The Best Of Montenegro Itinerary: Instagrammable Spots And Travel Tips
Montenegro is a gem on the Adriatic coast. The country is full of picturesque towns, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and some of the most Instagrammable locations in Europe. This 5-day Montenegro itinerary is perfect for exploring highlights like Kotor, Budva, and Stari Bar while capturing photo-perfect moments. Here’s how to make the most of your trip!
This page may contain affiliate links, which means if you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I will never recommend products and services I don’t trust or haven’t used. For more information, please read my disclosure.
I love helping you plan your dream trips. If you need any of these services, please consider booking them through my affiliate links. It won’t cost you anything extra but will help me keep the website running.
🏠 Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com or Hotels.com
✈️ Get the cheapest flights with Skyscanner
🚣 Book your favorite activities with Viator or Get Your Guide
📱Stay connected with an eSIM from Airalo
Thank you very much for your support!
Day 1: Arrival in Kotor – Exploring the Jewel of the Bay
Quick Summary of Day 1 in Kotor
- Arrival Tip: Take a reliable taxi or transfer from Tivat Airport to Kotor.
- Where to Stay: Choose Old Town for convenience, Muo for views, or Dobrota for tranquility.
- What to See: Explore Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and meet the famous Kotor Cats.
- Dining Highlight: Enjoy traditional Montenegrin cuisine at Pescaderia Dekaderon.
Getting to Kotor from Tivat Airport Montenegro
I arrived in Kotor by plane, and my flight to Montenegro landed in Tivat, which is just 10 km away from Kotor. Unfortunately, no public buses connect Tivat Airport Montenegro with Kotor, so to get from Tivat to Kotor, I had to take a taxi or book a transfer.
I pre-booked a transfer with Red Taxi, and I can’t recommend their service enough.
My flight was delayed, but the taxi company kept in constant contact with me and followed my flight schedule so that the taxi was waiting at the airport when I landed. I have used their taxi services several times during my stay in Kotor, and they have always been punctual and reliable.
Red Taxi phone numbers: 19719 for Kotor and 19729 for Tivat.
Accommodation in Kotor: Check-in
I checked in at my accommodation in Muo, freshened up, and set out to explore Kotor Old Town.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying in Muo or Dobrota, consider renting a bike or using taxis to get around more comfortably.
How to Choose the Best Area to Stay in Kotor
If you prefer to stay close to Kotor’s attractions, restaurants, and shops, you’d better choose accommodation in Kotor Old Town.
For the best view of Kotor Old Town from across the Bay of Kotor, choose accommodation in Muo. Note that you’ll have to walk about 2 km to reach Kotor Old Town from Muo.
Another good place to stay is Dobrota. It is just outside the old town of Kotor. You won’t have the view of the Old Town, but the view of the Bay of Kotor is no less beautiful.
🏨Click on the map to find the best accommodation in Kotor
Things to See in Kotor: Old Town
I started exploring from the Old Town of Kotor. Kotor Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a beautifully preserved medieval town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, at the foot of the Lovćen Mountains.
I consider Kotor to be the most beautiful city in Montenegro, and all Montenegro itineraries should include a visit to Kotor and the Bay of Kotor.
I strolled through its cobbled streets and ancient stone buildings. There are so many interesting buildings and hidden corners to explore. I loved getting lost and finding yet another beautiful spot in Kotor Old Town.
I particularly liked the Church of St. Luke, which has a beautiful interior and a peaceful atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Visit the Old Town Market in the morning to sample fresh local delicacies like pršut (smoked ham) and Montenegrin honey.
Kotor Local Celebrities: Kotor Cats
As I walked the streets, my attention was drawn by the many cats. Kotor cats seem to be the true rulers of the city. Kotor Montenegro cats are the local celebrities. They are everywhere and love to pose for pictures.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the Kotor Cats Museum, a quirky spot dedicated to the city’s feline friends.
Where to Eat in Kotor
When it was time for dinner, I took a seat in one of the restaurants in the old town of Kotor. I chose Pescaderia Dekaderon, just in front of the Kotor St. Tryphon Cathedral. It happened to be one of the best places to try traditional Montenegrin food prepared with local products. The seafood was particularly good here. I opted for some fresh octopus and mussels. And the local wine was delicious and very affordable.
Pro Tip: Call ahead to reserve your table, especially during peak seasons, to avoid waiting times.
Day 2: St. John’s Fortress, Kotor Bay, Perast, and Our Lady of the Rocks
Morning: St. John’s Fortress
I started the day with an early morning hike to St. John’s Fortress. It offers panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and the charming town below. The trail is steep and physically demanding, but it’s one of the most rewarding hikes in Montenegro.
Halfway up, there is a small church, a perfect spot to pause and admire the stunning views. Though I didn’t make it to the top, the vistas from the midway point were absolutely breathtaking. From in front of the church I saw the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains in all their glory.
Fun Fact: There’s a local tradition where men propose to their partners at the top of the fortress. The stunning backdrop of the bay and mountains makes for a truly romantic moment—and a well-deserved reward for the climb.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and start early to avoid the heat. If possible, aim to visit during sunrise for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Afternoon: Bay of Kotor Boat Tour
After the morning hike, I decided to relax with a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor. The Bay of Kotor boat tour is one of the top activities in Montenegro. Boat tours depart from just outside Kotor’s city walls.
Pro Tip: On your way to the pier, stop by the bridge over the Scurda River for fantastic photos of the city walls and Kampana Tower.
You can choose from several Kotor Bay boat tours.
I chose the Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast boat tour.
Our Lady of the Rocks
The first stop on most Kotor Bay boat tours is Our Lady of the Rocks. It is a small, picturesque island with a fascinating history. During my tour, the captain shared intriguing stories about the island, its church, and the legend behind its creation. Inside the church, there’s unique artwork and artifacts that tell the story of the bay’s maritime heritage.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to take photos of the island from the boat as you approach. The view is stunning, especially in the afternoon light.
The Romantic Town of Perast
Our boat tour continued to Perast. Perast is a charming coastal town known for its baroque architecture and breathtaking bay views. I wandered through its narrow streets, admired the historic buildings, and soaked in the tranquil atmosphere. Perast is small enough to explore in about an hour, making it an ideal stop.
Fun Fact: During my visit, I saw two weddings taking place in Perast, adding to its romantic charm. It’s no wonder this town is a popular destination for couples.
Pro Tip: Climb the bell tower of St. Nicholas Church for panoramic views of Perast and the bay. It’s a small fee, but the views are worth it.
Day 2 of my 5-day Montenegro itinerary was an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking hike to St. John’s Fortress to the relaxing boat tour of the Bay of Kotor, I explored iconic landmarks like Our Lady of the Rocks and the romantic town of Perast.
Are you enjoying this article so far? If you’d like to show your appreciation, feel free to book your accommodation, tickets, tours, and more through my affiliate links. You can find them at the top of the page or in my Travel Resources section. It won’t cost you anything extra but will greatly help me keep the website running. Thank you for your support!
Day 3: Herceg Novi and Budva
Morning: Herceg Novi
On the third day of my 5-day Montenegro itinerary, I took an intercity bus to the charming coastal town of Herceg Novi. Herceg Novi is located near the Croatian border. It offers a unique combination of history, culture, and stunning coastal views.
I started exploring the historic Old Town of Herceg Novi with a leisurely walk through its narrow streets, stone buildings, and charming cafes.
One of the main highlights is the Clock Tower, a popular photo spot. From here, I visited the Forte Mare and Kanli Kula fortresses, both of which offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Pro Tip: The Kanli Kula fortress occasionally hosts cultural events and concerts. Check the local schedule in advance for a chance to enhance your visit.
I stopped for lunch at a seafood restaurant by the harbor, where I enjoyed fresh Adriatic seafood with picturesque sea views.
Afternoon: From Herceg Novi to Budva
In the afternoon, I took an intercity bus from Herceg Novi to Budva, where I stayed for the next few days. The travel time was approximately 1.5 hours, and the bus was comfortable.
The Budva central bus station is a short 15-20 minute walk from Budva Old Town. If you’re traveling with luggage, consider taking a taxi.
Where to Stay in Budva
Pay close attention to your accommodation location. Options are spread across the Budva Riviera, and some might be far from the things you want to see and do in Budva.
🏨Click on the map to find the best accommodation in Budva
Evening: Exploring Budva Old Town
After checking into my accommodation, I spent the late afternoon and early evening exploring the Old Town of Budva. Budva is known as one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic. It offers a mix of artistic charm, beautiful beaches, and historical landmarks.
The Highlights of My Budva Old Town Exploration
- Stroll through the narrow streets admiring Budva’s Old Town medieval architecture.
- The Budva Citadel for its stunning views of the coastline and historical exhibits.
- The Church of St. John the Baptist, dating back to the 7th century for its frescoes and rich history.
- The Church of Santa Maria in Punta.
Pro Tip: The Archaeological Museum of Budva is a small but fascinating spot to learn more about the region’s history. It’s perfect for a quick visit.
Sunset at the Dancing Girl Statue
Just before sunset, I headed to the famous Dancing Girl Statue, one of Budva’s most Instagrammable spots. The statue is located near Mogren Beach and offers a stunning backdrop of the Adriatic Sea. The photos I took as the sun dipped below the horizon, created a magical end to my day.
Day 4: Stari Bar and Sveti Stefan
How to Get to Stari Bar from Budva
The 4th day of my 5-day Montenegro itinerary was dedicated to the historic town of Bar and the picturesque island of Sveti Stefan.
Bar is Montenegro’s first capital. It is a must-visit destination for history and architecture lovers. Bar architecture is a unique mix of Ottoman architecture, as well as Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque styles.
In the morning, I took a bus from Budva to Bar. The route followed a picturesque coastal road along the Adriatic Sea, offering stunning views.
Pro Tip: Take a seat on the right side of the bus for the best panoramic views of the coastline.
Exploring Stari Bar (The Old Town of Bar)
Stari Bar (Old Town) is about 5 km away from the Bar bus station. Since there was no public transportation available, my options were limited to taxis or walking. I knew Stari Bar was located on a hill, and supposed the walk would be steep, so I opted for a taxi.
Luckily, there were several taxis waiting outside the bus station, and the ride was both quick and affordable.
Fact: Stari Bar was heavily damaged by an earthquake in 1979, but key landmarks such as the clock tower, customs building, church, and hammam have been beautifully restored, making it a fascinating mix of ruins and history.
While wandering through Stari Bar, I took my time exploring the fortress ruins and admiring the Ottoman-influenced architecture.
The views from the fortress walls were breathtaking and offered an opportunity for incredible photos.
Pro Tip: Just outside the fortress walls, there is a charming street filled with souvenir shops and local restaurants serving authentic dishes.
Where to Eat in Stari Bar
I stopped for lunch at a traditional restaurant in Stari Bar. The food was inspired by the Turkish cuisine. I opted for burek (savory pastry), grilled meat, and Turkish coffee to finish the meal. The dishes were delicious, fresh, and very affordable.
Pro Tip: Look for restaurants with outdoor seating to enjoy the atmosphere and the views of the old town.
Sveti Stefan Island: Montenegro’s Most Instagrammable Spot
On my way back to Budva, I took off the intercity bus at Sveti Stefan, about 10 km from Budva.
The iconic island is home to a luxury resort, but even though I did not stay there, I could still admire its beauty from the mainland.
I took a walk down to Sveti Stefan Beach, where I enjoyed the crystal-clear waters and took stunning photos of the island from different angles.
After the walk on the beach, I went back to Hotel Adrovic. It has a terrace with the best panoramic view of Sveti Stefan. I had a coffee and took some postcard-worthy pictures.
Pro Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to capture the island in the soft light of the golden hour. It’s one of the most photographed locations in Montenegro for good reason.
Overall, I had a fantastic day discovering the historical charm of Stari Bar and the breathtaking beauty of Sveti Stefan, one of the most Instagrammable spots in Montenegro.
Day 5: Relax and Go to the Beach
On the last day of my Montenegro travel itinerary, I took the opportunity to explore more of Budva Old Town and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation on the beautiful beaches.
Relax at Mogren Beach
I started the day with a leisurely stroll through Budva Old Town, also known as Stari Grad Budva. I went to the Budva Marina for a picturesque view of the yachts and fishing boats before heading to the beach.
Then I headed to Mogren Beach, one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in Budva. Mogren Beach is actually two small beaches connected by a tunnel, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during the summer months when it can get crowded. Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the rocky areas.
If you prefer a quieter spot, consider Jaz Beach, a bit further from Budva but known for its serene atmosphere and expansive coastline.
How to End Your Montenegro Trip
Depending on your flight departure time, plan your journey to Tivat Airport. You can take an intercity bus to Tivat or opt for a taxi to Tivat Montenegro Airport for a quicker and more comfortable ride.
Pro Tip: Leave early to account for traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. Many taxis offer flat rates to the airport, so confirm the price beforehand.
Extend Your Montenegro Travel Itinerary
If you have extra time, consider extending your trip to include some of Montenegro’s stunning natural parks and attractions:
- Durmitor National Park: Known for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and the Tara River Canyon, perfect for adventure seekers.
- Lovćen National Park: Famous for its breathtaking views and the Njegoš Mausoleum.
- Lake Skadar: A paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering boat tours and kayaking opportunities.
Pro Tip: Rent a car to explore these destinations at your own pace and enjoy scenic drives along the way.
Extend Your Trip to Croatia
If you’re looking to expand your itinerary, consider combining your Montenegro travel with a visit to Croatia. Budva is less than an hour by bus from Herceg Novi, and from there, you can easily continue to Dubrovnik, one of Croatia’s most famous coastal cities.
FAQ
Even a short 5-day visit to Montenegro can be rewarding due to the country’s small size and the proximity of its attractions. However, spending more time allows you to appreciate the country’s diverse beauty and cultural depth more fully.
Absolutely! Montenegro is compact yet diverse, making it perfect for a 5-day trip. You can explore stunning places like Kotor, Perast, and Budva, and even take boat tours of the Bay of Kotor or visit beaches like Mogren Beach.
Montenegro offers intercity buses for budget travelers, but taxis and rental cars are more convenient, especially for exploring remote areas like Lovćen National Park or Durmitor National Park. Make sure to book taxis or transfers in advance, especially for trips to and from Tivat Airport.
The hike to St. John’s Fortress is steep and physically challenging, but even reaching the halfway point provides breathtaking views of Kotor Bay. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and start early to avoid the heat.
You can take an intercity bus from Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik, which is less than an hour away from Budva.
Montenegro boasts three incredible national parks:
Durmitor National Park: Famous for the Tara River Canyon and hiking trails.
Lovćen National Park: Home to the Njegoš Mausoleum and panoramic views.
Lake Skadar National Park: Ideal for birdwatching, kayaking, and boat tours.
Definitely! A Bay of Kotor boat tour is one of the best ways to see iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast, and the stunning Adriatic coastline. It’s a relaxing and scenic experience you shouldn’t miss.
Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are the best times to visit Montenegro. The weather is pleasant, and popular attractions like Kotor Old Town and Mogren Beach are less crowded compared to the summer peak season.
Yes, Montenegro pairs well with neighboring Croatia. Add Dubrovnik to your trip for a combined Croatia and Montenegro itinerary. Herceg Novi is a great starting point for your journey to Croatia.
Conclusion of the 5-Day Montenegro Itinerary
Montenegro is a beautiful destination filled with stunning beaches, historic towns, and breathtaking natural parks. This 5-day itinerary allows you to experience the best of the country’s charm and beauty. From exploring Kotor Old Town to relaxing on Budva’s beaches, every day brings something unique.
If you have more time, extend your trip to visit Montenegro’s national parks or combine your visit with a trip to Croatia. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re planning a return, Montenegro will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Was this article helpful? If you’d like to say “thanks”, please consider using my affiliate links to book your accommodation, tickets, tours, and more. It won’t cost you anything extra but helps me keep the website running. Thank you so much!
Pin For Later
You may also be interested in
Eastern Turkey Itinerary: How To Explore Upper Mesopotamia
OMG Loved Perast and Kotor! I hope I can visit again to see all these amazing places!
I’ve been thinking about a trip to Montenegro for some time. It looks really interesting and with real charm! I love the idea of a boat trip along the coast. You were so lucky to get an (almost) private tour!
Yes, Jane, it was the out-of-season luck.
Wow! Looks incredible. Will have to add this to my travel list!
Montenegro recently creeped to the top of my bucket list, and this post just pushed it up to spot #1! I loved all of your photos with accompanying write-up. I also adored the view from the apartment your stayed at in Kotor. I checked it out on Booking.com and WOW! What a great nightly price for such a stellar view. Lovely post and pictures!
You did a nice job. with your pics! Montenegro seems to be a very picturesque place! 🙂
What a beautiful country. Can’t get over your view from the apartment in Budva, what a find!
I must confess it was a bit noisy at night as there is a busy road at the back of the appartment. But the view compensates any small inconveniences.
Montenegro definitely seems like worth a visit. My favourite of the Instagrammable spots is that of Sveti Stefan view from Hotel Adrovic terrace.
Montenegro was the discovery of the year for me. It exceeded all my expectations. Sveti Stefan is the most popular landmark of the country so I wanted to find the exact location for the perfect photo of the island and to share it with you.
Great post, detailed info and photos!! Montenegro is one of my fave countries and we first visited it in 2007.. We were there again last fall for a long stay and I think parts of Budva and Kotor have been ruined by the cruise ships ( like Venice and Dubrovnic etc). Just too many people for such a small space. Thankfully Unesco Perast has not changed ( likely because it is too small for cruise ships). We actually ended up visiting 2 different days at Sveti Stefan island because where the sun hits it makes such a difference on the photos. That hike up to St. John Fortress is not easy, but worth it!
Yes, there were two or three cruise ships at Kotor’s harbour on the first day of my stay there. The next day they were all gone. The town was quiet, not crowded at all and I could enjoy all its charm.
Okay…you now have me considering combining this 5-day Montenegro itinerary with a visit to Croatia. Love the history, architecture, and beauty!
In fact I did just that. I took a bus to Dubrovnik. And then a ferry to Split. You’ll love all of them.
I love Montenegro! I am totally inspired by your post. I like history, ruins, old architecture and scenic beauty. Also the cobblestone streets and steps are so lovely. That image of the lady of the rocks and island looks stunning! I am adding this to my bucket list. 🙂
Thank you, Jan. Montenegro is totally worth a visit. It has it all.