Is Montenegro a Tourist Destination?
Bay of Kotor
Introduction
In this article, I will share interesting tourist facts about Montenegro, highlighting why it is considered a hidden gem in Europe, and why Montenegro is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination.
Interesting Touristic Information About Montenegro:
Economic Impact: Tourism accounted for 9.5% of Montenegro’s GDP and 9.0% of total employment in 2019.
Tourist Arrivals: In 2019, Montenegro welcomed 2.5 million international tourists, which decreased due to the pandemic but rebounded to 1.6 million in 2021. Interestingly the population of Montenegro is only around 620,000.
Infrastructure Improvements: Montenegro has been investing in tourism infrastructure, including new hotels, marinas, and transport facilities.
Sustainable Tourism: Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism practices to preserve natural and cultural heritage as well as the wildlife.
Air Travel: Montenegro is well-connected with direct flights from major European cities to its two international airports, Podgorica and Tivat.
Historical Significance: Montenegro boasts rich historical significance with sites like the UNESCO-listed old town of Kotor, Budva Old Town, the cliffside Ostrog Monastery, and Cetinje, the historical capital featuring numerous cultural institutions and museums.
What is There to do in Montenegro as a Tourist?
Montenegro offers something for every kind of traveler, including water sports, vibrant nightlife, beach clubs, hiking, great cuisine and more all packed within a small country that's easy to navigate, especially if you plan to hire a car.
Here are some of the main highlights; most of these images and videos are from my own trips to Montenegro, with some being stock photos.
1. Cultural Exploration
Montenegro offers some very diverse cultural experiences, with numerous historical sites, churches, and museums that reflect its rich history and influences.
Kotor: The UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town of Kotor, has well-preserved medieval architecture. Key landmarks include the 12th-century Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the Maritime Museum of Montenegro, which highlights the region’s seafaring history. The view also of the Bay of Kotor from up high is also something that stays with you forever.
Perast: The town of Perast, located on the Bay of Kotor. Notable sites include the Church of St. Nikola and the two islets, Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George, which feature quaint chapels and stunning views.
Cetinje: The historical capital of Montenegro, Cetinje is home to significant cultural institutions such as the Cetinje Monastery, the National Museum of Montenegro, and King Nikola's Palace.
Ostrog Monastery: One of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Balkans, Ostrog Monastery is carved into a vertical cliff face and offers breathtaking views and spiritual significance. It houses the relics of Saint Basil of Ostrog and features impressive frescoes.
Budva: Known for its vibrant nightlife, Budva also boasts a charming old town with narrow streets, historic buildings, citadel, and orthodox christian churches. The Budva Riviera is famous for its beaches and lively atmosphere.
2. Hiking and Experiencing Nature:
Montenegro is an amazing place for outdoor enthusiasts with lots of different activities, including some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in Europe. Here are the top destinations for experiencing the natural beauty of Montenegro:
Lovćen National Park: Located near the historic town of Cetinje, Lovćen National Park is home to Mount Lovćen and the Njegoš Mausoleum. Along the way, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Montenegrin coast, Lake Skadar, and the surrounding mountains. The mausoleum itself is an architectural marvel with a 28-tonne statue of national hero Petar II Petrović Njegoš resting in the wings of an eagle, it is carved from a single block of black granite!
Durmitor National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Durmitor National Park offers diverse hiking opportunities, including the challenging trail to Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak in Montenegro at 2,523 meters. The park features deep canyons, glacial lakes, and the Tara River, which is ideal for white-water rafting. The Black Lake (Crno Jezero) is a must-visit, surrounded by dense forests and offering stunning views. Durmitor is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears and wolves, but the likelihood of seeing them is very slim.
The Ladder of Kotor: This historic trail starts from Kotor’s old town and ascends 940 meters to the top, providing spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor. The 10 km trail is moderately difficult and involves a continuous uphill climb along switchbacks, but the panoramic vistas of the bay make it well worth the effort. This trail is best hiked early in the morning to avoid the midday sun.
Prokletije National Park: Known as the Accursed Mountains, Prokletije National Park offers some of the most rugged and remote hiking trails in Montenegro. The 15 km round-trip trail to Volušnica and Taljanka peaks is strenuous but rewards hikers with unparalleled views of the Albanian Alps. This region is a dream for avid hikers looking for a challenging adventure.
Biogradska Gora National Park: One of Europe’s last remaining primaeval forests, Biogradska Gora National Park is a special place for nature lovers. The park features well-marked trails through ancient woodlands, leading to Biogradsko Lake. Hikers can enjoy the beauty of the forest, rich biodiversity, and the serene lake environment.
Piva Canyon Path:This moderate-level trail is about 10 km long and takes hikers along the dramatic Piva River Canyon. The path offers stunning cliffside views, dense forest landscapes, and the striking turquoise waters of the Piva River and Lake. It’s a perfect hike for those looking to experience Montenegro's dramatic natural scenery.
Lake Skadar National Park: Lake Skadar, is the largest lake in Southern Europe, bordering between Montenegro and Albania. It is a paradise for birdwatchers, home to over 280 bird species, including the rare Dalmatian pelican. The national park offers numerous hiking trails, boat tours, and opportunities for swimming and fishing. The Crnojevića River area within the park features picturesque lookouts, old mills, and small waterfalls, making it a scenic and tranquil spot for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the historical ruins of Žabljak Crnojevića and enjoy local cuisine in lakeside restaurants.
3. Relax by Beautiful Beaches:
Montenegro's coastline is dotted with excellent beaches that offer a good setting for relaxation and enjoyment. Here are the top 3 beaches to checkout:
Royal Beach: Located in Njivice, Royal Beach is renowned for its stunning sandy stretches and crystal-clear waters. It is relatively quiet and offers a serene environment, making it a great choice for those looking to escape busier tourist spots.
Dobrec Beach: Accessible only by boat, Dobrec Beach is one of the hidden gems of Montenegro. It offers a secluded atmosphere and is less frequented, providing a peaceful retreat with pristine waters and lush greenery surrounding it.
Mogren Beach: Situated near Budva, Mogren Beach consists of two sandy beaches connected by a small tunnel. It's popular and well-known, often bustling with tourists. The beach offers various amenities, including cafes and restaurants, and is known for its lively vibe.
Other notable mentions include Long Beach (Velika Plaža) which is one of the longest sandy beaches on the Adriatic Sea. Stretching over 12 kilometres and is perfect for those that like a less crowded place, Sveti Stefan Beach located near the town of Budva, Sveti Stefan is an iconic beach known for its stunning view of the luxury island resort. The beach itself is split into two sections: one for the public and one for guests of the Aman Sveti Stefan resort.
Finally, there is also Jaz Beach which is known for its lively atmosphere and buzzy nightlife. This pebbly beach is lined with bars and restaurants, and it's a hotspot for water sports like surfing and water skiing.
4. Nightlife:
Montenegro’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, especially in cities like Budva and Podgorica. Budva, often referred to as the "Montenegrin Miami," is known for its lively bars, clubs, and beachfront parties. Here are a couple of more chilled spots if you’re a little older like me :).
Street Bar: Centrally located in Podgorica, Montenegro.
Atmosphere: Street Bar is a popular cocktail bar that combines jazz and blues music to create a vibrant atmosphere. Known for its unique interior that resembles a street, it provides a pretty cool experience for visitors looking to relax or enjoy lively music.
Amenities: Excellent selection of cocktails, quality wines, and beers.
Pros: Features relaxing music during the day and live performances in the evening. The bar also boasts a great outdoor garden where guests can enjoy drinks in a pleasant environment.
Prices: Awesome for the price. Most cocktails are around 5 euros.
The Clubhouse: Located in Tivat, Montenegro, within the exclusive Porto Montenegro marina.
Atmosphere: It offers a sophisticated setting with elegant décor, making it a popular spot to enjoy the moment. Small with good vibes.
Amenities: The venue features high-end service, with a selection of premium drinks and gourmet snacks.
Pros: It's known for its upscale atmosphere and excellent location with views of the marina.
Prices: Being a high-end bar, the prices are on the higher side compared to average local bars.
Jazz Club Evergreen: Located in the historic old town of Kotor, adding a really cool backdrop to its ambience.
Atmosphere: The club is mood-lit, decorated with musical memorabilia, and hosts regular live international and local jazz acts.
Amenities: Offers a good selection of drinks and sometimes light snacks.
Pros: Perfect for jazz lovers and those seeking a relaxing evening with good music in a picturesque setting.
Prices: Reasonably priced, providing good value for an intimate live music experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
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Yes, Montenegro is a popular tourist destination offering a diverse range of activities, from watersports and diving to vibrant nightlife, beach clubs, hiking, and mountain adventures.
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Montenegro offers a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in cities like Budva and Podgorica, with numerous nightclubs, bars, live music venues, and beach clubs that stay lively until the early hours.
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Absolutely! Montenegro offers excellent hiking opportunities in places like Durmitor National Park, Biogradska Gora National Park, and Lovćen National Park, with trails suitable for all levels of hikers.
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Yes, there are many really nice and classy beach clubs in Montenegro. Some main ones to look out for include: Buddha-Bar Beach, Kamenovo Restaurant & Beach Bar, Royal Blue Beach Club, Malaya Beach Club
References and Further Reading:
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This article from Original Travel highlights Montenegro’s top beaches, including the famous Sveti Stefan, the secluded Luštica Peninsula, and the charming Jaz Beach. It provides insights on their unique features, best times to visit, and what makes them stand out, helping travelers decide where to soak up the sun in Montenegro.
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Provides an overview of Montenegro’s best beaches, featuring descriptions of the sparkling waters and sublime views each location offers. It may include practical travel tips, highlights of unique features at each beach,
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This website could be useful for navigating mosquitos.
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Just type the specific place you’re visiting in Montenegro for a more specific forecast.
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The Montenegro Travel page on National Park Biogradska Gora provides a comprehensive guide to one of Europe's last primaeval forests, nestled in Montenegro's Bjelasica mountain. It details the park's rich biodiversity, recreational activities like hiking and kayaking, and cultural experiences available through eco-katuns. Visitors can explore ancient forests, and glacial lakes, and enjoy local cuisine in a stunning natural setting.ion
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The official Montenegro tourism website provides extensive resources for travellers exploring Montenegro. It includes detailed information on destinations, activities, accommodations, and cultural insights, offering tools to plan and book trips. Highlighting Montenegro’s rich history, diverse landscapes, and year-round travel opportunities, the site serves as a comprehensive guide for tourists looking to experience everything from its Adriatic beaches to mountainous adventures.
