Montenegro
Our summer road trip to Montenegro will stay in our memory for a long time. Montenegro is a land of contrasts – on one side, you have beautiful seaside resorts and charming towns, and on the other, you find impressive mountains and wild nature. As we set off on our journey, we knew we were in for quite an adventure – from exploring historical towns, swimming in the warm Adriatic and beautiful Kotor Bay, to enjoying picturesque mountain landscapes. We passed through several incredible places that reflect the true beauty of the Balkans, each offering something unique. Our trip not only introduced us to new places but also gave us moments of relaxation, time to unwind, and immerse ourselves in the local culture.
Herceg Novi
Our first stop is Herceg Novi – a picturesque town located on the Bay of Kotor, near the border with Croatia. The town is known for its rich history, where Venetian, Turkish, and Austrian influences intertwine. We start our exploration with a walk through the old town, full of stone streets and medieval buildings. A key highlight is the Forte Mare Fortress, offering a stunning view of the Adriatic Sea.
Bay of Kotor
As we continue our journey, we immerse ourselves in the beauty of the Bay of Kotor, one of the deepest bays in Europe, surrounded by majestic mountains. The road along the bay offers spectacular views of turquoise waters, coastal villages, and steep peaks. The Bay of Kotor is a true gem of Montenegro, with landscapes that take your breath away.
Perast
The next stop is the charming town of Perast, located right by the water and surrounded by mountains. It is famous for its baroque palaces and two small islands: Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela) and Saint George, both of which can be visited by boat. Walking along the waterfront, you can feel the atmosphere of the town’s former glory, when it was once a center of maritime trade.
Tivat
In Tivat, we stop for a short break, as the surrounding area provides an excellent base for exploring the most beautiful spots of the Bay of Kotor. Nearby, we not only have the historic town of Kotor, but also picturesque places like Perast, as well as opportunities to venture into the Lovćen Mountains. Tivat is well connected with the region, making it easy for us to quickly reach other attractions, such as charming beaches or hidden coves along the coastline.
Kotor
Kotor is one of the most beautiful places on the route. Surrounded by massive defensive walls, the city has preserved its medieval layout, and a walk through the old town feels like a journey back in time. During our stay, we decided on an early morning hike to St. John’s Fortress to escape the peak summer heat. The climb to the fortress involves long stone steps, with stunning views of the entire Bay of Kotor along the way. After reaching the top and taking a short rest, we returned via an old military road, adding a historic touch to the adventure and allowing us to discover less-traveled paths. The atmosphere of Kotor is enchanting, with its narrow streets filled with cozy cafés and art galleries.
Lovćen National Park
From Kotor, we head to Lovćen National Park, home to one of Montenegro’s most important symbols – the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a great ruler and poet. The road leading to the mausoleum is winding and climbs high into the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the entire Bay of Kotor.
Petrovac
After leaving the mountains, we arrive in Petrovac, a seaside town known for its picturesque beaches covered with sand and pebbles. The peace and quiet give way to the hustle and bustle of summer, as the entire Montenegrin coast attracts many tourists. However, we manage to find a small stretch of free beach where we can swim in the rather rough sea.
Budva
From Petrovac, we headed to Budva for some evening sightseeing in Montenegro’s most popular seaside resort. The city is famous for its vibrant nightlife, but it also has plenty to offer for history lovers. Budva’s old town, surrounded by ancient defensive walls, completely surprised us with its charm. Its narrow streets hide landmarks like St. John’s Church and the citadel, which remind you of the old Venetian Republic’s influence.
Stari Bar
In the south of Montenegro, we visit Stari Bar – a town that has preserved traces of various cultures and civilizations. The ruins of the old town are located on the slopes of Mount Rumija, and as you walk through them, you can admire the remains of mosques, churches, and baths. Stari Bar is a place full of the atmosphere of the old Orient, allowing you to step back in time.
Skadar Lake
Our journey through Montenegro ends at Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, which forms the border between Montenegro and Albania. The nature reserve surrounding the lake is a haven for many bird species, including pelicans. You can take a boat trip here to admire the natural beauty and the fishing villages scattered along the shores.