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Visit Montenegro: Everything You Need to Plan the Perfect Trip
Ready to visit Montenegro? This former Yugoslav republic is stepping into the spotlight and now is the time to visit this hidden gem.
Our Lady of the Rocks. Image: Deposit Photos.There's no better time to visit Montenegro.
Until recently this tiny country remained one of the last hidden gems of Europe. But now it takes its place as one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world.
And with good reason.
Whether it's the warm weather, old-world charm, the excitement of exploring a relatively undiscovered destination or the stunning scenery, there are so many ways Montenegro can deliver your dream holiday this year.
Are you ready to visit Montenegro? This is where you'll find everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Where is Montenegro?
Montenegro lies in central Europe, surrounded by Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania and the Adriatic Sea.
The flight time from the UK is just under three hours, and it's a comfortable flying or driving distance from the rest of the continent. Most European cities have flights to one of the three most convenient airports - Tivat, Podgorica or Dubrovnik in Croatia.
Travel to Montenegro
Find the best way to travel to Montenegro, by air, sea or overland.
Montenegro Airports
Montenegro has two international airports, one in the capital of Podgorica and one on the coast in Tivat. But, with more airports in neighbouring countries, you have many options for flying into Montenegro.
Podgorica Airport
Podgorica Airport is in Montenegro's capital city and welcomes over 1 million travellers per year. Find out everything you need to know about travelling to Montenegro's busiest airport.
Flights to Montenegro
When you're booking flights to Montenegro, use our top tips for saving time and money on your trip.
Cheap Flights to Tivat
Tivat airport is the best option for a coastal stay in Montenegro, finding cheap flights can be a challenge. Read out tips for finding cheap flights to Tivat.
WayAway Review
WayAway is a new way to book all your travel arrangements while earning cashbacks on all your bookings.
Montenegro Croatia Border
Flying into Dubrovnik and driving into Montenegro is one of the most popular ways to get here. Make sure you're prepared with everything you need to know about crossing the Montenegro-Croatia border.
Montenegro Coronavirus Information
Find out what you need to know about travel to Montenegro during the COVID-19 pandemic. Entry requirements, ways to get here and safety measures being taken in Montenegro.
Montenegro Destinations
The secret to a great stay in Montenegro is to choose the right destination or destinations for your trip. The regions of Montenegro vary greatly and there's something for everyone. You'll find five star luxury, beach holidays for the family and rugged mountain getaways - yes, even in peak season!
Top Destinations in Montenegro
Plan your trip stay with this list of the top tourist destinations in Montenegro. Plan to stay in just one or see how many you can tick off the list!
Coast of Montenegro
The coast of Montenegro is a glorious combination of sparkling seas backed by rugged mountains and dotted with ancient old towns. Explore the coast and find that perfect spot for your stay.
Mountains of Montenegro
No trip to Montenegro is complete without a trip into the 'black mountains' Montenegro was named for. Experience authentic culture, stunning landscapes and an outdoor paradise in the mountains of Montenegro.
Climate of Montenegro
With a Mediterranean climate on the coast and continental climate inland, temperatures can vary in Montenegro. Find out what to expect during your stay and make sure you pack accordingly.
Montenegro Visa Information
Find out whether you need a visa to visit Montenegro and where to apply for one.
Planning Your Visit to Montenegro
Booking your stay in Montenegro has never been easier. Everything you need is available with a few clicks of your mouse!
The following articles will help you find holiday packages, accommodation and car hire for your stay.
I also have two guides for you:
- The Montenegro Vacation Planning Guide - walks you step-by-step through planning your own magical Montenegrin escape
- Kotor Beyond The Wall - an indispensable guide for your visit to Montenegro's must-see fairy tale town.
Montenegro Tours
Explore package holidays by local specialists, adventure holiday itineraries and self-drive itineraries. These itineraries are tried and true and offered by local experts in Montenegro.
Accommodation in Montenegro
Find the perfect place to rest your head after a full day of exploring or just lazing on the beach. Choose from rustic cabins to five star luxury - all with that signature Montenegrin charm.
Rent A Car in Montenegro
Explore Montenegro at your own pace with a rental car. Make the most of your time here and stop at as many scenic vistas as you like!
Driving in Montenegro
Find out everything you need to know about driving in Montenegro. Essential road rules, etiquette, parking and more!
Transfers
Find out when booking your transfers online can save you time and money versus using local taxis.
Taxis
If you're not planning to drive, getting around town is cheap and easy with local taxis. And booking your airport transfer online will get your holiday off to a relaxed start.
Travel Guides
Choose the right travel guide to have at your fingertips during your travels.
What You Should Know Before You Visit Montenegro
Although Montenegro is a fantastic place, like any destination, it's not going to please everyone.
Before you go booking your flight and packing your bag, I'd like to tell you a bit more about what to expect in Montenegro. That way when you do arrive, you won't feel misled or disappointed.
It's a rough diamond: If you want a slick, polished holiday experience, unfortunately Montenegro is not the place for you. Montenegrin tourism just hasn’t had enough time to get to that standard yet. If you’re looking for a first-world destination, where you can expect to have a flawless experience, Montenegro probably won’t meet your standards.
Culture differences: A Montenegro holiday comes with imperfect service as the locals learn to understand foreign tourists’ expectations and mannerisms. But I give them an A+ for effort, because for warm-hearted Montenegrins, hospitality is part of their culture and you’ll see that they love to treat you like family.
People in the Balkans speak plainly, rarely smile and don't say 'please' and 'thank you' often, so they can come across as rude. However, it's just one of those culture differences. Your Montenegrin waiter isn't intentionally being rude when he asks "What do you want?" without a smile. This is the normal way to address customers in Montenegro.
The Montenegrin Shrug: Most Montenegrins grew up during WWII, socialist Yugoslavia or during the more recent Balkan wars. That means they’re used to going without and making the best of a situation. They struggle to understand what the big deal is if the power goes out for a couple of hours or the drains smell when the north wind blows. Don’t be surprised if your complaints are met with the famous Montenegrin Shrug and a rhetorical "What can we do? That is how it is. Come, try my father's rakija (brandy), it's the best you'll ever have!"
Customer service: And that leads me to customer service. 'The customer is always right.' isn't a phrase that's made it to Montenegro yet. Montenegrins are very generous and most are scrupulously honest. But they won't automatically give in to a customer's demands because the 'customer is always right'.
Poor infrastructure: The infrastructure needs updating, meaning that we have power outages during storms and lots of roadworks. A stay here might mean you get stuck in traffic or have to take a detour. On the upside you’ll probably get to see some lovely scenery along the way.
Rubbish: Litter is huge problem in Montenegro. The beaches, mountains, roads and waterways are littered with plastic bottles, plastic bags, construction and household waste. It can be very disappointing for visitors to see a beauty spot ruined by a mountain of rubbish thrown down the side of a hill.
So Who Should Visit Montenegro?
You'll know you'll love Montenegro if any of the following resonates with you:
You have a sense of adventure: A holiday here will suit anyone with a sense of adventure. This is an emerging destination, well, as far as the west is concerned. Serbs, Russians and Norwegians have been coming here for decades!
You think of yourself as laid back: Don't sweat the small stuff? Live by the philosophy that no one ever went blind from looking at the bright side of life? You'll love Montenegro, whether you want a relaxing family holiday, fun beach-side getaway or an action-packed adventure holiday.
You're an outdoor enthusiast: From the depths of the sea to the tops of the those 'black mountains' Montenegro was named for, you'll find dozens of ways to enjoy the outdoors here.
You love exploring: Do you love to step off the beaten track? You'll be rewarded for your exploratory nature here. Whether it's a hidden beach, a tree full of ripe figs or an idyllic waterfall, you'll discover hidden gems around every corner.
You enjoy new cultures: Montenegrins love to share their culture. There are free concerts, festivals and carnivals year round in Montenegro. Ask your host what's happening locally and you'll find plenty of ways to dip your toe in Montenegrin music, art and food culture. A gastronomy tour is another way to experience Montenegro's wine and food, a cornerstone of the culture.
You love history: Montenegro's history goes back over 2,000 years and you'll be able to explore Roman ruins, Venetian old towns, ancient settlements, medieval grave sites and multiple museums.
More Information About Montenegro
If you're looking for more information about Montenegro, you'll find answers to the most commonly asked questions on my frequently asked questions page.
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Ready to Visit Montenegro? More for you to explore...
Book Your Trip With My Recommended Providers
- Accommodation with Booking.com
- Tours and activities with Get Your Guide
- Tours and activities with Viator
- Cheap car hire with Localrent.com
- Cheap flights with WayAway
- Organised adventure tours with TourRadar
- Transfers with Kiwitaxi
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About Sarah
I'm a New Zealander who's lived in Montenegro since 2008. I love exploring this beautiful country and sharing the best of it with you!
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