Itinerary for Montenegro: A Road Trip That Will Make You Fall in Love with the Balkans

I didn’t plan to fall for Montenegro. It wasn’t some long-awaited bucket list trip for me. I had time to kill in between jobs, starting another corporate gig I knew wouldn’t make me happy. It was a spontaneous trip—no bucket list, no expectations, just a visa loophole, a few free weeks and a chance to explore a new part of the Balkans.

And maybe that’s why it hit differently. After traveling through Albania, Croatia, and Bosnia, Montenegro stood out—a country made for slow mornings, unplanned road trips, and long conversations over strong coffee.

If you’re looking for an itinerary that doesn’t overcomplicate things, this guide covers everything you need: the best stops, how to get around, and what’s actually worth your time in Montenegro.

Why Visit Montenegro? 

Montenegro flies under the radar even though it has everything—rugged mountains, medieval towns, and a coastline that rivals Croatia’s (without the Dubrovnik price tag).

It’s also diverse. If you’re more into nature and coastal landscapes rather than big, chaotic cities, Montenegro just makes sense. You get UNESCO-listed old towns, national parks that feel untouched, and some of Europe’s best road trip routes.And then there’s the affordability factor—which, let’s be real, makes everything more enjoyable. While not dirt cheap, Montenegro is way more budget-friendly than Western Europe. Plus, if you have a valid US/UK visa or an EU residence permit, you don’t even need a separate visa—which makes it an easy pick over more complicated Schengen destinations.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through these links I may make a small commission at zero cost to you. It helps me pay for the upkeep of this blog. Thank you!

Do You Need a Rental Car in Montenegro?

Short answer: Yes.

Public transport works for Podgorica, Kotor, Budva, and Herceg Novi, but if you want to visit Durmitor, Lovćen, or Lake Skadar, renting a car will save you time, effort, and frustration.

Public Transportation in Montenegro

If you’re not renting a car, here’s what to expect:

Buses:
Montenegro has a decent bus network, but it’s run by multiple private companies—so there’s no central timetable.

Short Routes: Budva to Kotor (every 15 minutes, €3–€3.50)
Long Routes: Podgorica to Herceg Novi (€10–€15)
Hidden Fees: Most bus stations charge an extra €0.50–€2 when buying tickets in person. Avoid this by booking online at Busticket4.me

Trains: Montenegro has one train line: Bar to Bijelo Polje, passing through Podgorica and Nikšić. It’s scenic, cheap (€3–€6), and utterly useless for tourists because it doesn’t connect Kotor, Budva, or Durmitor.

How Many Days Do You Need in Montenegro?

Montenegro might be small, but it’s packed with diverse landscapes—from medieval coastal towns to dramatic mountain ranges. To truly experience it, you’ll need at least 10 days. This gives you time to explore the highlights without feeling rushed.

However, if you’re working with less time, it’s better to stick to one region rather than cramming everything in. A good rule of thumb: Give each place at least three days to fully enjoy it. Montenegro’s landscapes and slow pace are best experienced without rushing from one stop to the next.

10-Day Montenegro Itinerary Overview

I hate those rigid itineraries that tell you exactly how to spend your days. This is just what I did based on what I’m interested in. If you want a beach holiday, you could easily spend all 10 days in Kotor. If you’re here for the hikes, extend your time in Durmitor.

Montenegro is ridiculously drivable, so this itinerary follows a loop—start anywhere, adjust as needed.

Day	Destination	Highlights
Day 1	Podgorica	Arrival, local sights, quick rest
Day 2 and 3	Durmitor National Park (stay in Žabljak)	Black Lake, Ice Cave, breathtaking hikes
Day 4	Tara Canyon	Rafting, zip-lining over Europe’s deepest canyon
Day 5	Kotor	UNESCO Old Town, San Giovanni Fortress, bay cruises
Day 6	Kotor – Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks – Herceg Novi	Fortresses, beaches, Blue Grotto boat trip
Day 7	Lovćen National Park	Epic mountain roads, Njegoš Mausoleum
Day 8	Budva & Sveti Stefan	Beach town vibes, island viewpoints
Day 9	Lake Skadar National Park	Boat tour, wine tasting, birdwatching
Day 10	Tivat & Departure	Chill day before heading home

Day 1: Arrival in Podgorica

Let’s be real—Podgorica isn’t the reason you came to Montenegro. No one is flying across the world dreaming of its concrete buildings and quiet streets. But if your itinerary starts here, you might as well make the most of it. 

I didn’t spend much time in Podgorica, but I did my research (chronic planner behavior). If you’re flying in, you’ll likely be jet-lagged and just need a low-effort day before heading to the good stuff. If you’re arriving by bus from Tirana or Dubrovnik, Podgorica is just a quick stop before moving on.

How to Get to Podgorica

Podgorica Airport (TGD) is tiny but well-connected. If you’re coming from Albania, Serbia, Croatia, or Bosnia, Montenegro has a solid intercity bus network. There are direct routes from Tirana to Podgorica (3-4 hours, around €15), Dubrovnik to Podgorica (4-5 hours, around €20), and Sarajevo to Podgorica (6-7 hours, around €25).

If you’re traveling from Bosnia, you might want to stop in Mostar first—here are some of the best things to do there.

What to See in Podgorica (If You Have Half a Day)

Podgorica doesn’t need more than a few hours to get a feel for it. The Millennium Bridge is one of the city’s few landmarks—a modern structure spanning the Moraca River. It’s nothing spectacular. You’ll probably walk past it at some point. Gorica Hill Park is where locals go to walk, jog, and take a break from the city. It’s peaceful and makes for a good stroll if you’ve spent too long on a bus. St. George Church, one of Montenegro’s oldest churches, is tucked into Gorica Hill. It feels more like a hidden chapel than a major attraction, and that’s part of its charm.

Where to Eat & Drink in Podgorica (Local, Non-Touristy Spots)

Montenegrin food is underrated, and this is a good place to get an affordable intro to local flavors.

Cute coffee: Karver – A cozy bookstore café under an old bridge. Dark, moody, and perfect for people-watching.

Best traditional food: Pod Volat – The place for cevapi (grilled meat) and kajmak (buttery cheese spread). Huge portions, cheap prices, no tourists.

Best wine bar:Šipčanik – A massive underground wine cellar inside an old airplane hangar. Yes, really.

Day 2&3: Durmitor National Park 

If you’re following this itinerary as a loop, you could start anywhere. But I kicked things off in Durmitor National Park because I have this compulsive need to tackle something intense before I can justify relaxing by the coast. I know—vacations are supposed to be about unwinding, but my brain just doesn’t work that way.

Durmitor is Montenegro’s wild side—all glacial lakes, deep canyons, and mountain roads that make you question your driving skills. It’s home to the country’s highest peak, Europe’s second-deepest canyon, and some of the best hiking and adventure sports in the Balkans.

The town of Žabljak is the gateway to the park. There’s not much going on in Žabljak itself (unless you count the occasional wandering cow), but that’s exactly the point. If you’re here in summer, it’s all about hiking, rafting, and road-tripping through the park. In winter, it turns into a ski town.

What to See & Do in Durmitor

For more on Durmitor, read my blogpost the details your trip to the National Park.

Black Lake (Crno Jezero)

Black Lake is the easiest and most accessible way to see Durmitor without committing to an intense trek. A flat, well-maintained 3.5 km loop takes about 40 minutes to an hour to complete, circling a deep blue glacial lake surrounded by dense pine forests and dramatic mountain peaks.

If you’re here in the evening, stay for the stars—on a clear night, the Milky Way is visible, there’s also one small bar by the lake, dim lights and very tastefully done so it doesn’t come in the way of nature. 

Hike to Bobotov Kuk

Distance: ~10 km round trip
Time: 6–8 hours
Difficulty: Hard (steep climbs, rock scrambles, and narrow ridges)
Trailhead: Sedlo Pass or Dobri Do

At 2,523m (8,278 ft), Bobotov Kuk is the highest peak in Montenegro and one of the toughest hikes in the country. The rocky, exposed trail isn’t for beginners, but if you’re up for the challenge, the 360-degree views stretch across Montenegro, Bosnia, and Serbia. I didn’t do the hike, but you can follow this trail on AllTrails. 

Ice Cave (Ledena Pećina)

Distance: ~8 km round trip
Time: 3–4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate (some steep sections, not well-marked)
Trailhead: Near Black Lake or Crvena Greda

Hidden inside Durmitor’s peaks at 2,180m, Ledena Pećina is an underground world of ice stalactites and frozen formations that remain intact even in summer. The hike there is unmarked, which means hiring a guide is a smart move unless you enjoy getting lost in the mountains.

Day 4: Tara Canyon

Staying in Žabljak makes this an easy day trip, and trust me—you’ll want to dedicate a full day to this one. After a solid day of hiking in Durmitor, I wanted something different but equally wild. 

People call it the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” but that comparison doesn’t quite fit. Tara Canyon is greener, wilder, and sliced through by a river so clear you can see straight to the bottom. 

Rafting Through Tara Canyon

If you do one adventure activity in Montenegro, make it this. The water is glacier-fed, ice-cold, and shockingly blue, winding through 80 kilometers of limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and untouched forest.

Most rafting trips cover 15–20 km of the canyon and last 3–4 hours. The rapids range from gentle in summer to adrenaline-pumping in spring, when snowmelt turns the river into a beast. You don’t need experience—just a sense of adventure and the ability to handle a splash (or ten).

This is the best full day trip on Get Your Guide, that includes hotel transfers from your hotel in Žabljak.

Zip-lining Over Tara Canyon

Not up for rafting? Zip-lining across the canyon is just as insane. One second, you’re standing on a metal platform, adjusting your harness—the next, you’re ripping through the sky at 80 km/h, 150 meters above the canyon floor.

It’s fast, it’s high, and it’s the closest thing to flying without jumping out of a plane. There are a few companies running zip-lines near Đurđevića Tara Bridge, and prices are surprisingly reasonable (€20–€30).

Stop at Đurđevića Tara Bridge

Even if high-speed descents aren’t your thing, pull over at Đurđevića Tara Bridge—one of Montenegro’s most famous landmarks. Built in 1940, this five-arch bridge stretches 365 meters across the canyon, standing 172 meters above the river.

Day 5, 6 & 7: Kotor 

After the winding mountain roads and deep canyons of Durmitor, the drive to Kotor feels like a reset. As you descend toward the Adriactic, the rugged terrain softens – steep cliffs give way to shimmering blue water, and the air gets thick with sea breeze. Then suddenly, you’re here. 

A medieval town tucked into a near-perfect bay. Kotor isn’t the kind of place that overwhelms you with must-sees or checklists. It’s a town made for wandering. Some places feel overhyped—Kotor is not one of them. You can spend hours meandering through stone alleyways, drinking coffee in quiet squares, or just watching boats drift across the bay—and it never gets old.

I stayed in Kotor for three days and could’ve stayed a month. If you like having a home base while still exploring, Kotor is it.

Getting To Kotor

Since this itinerary follows a loop, you’re arriving from Durmitor National Park. The drive takes about 3.5–4 hours, and it’s worth taking slow. The route passes through Piva Canyon, follows the Adriatic coastline, and offers plenty of scenic spots to pull over and take it all in.

From Podgorica: Buses run frequently and take around two hours (€8–€10).
By Air: Tivat Airport (15 minutes away) has direct flights from several European cities.

Why Kotor is the Best Base

Some travelers bounce between Budva, Perast, and Herceg Novi, switching hotels every night. But Kotor is the smartest home base—you get the best mix of history, nature, and coastal vibes without the constant check-in/check-out hassle. From here, you can easily take day trips to the rest of the Bay of Kotor without repacking your bags every morning.

How To Spend Your Time in Kotor

1. Explore the Old Town

Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is a maze of hidden squares, ivy-covered stone buildings that haven’t changed in centuries, and narrow alleys that seem designed to make you lose your sense of direction. 
Ditch the maps —just walk. That’s how you find the best parts of Kotor.

You’ll stumble upon:
St. Tryphon’s Cathedral – A 900-year-old Romanesque cathedral with ornate frescoes inside.
San Giovanni Fortress – A 1,350-step climb that rewards you with some of the best views in Montenegro. (Go early to avoid the heat!)
Random cafés tucked into quiet courtyards – Find one, grab a Montenegrin coffee, and people-watch.

2. Rent a Boat & Explore the Bay

Forget the packed tourist cruises. The best way to experience the Bay of Kotor is to rent a small private boat with a local captain. This was hands down my favorite experience in Kotor. If you’re booking a boat trip, go for a private one—it’s worth it. 
I ended up with two hilarous local boys, blastic pop music while showing us around hidden coves, quiet swimming spots, and the surreal Blue Cave, where the water glows electric blue from the sunlight.
Standard boat itineraries include:
Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks – A tiny baroque town + Montenegro’s famous man-made island church.
The Blue Cave – A sea cave where the water literally glows.
Hidden swim spots – Places that don’t show up on Google Maps.

3. Hike to San Giovanni Fortress

If you want the best views in Kotor, you’ll have to work for them. 1,350 stone steps lead up to the San Giovanni Fortress, winding past ancient walls and abandoned lookout points. The higher you climb, the more the bay unfolds beneath you.
Best time to go? Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the cruise ship crowds and brutal midday heat.
Entry Fee: €8 (free before 8 AM).
Alternative route: The Ladder of Kotor is a less touristy, equally scenic back route.

4. Eat Your Way Through Kotor

Kotor’s food scene is hearty, simple, and best enjoyed with a glass of Vranac (local red wine).
Seafood: Konoba Scala Santa – No-fuss, fresh seafood. Order whatever’s fresh that day.
Casual & local: Tanjga – A butcher shop-turned-restaurant serving massive plates of grilled meat.
Best coffee: Hoste – A chilled-out café that avoids the touristy feel of the Old Town.

5. Day Trips from Kotor

Kotor is an amazing base, but one of the best things about it? You can switch up the vibe completely with just a short drive. Whether you want beaches, mountains, or another historic town, there’s plenty to explore without packing up your bags again.  

Budva (30 min drive) 

Budva is where Montenegro shifts gears. After days of medieval towns and winding mountain roads, you get beach town energy—but with a distinctly Montenegrin feel. It’s lively, touristy, and a world apart from Kotor’s quiet charm.
Old Town Strolls – A smaller, more coastal version of Kotor’s Old Town, lined with cafés, bars, and boutique shops. Less medieval grandeur, more relaxed seaside vibes.
Mogren Beach – A clear-water beach just a short coastal walk from town. Gets crowded fast, so go early.
Jaz Beach – A quieter alternative if you don’t want to fight for towel space.

And then there’s Sveti Stefan, that famous island resort you’ve probably seen in a hundred travel photos. You can’t actually visit the island unless you book a (very expensive) stay. Would I stay overnight in Budva? Probably not. It’s a little too party-heavy for my taste. But as a day trip? Absolutely worth it.

Perast (20 min drive) 

If Kotor is the heart of the bay, Perast is its sleepy, sun-drenched cousin. A tiny baroque town with elegant stone palaces, waterfront cafés, and an impossibly scenic backdrop.
Our Lady of the Rocks – A man-made island church with an interesting legend and a tiny but beautiful interior.
Bell Tower Climb – St. Nicholas Church’s steep staircase leads to some of the best views of the bay.
Waterfront Dining – Long lunches with fresh seafood and a glass of Vranac? Yes, please.
Perast is pedestrian-only, so if you’re driving, you’ll need to park at the entrance and walk in.

Lovćen National Park (1 hr drive)

I’ll get into Lovćen in the next section.

Day 8: Drive through Lovćen National Park

Leaving Kotor behind, the road climbs impossibly fast. One minute, you’re driving along the bay, the Adriatic shimmering at your side. The next, you’re twisting up the famous Kotor Serpentine Road, a series of hairpin turns that lift you above the clouds.

This drive is why you rent a car in Montenegro—not just to get from point A to point B, but to pull over whenever the scenery demands it. And Lovćen? It demands a lot of stops.

This isn’t an overnight destination. You can end the drive straight in Podgorica if you’re short on time or taking a detour to Lake Skadar (optional). 

Njegoš Mausoleum

At 1,660m above sea level, Lovćen’s highest peak is home to the Njegoš Mausoleum, the resting place of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš—Montenegro’s most famous poet and ruler. You climb 461 stone steps through a tunnel carved into the mountain, only to emerge at the top with a view that stretches from Bosnia to Albania.

You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate this place. The sheer sense of scale—standing here, looking out over the endless ridgelines—makes it worth the effort.

Roadside Montenegrin Feast

Before heading to Lake Skadar, stop at one of Lovćen’s rustic mountain restaurants for a plate of slow-cooked lamb, fresh cheese, and pršut (Montenegrin prosciutto). This is real, hearty Montenegrin food, the kind that fuels you up for a day of exploring.

Day 9: Lake Skadar National Park 

After days of coastal towns and dramatic peaks, Lake Skadar is a complete shift—all rolling green hills, glassy water, and endless vineyards.

This is the largest lake in the Balkans, stretching between Montenegro and Albania, but it still feels wild and untouched. Even in peak season, you won’t find crowds here like in Kotor or Budva.

Where to Base Yourself

The best base for exploring Lake Skadar is Virpazar, a small lakeside town that serves as the main hub for boat tours and wine tastings. You can also stay in Podgorica and do a day trip to Lake Skadar 

From Budva: 1 hour by car
From Podgorica: 30 minutes by car (also reachable by train)

Best Things to Do in Lake Skadar

1. Take a Boat Tour (Because That’s the Whole Point)

If you do one thing here, make it this. Boat tours range from short, scenic cruises to full-day trips that stop at monasteries, remote villages, and hidden coves.

Some focus on birdwatching (Lake Skadar is home to the rare Dalmatian pelican), while others are just about floating through lily-covered waters with a glass of Montenegrin wine in hand.

2. Wine Tasting at a Family Vineyard

This region is Montenegro’s wine country. The locals have been making wine here for centuries, and most of it never leaves the country. That means you’re drinking wine you literally can’t get anywhere else.

Head to a family-run vineyard, meet the winemakers, and try Vranac, Montenegro’s bold, locally-loved red wine. Many vineyards offer tastings for €10–€15, often with homemade cheese and olives on the side.

3. Drive to Pavlova Strana Viewpoint

This is one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Montenegro, looking down over the horseshoe-shaped bend of the Crnojević River as it snakes through the marshlands. It’s the kind of place that makes you pull over and just stand there for a minute, taking it all in.

Day 10: Wrapping Up the Montenegro Loop

Ten days. That’s all it took for Montenegro to go from a random stop on my itinerary to one of my favorite places I’ve ever traveled. This country has everything—rugged mountains, medieval towns, coastal views, and a slow, easy rhythm that makes you want to stay longer than you planned.

If you’re flying out, Podgorica is the most logical last stop. But if you have more time? Montenegro fits perfectly into a longer Europe trip.

It’s also a country that’s evolving fast. Right now, it still feels underrated, but it won’t stay that way forever. Montenegro fits perfectly into a longer Europe trip—here’s how to include it in a two-week itinerary.

FAQs About Traveling in Montenegro