Coastal Gems: Exploring Montenegro and Dubrovnik - An Unforgettable 13-Night Journey
Day 1: Dubrovnik
This is your first day as you arrive at Dubrovnik Airport, approximately 20km away from the city center. We have secured an 'Airbnb' here for a delightful three-night stay. The options for various Airbnb accommodations are plentiful and offer excellent value. Be sure to thoroughly compare them all! Our choice was a charming overnight stay, conveniently close to the old town but not within its walls. The bus journey from the airport to the center costs around 28-35 kuna, which translates to 4 to 6 euros. It's a pleasant half-hour ride, with buses departing every half hour after the arrival of a plane. To ease your travel, try to have the exact fare ready for the driver or purchase your ticket in advance from the counters available at the airport. There's one thing you should know! They don't drive on sundays and national holidays.
Day 2: Dubrovnik
On your first full day, you have the freedom to choose between strolling along the city walls, relaxing at a beach, or engaging in various other activities.
Culture
you can opt to embark on an enchanting journey walking the ancient city walls, meandering through the charming streets, or immersing yourself in a captivating Game of Thrones tour.
Beaches
- lokrum eiland
- Beach Šulić
- Plaža Danče
- betina cave
- cave bar --> for cliffjumping
Nature
- mount srd (you have the choice to walk or take a scenic cable car ride to enjoy breathtaking views.)
Day 3: Dubrovnik
On this day, make sure to experience all the activities that you were unable to do yesterday. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in everything you haven't yet had the chance to explore.
Day 4: Dubrovnik - Budva
Dubrovnik
Today is your last day. If you wish, you can wake up early and witness the sunrise, perhaps from Mount Srd. It's a true hotspot for capturing the beauty of the sunrise.
Departure
If you are traveling by car, that's ideal. You can choose your departure time. However, please note that the drive is estimated to take about 2.5 hours, so plan accordingly.
If you are traveling by bus, you can easily purchase your tickets in advance or last-minute online through 'Getbybus'. However, be aware that some tickets may need to be printed physically and your mobile phone may not be sufficient. Additionally, you will need to give 1 euro per person for your luggage to the bus driver. The bus journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and the cost is 27 euros per person. While it may seem a bit expensive, keep in mind that this cost is only for this leg of the journey (if you follow this itinerary 😉).
Budva
We stayed in an apartment close to the old town, conveniently located near a little beach and within walking distance of the clubs.
Day 5: Budva
In Budva, there is an abundance of activities, which is why we decided to stay here for the longest duration. There are beautiful beaches, rich cultural experiences, vibrant nightlife, delicious cuisine, and much more to explore. Additionally, Budva's central location makes it an excellent base for day trips to nearby destinations (so make sure to check those out!).
Beaches
- Mogren Beach is located near the old town of Budva and is divided into Mogren I and Mogren II. It is well known for its stunning setting nestled between cliffs, offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Slovenska Plaža is the largest and most famous beach in Budva.
-The Becici Beach is located just south of Budva and is a long sandy beach with shallow waters, making it perfect for families with children. It offers a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains.
Day 6: Budva - Bar
Today, we are taking a day trip to Bar in Montenegro. Bar is a picturesque town located along the coast of Montenegro and has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It is renowned for its cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings. It is an ideal destination for travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration.
To reach Bar from Budva, we will take the bus (once again, with Getbybus) for only 6 euros per person. The bus journey takes a little over an hour.
Activities in Bar
Explore the Old Town: Begin your day in the charming Old Town of Bar. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the historic buildings, and take a stroll through the picturesque part of the city. Don't forget to visit the impressive Bar Castle and enjoy the panoramic view over the city.
Relax on the Beach: While it may not be the main focus of your day in Bar due to time constraints, you can still take a break and enjoy the beach. Bar has so much more to offer than just its beaches, so make sure to explore other attractions as well.
Visit the Olive Tree of Mirovica: Take a short trip to the Olive Tree of Mirovica, one of the oldest olive trees in the world. This impressive tree is estimated to be over 2,000 years old and has a fascinating history. It's a unique sight that you shouldn't miss.
Other possible daytrips
- Tivat is a city located on the Bay of Kotor. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural surroundings, marinas, and luxury resorts. Tivat offers a blend of historical charm, modern amenities, and breathtaking landscapes. You can reach Tivat by bus in just 30 minutes, and sometimes the fare is as low as 3 euros.
- Sveti Stefan is renowned for its picturesque architecture and spectacular location. The peninsula is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land and is characterized by winding streets, stone houses, and red roofs. The entire setting exudes a timeless beauty that has charmed countless visitors. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and boasts stunning beaches. These beaches offer visitors the opportunity to relax on the soft sand, swim in the azure sea, and bask in the sun. The surroundings of Sveti Stefan are a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
- Herceg Novi is a town located on the Adriatic coast of Montenegro. It is renowned for its beautiful position on the Bay of Kotor and its rich historical heritage. The town features a charming old town with cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Herceg Novi offers breathtaking sea views and a variety of stunning beaches. Additionally, the city is known for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year. The bus journey to Herceg Novi takes approximately 1.5 hours, and the fare is around 6 euros.
- Petrovac is a popular destination for beach lovers, thanks to its two beautiful beaches, Petrovac Beach and Lucice Beach, where you can relax and soak up the sun. The town is also characterized by its stunning green hills, adding an extra touch to the scenery.
Day 7: Budva
Today, you have the option to either engage in all the activities described on days 5 and 6 or simply relax on the beach.
We chose to rent bikes and ride 10 kilometers to Sveti Stefan, where we spent the day.
Since we were already cycling in that direction, we also visited the places 'Praskvica Monastery', 'Queen's Beach', and 'St. Sava Church'.
Day 8: Budva - Cetinje
I would advise against rushing to Cetinje too quickly, as there isn't a lot to do there. Enjoy your morning in Budva to the fullest and depart for Cetinje by bus when you're ready. The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes, and the fare is once again 6 euros. We chose to stay in an Airbnb in Cetinje because the host offered the service of driving us around if needed. Additionally, they were very grateful that we chose their place since it's not the most popular destination to stay in Montenegro.
Here are some possible activities you can still do on this day:
- Lipa Cave: Located 5 kilometers from Cetinje, Lipa Cave is a fascinating underground cave system that you can explore by walking through. For those without their own transportation, it may be a bit more challenging to reach this destination.
- Rijeka Crnojevica is a small town in Montenegro known for its scenic location on the banks of the Crnojevica River. You can take some hikes or a rivercruise.
- At Pavlova Viewpoint, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It offers a stunning vantage point where you can admire the natural beauty of the area, including the mountains, valleys, and perhaps even glimpses of the Adriatic Sea. It's a great spot for taking photos, appreciating the scenic beauty, and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
- Lake Skadar offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy: birdwatching, kayaking, photography... it's a truly beautiful spot!
Day 9: Cetinje - Lovcen National Park
We were dropped off by our host at the beginning of the hiking trail. The entrance fee to the park is 3 euros, and our goal was to reach the Mausoleum at an altitude of 1657 meters. The view from there is phenomenal, so we are happy to pay the 6 euro entrance fee. Make sure to bring your own drinks and food as you won't find them along the way. To get there, you need to take route 756 or 757.
Once you're back from your hiking route, you can continue to enjoy the small town and, if you still have enough energy, explore other activities mentioned on day 8. Don't forget to take some time to rest as well ;)
Day 10: Cetinje - Kotor
Today is another travel day. You can take the bus again through Getbybus. The fare is 5 euros, and it takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to arrive in Kotor.
If you wish to stay here a little longer, you can still do a day trip or enjoy the activities mentioned on day 8
We stayed at Boutique Hotel Astoria, a charming small hotel that is protected by UNESCO World Heritage. The standard rooms do not have balconies, but for a little extra money, you can get a luxury room with a balcony. Breakfast is included in the price. It might be slightly less budget-friendly, but it's worth treating yourself.
We suggest exploring the town at a relaxed pace today! If you feel like hiking, you can do the "Ladder of Kotor," which is a hike uphill that offers a fantastic view of the bay and Kotor. The Kotor Fortress is also located there!
While wandering the streets, don't forget to pet the numerous cats that roam around! You can also take a walk on the old city walls.
Day 11: Kotor
If you want to rest on the beach today, you will have to walk a bit. Kotor itself doesn't have a beach, as it is located on a lake. There are a few small places where you can relax, but it's certainly not the same as in Budva. Fortunately, there is still plenty to see and do in Kotor to make up for it.
Kotor is situated on the bay, full of other charming, beautiful, and interesting places. You can take a bike and cycle 12 km to Perast. There is a beach there where you can take a break and relax with a stunning view.
If you prefer taking a boat instead of a bike, you can rent a boat for a reasonable price. This way, you can explore the "Blue Cave" on your own or simply float around and sunbathe.
Close to Perast, in the middle of the lake, lies the "Lady of the Rocks". You can see it from the mainland, but it's even better to view it from a boat on the lake. If you choose to cycle, you can definitely rent a kayak to get closer. You are allowed to walk on the island!
Day 12: Kotor
On our last full day here, we had planned a fantastic tour to the Tara Canyon, located inland. This is the deepest canyon in Europe and the second deepest in the world, after the Grand Canyon. You can experience the same thrilling activity we did through this link: https://www.getyourguide.nl/kotor-l32202/montenegro-wildwaterraften-op-de-tara-t92724/
This day trip lasts for 12 hours and includes pick-up, two meals, all entrance fees and taxes, as well as the necessary equipment and attire for white water rafting. It's an all-inclusive adventure that promises an unforgettable experience!
Day 13: Kotor - Podgorica
Your last full day! We bid farewell to the marvelous Kotor and take the bus towards Podgorica. This time, it's a slightly longer journey. The bus ride lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, with a cost of 8 euros per person.
We stayed at Hotel Luxx, a wonderful choice for accommodation. They offer complimentary breakfast, and they even prepare it for you if you need to leave very early in the morning, just like we did. It's a convenient and comfortable option to start your day right.
You are now in the capital of Montenegro. This city is sometimes referred to as the "ugliest capital in Europe"... However, there are still things to do and see here:
- Visit the City Museum: Explore the history and culture of Podgorica at the City Museum. Learn about the city's past and discover artifacts and exhibits that showcase its heritage.
- Take a stroll through the Stara Varoš area: Wander through the charming Stara Varoš neighborhood and admire its traditional architecture and narrow streets. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and soak up the authentic Montenegrin vibe.
- Explore the Millennium Bridge: Marvel at the modern architecture of the Millennium Bridge, a symbol of Podgorica. Enjoy a leisurely walk across the bridge and take in panoramic views of the city and the Morača River.
- Visit the Petrović Palaces: Discover the grandeur of the Petrović Palaces, former residences of the ruling dynasty of Montenegro. Explore their stunning architecture and learn about the history of the Petrović family.
- Relax in one of the parks: Take a break from sightseeing and unwind in one of Podgorica's parks. The Gorica Park and Park of Revolution are popular choices, offering green spaces, walking paths, and peaceful surroundings.
These activities will give you a glimpse into the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Podgorica, despite its reputation
If you have enough time, you can definitely plan a day trip today or tomorrow.
Day 14: Podgorica- Home
Enjoy your last moments and make sure you arrive at the airport on time! You can get there by train or by taxi. It's a 10km distance from the city center.
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