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Discover Montenegro with this FREE downloadable itinerary that shows you the highlights and hidden gems of this beautiful Balkan country.
The Discover Montenegro Tour is a great itinerary if you want to see all Montenegro has to offer.
It’s ideal if you:
This tour is also good if you're travelling with kids. There's not too much driving and there are plenty of kid-friendly activities and places to stay - no matter what age your kids are.
You can do this itinerary any time of year, and because you’re booking it yourself, you can modify it however you like.
I’ve designed the Discover Montenegro Tour to fit into a week’s stay, but you can add extra nights wherever you think you’d like to stay a bit longer. I also recommend adding a 3-7 day coastal stay at the end of your trip for chilling on the beach!
This itinerary is so great because it can be as busy or relaxed as you like. You're not travelling great distances each day, so you can fit in lots of activities and sights or you can just take it easy.
That’s the advantage of booking an independent holiday… with a little insider help!
You can also download a free copy of this itinerary at the bottom of the page.
Let’s see what the Discover Montenegro Tour itinerary has in store for you…
Guide yourself with the
"World's Best Guide to Kotor"
The Bay of Kotor is Montenegro's most popular destination. It's stunningly beautiful, picturesque and is full of history and culture. There is also plenty to see and do here. You'll find ancient towns, nightlife, fun boat trips, great restaurants, adventure sports and more.
Arrive at one of three airports: Tivat, Dubrovnik or Podgorica and collect a rental car (I recommend Localrent for the best choice, service and prices).
Tivat is the best airport to fly into because it’s close to the Bay of Kotor and you don’t have to cross any borders.
Dubrovnik airport is the next best option because it’s just 25 minutes from the Montenegrin border and bay (start point).
If you fly into Podgorica, I suggest you start your tour from here rather than driving down to the bay. You can overnight in Podgorica and drive to Žabljak from here on day two.
Perast is an idyllic town near Kotor. The town was once the centre of wealth and power in the bay and the shore is lined with baroque palaces.
Our Lady of the Rocks is one of the bay's most popular attractions. The island has beautiful church and adjoining museum where you can see local artworks and artefacts.
Roman Mosaics in Risan are the remnants of a Roman villa built between 96 and 192 AD. The mosaic floors have been painstakingly reconstructed and this mosaic of the god Hypnos is the only one in the world.
The Blue Cave lies on Luštica Peninsula and taking a boat tour from Kotor Bay to the cave is one of the most popular things to do in the Bay of Kotor. Tours start from 3 hours and include visits to other attractions too.
San Giovanni Fortress lies on the hill above Kotor. You can walk up the old town wall to the fortress at the top, where you'll get incredible views of the Bay of Kotor.
The Ladder of Kotor is a longer but easier hike above Kotor. Follow the old donkey path behind the town to avoid crowds and get magnificent views.
You'll find lots of good accommodation options in the Bay of Kotor. There most popular towns to stay in are Kotor, Perast, Tivat and Herceg Novi.
You'll find everything from cheap hostels to luxury hotels. You'll also find self-catering accommodation like apartments with shared pools and villas that can accommodate large groups and extended families.
The key is to book your accommodation as early as you can. Good accommodation, especially villas, can be in short supply in the summer months and if you leave it until the last minute you may have to settle for something less than your ideal.
Hostel Old Town Kotor is a relaxed and fun hostel in the heart of the old town. Join their pub crawl or and hang out by the only pool in the old town!
Apartments Magic Sea View have modern apartments with sea views just 2 minutes from the beach and 1km from Kotor old town.
Villa Strp is in an amazing position with its own private beach. Just outside Risan in a peaceful hamlet, this is the ultimate place to kick back and relax.
Heritage Grand Perast is a converted Baroque palace on the waterfront in the idyllic town of Perast. The seafront location and luxury services make this a top place to stay in the Bay of Kotor.
Distance: 139km, 2 hrs 11 mins drive.
Žabljak is a popular mountain town that's busiest in winter, when people come to ski at the local ski field, Savin Kuk. It's the best place to stay to see Durmitor National Park and some of Montenegro's most majestic mountain scenery. You'll also be able to get a taste of Montenegro's hearty mountain cuisine here.
Lake Slano – there’s plenty of space to pull over when you pass the lake and you’ll have a good vantage point from above to take photos.
Ostrog Monastery is one of the holiest sites in the Balkans. A short detour from Nikšić brings you to this 17th century monastery carved into the side of a sheer cliff.
Canyoning through Nevidio Canyon is Montenegro's most challenging canyoning adventure and you can do this tour on your way up.
Rafting on the Tara River is one of the best ways to see the Tara Canyon, Europe's deepest canyon and an unspoiled wilderness area in Montenegro.
Local's Tip: Stop at Ethno Village Nevidio for lunch.
Overlooking a small lake just outside Šavnik, this eco village has a fantastic restaurant where you can try some Montenegro specialties like kajmak cheese, priganice donuts and homemade bread.
Although the village has rustic and romantic bungalow accommodation, you don't have to stay here to dine at the restaurant.
It's well worth the short detour to eat here!
The Black Lake lies in beneath Međed Peak in Durmitor National Park. The 4km trail around the lake is an easy walk and you can also hire boats on the lake.
The Durmitor Ring is an 85km circular drive through Durmitor National Park. On the drive you’ll see authentic mountain villages, shepherds with their flocks of sheep, herds of horses and lots of dramatic mountains.
Via Ferrata in Durmitor is a fun and exciting way to see some of this region's incredible scenery. Using ropes and harnesses, it's so simple even kids as young as 6 can do it.
Stećci are an interesting phenomenon that you’ll only be able to see in certain areas of the Balkans and two of the best sites to see stećci in Montenegro are in Žabljak, near Durmitor National Park.
Hotel Soa is a comfortable and stylish hotel that's walking distance to both the town and the Black Lake. With a wellness centre and cosy fireplace, it's ideal for relaxing.
Polar Star has rooms, suites and bungalows, and this is a top pick if you’re travelling with kids. There's lots of outdoor space and a buffet restaurant with half-board stays.
Durmitor Bungalows have budget friendly bungalows that are a unique alternative to standard hotels. Staying in one is a great Montenegrin experience and these ones are close to the town centre.
Distance: 90km, 1 hr 44 mins drive.
Head out of Žabljak and drive to Kolašin via Mojkovac.
Kolašin is a mountain town that's most popular in winter because it lies at the base of Montenegro's top ski field, Kolašin 1600. In summer it's a relaxed mountain getaway and the best place to stay to visit Biogradska Gora National Park.
Đurđevića Tara Bridge crosses the Tara Canyon and will give you fantastic views of the canyon. You can stop here to admire the scenery and do the zipline that crosses the canyon.
Dobrilovina Monastery is a 16th century monastery surrounded by lush mountains and the Tara River. The nuns welcome visitors but you must be modestly dressed ie. clothing must be loose-fitting and cover the knees and shoulders.
Biogradska Gora National Park – before you get to Kolašin, take the turn off to Biogradska National Park. You can walk around the lake, hire a boat on the lake and do forest walks.
Bianca Resort and Spa is a large hotel a short walk from the town centre. It has impeccable rooms as well as indoor and outdoor pools, wellness centre, hot tub and half-board options.
Swiss Chalet Kolasin Montenegro is a large chalet with four bedrooms and three bathrooms. It's ideal for families and groups.
Houses Amanet are beautifully-decorated bungalows lie by the river and one of Kolašin's top restaurants, Konoba Amanet.
Distance: 101km, 1 hr 48 mins drive.
There are two routes to Virpazar in Skadar Lake National Park. You can either take the highway M9 which is 89km and takes 1 hr 20 mins or the E65 which is a little longer but more scenic. This stretch takes you down through the capital city, Podgorica, and affords you some beautiful scenery as you drive through the mountains and along the Morača Canyon.
Lake Skadar is the Balkans' biggest lake and Lake Skadar National Park is one of Europe's most important wildlife reserves. Here, you'll see an incredible array of wildlife including endangered pelicans, cormorants, turtles, lizards, ducks, frogs and more. And you can swim in the lake too!
Lake Skadar is also Montenegro's wine-making region and the centre of Montenegro's history and culture. This is where the old Montenegrin state of Zeta was ruled from, and you can experience a lot of history and culture here.
Morača Monastery is a 13th century monastery founded during the Njemanjić Dynasty's rule. It's a beautiful monastery and has picnic tables by the canyon.
Podgorica is Montenegro's capital city. While not a popular destination for tourists, the city has a few worthwhile attractions. Click here to see the best things to see and do in Podgorica.
Žabljak Crnojevića is the 15th century capital of Montenegro, then called Zeta. You can explore the old fortress, which is surrounded by beautiful Lake Skadar National Park.
Rijeka Crnojevića is a small riverside town that became the capital of Zeta after Žabljak Crnojevića was taken by the Ottomans. Take the turn-off in Podgorica towards Cetinje to reach Rijeka Crnojevića. Then follow the road via Poseljani to reach Virpazar.
Local's Tip: Stop at Macalov Brijeg, a quaint little cafe overlooking the lake. Here you can try local specialties like pomegranate juice, cheeses, cured meats and small donuts called priganice.
Pavlova Strana is one of Montenegro's most famous view points. You can find this horseshoe bend in the Crnojevića River between Podgorica and Rijeka Crnojevića.
Boat cruises on Lake Skadar are a great way to see the lake abundance of wildlife and natural beauty and culture. Boat tours start from an hour and go up to 8 hours.
Kayaking on the lake is another great way to explore this natural wonderland. Hire kayaks or take a guided tour to get up close to the lake's wildlife.
Hiking is another way to explore the Lake Skadar National Park. You can hike over old Ottoman bridges and swim in hidden pools and waterfalls.
Wine and Food tasting - this is Montenegro's premier wine-making region. Book a wine and food tasting to try local specialties like Vranac wine, fruit brandies, cured meats, cheeses and local produce.
Vida's House is a comfortable apartment in an idyllic location overlooking the lake in the heart of Virpazar.
Eco Resort Cermeniza is part of one of Virpazar's top wineries. The resort is nestled in a tranquil rural setting and has beautiful stone cottages surrounding a pool with an incredible view.
Hoopoe Glamping offers a luxurious and sustainable camping experience in the national park. With lots of green space, bbq facilities and breakfast, this is an ideal place for couples and families.
Distance: 50km, 1 hour drive.
This stretch will take you along the south coast of Montenegro. Along the way you'll pass Bar, a vibrant seaside town where you can see the Ottoman Turks' influence on local culture.
Ulcinj is off the beaten path for most tourists visiting Montenegro. But it’s a good destination for those looking for beach parties or a less-touristy beach stay.
Bar is a great place to experience Montenegro's cultural mix. You can explore the old town, try Turkish-influenced food in the restaurants and visit one of the world's oldest olive trees.
Valdanos Cove is an idyllic cove surrounded by 85,000 olive trees. The cove was a popular Yugoslav-era resort. The resort has been abandoned for years but it's still a popular spot for more intrepid travellers to take a dip.
Velika Plaža (Long Beach) is Ulcinj's most popular drawcard. The 12km-long sandy beach draws holiday-makers all summer and is popular with kite surfers.
Ulcinj Old Town was built by the Illyrians 2,500 years ago. You can visit the town museum to learn about this former slave-trading town and explore the stone alleyways. Have a drink at the former Venetian Palace (now Hotel Palata Venezia) to enjoy the view!
Mala Plaža (Small Beach) lies beneath the old town and is a pretty, sandy cove for cooling off during Montenegro's hot summer.
Hotel Palata Venezia lies in the former palace of the Venetian administrator. It has fabulous sea views and is a short walk to the town beach.
Countryside Villa is a luxurious villa in the country 5km from Ulcinj. With restful natural interiors and its rural location, this is a beautiful retreat to enjoy the area's natural beauty.
The Beach House with the Magical Sunsets is the perfect place for a beach holiday. Located directly on the beach at Velika Plaža, the house is fully-equipped and comes with magical sunsets as promised!
Distance: 65km, 1 hr 20 mins drive.
The Budva Riviera is Montenegro's most popular beach resort. This busy town is full of beachside resorts, an old town, offers the best nightlife in Montenegro and must-see Sveti Stefan.
Petrovac is a classic Mediterranean seaside village. You can walk along the promenade, try fresh seafood at one of the restaurants (try Konoba Mediteraneo) and enjoy the views from the citadel.
Sveti Stefan is a must-see in Montenegro. Drive down to the hamlet, take a swim on the beach and take a walk through Miloćer Forest Park to Pržno beach.
Budva old town was founded by the Illyrians 2,500 years ago but was mainly developed by the Venetians. You can visit the churches, citadel and town museum which displays artefacts and traditional costume of the town.
Mogren Beach is a few minutes' walk from Budva's bustling old town. The warm waters and golden beach surrounded by forested cliffs feel like a world away from the busyness of Budva.
Aquapark Budva is an expansive complex of pools and waterslides. With a play area for young kids, swim-up-bar and slides ranging from mild to terrifying, it's a great place to cool off.
Top Hill is one of the biggest nightclub's in the Balkans. It fills with up to 5,000 people a night all summer and hosts international bands and djs. With a curfew of 1am at the bars in the old town, Top Hill offers dancing, vodka bars and Jacuzzi bars and VIP areas til dawn.
Dukley Hotel and Resort is one of Montenegro's best luxury hotels. With private beaches, an hourly water taxi to Budva old town and every whim catered to, this is one of the best places to stay in Budva.
Hotel California by Aycon is one of Montenegro's best luxury hotels. With private beaches, an hourly water taxi to Budva old town and every whim catered to, this is one of the best places to stay in Budva.
Fontana Seafront Residences lie on Slovenska Plaža beach in the centre of Budva. The beach, restaurant and old town are all a short walk away. The spacious apartments are self-catering but there's also an onsite restaurant if you don't feel like cooking.
Distance: 75km, 2 hrs drive.
This route takes you through the mountains to Montenegro’s old royal capital – Cetinje. In the small town you can visit the monastery, national museums and the former palace.
Then the route takes you to Lovćen National Park and down the serpentine road to Kotor. The serpentine road has 25 hairpin turns so it’s a slow drive, but the views are breath-taking.
Cetinje is the old royal capital of Montenegro. In Montenegro's heyday this little town was full of diplomats and royalty. You can visit the monastery, old palaces and national museum here.
Petar II Petrović-Njegoš mausoleum is a must-see in Lovćen National Park. Petar II Petrović Njegoš is an icon in Montenegro and Serbia and from his mausoleum you'll get views as far as Croatia and Albania.
Ivanova Korita is a recreation site at the centre of Lovćen National Park. With barbecues, restaurant, playground, fields, walking and biking tracks, it's a great place to stretch your legs.
Adventure Park Lovćen has tree-tops ropes courses for all age groups. There are courses for children as young as 5 through to courses that challenge adults.
Njeguši is where Montenegro's best prosciutto (njeguški pršut) is made. Stop to see the smoke houses and try proscuitto, cheese and brandy. Visit Petar II Petrović-Njegoš’ house, which has been turned into a museum.
Perast is an idyllic town near Kotor. The town was once the centre of wealth and power in the bay and the shore is lined with baroque palaces.
Our Lady of the Rocks is one of the bay's most popular attractions. Our Lady of the Rocks is one of the bay's most popular attractions. The island has beautiful church and adjoining museum where you can see local artworks and artefacts.
Roman Mosaics in Risan are the remnants of a Roman villa built between 96 and 192 AD. The mosaic floors have been painstakingly reconstructed and this mosaic of the god Hypnos is the only one in the world.
The Blue Cave lies on Luštica Peninsula and taking a boat tour from Kotor Bay to the cave is one of the most popular things to do in the Bay of Kotor. Tours start from 3 hours and include visits to other attractions too.
San Giovanni Fortress lies on the hill above Kotor. You can walk up the old town wall to the fortress at the top, where you'll get incredible views of the Bay of Kotor.
The Ladder of Kotor is a longer but easier hike above Kotor. Follow the old donkey path behind the town to avoid crowds and get magnificent views.
Hotel Palazzo Radomiri is a seaside hotel in an old baroque palace near Kotor. The small boutique hotel has a pool and tranquil garden that's perfect for relaxing.
Hotel Drusko is a boutique hotel in the heart of the old town. Channeling old Kotor in it's decor and ambiance, the hotel has restaurants and attractions on its doorstep.
Muo Apartments are modern apartments with a pool in Muo. The apartments are in a peaceful hamlet 1km from Kotor and have beautiful views over the bay.
This is the end of the Discover Montenegro tour itinerary. This tour has covered so much of Montenegro's beauty, history, culture and cuisine.
That's one of the best things about Montenegro - you can experience so much diversity in such a small area!
You can download a free copy of this itinerary to take with you while you're on your trip. Just click the button below to have a copy emailed to you.
If you're flying into Montenegro, you'll need to hire a car for this itinerary.
I recommend hiring a car with Localrent. Localrent works with small rental companies to bring you a huge selection of good-quality cars at excellent prices. Because Localrent brings these small rental companies together under one umbrella, you get the advantages of competitive pricing, a standardised contract, much lower security deposits than with multinational rental companies, pick-up options outside the main centres and much more.
If you'd like to read more about hiring a car in Montenegro, click here to read my page about hiring a car and driving in Montenegro.
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