Top 10 Places to Visit in Montenegro
Montengro what a surprise this country turned out to be. The backdrop of the majestic mountains against the clear turquoise sea is jaw droppingly stunning. Packed full of local culture and plenty of restaurants and bars serving up fresh seafood and local delicacies, the beach resorts offer a refreshing change from other over-packed tourist destinations. Here are my Top 10 things to do in Montenegro.
1. TRANQUIL LAKE SKADAR – Experience the calm waters of beautiful Lake Skadar from the tranquility of a boat, canoe or kayak. Set amongst the dramatic mountain backdrop, the lake offers the perfect place to spend the day relaxing amongst the waterlilies and reed water ways whilst spotting the unique birds, old ruins and island monasteries that are all waiting to be explored.
2. KOTOR CABLE CAR – Take the new awe inspiring Kotor Cable Car to see spectacular views of Kotor Bay and end up in the magnificent Durtimor National Park. This is truly a breathtaking experience that is not to be missed. The cable car journey itself is 11 exhilirating minutes, once at the top you feel like you are a world away from where you started. Here you can choose from relaxing and enjoying lunch at the most scenic restaurant, sitting on the cliffs edge with a coffee or wine or be more active with a hike or cycle around the national park. Soon there will be a rollercoaster and amphitheatre option to entertain the whole family.
3. BLUE CAVE BOAT TRIP – To see Montenegro in all it’s beauty, you need to take a boat trip out on the turquoise waters. Dive into the crystal clear ocean, go snorkelling in the blue caves, try catch a fish or simply sit back and admire the mountains and phenomenal views on offer as you sip on a plantaze rose or Nikisico beer.
4. SAMO POLAKO (Take it easy / slow down) – What better place to embrace this local way of life than relaxing all day at a beach club. Lining up all along the beach front, in Becici and Budva, you can find your perfect spot to chill out, with nothing to worry about but swimming in clear blue waters, admiring the spectacular mountain backdrop and enjoying a strong spritz on your sunbed.
5. GET LOST IN KOTOR’S OLD TOWN. This impressive medieval town is full of character with it’s narrow streets and hidden squares all bustling with locals and tourists. Set amongst the fortified walls, simply wander around and appreciate the different architecture at the cathedral, palaces and museums. Or simply sip on a coffee or enjoy the local delights in one of the many bars and restaurants on offer.
6. SPECTACULAR SVETI STEFAN – Mainly famous for the unique 5* resort housed on the island, this spot is a pictureque place to come to admire the panoramic views of the bay, enjoy the beach and have lunch at one of the restaurants or cafes by the water. Ferries and buses run regularly from Budva and Becici.
7. PORTO MONTENEGRO – LIVING IT UP – If you want a taste of the high life whilst in Montenegro then come to Porto Montenegro at Tivat. Wander amongst the superyachts and browse the designer shops before enjoying a long lunch, al fresco whilst people watching along the marina.
8. TASTE OF THE SEA – Enjoy the local seafood at a waterfront restaurant at Becici, Budva or Perast. Fresh off the fishing boats the same day, Montenegro’s coastlline has some of the best seafood on offer. With the catches of the day often set up on display, you can simply select your favourite seafood to be freshly cooked and served up with a side of local Dalmatian stew (spinach and potatoes).
9. SUNSET SPRITZ– Finish off your beach day or kickstart your evenings early by enjoying a refreshing spritz as you soak up the atmosphere of the local buzz by watching the sunset from a rooftop bar or enjoying locals singing along to live music at a bar like Papilion.
10. ENJOY LOCAL FESTIVITIES – Being there for when any local festivities are on is the best way to be immersed in the local culture. We were there for the Dan Siruna, the end of the summer festival where the whole of Budva came alive by the old town. Watching locals all come together to enjoy fresh fish being bbq’d and served for free, whilst listening to live music from Montenegrin bands and dancing in the street was an evening we won’t forget.
