Off-the-Beaten-Path Guide to Montenegro

Montenegro is a small but stunning country nestled in the Balkans, known for its rugged coastline, stunning mountains and rich cultural heritage. One of the most popular destinations in Montenegro is the charming coastal town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a fascinating history and rich cultural heritage.

Kotor is known for its impressive city walls, which were constructed during the Venetian period and still stand tall today, offering breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding bay. Visitors can climb up to the top of the walls for an unforgettable view of the town and the sea. Kotor is also home to a vibrant summer festival, which showcases the best of Montenegrin culture, including music, dance and food.

The town itself is a maze of narrow streets and winding alleys, dotted with beautiful squares and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the stunning St. Tryphon's Cathedral, a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture, or stroll through the many art galleries and museums that line the town's streets.

A short drive away from Kotor is the historic town of Budva, known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife and rich cultural heritage. Must-see attractions are the stunning Mausoleum of Njegos, a beautiful example of Montenegrin architecture and the Ostrog Monastery, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Balkans. The mausoleum offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, with the Adriatic Sea visible in the distance on a clear day.

You can take a scenic drive up the winding mountain roads to reach the mausoleum and can explore the nearby national park, which features a range of hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Located in the stunning Ostrog Mountains, the monastery is built into a vertical cliff face and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. It was founded in the 17th century by the Metropolitan Bishop of Herzegovina, Saint Basil of Ostrog, and remains an important spiritual center to this day.

Another must-do is taking a boat tour of Lake Skadar. Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 270 species of birds. A boat tour is a great way to explore the lake and get up close to the wildlife.

Day Trips from Montenegro

Visit the charming coastal town of Dubrovnik in Croatia, just across the border from Montenegro.

When it comes to dining in Montenegro, there are plenty of excellent restaurants to choose from, ranging from traditional Montenegrin cuisine to international fine dining.

For a high-end dining experience, check out the Regent Porto Montenegro, a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers stunning views of the Bay of Kotor. Other top restaurants in Kotor include the Astoria Restaurant, which serves up delicious Mediterranean cuisine in a stunning historic setting, and the elegant Galion Restaurant, which offers a range of fine dining options.

In Budva, visitors can enjoy a range of dining options, from traditional Montenegrin cuisine to international fare. For a high-end experience, check out the acclaimed Jadran Restaurant, which serves up a range of fine dining options in a stunning beachfront location. Other top restaurants in Budva include the charming restaurant Parma, which offers delicious Italian cuisine in a beautiful garden setting, and the elegant Restaurant Jardan, which specializes in fresh seafood and local Montenegrin dishes.

Overall, Montenegro is a country full of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty and delicious cuisine. Whether you're exploring the historic streets of Kotor, soaking up the sun on the beaches of Budva, or enjoying a delicious meal in one of the country's top restaurants, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences to be had in this beautiful country.