but honestly, there wasn’t much to see. In our opinion, Montenegro’s capital isn’t worth a visit, especially when there are so many other beautiful places to explore in the country.

Is Montenegro Worth Visiting?

Traveling to Montenegro is a fantastic idea, and hurry—it’s becoming more popular by the day! Montenegro offers a lot to explore: cities, beaches, and mountains. Plus, it’s an affordable country with great weather and friendly locals. Another advantage is that Montenegro is not part of the Schengen Area, so if you’re traveling from Latin America with limited time, it’s a perfect European destination to extend your stay. Before planning your trip, be sure to check out our travel tips for Montenegro. Find your cheap flight to Montenegro here and start planning your adventure! If you want to help us complete this list of must-see places in Montenegro, share your recommendations in the comments.