Introduction
Although it is one of the smallest countries in Southeastern Europe, Montenegro is packed with fun and interesting things to see and do. Besides a sunny and scenic coastline, it has jagged canyons, pristine forests and rugged limestone mountain ranges with charming historic towns and age-old monasteries.
Set alongside the glittering Adriatic Sea, the small Balkan state is surrounded by Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania. Very mountainous for the most part, its craggy karst landscapes are riddled with lovely lakes and lush woodland while beautiful beaches, bays and cliffs lie along the coast.
While most visitors arrive in Podgorica, its small and sleepy capital, they almost immediately head off to explore the country’s stunning seaside settlements or amazing natural sights. It is well worth spending a day or two in Montenegro’s largest city, however, to experience its lively cafe culture and nightlife. Its main sights include its atmospheric old town and colorful cathedral.
After this cursory visit, most people flock to Budva, Bar and Kotor on the Adriatic. While the first two boast picturesque old towns and sublime beaches, the latter is set in one of the most spectacular spots imaginable. Located on the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, the incredible coastal town of the same name has a magnificent medieval old town to stroll around with impressive churches, forts and museums on offer.
On the way to the coast, many visitors also stop by the small town of Cetinje which was once the royal capital of the country. After having seen the centuries-old historic sites, cultural landmarks and the fascinating cliffside monastery at Mount Ostrog, it is Montenegro’s wild and untouched scenery that appeals to a lot of people. Rafting through the Tara Canyon, the deepest in Europe, for instance, is an unforgettable experience as is hiking the scenic national parks of Durmitor, Lovcen and Biogradska Gora. Boating on Skadar and Crno lakes is also popular.