Why Montenegro?
Montenegro is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, a stunning mix of rugged mountains, medieval villages, and pristine Adriatic beaches. This tiny Balkan gem packs a serious punch with its blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a culinary scene that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a foodie looking for authentic flavors, Montenegro offers an unforgettable travel experience.
A Brief History of Montenegro
Montenegro’s story dates back thousands of years, with influences from the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans shaping its unique identity. In the Middle Ages, the region was ruled by various Slavic kingdoms, with the Principality of Zeta emerging as a key player.
By the 15th century, Montenegro became one of the few Balkan territories to resist the Ottoman Empire’s expansion, maintaining its independence for centuries under the rule of Prince-Bishops. It was officially recognized as an independent kingdom in 1878 but later became part of Yugoslavia after World War I.
Following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Montenegro remained in a union with Serbia until 2006, when it gained full independence. Today, Montenegro is a thriving tourist destination, blending its rich heritage with modern luxury.
A Culinary Wonderland: Montenegro’s Food Scene
Montenegrin cuisine is an amazing fusion of Mediterranean, Slavic, and Ottoman influences. Expect hearty mountain dishes in the north and fresh seafood along the coast, all made with locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Every region has its specialty, making Montenegro a paradise for food lovers eager to explore authentic flavors.
Must-Try Foods in Montenegro
1. Njeguški Pršut
Montenegro’s version of prosciutto, this dry-cured ham from Njeguši village is smoked over beechwood for months, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. It is often served with local cheeses, olives, and homemade bread, making for an unforgettable appetizer.
Where to Try:
- Njeguški Dvori – A traditional restaurant in Njeguši known for its charcuterie platters.
- Konoba Stari Grad in Kotor – A perfect spot for an authentic local tasting experience.
- Restaurant Durmitor in Podgorica – Offers a refined presentation of Montenegro’s famed pršut.
2. Ćevapi
These small, grilled minced meat sausages are a Balkan staple, usually served with lepinja (flatbread), kajmak (creamy dairy spread), and ajvar (pepper relish). The smoky, juicy flavors make it one of the most beloved comfort foods in Montenegro.
Where to Try:
- Pod Volat in Podgorica – A local favorite for grilled meats, famous for its authentic ćevapi.
- Bastion in Kotor – Serves some of the best ćevapi in the coastal region, with an artisanal touch.
- Kod Pera na Bukovicu in Nikšić – A rustic eatery where the ćevapi are cooked to perfection.
3. Buzara Seafood
A classic coastal dish, buzara-style seafood features mussels, shrimp, or fish cooked in a fragrant sauce of white wine, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, often served with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish showcases the freshness of Montenegro’s Adriatic seafood.
Where to Try:
- Konoba Catovica Mlini – A picturesque riverside restaurant in Kotor Bay.
- Restaurant Galion – Fine dining with spectacular views of Kotor, perfect for seafood lovers.
- Feral in Herceg Novi – A small family-run seafood restaurant with a focus on traditional recipes.
4. Kačamak
A rich, cheesy cornmeal dish, similar to Italian polenta but with the addition of local dairy products that make it extra creamy. It’s a staple in the northern mountain regions, providing a hearty meal for hikers and outdoor adventurers.
Where to Try:
- Restoran Koliba in Durmitor – Ideal for a traditional mountain meal, often served with homemade sour cream.
- Nevjesta Jadrana – A rustic spot with panoramic views near Budva, known for its rich and buttery kačamak.
- Etno Selo Montenegro – A traditional village eatery offering an immersive dining experience.
5. Pita (Burek)
A flaky, savory pastry filled with cheese, spinach, potatoes, or minced meat, burek is a breakfast staple in Montenegro, often paired with a glass of yogurt. This dish reflects the Ottoman influence on Montenegrin cuisine.
Where to Try:
- Pekara As – A beloved bakery in Podgorica known for its fresh, crispy burek.
- Forza Bakery in Kotor – Offers gourmet versions of the classic burek.
- Zora Bakery in Budva – Famous for its wide variety of flaky pastries.
6. Pasticada
A slow-cooked beef dish marinated in vinegar, wine, and Mediterranean herbs, pasticada is typically served with homemade gnocchi or mashed potatoes. The dish is influenced by Dalmatian flavors and is a must-try for meat lovers.
Where to Try:
- Konoba Portun in Budva – A charming eatery known for its authentic pasticada.
- Taverna Galija in Herceg Novi – Combines rich flavors with a cozy, traditional ambiance.
7. Vranac Wine & Rakija
Montenegro is home to some outstanding wines, particularly Vranac, a deep red variety with bold flavors. If you’re feeling brave, try rakija, a strong fruit brandy that locals swear by. A wine-tasting experience in Montenegro isn’t complete without sampling both.
Where to Try:
- Plantaže Winery – The country’s largest and most famous winery, offering extensive wine tastings and vineyard tours.
- Winery Masanovic – A small family-run vineyard specializing in organic Vranac wines.
- Local konobas (taverns) – Many serve homemade rakija, which varies in strength and flavor depending on the fruit used (grape, plum, pear, or quince).
8. Seafood Risotto
Montenegro’s coastal towns are known for their delicious seafood risotto, often made with squid ink, shrimp, mussels, or white fish, all flavored with local herbs and rich olive oil.
Where to Try:
- Restaurant Stari Mlini in Kotor Bay – A fine-dining experience offering an exquisite take on seafood risotto.
- Ribarsko Selo in Herceg Novi – A quaint, seaside restaurant known for its fresh, daily-caught seafood risotto.
Best Experiences in Montenegro
1. Explore the Bay of Kotor
The Bay of Kotor is one of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in Europe, often compared to a Norwegian fjord. Wander through Kotor’s Old Town, a UNESCO-listed site filled with medieval architecture, winding streets, and stunning churches. The bay’s fjord-like waters are framed by towering mountains, making it an ideal destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Highlights:
Climb up the San Giovanni Fortress – A challenging but rewarding hike up 1,350 steps that leads to panoramic views of Kotor and the shimmering bay below.
Visit Our Lady of the Rocks – A unique man-made island, built by local sailors over centuries, featuring a historic church and museum.
Stroll through Perast – This charming baroque town is a hidden gem with stunning waterfront views, boutique hotels, and historic palaces.
Take a boat tour – The best way to explore the bay is from the water. Many tours include stops at the famous Blue Cave, a natural sea cave with glowing blue waters.
Try local seafood – The Bay of Kotor is known for its fresh seafood, particularly mussels and oysters from nearby farms.
2. Relax on the Beaches of Budva
Montenegro’s coastline is dotted with spectacular beaches, and Budva is the country’s beach capital. Whether you’re looking for secluded coves, lively beach clubs, or water sports, Budva has something for everyone. With its warm Adriatic waters, soft sandy shores, and vibrant nightlife, Budva is a must-visit for beach lovers.
Best Beaches:
Mogren Beach – A scenic beach close to the Old Town, with golden sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Jaz Beach – One of Montenegro’s longest beaches, ideal for sunbathing during the day and partying at night, with regular music festivals.
Sveti Stefan Beach – Near the iconic Sveti Stefan Island, this beach is split into a public and private section, offering picturesque views of the famous luxury resort.
Ploce Beach – A bit further from Budva, this rocky beach features natural swimming pools and a vibrant beach club atmosphere.
Kamenovo Beach – A hidden gem with soft sand and fewer crowds, making it perfect for a peaceful beach day.
3. Go Hiking in Durmitor National Park
If you love the great outdoors, Durmitor National Park is a must-visit. Featuring glacial lakes, dramatic peaks, and deep canyons, it’s a paradise for hikers, adventure seekers, and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for a multi-day trek or a short scenic walk, Durmitor has something for every level of hiker.
Top Activities:
Hike to Bobotov Kuk – At 2,523 meters, this is Montenegro’s highest peak. The challenging hike rewards adventurers with stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Raft through the Tara River Canyon – The deepest canyon in Europe, offering exhilarating white-water rafting experiences for all skill levels.
Visit the stunning Black Lake – A picture-perfect alpine lake surrounded by dense pine forests, perfect for kayaking or a relaxing picnic.
Wildlife spotting – The park is home to bears, wolves, and golden eagles, making it an exciting destination for nature lovers.
Winter sports – During winter, Durmitor transforms into a ski resort, offering great slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
4. Visit Ostrog Monastery
Built into a dramatic cliffside, Ostrog Monastery is one of the most spiritual and visually striking places in Montenegro. This 17th-century Serbian Orthodox monastery is a pilgrimage site for Christians of all denominations, as well as an architectural marvel that defies gravity.
Things to Know:
Stunning location – The monastery is built into a sheer rock face, offering breathtaking views of the valley below.
Spiritual significance – Pilgrims visit to seek blessings and healing, often walking barefoot up the steep road to the monastery.
Two levels – The lower monastery has guest accommodations, while the upper monastery houses relics of Saint Basil of Ostrog.
Accessible by car or hike – While most visitors drive, some choose to hike up the mountain for a more immersive experience.
5. Experience the Wine Culture in Lake Skadar
Lake Skadar is not only a natural wonder but also Montenegro’s wine country. Take a boat cruise, visit local wineries, and taste some of the finest Montenegrin wines while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the lake. This protected national park is home to rare bird species, lily-covered waters, and charming fishing villages.
Best Experiences:
Take a scenic boat tour – Explore the lake’s hidden channels, ancient monasteries, and floating water lilies.
Visit local wineries – The region is famous for Vranac wine, a rich red wine that pairs beautifully with local cheeses and smoked meats.
Birdwatching – Lake Skadar is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 280 species, including the rare Dalmatian pelican.
Explore the old villages – Visit Rijeka Crnojevića, a picturesque town with stone bridges and charming waterfront restaurants.
Swim in the lake – Unlike the sea, Lake Skadar’s freshwater makes for a refreshing swim in the summer months.
Best Wineries to Visit:
Winery Masanovic – A small, family-run winery with a personal touch and outstanding red wines.
Vinarija Garnet – Known for its organic and traditional wine-making process.
Winery Plantaže – Montenegro’s largest and most famous winery, offering extensive tastings and vineyard tours.
6. Explore the Capital, Podgorica
While often overlooked, Podgorica offers a mix of history, modern culture, and coffee-fueled social life. Though it may not have the charm of coastal towns, the capital has its own appeal with Ottoman-era ruins, vibrant cafes, and emerging art scenes.
Things to See & Do:
Hike to Gorica Hill – A quick escape into nature with panoramic views of the city.
Visit the Millennium Bridge – One of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Explore Stara Varoš – The old Ottoman quarter, with remnants of mosques, ancient clock towers, and traditional Turkish baths.
Check out the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ – A stunning modern Orthodox cathedral with intricate frescoes.
Enjoy a café culture – Podgorica’s coffee scene is thriving, with cozy spots to relax and people-watch.
Final Thoughts
Montenegro is a compact but incredibly diverse destination, offering everything from historic towns and sandy beaches to mountain adventures and world-class wine. Whether you’re exploring the Bay of Kotor, feasting on njeguški pršut, or hiking in Durmitor, this country guarantees an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Montenegro should be at the top of your travel list!
