Oh, the Balkans! This is a region that everyone should visit. It is a land where steep mountains serve as the walls of your room, and the sky becomes the ceiling of your house. In this country, nature invites you to hike mountain trails or relax on the beaches of the Adriatic Sea. We've summarised the 10 most beautiful places in Montenegro that we explored between October and mid-November. For us, the weather was unusually good for these months.

1. Bay of Kotor: The feeling of living in a postcard

Montenegro is a relatively small country, but a great variety of places to visit, especially in summer or autumn. We lived in Montenegro for 2 months, so we are happy to share our highlights of nature and the city. We especially fell in love with the people we met in our daily life. We managed to enjoy swimming in the Bay of Kotor and taste local fruits pomegranates, oranges, lemons and kiwi.

This breathtaking bay, surrounded by dramatic mountains, seems straight out of a postcard. The charming towns of Kotor, Perast, and Risan are nestled along its coastline, each with narrow streets, ancient architecture, and inviting cafes. We loved strolling through Kotor’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and soaking in the views of the bay. 

2. Durmitor National Park: Can experience unforgettable hikes

Durmitor National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The park’s rugged mountains, dense forests, and pristine glacial lakes offer some of the best hiking trails in the country. The experience of climbing to the top of Bobotov Kuk, the park’s highest peak, was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The serene beauty of Black Lake, surrounded by towering peaks, remains one of our most cherished memories from Montenegro.

3.  Tivat marina: Montenegro Yachting Paradise

Tivat, a coastal town located on the Bay of Kotor, is home to one of the most beautiful marinas in the Mediterranean—Porto Montenegro. This luxury marina is a hotspot for yachting enthusiasts, with its world-class facilities, high-end boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. We spent an afternoon walking along the promenade, watching stunning yachts dock, and enjoying the Mediterranean atmosphere.

4. Lovcen National Park: The best place for hiking

If you’re seeking incredible views, look no further than Lovćen National Park. The park offers a variety of trails, but what makes it truly special is the panoramic view from the Petar II Petrović-Njegoš Mausoleum at the summit. From the top, you can see nearly the entire country, from the rugged mountains to the Adriatic coast. The climb is a rewarding experience, with the mausoleum standing as a symbol of Montenegro’s history and culture.

5. Stari Bar: Unique fortress of the old Bar

The ancient town of Stari Bar is an intriguing blend of history and nature. Its impressive fortress, surrounded by olive groves and lush greenery, stands as a testament to centuries of civilization. Walking through the ruins and exploring the narrow streets, you can feel the layers of history, from Roman to Ottoman influences. The view of the surrounding mountains and the coast from the top of the fortress is spectacular.

6. Budva: Beautiful old town with narrow streets

Budva is often called the "Miami of Montenegro" because of its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. But it was the Old Town with its cobbled streets, ancient walls and charming squares that stole our hearts. It's ideal for wandering and sightseeing, and there are plenty of places to enjoy a coffee or an ice cream while watching the people. The beaches around Budva are also stunning, with clear water perfect for swimming.

One of the tastiest ice creams we had in Montenegro was in Budva. The ice cream shop is called "Goddo". We also visited a very cosy restaurant in this town, which was recommended to us by local people. It is called "Taverna Vukoje". We were served by the owner himself and felt like we were visiting old friends. I should add that the portions are really large.

7. Ulcinj: Many Olive Trees and longest Beach on the Adriatic Sea

Ulcinj, in southern Montenegro, is known for its long sandy beaches and rich cultural heritage. The old town is full of surprises, while nearby Velika Plaža (Long Beach) stretches for several kilometres and is ideal for sunbathing or a relaxing swim. There are also many olive trees in the area, some of which are centuries old, giving the town a peaceful feel.

8. Herceg Novi: Best promenade walks in Montenegro

Herceg Novi is a charming coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere. The town's promenade, with its palm trees and views of the glittering Adriatic Sea, is one of the best places for a relaxing walk. Along the way you'll be welcomed by charming coffee shops, charming gardens and stunning views over the nearby hills. Herceg Novi is also famous for its old fortresses, which offer fantastic views of the Bay of Kotor. As you may have guessed, we love a good meal and we can recommend a simple but very tasty place to eat Kantina65.

9. Skadar Lake: The vastness of nature

Skadar Lake is the largest lake in the Balkans and offers an unparalleled experience of nature’s beauty. The lake is a haven for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species of birds, including pelicans, making it their home. We enjoyed a boat trip across the lake, where we could soak in the peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by stunning mountains and lush greenery. The view from the lakeside town of Virpazar is breathtaking. We also recommend taking the road number P16 from Virpazar towards the Vidikovac Stegvas viewpoint. It will be a drive with breathtaking curves and views, but be sure to drive slowly and safely.

10. Tara River Canyon: The third deepest canyon in the world

The Tara River Canyon ranks as the second deepest canyon in Europe, surpassed only by the Sulak Canyon, and holds the position of the third deepest canyon worldwide, after the Grand Canyon. Located in the heart of the country, it is a must-see for those who enjoy adventures. We wanted to, but didn't get the chance to raft down the river, navigating through its turbulent waters while taking in the surrounding landscape of steep cliffs and lush forests. The canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s easy to see why—its beauty is simply awe-inspiring.

Conclusion

Montenegro may be small, but it is rich in natural beauty, historical monuments and outdoor adventures. Whether you're hiking in the hills, relaxing on the beach or exploring ancient cities, there's something for everyone in this remarkable country. If you are looking for a destination that offers both adventure and relaxation, Montenegro is definitely worth a visit!