Cities
Montenegro is a country of stunning landscapes and charming cities. Here are the top 5 cities you should visit:
- Kotor: Nestled between mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval old town, stunning architecture, and picturesque views.
- Budva: With its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites, Budva is a popular destination for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
- Podgorica: The capital city of Montenegro, Podgorica offers a unique blend of modern architecture and historical landmarks, along with a vibrant cultural scene.
- Herceg Novi: Located at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor, Herceg Novi is known for its beautiful beaches, charming old town, and numerous festivals and events.
- Perast: This small town is famous for its well-preserved Baroque architecture, picturesque waterfront, and proximity to the stunning Our Lady of the Rocks island.
Airports
When traveling to Montenegro, you have several airports to choose from. Here are the top 5 airports in Montenegro:
- Podgorica Airport: Located in the capital city, Podgorica Airport is the main international gateway to Montenegro.
- Tivat Airport: Situated near the popular tourist destinations of Kotor and Budva, Tivat Airport serves as a convenient entry point for travelers.
- Podgorica Heliport: If you prefer a more exclusive and luxurious mode of transportation, Podgorica Heliport offers helicopter services for private flights.
- Pljevlja Airport: Located in the northern part of Montenegro, Pljevlja Airport is a small regional airport that mainly serves domestic flights.
- Ulcinj Airport: Situated on the southern coast of Montenegro, Ulcinj Airport provides easy access to the beautiful beaches of Ulcinj and the surrounding area.
Airlines
Several airlines operate flights to and from Montenegro. Here are the top 5 airlines that connect Montenegro to the world:
- Montenegro Airlines: The national carrier of Montenegro, Montenegro Airlines offers domestic and international flights to various destinations.
- Air Serbia: As the flag carrier of Serbia, Air Serbia provides convenient connections to Montenegro from major cities around the globe.
- Austrian Airlines: With its extensive network, Austrian Airlines offers flights to Montenegro from various European and international destinations.
- Turkish Airlines: As one of the largest airlines in the world, Turkish Airlines connects Montenegro to a wide range of destinations across the globe.
- Wizz Air: Known for its low-cost flights, Wizz Air operates routes to and from Montenegro, making travel more affordable for budget-conscious travelers.
Destinations
Montenegro is a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are the top 5 must-visit destinations in Montenegro:
- Skadar Lake: The largest lake in the Balkans, Skadar Lake is a paradise for nature lovers, with its diverse wildlife, picturesque landscapes, and charming fishing villages.
- Durmitor National Park: Located in the northwestern part of Montenegro, Durmitor National Park offers breathtaking mountain scenery, hiking trails, and the famous Tara River Canyon.
- Lovćen National Park: Home to the mausoleum of Montenegro’s national hero, Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, Lovćen National Park boasts stunning views, hiking opportunities, and rich biodiversity.
- Sveti Stefan: This iconic island-turned-hotel is a symbol of Montenegro’s luxury tourism, with its exclusive resorts, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking views.
- Ada Bojana: Situated at the mouth of the Bojana River, Ada Bojana is a unique triangular-shaped island known for its sandy beaches, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.
Hotels
Montenegro offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Here are the top 5 hotels in Montenegro:
- Aman Sveti Stefan: Located on the iconic island of Sveti Stefan, this luxury resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience, with its historic charm, stunning views, and world-class amenities.
- Regent Porto Montenegro: Situated in the exclusive Porto Montenegro complex, this 5-star hotel combines elegance, comfort, and impeccable service, offering a luxurious stay in the heart of the Adriatic.
- Hotel Splendid Conference & Spa Resort: With its prime location on the beachfront in Budva, this hotel offers modern rooms, a luxurious spa, and a wide range of amenities for a relaxing stay.
- Hotel Astoria: Located in the heart of Kotor’s UNESCO-listed old town, Hotel Astoria provides a perfect blend of history, comfort, and hospitality, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the city’s rich heritage.
- Hotel Vardar: Situated in the charming town of Kotor, Hotel Vardar offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, comfortable rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
Recreation Sites
Montenegro is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of recreational activities. Here are the top 5 recreation sites in Montenegro:
- Lake Skadar: Besides its natural beauty, Lake Skadar is a popular spot for boating, kayaking, birdwatching, and fishing.
- Black Lake: Situated in Durmitor National Park, Black Lake is a picturesque mountain lake where visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and even swimming during the summer months.
- Biogradska Gora National Park: Known for its virgin forests and stunning Biogradsko Lake, this national park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and the chance to spot rare plant and animal species.
- Ada Ciganlija: Located near the capital city of Podgorica, Ada Ciganlija is a popular recreational area with a lake, beaches, sports facilities, and various entertainment options.
- Velika Plaza: Stretching for 13 kilometers along the Adriatic coast, Velika Plaza is a paradise for beach lovers, offering golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant beach scene.
Folkloric Events
Montenegro has a rich cultural heritage, and folkloric events play an important role in preserving and showcasing traditional customs and traditions. Here are the top 5 folkloric events in Montenegro:
- Kotor Carnival: Held annually in Kotor, this vibrant carnival features colorful parades, traditional costumes, music, and dance, attracting both locals and tourists.
- Mimosa Festival: Celebrated in Herceg Novi, the Mimosa Festival marks the arrival of spring with parades, concerts, exhibitions, and the crowning of the Mimosa Queen.
- Krakatoa Festival: Taking place in Nikšić, the Krakatoa Festival is a celebration of traditional music, dance, and folklore, showcasing the cultural diversity of Montenegro.
- Zabljak Cultural Summer: Held in Zabljak, this cultural festival features concerts, theater performances, exhibitions, and traditional folklore, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the mountains.
- International Folklore Festival: Organized in Cetinje, the former royal capital of Montenegro, this festival brings together folk dance and music groups from around the world, promoting cultural exchange and understanding.
Best Souvenirs
When visiting Montenegro, don’t forget to bring back some unique souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Here are the best souvenirs to buy in Montenegro:
- Natural Skincare Products: Montenegro is known for its natural beauty, and you can find a variety of locally made skincare products, such as olive oil soaps, lavender creams, and herbal balms.
- Traditional Handicrafts: Handwoven rugs, embroidered textiles, and wooden carvings are just a few examples of the traditional handicrafts you can find in Montenegro, representing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
- Wine and Rakija: Montenegro has a long tradition of winemaking, and you can find excellent wines and rakija (fruit brandy) produced in local vineyards.
- Montenegrin Honey: Known for its high quality, Montenegrin honey is a delicious and healthy souvenir to take home, with various flavors and types available.
- Montenegrin Jewelry: From intricate filigree silver jewelry to unique pieces made from local gemstones, Montenegrin jewelry is a beautiful and meaningful souvenir to cherish.
Whether you are interested in exploring historic cities, enjoying the natural beauty, or immersing yourself in the local culture, Montenegro has something to offer for every traveler. Plan your visit to this hidden gem of the Adriatic and create memories that will last a lifetime.