To Stay

Hotel Boscovich. This small boutique hotel is conveniently located just walking distance from many shops and restaurants. It’s clean, modern, and has a pretty popular restaurant/bar on the bottom level with breakfast included in our stay. The staff was extremely warm and welcoming. The owner actually offered to be our tour guide for the next 3 days. We simply told him what we wanted to see and asked what he suggested, and he planned it for us.

The Hotel Boscovich is also located within walking distance to many local bars. If you’re expecting crazy nightlife, Podgorica is not where you’re going to find it, but it does have cool small taprooms to try local beer and hang out.

The Aman resort on Sveti Stefan will definitely be our spot the next time we visit. It is absolutely stunning. Another beautiful hotel is The One&Only in Portonovi. And don’t skip on the boutique hotels offered all along the coast. You can get luxury and charm at a better price.

On your first evening, have dinner at Restoran Jezero, owned by the Plantaze Winery. The restaurant sits on the edge of a lake and offers an extensive menu of seafood, pasta, and of course, wine. Enjoy a perfect first night enjoying local wines and the beautiful Montenegrin weather.

Day 1 - Budva

No matter where you’re staying in Montenegro, you must see Budva. This old city is beautiful and historic. It sits right on the water, and you’ll have a chance to enjoy the beach and some seafront restaurants and cafes. Wander the seemingly endless walkways of the old city to discover beautiful views, hidden rooms, and unique landmarks. You can spend several hours or an entire day.

After Budva, head down about 20 minutes south down the coast to Sveti Stefan for lunch. I mentioned it earlier, but Sveti Stefan is a tiny island just off the coast. By “just off,” I mean a short bridge connects it. The island used to be an old fishing village and is now home to an Aman resort. Aman kept the old buildings, so the charm is incomparable. It has all the luxury and history all in one. If you aren’t staying there, enjoy a delicious long lunch at their terrace restaurant overlooking the Baltic sea.

After lunch, walk down to the public beach. Here you can pay a small fee for beach chairs and relax and swim in the emerald ocean. It’s a nice time to people watch too. The people of Montenegro are kind and free. And you’ll see this everywhere you go.

After several hours of salt and sun, rinse off in the outdoor showers and change for dinner. Dinner can be right next door at Olive, just above the private beach. This restaurant has beautiful views of Sveti Stefan and is a perfect place for a sunset.

Day 2 – Monastery of Ostrog

On day two, take a few hour drive to the Monastery of Ostrog. This beautiful and intricate monastery is built into the side of a cliff. If you want a break from the coast, I definitely recommend checking it out. It’s not too far. In fact, nowhere in Montenegro is far. You can get almost anywhere in the country within 2 hours. This is one of the best parts of visiting for a short stay. You can leave feeling like you saw everything, without having to travel long and far to do it. Well, if you don’t count the actual journey to Montenegro.

Day 3 - Kotor

Head back to the coast on your third and final full day. The end goal is the Bay of Kotor, an incredibly long bay just north. On your way there, stop in Cetinje to tour the castle and museum and maybe enjoy a cup of coffee. Each of the villages and towns in Montenegro is incredibly sweet and unique. Cetinje feels welcoming and warm.

Take your second stop in Tivat, another coastal town known for its value. You’ll see beautiful yachts, designer stores, and top-notch eateries. Tivat is beautiful and filled with elegance and charm.

Finally, make it through the Bay of Kotor to explore the old city of Kotor. This is an absolute must in Montenegro. You can get lost in the small, winding pathways, but each will lead you to a quaint café, restaurant, or shop. You’ll come across seemingly hidden lookout points and crumbling statues. Even in the rain… actually, especially in the rain, this old city is incredible to explore. After exploring the old city continue around the bay and enjoy dinner at Verige 65, a hot spot with stunning sunset views.

Note - The Bay of Kotor is bigger than you would think and also a BAY, so you have to drive the long way round to get anywhere. Consider this when booking restaurants or time for exploring.

Day 4 – Plantaze Winery

Depending on your flight, take advantage of the morning before. Start with a tour and tasting at the Plantaze Winery. The winery is built inside a massive cave, making for a really unique experience. You’ll not only try some incredible wine but also some tasty olive oil to take home with you.

On your way back to the hotel or airport, stop for lunch at Café Niagra along the Cijvena River.

Other Things To Do:

Visit the Blue Grotto Cave

See the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

Hike Mount Orien

Take a walk through the Milocer forest when visiting Sveti Stefan

Visit Sveti Nikola when in Budva

Eat at Hedone Restaurant in Budva

Visit Astoria

Definitely add Montenegro to your list – it’s an easy flight from most of Europe and even an easy day trip from Croatia. While you don’t need much time to explore all ends of the country, it’s for sure worth a few days. You will not be disappointed.

Featured