Montenegro
Nestled between deep gorges, rugged mountains, and the Adriatic coast, steeped in Venetian heritage, Montenegro offers a surprising number of contrasts within a small area. From ancient trading cities like Kotor and Durmitor National Park to the Bay of Budva, the country is ideal for tours focusing on nature, culture, and the sea.
Official language
Montenegrin
Serbian, Bosnian,
Albanian and Croatian
Capital city
Podgorica
Form of government
republic
Area
13,812 km²
population
616,000
currency
euro
independence
June 3, 2006
telephone area code
+382
UNESCO World Heritage
Kotor
NP Durmitor
Cetinje (candidate)
Stari Bar (candidate)
Ulcinj (candidate)
Montenegro – Contrasts in a small space
Montenegro is a land of short distances – but great contrasts. Only a few kilometers separate the Adriatic Sea from the Northern Albanian Alps, yet they are worlds apart in terms of landscape: coastal towns with Venetian heritage, rugged mountain ranges, deep canyons, tranquil lakes, and forests that appear almost untouched.
The water is clear, the rocks bright, the vegetation lush. And in the heart of it all: small towns with a rich history, open-minded people, and a cuisine that blends Mediterranean and Balkan influences.
Montenegro is compact like a mosaic – but if you look closely, you'll discover surprising depth. It's a country that doesn't advertise itself loudly, but quietly convinces. Ideal for tours, active holidays, and combinations with Croatia, Albania, North Macedonia, or Serbia.
Montenegro's coast – cities, bays, mountains
Montenegro's coastline stretches for roughly 300 kilometers – but what it offers is far more than just sea. Between Albania and Croatia, a mosaic of bays, beaches, and fortified old towns unfolds – each with its own history, rhythm, and atmosphere.
Herceg Noviam, the gateway to the Bay of Kotor, is an artists' colony, a spa town, and a carnival hotspot all in one. Kotor, further inland, resembles a theater of stone: framed by mountains, with narrow streets, churches, palaces – and as the only "fjord" in the Mediterranean, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for both its natural and cultural significance. Moreover, the bay is one of the regions in the Mediterranean with the highest concentration of religious sites.
Budva combines a historical setting with a vibrant beach life – ideal for guests who want to combine culture with ease. Ulcinj, in the far south, is considered the oldest seafaring city in the country – long under Ottoman influence, characterized by wide sandy beaches and Mediterranean openness.
The coast is not only suitable for relaxing – but also for exploration: by boat, underwater or by kayak along the rocky shores. Diving, snorkeling, sailing – or simply arriving and staying.
The Montenegrin coast is not a place for grand gestures – but one where everything comes together: sea, history, silence, movement.
Montenegro's mountains – nature in its quiet grandeur
Montenegro's strength lies not only on its coast – it begins where the asphalt ends. Inland, plateaus, valleys, forests, and mountains stretch out, forming some of the most impressive natural landscapes in Europe.
Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a high mountain massif with 48 peaks over 2,000 m. At its center: the Black Lake, almost circular, surrounded by pine trees.
And then: the Tara Canyon – the deepest canyon in Europe, carved by a turquoise river that fascinates hikers, rafting groups, and photographers alike. For an even more spectacular experience, glide across the canyon at dizzying heights on one of Europe's longest ziplines – an unforgettable change of perspective.
Lovćen is closer to the coast and offers views across wide stretches of land – all the way to the Adriatic Sea.
At its summit: the Njegoš Mausoleum, a symbol of Montenegrin identity – solitary, monumental, battered by the wind.
Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, is a bird paradise with over 270 species. Its shores alternate between open water, water lily fields, floating monasteries, and vineyards.
Biogradska Gora, further east, is quieter: one of the last primeval forests in Europe, crisscrossed by wooden paths, around a clear glacial lake.
In the far southeast lies Prokletije – wild, high, and pristine. The national park encompasses the Montenegrin part of the mountain range of the same name, whose peaks often rise above the clouds. Many of the country's highest mountains reach for the sky here. Deep forests, rare animal species, and alpine landscapes characterize this untouched mountain world – a tranquil refuge for nature lovers and explorers.
Movement & enjoyment – summer and winter
Montenegro is a year-round destination for nature lovers.
In summer, hiking trails lead through wild gorges and across secluded high plateaus, past crystal-clear mountain lakes and old shepherd's paths. Those seeking more adrenaline will find it canyoning in the Nevidio Gorge, rafting on the Tara River – or ziplining over Europe's deepest gorge. Spectacular aerial views are also available along the coast, for example in Budva.
In winter, Montenegro's mountainous regions transform into tranquil snowscapes. Ski resorts like Kolašin and Žabljak offer slopes for skiers and snowboarders, while snowshoe hikes lead through glistening forests – often with panoramic views stretching to the Adriatic Sea. Those seeking a more tranquil experience will find relaxation in elegant wellness hotels with character.
Culinary & Regionality
The cuisine is as diverse as the country itself:
In the mountains, you'll find " Skorup " (fresh spreadable cheese), hot flatbreads, Kačamak (polenta with cheese), or Rastan – a kale dish with smoked lamb, traditionally cooked under a "Sač" (a type of grill). The famous air-dried ham "Pršut" from Njeguši is also among the specialties that are a must on every table.
On Lake Skadar: carp, bleak, and crayfish. On the coast: seafood specialties fried in olive oil. Accompanied by: locally produced wine – robust, earthy, often underrated.
