Only a few countries in Europe boast a unique collection of dramatic landscapes in such close proximity as Montenegro. Located on the Adriatic Coast, this Balkan nation features ancient, UNESCO-listed walled cities, rushing rivers, and breathtaking mountains. Although it may be small and often overshadowed by its neighbour Croatia, it offers a diverse array of natural wonders that are truly impressive. As one of the youngest countries in the world, Montenegro was once part of Yugoslavia. Today, this tiny nation, steeped in thousands of years of history and home to a fjord-like canyon, continues to surprise its visitors. Visit in summer when cruise ships arrive, and it will be crowded. However, if you plan your trip wisely, you will enjoy sharing good moments with the Montenegrins. Here are our favourite best things to see and do in Montenegro.
Sunset at Durmitor National Park
Visiting for the first time? These 13 Best Things to Do in Montenegro that you shouldn’t miss!
From pristine national parks and gorgeous beaches to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we have chosen 13 amazing places that have caught our attention. These are the best things to do in Montenegro and should be included in your itinerary.
1. Kotor
Did you know that Montenegro has a town just as stunning as Dubrovnik—but with fewer crowds? Kotor, a medieval masterpiece nestled between towering mountains and an extraordinary bay has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
Step inside the Old Town, and you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Built between the 15th and 17th centuries, Kotor’s Venetian fortifications still stand tall, guarding the city’s ancient squares, stone churches, and labyrinth-like streets. They are some of the best-preserved Venetian fortifications in the world. Feeling adventurous? Climb 1,355 steps to the Castle of San Giovanni. Yes, it’s a workout, but at the top, you’ll witness one of Europe’s the most incredible views—a breathtaking panorama of the Bay of Kotor.
This town isn’t just beautiful—it’s one of the best-preserved medieval towns on the Adriatic. That’s why exploring Kotor is one of the best things to do in Montenegro.
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2. Perast
Most visitors to Montenegro stop at Kotor—but they’re missing a secret gem. Just 20 minutes away, the crowds disappear, and the mountains close in. Then, suddenly, you see it—Perast, a town frozen in time.
This tiny settlement, with only one main road, is one of the most stunning places you should visit in Montenegro. Its 20 baroque palaces, 17 crumbling churches, and stone jetties reflect its glorious past as a Venetian naval stronghold. Perast had free trade with Venice and became rich by fighting Adriatic pirates. Thanks to its bravery, Perast became incredibly wealthy. It was even home to one of the best maritime schools in the world, training sailors under the legendary Captain Marko Martinovic. But after Napoleon’s fall of Venice in the 18th century, Perast’s golden age ended.
Today, this charming coastal town remains a stunning open-air museum. With no beaches, and only stone jetties for swimmers, Perast is like nowhere else on the Adriatic. But the real magic is in its balcony-ornamented lake houses, quiet alleys, and views of two tiny offshore islands. It’s a must-visit—before the world discovers it!
3. Our Lady of the Rocks
The Floating Wonder of Kotor Bay
Imagine an island that didn’t exist until people created it. Our Lady of the Rocks is Montenegro’s most magical island, built by human hands—layer by layer, stone by stone. Fishermen started dropping rocks here in 1452 after finding an icon of the Virgin Mary on a lonely sea rock. They vowed to build an island in her honour. The result? A floating sanctuary in the middle of Kotor Bay. Today, this tradition continues with the fašinada event. Every year on the sunset of July 22, locals take their boats and toss rocks into the water to expand the island.
You can hop on a boat from Perast to explore its charming Catholic church and a museum attached to it. Inside, you’ll find 68 baroque paintings, including the famous ‘Death of the Virgin‘ by Tripo Kokolja. But the real showstopper is a hand-stitched tapestry made with real gold, silver, and human air – a love story locked in stitches. Jacinta Kunić-Mijović embroidered it, and it took her 25 years to complete.
The best part? The breathtaking views. From here, you’ll see the peaceful Perast, Kotor Bay, and the forbidden Saint George Monastery.
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4. Sveti Stefan
Gorgeous Sveti Stefan is a postcard that comes to life.
Sveti Stefan isn’t just a place—it’s Montenegro’s most iconic island. Originally built to defend against pirates, this fortified 15th-century village later became a celebrity hideaway in the 1980s. Hollywood’s biggest names vacationed here, making it a symbol of glamour and exclusivity.
Connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, this tiny island of pink stone villas now hides a luxurious 5-star Aman Resort. The island is closed to outsiders and reserved only for those who stay or book a table at its restaurant. Otherwise, the best way to experience it is from its stunning pink beaches. Relax on the pebble shores of Milocer Beach and Queen’s Beach, once reserved for royalty. Or take a stroll through Milocer Park, where pine trees and panoramic views of the island offer a peaceful escape.
Seeing Sveti Stefan is one of the best things to do in Montenegro—even if you only admire it from the beach. It’s an island of luxury, rich history, and breathtaking beauty—a place you won’t forget.
5. Piva Lake
Piva Lake, known as Pivsko Jezero between the locals.
What if we told you there’s a hidden village at the bottom of a Montenegrin lake? At first glance, Piva Lake looks like a natural wonder, but it’s completely man-made! This stunning 45 km reservoir was created when the Piva River was dammed in 1975 to generate hydroelectric power. Today, Piva Lake is the country’s biggest artificial lake, hiding a lost village beneath its depths. Only the historic Piva Monastery was saved, painstakingly moved stone by stone to higher ground.
Nestled in the mountains of northwest Montenegro, Piva Lake offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the country. Its clear waters are perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating. The surrounding landscapes are untouched and wild, making it an ideal spot for hiking and photography.
TIP:
Take the scenic road through Piva Canyon from Plužine to Žabljak. A narrow, winding route hugg steep cliffs and passes through tunnels carved into the rock. The curves are dizzying but offer some of the most dramatic views in the country. It’s an adrenaline-thrilling ride with breathtaking views and one of the most unique things to do in Montenegro.
6. Budva
Imagine walking through 2,500 years of history in the morning and relaxing on golden beaches in the afternoon. That’s Budva, Montenegro’s most vibrant coastal town. This ancient walled city is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic, dating back to the 5th century BC. The Old Town (Stari Grad) is a maze of marbled streets, charming cafés, and boutique shops—all surrounded by ancient Venetian walls rising from the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss the Citadel which offers breathtaking sea views, and explore the Budva Museum, packed with fascinating artifacts.
Beyond its rich history, Budva is famous for its legendary nightlife, with beach clubs and bars turning the town into a summer party hotspot. Known as the Côte d’Azur of Montenegro, the Budva Riviera boasts 20 stunning beaches, with Mogren Beach being the closest to town.
TIP:
Take a stroll along the Budva Riviera, a stunning 22-mile coastline with gorgeous beaches.
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Montenegro, Budva offers a perfect mix of history, beaches, and adventure.
7. Ostrog Monastery
Carved into a vertical cliff, floating 900 m above the valley, and visited by thousands of pilgrims every year—Ostrog Monastery is unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
Built in the 17th century by Saint Basil of Ostrog, this Serbian Orthodox monastery is the most important pilgrimage site in the Balkans. The monastery, located 50 km away from Podgorica (Montenegro’s capital), consists of two monasteries:
- The Lower Monastery – contains the Church of the Holy Trinity and offers a place of rest and prayer for pilgrims before their journey upward.
- The Upper Monastery – hidden inside a cave, featuring frescoes painted directly on rock walls and an open balcony with breathtaking views. Pilgrims flock here to see the fabric-wrapped relics of Saint Basil, believed to have healing powers.
PILGRIMAGE TRADITION:
Many pilgrims walk barefoot for 3 km from the Lower Monastery to the Upper Monastery, believing it brings blessings and spiritual healing.
Looking for unique things to do in Montenegro? A visit to the Ostrog Monastery is a spiritual and visual experience you’ll never forget.
GOOD TO KNOW:
- DRIVING: The road to Ostrog Monastery is a narrow and winding road – drive carefully.
- DRESS CODE: Cover your knees, arms, and also shoulders before entering. Also, women should cover their heads with a scarf.
- HOLY WATER: Don’t miss a water tap on the left when entering the Upper Monastery. Fill your bottle with fresh mountain water – it’s a tradition to take some home.
- OPENING TIMES: Daily. May-September: 6 AM to 5PM, October-April: 5 AM to 4 PM.
ST BASIL OF OSTROG FEAST DAY
May 12th is a special day at Ostrog Monastery. Every year, thousands of pilgrims from Montenegro, Serbia, and even Russia gather to commemorate Saint Basil of Ostrog.
8. Lake Skadar
Montenegro is famous for its coastline, but did you know it’s also home to one of the largest lakes in the Balkan? This expansive lake varies in size with the seasons, stretching from 370 km² in summer to a massive 530 km² in winter. That’s like adding the size of Paris or Barcelona to the lake every year! Located on the border of Montenegro and Albania, this National Park hides ancient monasteries on secret islands.
WHY IS LAKE SKADAR UNIQUE?
This freshwater paradise, located just south of Podgorica, is not just big—it’s vibrant with life. Lake Skadar is home to one of Europe’s largest bird sanctuaries and one of the most untouched natural wonders in the country. Here, 270 bird species nest, and rare tortoises sunbathe on rocky shores. Hidden underwater springs keep the water crystal clear and some of the last pelicans in Europe roam the shores. In summer, water lilies cover parts of the lake, and tiny wooden boats gently drift through narrow channels.
A WILDLIFE WONDERLAND:
The mountains and forests surrounding Lake Skadar are home to wild boar and even wolves in winter. The lake is home to a diverse range of fish, including species found nowhere else in the world. Bright green lizards, playful otters, and harmless snakes make this area feel like a scene from a wildlife documentary.
PAVLOVA STRANA VIEWPOINT
Want to see one of the most breathtaking views in Europe? Head to Pavlova Strana Viewpoint, a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the perfect horseshoe bend in the Crnojević River. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the country – a view you’ll never forget.
LEGEND OF THE LAKE SKADAR
According to local legend, a bride, distracted by the joy of her husband’s return, forgot to turn off a fountain. By morning, the valley was flooded, creating the lake. Whether myth or truth, Lake Skadar remains one of the most magical locations and one of the best places to visit in Montenegro.
UNFORGETTABLE ACTIVITIES ON LAKE SKADAR:
- Take a boat tour to explore hidden channels and ancient monasteries.
- Kayak or paddleboard through the floating water lilies and enjoy the silence.
- Visit local wineries and taste Montenegro’s best wine at family-run vineyards.
- Go birdwatching and spot some of the rarest species in Europe.
9. Durmitor
Some places still feel wild and untouched, and Durmitor National Park is one of them. This gorgeous limestone massif, located in the northern part of Montenegro, is the country’s largest protected area. Bobotov Kuk (2,525m) is the highest peak in the country.
WHAT MAKES DURMITOR SPECIAL?
This untouched area is a part of the Dinaric Alps and covers 390 km2 of wilderness. Here, 48 peaks rise over 2,000 m (6,562 ft), and 18 glacial lakes mirror the sky. The deep forests are home to wildlife, including wolves, brown bears, and wild cats. It’s one of Europe’s last remaining unspoiled wildernesses on the European continent, boasting an extraordinary landscape and impressive biological diversity. This UNESCO-listed wonder features alpine meadows and forests that are home to 1,600 plants, including a rare European Black Pine.
Glaciers have shaped this land, creating hidden underground rivers, and dramatic limestone cliffs.
ADVENTURE FOR EVERY SEASON:
In the summer, Durmitor is a playground for hikers, climbers, and cyclists. With 25 hiking trails and 150 km of paths, there are options for every fitness level. Winter transforms Durmitor into Montenegro’s top skiing destination, offering a high-quality experience without the high prices of the Alps. Because of that, exploring Durmitor National Park is one of the best things to do in Montenegro.
TIP:
Consider staying in the nearby town of Žabljak.
10. Black Lake
The Black Lake, also called Crno Jezero by the locals, with Meded Peak behind it.
Sitting in Durmitor National Park, Black Lake is the largest and most famous of Montenegro’s 18 glacier-carved lakes. One of the most fascinating features is that it changes shape with seasons. A narrow strait connects the Big Lake and the Little Lake, but by summer, it dries up, splitting Black Lake into two separate lakes. In winter, the water returns, and the lakes become one again.
THINGS TO DO AT BLACK LAKE:
- Walk the easy 3.5 km loop around the lake for breathtaking views.
- Rent a boat and float on the crystal-clear water.
- Explore hiking trails that lead from the lake to other lakes and peaks.
- Try wild swimming at the Black Lake in the warmer months (June to September), if you can handle the cold.
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HOW TO GET THERE AND THE BEST TIME TO VISIT:
- From Žabljak: A short 30-minute walk or a 10-minute drive.
- BEST TIME: June to September for perfect weather, but autumn’s golden landscape and winter’s ice-covered lake are just as breathtaking.
11. Žabljak
At 1,456 m, Žabljak is the highest town in the Balkans and the gateway to Durmitor National Park. This alpine wonderland is the perfect escape from Montenegro’s crowded coast. In Žabljak, you’ll find wooden cottages, fresh mountain air, and wide-open meadows, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into a postcard. You can enjoy the peaceful nature while watching sheep roam the meadows. Whether you want to hike, climb, or simply breathe fresh mountain air, this peaceful alpine town is the perfect escape from the summer crowds. In the summer, Žabljak transforms into a hiker’s paradise, with trails starting right from the town. You can also try the Via Ferrata adventure, a thrilling climb up Uvita Greda, located just 20 minutes away.
DURMITOR RING:
Take the 85 km scenic circular drive from Žabljak through the hearth of Durmitor National Park. The Durmitor Ring takes you through hidden villages and offers stunning views of mountain peaks. This unique experience is one of the best things to do in Montenegro. It should definitely be included in your itinerary.
12. Tara River Canyon
Imagine a canyon so deep it could fit the Empire State Building—two and a half times! At 1,300 m (4,300 ft) deep, it’s the deepest canyon in Europe and second only to the Grand Canyon worldwide. Yes, you read that right—Europe’s deepest canyon isn’t in Norway or Switzerland, but in Montenegro! What makes it even more unbelievable? It’s completely wild, untouched, and ready for adventure.
Located in Durmitor National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 80 underground caves, crystal-clear waters, and towering limestone cliffs. The Tara River, which runs through the canyon, offers some of the best white-water rafting in Europe. Rafting is one of the most popular activities here. You’ll crash through fast-moving rapids, float past waterfalls, and gaze up at canyon walls that stretch endlessly into the sky.
DJURDJEVICA TARA BRIDGE:
If staying dry is more your style, head to the Djurdjevica Tara Bridge, one of Montenegro’s most famous landmarks. One of the largest vehicular concrete arch bridges in Europe offers breathtaking panoramic views over the canyon. It spans the canyon’s deepest point, and walking across it feels like floating above the world. For thrill-seekers, zip-lining across the canyon offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
13. Biogradska Gora
Did you know that deep in Montenegro lies a forest so old that some of its trees have been standing for over 500 years? Biogradska Gora is one of the last three large virgin forests in Europe and a natural paradise untouched by time. Despite being the country’s smallest national park (54 km²), it’s a biodiversity powerhouse. This park is home to 220 plant species, 150 types of birds, 10 mammal species, and even 350 types of insects! Thanks to its high rainfall, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve supports the growth of a rare temperate rainforest.
The best way to experience Biogradska Gora is through hiking, camping, trekking, and mountain biking. With plenty of well-marked trails, you’ll walk through dense forests, and discover six stunning glacial lakes. The highlight is, of course, Lake Biograd – a breathtaking glacial lake at the park’s entrance. You can even rent a boat or kayak, and drift across its crystal clear waters.
Now you know what the best things to do in Montenegro are!
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Last updated: 02/02/2025 by Martina Kokesova