Montenegro holidays

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Montenegro holidays

Best hotels in Montenegro

You probably didn’t hear people telling you stories about their summer Montenegro holiday when you were growing up, and with good reason - it’s only existed as an independent country since 2004. This dinky Balkan state is one of the smallest countries in Europe. Despite that, Montenegro holidays are packed full of natural and historical sites to explore.

Best Places to Visit in Montenegro

  • Bay of Kotor: The postcard perfect Kotor Bay is famous for its dramatic landscapes, where steep rocky mountains plunge into the blue waters of the bay. It’s often compared to the Fjords of Norway and the area was granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1979. Nestled within this bay are the towns of Budva, Kotor and Tivat.
  • Budva: Budva is Montenegro's premier coastal destination, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. The charming Old Town, encircled by ancient walls, features narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, and lovely squares. It's sometimes given the nickname 'mini Dubrovnik'. At night the town comes alive with bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it a hotspot for entertainment.
  • Kotor Old Town: The ancient town of Kotor, is famous for its well-preserved Venetian architecture and charming narrow streets, all awaiting your exploration. Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by the waterfront. Alternatively, climb the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor. (Note the steep 1.2km path to the top is rough cobblestones, so pack appropriate footwear if you want to include this as part of your itinerary.)
  • Perast: Sometimes referred to as a little part of Venice that broke away and drifted across the sea, Perast has plenty of stunning Venetian architecture to admire. A must-do activity is catching the boat to Our Lady of the Rocks (a small island with a church and museum), the views as you travel across are breathtaking.
  • Podgorica: Montenegro's capital is home to a variety of cultural landmarks, including the Roman ruins of Doclea. Although the city lacks the coastal charm of other regions, it serves as a good base for exploring the nearby wine regions and natural parks like Lake Skadar.
  • Tivat: Tivat is an emerging hotspot on the Montenegrin coast, particularly known for Porto Montenegro, a luxury marina filled with yachts, high-end boutiques and upscale restaurants. The town has retained its natural beauty, offering access to sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

 

Best Places to Stay in Montenegro

Once you’ve decided which resort or city to stay in, you’ll need to decide on your Montenegro hotel. If you’re looking for a luxury holiday there’s options like the 5 star Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort and Hotel Budva. After a nice hotel for a competitive price? Consider a May or October holiday to Montenegro with a stay at a 4 star hotel like Hotel Rivijera or Hotel ACD Wellness and Spa.

Map of Montenegro

world_map
12 ℃ - 32 ℃

Montenegro experiences a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild winters.

 

 

3 hours
Fly to Tivat or Podgorica

Montenegro is best for...

Beach lovers: With its crystal-clear waters and sun-soaked sandy stretches, Montenegro's coastline is a paradise for beachgoers. Head to Budva for lively beach bars and golden sands.

History lovers: Montenegro is a treasure trove of ancient sites. Wander through the UNESCO-listed old town of Kotor, explore the medieval walls of Budva, or visit the stunning Ostrog Monastery, perched high in the mountains.

Outdoor adventurers: Montenegro's dramatic landscapes offer endless opportunities for adventure. From hiking in the rugged Durmitor National Park to rafting down the Tara River canyon, you’ll find plenty to fuel your adrenaline.

Fast facts for Montenegro

Language: The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin. You may see Cyrillic lettering used alongside Latin letters.

Currency: The currency used is the Euro.

Local time: Montenegro is one hour ahead of GMT/UK time. 

Fly to: Direct flights from the UK to Montenegro land at both Tivat Airport (TIV) and Podgorica Airport (TGD).

Flight time from the UK: The flight time is around 3 hours.

Roaming: Montenegro is not part of the EU, so if your mobile operator offers roaming in Europe, check whether or not it includes Montenegro. 

Smoking: Designated indoor smoking areas are permitted in Montenegro, as long as they are separated from non-smoking areas. So when confirming a hotel room or restaurant reservation you may wish to state your preference. 

Tourist Information: Further tourist information can be found at the official website for tourism in Montenegro.

Visa / health: Before you travel, please check the latest advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

Getting around Montenegro

By boat: Ferries offer a fast way of crossing the bays without undertaking a lengthy drive all the way around. There’s options for both vehicles and foot passengers. 

By bus: Local bus services offer a convenient way of getting between towns. Do note they aren’t air conditioned, so be prepared.

By car: If you intend to drive then be aware it may not be a quick way of getting around. There’s no Motorways in Montenegro and the condition of roads is poorer than in most European countries.

Events in Montenegro

Sea Dance Festival: Every July, Budva's stunning Jaz Beach plays host to the Sea Dance Festival - a must for music lovers. With international and local artists performing on the sandy shores, you'll experience incredible electronic beats and festival vibes against a backdrop of the Adriatic Sea.

International Summer Carnival: Held each August, this lively event transforms the charming Old Town of Kotor into a vibrant stage of parades, costumes, and street performances. Join in the fun as the narrow streets come alive with music and dance, celebrating both local traditions and global cultures.

Boćanje Olympics: If you're in Tivat in September, don't miss the Boćanje Olympics, a quirky yet beloved local event celebrating the traditional sport of bocce. Watch as teams compete with skill and precision, adding a touch of playful competition to this coastal town's festive atmosphere.

Montenegro safety and security

For up-to-date advice on travelling to Montenegro, please visit the FCDO website.

Montenegro weather

The weather in Montenegro varies due to its diverse landscapes. Along the coast you’ll find a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, sunny summers and mild winters. In summer Budva weather forecasts usually include daytime highs of 25 to 30°C, making it perfect for beach lovers.

Inland areas like Podgorica have hotter summers but also experience more rainfall, even during the warmer months. Winters here are colder, with occasional snowfall. The Dinaric Mountains play a role in shaping weather patterns.

More hotels in Montenegro

FAQs

FAQs

Is Montenegro a good place for a holiday?

Definitely! A lesser visited county can still make a great holiday destination. There’s a fantastic blend of natural beauty and history for you to discover. Whether you’re into relaxing or exploring, there’s something for you.

What are the best months to go to Montenegro?

Seasonal flights tend to operate from around Easter until October, so travelling to Montenegro between November and March may prove difficult. If you prefer warm weather with fewer crowds and lower hotel prices then May and October are the best time to visit. In July and August daytime highs are typically above 30ºC, making it good weather for sunbathing but rather warm for exploring the ancient city walls in Kotor.

Is Montenegro expensive for a holiday?

Not at all. It’s generally considered a cheap destination. Although, if you wish to spend more to stay in a luxurious resort then you can do that too.