Montenegro, nestled in the Balkans on the Adriatic Sea, is a country known for its stunning landscapes, medieval villages, and beautiful coastline. Here’s a guide to exploring Montenegro:
Key Highlights:
Kotor: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor is renowned for its medieval old town surrounded by impressive city walls. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, Maritime Museum, and climbing the city walls for panoramic views.
Budva: Known for its sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, Budva is one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. Explore the old town with its narrow streets, historic churches, and lively atmosphere.
Bay of Kotor: Often called Europe’s southernmost fjord, it's actually a submerged river canyon. The bay is dotted with picturesque villages like Perast and Tivat, and you can visit the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks islet.
Durmitor National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, including the Tara River Canyon (Europe’s deepest), glacial lakes like Black Lake, and the peaks of the Durmitor mountain range. It's ideal for hiking, rafting, and skiing in winter.
Sveti Stefan: A small islet and resort on the Adriatic coast, connected to the mainland by a causeway. Its picturesque stone houses and pink sand beaches make it a popular tourist destination.
Practical Tips:
Visa: Montenegro is not yet part of the European Union, but EU citizens and many others can enter visa-free for short stays. Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
Currency: The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but it’s advisable to have cash for smaller establishments and markets.
Language: Montenegrin is the official language, similar to Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian. English is spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations.