Montenegro is one of Europe’s most beautiful travel destinations. This hidden gem is on its way to becoming as popular as Greece and Croatia due to its beauty and magic and Traveling in Montenegro is so easy to do around the country. There are so many amazing adventures to be had, and with 5 days in Montenegro you can get a great taste for what it has to offer.

Weather and best time to visit Montenegro

The weather and the best time to visit Montenegro can vary depending on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Montenegro, situated on the Adriatic coast in Southeast Europe, experiences a Mediterranean climate along the coast and a more continental climate inland. Here’s a breakdown of the weather and the ideal times to visit:

Summer (June to August):
– Weather: The coastal regions, including popular destinations like Kotor and Budva, enjoy warm and sunny weather during the summer months. Daytime temperatures often range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F).
– Best for: Beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and those looking to explore coastal towns and islands.

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October):
– Weather: Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). These shoulder seasons see less crowded tourist areas.
– Best for: Hiking, exploring national parks, and enjoying a mix of coastal and cultural experiences.

Winter (November to March):
– Weather: Inland regions, such as the capital city, Podgorica, and the mountainous areas, experience colder temperatures. Coastal areas remain relatively mild, with daytime temperatures around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
– Best for: Skiing and winter sports in the mountainous regions, cultural experiences, and coastal visits if you prefer quieter surroundings.

Rainfall:
– Montenegro experiences the most rainfall during the autumn months, primarily in October and November. Coastal regions may have sporadic rain during this time.

Festivals and Events:
– Consider timing your visit with festivals and events like the Kotor Carnival in February or the Montenegro International Documentary Film Festival in August for a cultural immersion.

In summary, the best time to visit Montenegro largely depends on your interests. Summer is perfect for beach vacations, while spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Winter caters to ski enthusiasts and those looking for a unique winter experience in the mountains. Consider your preferences and plan your visit accordingly to make the most of this beautiful country’s diverse offerings.

Traveling in Montenegro – Ultimate 5 days Travel Guide 

Montenegro is located along the stunning Adriatic Sea and is surrounded by other beautiful Balkan countries like Croatia, Albania, Serbia and Bosnia. What’s great about visiting Montenegro is that it is a very small country which makes getting around and visiting various different cities and attractions quite easy. In fact, driving from one end of the country to the other takes around 4 hours.

If you are looking for the perfect getaway, Montenegro is your place. This country’s history, culture and hospitality are unmatched and something you will surely fall in love with. Use this post as a guide for your 5 days traveling in Montenegro to enjoy!

5 days in Montenegro

Day 1: Herceg Novi

The best place to start your Montenegro adventures is in the stunning, quaint city of Herceg Novi (https://samseesworld.com/herceg-novi-montenegro/). Herceg Novi is located at the top of Montenegro very close to the Croatian boarder. It is a great first stop because it is only an hour from the Dubrovnik airport, which is a great airport to fly into.

Spending one day and one night in Herceg Novi will give you the perfect first impression of Montenegro and show you an authentic and non-touristy side to the country. There is so much to do and see in this little town and you will surely be wishing you had more time to spend here. The best thing to do is go to the beach. The whole city is located along the coastal waters of the Bay of Kotor and you will find the entire shoreline is packed with beaches.

Beyond this, city is also very old which means there is a beautiful and historic old town to be explored. There are also various restaurants, old fortresses and more to discover.

Here’s a quick tour of Herceg Novi below

Day 2: Kotor

Following Herceg Novi, you will either drive or take public transportation to Montenegro’s most famous city, Kotor. The stunning mountain views, Game of Thrones style old town, and blue coastal waters make it the ideal place to spend a few days. Plus, Kotor is a very central city and there are a ton of beautiful attractions only a quick boat or bus ride away. With Kotor’s central location and plethora of things to do, it is best to set up a base here and spend a few nights exploring.

The first day in Kotor should be spent exploring the city itself. There is so much beauty and exciting things to do. One of the top things to do is the Kotor Fortress hike. This hike offers some of the most beautiful panoramic views of Kotor’s old town and the surrounding Bay of Kotor. The hike is hard but very worth it. An additional thing you must do is explore the old town of Kotor, it is stunning and very historic.

Here’s a tour of Kotor and the surrounding areas

Day 3: Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks, Bay of Kotor

After exploring Kotor for the day, it is time to spend a day explore the attractions and villages surrounding Kotor. The main two Kotor day trips are to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks. These two places can be explored in the same day and are usually done on a tour together.

Perast is a small coastal town located a short 15-minute drive from Kotor. This town offers all the same beauty of Kotor but with much fewer people. Perast has a quiet and authentic Montenegrin feel to it and is the perfect place for swimming, eating at local restaurants, and admiring the architecture.

Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island in the middle of the Bay of Kotor. It is only reachable by boat, and there are a ton of boat tour companies available to bring you there. This small island has one church on it and is an interesting and historic place to explore.

Here’s a gorgeous look and tour around Perast

Day 4: Lovcen National Park

Lovcen is one of Montenegro’s many national parks. It is the perfect place to head to for a day for many reasons. One, it is very close to Kotor, so you don’t have to waste time moving to your new accommodation and getting settled. Two, it is stunning! The hike to the top of Lovcen mountain offers insane views over Montenegro and the Bay of Kotor. The hike is not easy, but completely worth it for the views. Plus, there is a mausoleum at the top open for exploring.

Check out this road trip exploring Lovcen National Park below

How to get around Montenegro

Getting around Montenegro is relatively easy, and you have several transportation options to explore this beautiful country. Here’s how to get around Montenegro:

1. **Renting a Car:** Renting a car is a popular choice for travelers who want the flexibility to explore Montenegro at their own pace. Major cities like Podgorica and Tivat have car rental agencies, and the road network is generally well-maintained. Be prepared for winding mountain roads in some areas.

2. **Public Buses:** Montenegro has an extensive network of public buses that connect cities, towns, and even remote villages. The buses are an affordable way to travel, and the central bus stations in cities like Podgorica and Budva serve as transportation hubs.

3. **Taxis:** Taxis are readily available in Montenegro, especially in urban areas. Ensure that the taxi has a working meter or negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Taxis are a convenient option for short distances or when you don’t want to drive.

4. **Trains:** While Montenegro has a limited railway network, you can take advantage of train services to reach certain destinations. The train ride from the capital, Podgorica, to the coastal city of Bar offers scenic views of the countryside.

5. **Ferries:** Montenegro’s coastline is dotted with picturesque bays and islands. Ferries operate along the Adriatic coast, connecting cities like Kotor, Herceg Novi, and Bar with nearby islands.

6. **Boats and Cruises:** Exploring Montenegro’s coastline by boat or taking a cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy the stunning Adriatic Sea. You can embark on boat tours, island-hopping adventures, or even rent private boats for a personalized experience.

7. **Walking and Biking:** Many Montenegrin towns and cities have pedestrian-friendly areas, making walking an enjoyable way to explore. Additionally, Montenegro offers excellent opportunities for cycling, with scenic routes along the coast and through the mountains.

8. **Domestic Flights:** While Montenegro is a small country, it has a few domestic airports, such as Podgorica Airport and Tivat Airport. Domestic flights can save time if you’re traveling long distances within the country.

9. **Organized Tours:** If you prefer guided experiences, consider joining organized tours that cater to specific interests, such as hiking, cultural exploration, or adventure activities.

10. **Ridesharing Apps:** In some cities, ridesharing apps like Uber may be available, offering convenient and reliable transportation options.

Montenegro’s relatively compact size makes it easy to travel between different regions. Whether you want to soak up the sun on the coast, explore historic towns, or venture into the stunning mountains, Montenegro offers a variety of transportation methods to suit your travel preferences.

Day 5: Tivat

Just 30 minutes from Kotor is the unique city of Tivat. Tivat is a modern place that is unlike any other city in Montenegro. The streets and buildings are all new and there is no old town in sight. A visit here offers a Montenegro experience that is more like Monaco than the other cities.

Tivat is a more luxurious city in Montenegro and is where you will find luxurious shops, high end restaurants, and a huge port full of super yachts. It is the perfect place to end your trip in a little bit of luxerious and a change of pace. The best place to visit in Tivat is Porto Montenegro which is a pool club that offers an amazing pool day experience.

More so, Tivat has an airport in the city which makes it the perfect place to depart from.

 Special foods and dishes to eat in Montenegro

Montenegro offers a delightful culinary journey with a mix of Mediterranean, Balkan, and Eastern European influences. Here are some special foods and dishes to savor when visiting Montenegro:

1. **Njeguški Pršut:** This is Montenegro’s answer to Italian prosciutto. It’s air-dried, thinly sliced ham that’s rich in flavor and often served as an appetizer.

2. **Kacamak:** A hearty traditional dish made with cornmeal and potato, kacamak is often accompanied by sour cream and cheese. It’s a comforting, filling meal.

3. **Cicvara:** Another cornmeal-based dish, cicvara is creamy and smooth, often served with yogurt or cheese. It’s a beloved breakfast option.

4. **Pljeskavica:** Montenegro’s version of the burger, pljeskavica is a grilled ground meat patty (usually beef or a mix of meats) served in a flatbread with various toppings, including onions, kajmak (a type of clotted cream), and ajvar (a pepper-based condiment).

5. **Riblja Čorba:** A fisherman’s favorite, this fish soup is typically prepared with a variety of freshwater fish, vegetables, and spices, creating a flavorful and hearty broth.

6. **Sarma:** Cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced meat and rice, sarma is a beloved dish often enjoyed during special occasions and holidays.

7. **Palačinke:** These thin, crepe-like pancakes can be filled with a variety of sweet fillings, such as jam, Nutella, or fresh fruit, making them a popular dessert.

8. **Buzara:** A seafood delight, buzara is made by simmering shellfish (typically mussels or shrimp) in a tomato and white wine sauce, often flavored with garlic and parsley.

9. **Grilled Fish:** Due to its coastal location, Montenegro offers an abundance of fresh seafood. Grilled fish, such as sea bream and sea bass, is a popular choice, often served with olive oil and lemon.

10. **Rakija:** Montenegro’s signature fruit brandy, rakija is a must-try. It comes in various flavors, including plum (šljivovica), grape (loza), and herbal varieties.

11. **Nikšićko Pivo:** Enjoy Montenegro’s local beer, Nikšićko Pivo, which is widely available and a great choice to accompany your meals.

12. **Pomegranate Juice:** Montenegro is known for its delicious pomegranates, and freshly squeezed pomegranate juice is a refreshing and healthy option.

13. **Mediterranean Fruits:** Savor the abundance of Mediterranean fruits like figs, pomegranates, and olives, which are commonly used in various dishes and salads.

14. **Burek:** While not unique to Montenegro, burek is a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, often enjoyed as a quick snack or breakfast.

Exploring Montenegro’s cuisine is an integral part of experiencing its culture and traditions. Be sure to try these dishes and savor the diverse flavors that Montenegro has to offer during your visit.

 

 

When to visit Montenegro

If you visit in the summer months you will be welcomed by a lively and full Montenegro. During the summer all the tours, restaurants and attractions are in full swing and the whole country is alive with a vibrant energy. However, it is very busy in the summer.

In the shoulder months (April, May, September, October) there are much fewer people, and the weather is still amazing. However, some tours may not be running.

Explore this gorgeous Montenegro highlights visit below

More inside tips to visiting Montenegro

Visiting Montenegro is a delightful experience, and to make the most of your trip, here are some inside tips:

1. **Currency:** Montenegro uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases and in rural areas where card payments may not be as common.

2. **Language:** Montenegrin is the official language, but you’ll find that many people, especially in tourist areas, speak English. Learning a few basic Montenegrin phrases can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.

3. **Local Cuisine:** Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Montenegrin dishes like Njeguški Pršut, Kacamak, and fresh seafood. Explore local restaurants and cafes to savor authentic flavors.

4. **Respect for Traditions:** Montenegro is proud of its cultural heritage. Be respectful when visiting churches and monasteries, dressing modestly and following any rules or customs that are in place.

5. **National Parks:** Montenegro boasts stunning national parks, such as Durmitor and Biogradska Gora. If you enjoy hiking or nature, consider spending time in these pristine areas.

6. **Adriatic Coast:** The coastal towns of Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi are beautiful, but they can get crowded during the peak tourist season. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the scenic views.

7. **Local Festivals:** Montenegro hosts various festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, culture, and traditions. Check if there are any festivals happening during your visit to immerse yourself in local culture.

8. **Safety:** Montenegro is generally a safe country for travelers. However, like anywhere else, it’s essential to take standard precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.

9. **Public Toilets:** Public restrooms may not always meet the same standards as those in Western countries. Carry tissue and hand sanitizer for your comfort.

10. **Souvenirs:** Look for authentic Montenegrin souvenirs like local wines, olive oil, ceramics, and handmade jewelry. Supporting local artisans contributes to the economy.

11. **Travel Insurance:** Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected events, including medical emergencies and trip cancellations, to ensure peace of mind during your journey.

12. **Local Transport:** While renting a car is a convenient way to explore, don’t hesitate to use public transport, especially for longer journeys. Buses and trains are efficient and budget-friendly.

13. **Mountain Roads:** If you plan to drive through the mountainous regions, be prepared for winding and narrow roads. Drive cautiously and take in the breathtaking views.

14. **Sun Protection:** Whether you’re on the coast or in the mountains, Montenegro gets plenty of sun. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays.

By embracing these inside tips, you’ll have an enriched and enjoyable experience while exploring the diverse landscapes, culture, and cuisine of Montenegro.

Share or pin this for later

Guest Author bio

Samantha Karen is the founder of the travel bog Sam Sees World. She is a twenty something traveler on a mission to explore the world to seek the new and unknown so she can document her experiences and inspire others to explore this wondrous world. Her objective is to learn about the world while also searching for her place in it. Check out Sam Sees World for valuable information on the best things to do, see, eat, and experience while traveling and making memories along the way.

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/samseesworld/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samseesworlddd/

Conclusion to Traveling in Montenegro

Traveling in Montenegro is a captivating journey filled with diverse experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. From its stunning Adriatic coastline with charming towns like Kotor and Budva to the rugged beauty of its mountains in Durmitor National Park, Montenegro offers a tapestry of landscapes and cultures.

As you explore Montenegro, you’ll encounter warm and hospitable people eager to share their traditions and culinary delights, from Njeguški Pršut to seafood fresh from the Adriatic. The country’s historic sites, such as Ostrog Monastery and ancient stone villages, provide a window into its rich past.

Venturing beyond the major attractions reveals hidden treasures, from serene Skadar Lake to hiking trails that lead to secluded vistas. Whether you seek adventure in canyon adventures or a taste of village life in an “etno selo,” Montenegro invites you to immerse yourself in its beauty and culture.

Thanks for visiting and checking out this post on Traveling in Montenegro. Bookmark this post for future reference when you are looking for some Hawaii activities, adventure or fun experiences.

Please do share this post with any of the social media icons on the side bar and thanks for visiting today!

Sharing is caring!