Full Guide to Montenegro- Hidden Gem!

Full Guide to Montenegro- Hidden Gem!

Joe Gilbey
Explore the often-overlooked beauty of Montenegro with this practical guide. Packed with ideas and tips, it's designed to enhance your trip. Whether you're into history, stunning landscapes, or coastal warmth, Montenegro has something for everyone. Let this guide be your helpful companion, unveiling the simple charm and hidden treasures of this underrated destination. Discover why Montenegro should be on your travel bucket list.
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Destination 1

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Nestled along the Adriatic coast, Kotor stands as a charming gem waiting to be explored. With cobbled streets and historic sites, this UNESCO-listed town exudes medieval charm. Known locally as the "City of Cats," its feline residents add a delightful touch to the Old Town's enchanting atmosphere. Beyond its historical allure, Kotor invites you to swim in crystal-clear waters and savour local flavors along the promenade. Uncover the unique blend of history and whimsy that makes Kotor a standout destination in Montenegro.

For an optimal Montenegro experience, consider Kotor as your home base. With its strategic location, staying here for 4 to 6 nights allows easy exploration of nearby destinations. Affordable buses, averaging around 2 euros, offer short journeys to must-visit spots like Perast and Tivat. Kotor not only charms with its historic allure but also provides a budget-friendly and convenient hub for your Montenegrin adventure.

Restaurants we recommend!

La Catedral Pasta Bar
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Little Bay
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Pepe Nero
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Things to do!

Cat Park
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Kotor boat tour, submarine and speedboat
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Kotor Old City Walls
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Kotor Cats Museum
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Ladder of Kotor
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Accommodation!

Kotor Nest Coliving
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Apartments BlueSea
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Hostel Old Town Kotor
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Destination 2

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Perast is a beautiful small town along the coast of Kotor. With a 20 minute bus journey which costs around 1 Euro per journey (Blue Line Bus). Making Perast is a must see place when visiting Kotor. 

I wouldn't recommend staying here, far easier and cheaper if you stay in Kotor. The buses in Montenegro and very easy and cheap to use. Half a day here is all you need as the town is very small. 

Restaurants we recommend!

Conte Hotel & Restaurant
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Armonia
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Things to Do!

Bell Tower in church Saint Nikolas
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Perast Beach
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Destination 3

Porto Montenegro
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Nestled along the captivating coast of Montenegro, Porto Tivat is a hidden gem radiating luxury and maritime allure. This coastal town is renowned for its exquisite harbour, where a magnificent array of yachts gracefully dock, creating a picturesque scene. The Porto district is a sophisticated section of Tivat, offering not only a stunning maritime landscape but also a blend of upscale amenities, including high-end shops, restaurants, and cafes that contribute to the town's upscale and exclusive atmosphere. Visitors to Porto Tivat can indulge in the serene beauty of the Adriatic Sea while experiencing the opulence and charm that define this coastal haven.

Porto is only a 15 minute journey on the bus from Kotor, so again there is no need to stay here as it would be more expensive than Kotor. The bus will cost you around 2 Euros. Use the Blue Line from the bus terminal in  Kotor. You may have to walk from the bus terminal in Tivat into the town centre. You will only need a half day here in Porto, but is it worth visiting.

Restaurants we recommend!

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MAREA Porto Montenegro
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Things to do!

Buddha-Bar Beach Porto Montenegro
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NAVAL HERITAGE COLLECTION MUSEUM
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Destination 4

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Nestled along the Montenegrin coastline, Budva unveils its vibrant charm with sun-kissed beaches and a lively atmosphere. Wander through the historical Old Town's narrow streets, where ancient stone walls echo tales of centuries past. As the sun sets, the waterfront transforms into a lively hub, inviting you to indulge in local cuisine at seaside eateries. Budva effortlessly blends history and modernity, offering a delightful retreat by the Adriatic Sea.

If you are looking at travelling to Albania next, you can catch a morning coach to Shkoder from Budva bus terminal. The coach will cost around 18 Euros and will take about 2 hours.

Restaurants we recommend!

Casper Bar & Coffee Roastery
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Pastabar
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Regina E.
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Things to do!

Old Town
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Door in Stone
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Sveti Nikola Island
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Budva Riviera
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Accommodation!

Apartments Sirena
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Freedom Hostel Budva
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Hotel Budva
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Destination 5

Sveti Stefan
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Sveti Stefan, a picturesque islet on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro, is a unique blend of history and luxury. Connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus, the islet features medieval stone buildings, giving it a charming, time-honoured feel. Once a fishing village, Sveti Stefan has been transformed into an exclusive resort with private beaches and elegant accommodations. The iconic red-tiled roofs of its cottages contrast against the azure sea, creating a postcard-perfect scene. While access to the islet's interior is typically restricted to resort guests, the panoramic views from the mainland showcase the allure of this Adriatic gem.

Sveti Stefan is a 18 minute bus journey, costing around 2 Euros each way. Wouldn't recommend staying here, just visit for the day when you are staying at Budva. A full day or half day will be enough time here, as the area is quite small. There is some beautiful coastal walks from here. However, the main attraction is the Sveti Stefan Island, and the beaches next to it. Relax for the day on the beaches and in the sea. 

Restaurants we recommend!

Restoran Drago
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I hope this blog has sparked your interest in Montenegro, enticing you to explore its hidden gems and picturesque landscapes. Your journey to this Balkan beauty promises unique experiences and unforgettable moments. Stay tuned for more detailed blogs, offering insights into diverse destinations. Whether you're planning a visit or simply dreaming of future adventures, I hope this guide serves you well. Safe travels!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joe Gilbey
Brighton based Adventure Traveller. Founder of Adventrio. I’ve spent 100’s of hours planning Trips and Itineraries to help people spend less time planning, and more time focusing on the adventure. I've been travelling since 2020, and have even travelled to countries like Malawi, Albania, and Montenegro. As a travel blogger for over a year, I share insights into places that I personally recommend. So I can help make your trips be authentic and life changing. Safe Travels!
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