Montenegro

As a nation with a growing tourism industry, Montenegro caters to both the cost-conscious backpacker and the those searching for a touch of luxury. If you’re looking for the ultimate indulgent experience then the Regent Porto Montenegro is a fantastic choice, boasting incredible views of the coastal city of Tivat and beautiful architecture that takes inspiration from Renaissance Venetian style as well as local history. For a unique experience, you could also stay at the rustic Aman Sveti Stefan which is situated on the island of Sveti Stefan.

Montenegro’s coastal ports offer a wide range of shopping experiences, however the capital city of Podgorica is perfect for those in need of a little retail therapy. Podgorica has four shopping malls; Delta City Podgorica, the Bazar, City Mall and the Mall of Montenegro. Each centre offers a different experience, with many big-name brands to be found alongside local wares. There’s also the ability to take day-trips to Dubrovnik in neighbouring Croatia which has a large shopping district.

Montenegro’s cuisine is as diverse as its geography, with influences taken from both the East and the West you can expect to discover a few new flavours on a trip to the region. A meat lover’s heaven, the mountainous Njegusi Village is world-famous for its incredible prosciutto which is prized by locals and discerning gourmets alike and is a must-have for first-time visitors. Heading down to the coast, black risotto is a local delicacy which combines white wine, nutmeg and cuttlefish ink for a unique flavour. There is also a vibrant nightlife in Podgorica, Tivat, Budva and Kotor for those who fancy something a little wilder after a day at the beach.

With a rich Ottoman history and an Orthodox Christian tradition, Montenegro has lots of local festivities that can only be experienced first-hand.

Vrela Zima U Brdima

Translating to ‘hot winter in the hills’ this series of events runs from late December until March and sees near-daily exhibitions including guest appearances from pop stars and celebrities. With a little pre-planning, you can find many artistic and sports events to enjoy.

Sea Dance

Usually running in late summer, the Budva Music Festival is one of the biggest festivals in the southern Adriatic with many performances from stars of the European music scene. Tickets are inexpensive and it’s sure to be a completely unique experience.

Boka’s Night

Held on the 3rd Saturday of August, Boka’s Night is the highlight of the summer calendar in Kotor. Boats in the bay of Kotor participate in a procession as they compete for the prize of being the best decorated. After the procession, there’s a celebration in the Old Town including incredible food and spectacular fireworks.

When flying to Montenegro from Manchester you can travel to either of the two international airports, Podgorica or Tivat. Flights to Podgorica can take around 3 hours 30 minutes and are run by several different providers. Alternatively, you can fly into Tivat, which takes just 3 hours and may require a transfer in western Europe.

With such a varied landscape, Montenegro offers plenty of things to do and see.

Explore The Adriatic

Most of the port towns and villages will let you hire a boat for an afternoon out in the Adriatic ocean. Travelling around the crystal-clear waters is a great way to see the coastline and get between towns on the shore.

Rafting The Tara River

Described as ‘the wildest river in Montenegro’ the Tara River is the second deepest in the world after the Colorado River that runs through the Grand Canyon. If you’re an adrenaline junkie this is the only way to experience the beautiful landscape of Montenegro. Several companies offer guided rafting sessions so getting on the water is as easy as booking a tour.

Ostrog Monastery

Built into the side of the large rock of Ostroška Greda, the Monastery of Ostrog is both an impressive piece of architecture and a sacred monastery of the Serbian Orthodox Church. Welcoming to all faiths, the monastery is a popular place of pilgrimage in Montenegro and well worth your time. It’s located around 50km from Podgorica and there are regular coach services to and from it.

The Kotor Lovcen Road

If you fancy yourself a bit of a motor-head then the drive up the Kotor-Lovcen road, around 17km from Kotor, is the perfect way to prove your skill. With no less than 25 hairpin turns this is a real test of any driver’s abilities as they wind their way through the mountainous Lovcen National Park to the peak of Lovcen and their reward, an incredible view across the entirety of Montenegro.

Stari Bar

Founded just under a thousand years ago, Stari Bar is a small village nestled in the mountains of Montenegro around 5.7km from the city of Bar. Due to its tactically desirable location, it has been claimed by several different nations over the centuries and each has left its own marks, which are most noticeable around the Old Fortress that now lies in ruins. The village is steeped in history and there’s plenty to explore, including several generations of old ruins and an ancient olive tree that’s said to be over 2000 years old.