Montenegro may be small, but it’s packed with stunning landscapes and endless opportunities for adventure, from rugged mountains to crystal-clear Adriatic beaches. Not only is it a haven for nature lovers, but it’s also home to four UNESCO World Heritage sites, and I managed to visit three of them during my 9-day trip.

Whether you’re into hiking, exploring charming old towns, or simply lazing on a beach, Montenegro has so much variety Here’s a recap of my road trip, including some favourite spots and must-see stops!

Getting There & Getting Around Montenegro

Flying In: We kicked off our trip by flying into Podgorica which is an airport surrounded by dramatic mountains.

Getting around: If you plan on exploring the country, renting a car is essential—public transport options are limited, and a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. We booked through Sixt, which wasn’t the cheapest option, but it felt reliable compared to some budget companies with mixed reviews. Driving in Montenegro was smooth and straightforward, with well-maintained roads and minimal traffic.

Flights Out: Since we were covering a lot of ground, we booked our return flights from Dubrovnik instead of Tivat. This saved us time and money and allowed us to finish our trip without backtracking.

When to Go to Montenegro

Originally, we planned our trip for May, but we had to reschedule for September, which wasn’t ideal as we knew we’d be entering the stormy season. On the upside, this meant fewer crowds, though the weather was unpredictable with frequent showers. I’d recommend visiting in April to early June for lovely weather and fewer tourists.

The Perfect Montenegro Road Trip Itinerary

Stop 1: Durmitor National Park (2 Days, 2 Nights)

Our first stop was Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site about a 2-hour drive from Podgorica. Once you get past the initial stretch of straight roads, the scenery becomes breathtaking with dramatic mountains and lush forests. We stayed in a gorgeous cabin just outside Zabljak, the park’s main town.

What to Do:

• Local Dining: As a pescatarian, I found limited options, but the simplicity of dishes here only made the food at our next stops taste even better.
• Hike Around Black Lake: We chose a moderate 3-hour hike (7/10 difficulty) around Black Lake, surrounded by pine forests and towering peaks. Entry is €5 per person.

Tip: Pack your own lunch to enjoy by the lake, or grab a bite at the lakeside restaurant. Don’t miss a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters!

Stop 2: Lake Skadar (2 Days, 2 Nights)

Lake Skadar was a highlight of our trip. We stayed in Virpazar at Lake View Apartments, which lived up to its name with stunning vistas. Our hosts, Mama Slavicka and Drako, definitely deserve a recco, they were incredibly welcoming, treating us to homemade wine and local delicacies.

What to Do:

• Boat Tour: Book a private boat tour around the lake, preferably at sunset for beautiful golden light. We had a private 1.5-hour tour with wine included—no brainer!
• Local Wineries: On a rainy day, we visited a family-run winery called Winery Tradicija, where, despite the language barrier, we were treated to delicious food and fantastic wines for just €25 per person.

Dining Reccos:

• Silistria: A quaint restaurant on a boat with great views.
• Konoba: The octopus here was unforgettable.

Stop 3: Perast (1 Day)

Perast is a picturesque seaside town perfect for a day trip. We spent our time hiking from the town center to a nearby beach, where we cooled off in the warm Adriatic Sea and relaxed with our books.

Dining Tip: The waterfront is lined with charming restaurants offering fresh seafood, pasta, and pizza. Perfect for a leisurely lunch by the sea.

Stop 4: Budva (1 Night)

Driving into Budva, I initially regretted adding it to our itinerary—think high-rise hotels and bustling crowds. However, the Old Town is a hidden gem! We spent the evening wandering its narrow lanes, discovering cozy bars and quaint restaurants.

What to Do:

• Explore Budva Old Town: Full of history, cobbled alleyways, and local boutiques.
• Avoid: The busy, tourist-heavy beaches—stick to the Old Town for a more authentic experience.

Stop 5: Sveti Stefan (1 Day)

Sveti Stefan is a postcard-perfect island connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. Though the island itself is off-limits to the public, it’s worth visiting for a beach day and enjoying the stunning views.

Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, especially in peak season.

Stop 6: Kotor (3 Days, 3 Nights)

The Bay of Kotor, another UNESCO site, was the longest stop on our trip, and for good reason—it’s gorgeous from every angle. The highlight was hiking up to St. John’s Fortress, where the panoramic views of the bay are unbeatable.

What to Do:

• Kotor Fortress Hike: A challenging climb with incredible views at the top (entry is €15 per person)
• Wander Kotor Old Town: Get lost in the maze of mediaeval streets, filled with shops, restaurants and hidden cafes.

Dining Reccos:

• Konoba Scala Santa: Best meal in Montenegro—highly recommend the seafood.
• La Catedral Pasta Bar: Delicious pasta, you can’t book so I’d recommend it as a perfect spot for lunch as queues in the evening were a non-starter.
• Mon Bistro: The smell of butter alone will draw you in its doors.
• Patisserie by Wine House: A fun spot for evening cocktails; try the Lemon Spritz.

Stop 7: Tivat (1 Day)

Tivat is Montenegro’s answer to Monaco—luxury yachts, designer shops, and upscale eateries (read: lots of men in chinos and boat shoes). It’s fun for a quick visit, though staying here can be pricey.

Dining Tip: Check out Ma Cherie for delicious food and sea views without breaking the bank (heads up the smoked tuna bagel was honestly to die for).

Stop 8: Herceg Novi (1 Day, 1 Night)

Herceg Novi was our final stop before crossing into Croatia. This charming seaside town is perfect for winding down after a busy trip.

Dining Recommendations:

• Konoba Feral: Go for the fish platter.
• Barbarella: A cute sushi restaurant we stopped off at for a cocktail and a game of Monopoly Deal.

Final Thoughts and Tips

Montenegro is the perfect destination for a road trip, combining stunning scenery, rich history, and delicious food. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, you can’t go wrong exploring this underrated Balkan gem. Feel free to drop us a DM on Instagram with any questions!

Lauren x