11 Days Highlights of Montenegro

About the destination: With a population of less than 150.000 people, Podgorica is one of the smallest capitals in Europe. Due to its almost total destruction during World War II, the city nowadays has not many exciting sights to offer. Many of the buildings in the city centre date from the socialist era of Yugoslavia, when Podgorica was named Titograd. One of the newer well worth seeing landmarks is the Millennium Bridge, Most Milenijum, which was opened in 2005. Trg Republike, Republic Square, is the main square of downtown Podgorica. It is a nice shopping area with lots of pleasant restaurants and bars. Stara Varos, the old Turkish town, is a typical old Turkish town with narrow and curvy streets. The Clock Tower is one of the most important monuments in the old town. With a handful of quirky sights, lots of students, a buzzing nightlife scene, enjoyable restaurants and transport connections, Podgorica is not that bad a place to spend a day or two. Podgorica has a reputation as a party town, and it's no problem for visitors to make friends in one of the city's many cafés, bars and clubs.

About the destination: Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro. It is located in a secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. It is located on the Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska), one of the most indented parts of the Adriatic Sea. Together with the nearly overhanging limestone cliffs of Orjen and Lovćen, Kotor and its surrounding area form an impressive and picturesque Mediterranean landscape. Kotor is part of the World Heritage Site dubbed the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Old Town. The Old Town is the most famous part of Kotor, where the Kotor history, culture, and tradition are being preserved. They are complemented with the multitude of narrow streets, squares, and markets. The main and the biggest square is Trg od oruzja (Square of arms). The old town of Kotor today is considered to be the best preserved medieval urban entity in the Mediterranean. • Maritime Museum. The memories on those long gone sailing days and years, the successes of the famous Kotor seaman, artists, ship builders, crafts man, states man, and diplomats, intermediaries between west and east, are kept in the Maritime museum, which is housed in the baroque palace Grgurin. • The Island Gospa od Skrpjela. The Island Gospa od Skrpjela is one of two gorgeous islands in Kotor Bay, which are situated in the bay across from Perast. That island is also called ""the island of the dead captains"". The Island Gospa od Skrpjela is an artificial island, made by seaman from Perast and Kotor, who on their big sail boats brought in large boulders.

About the destination: Welcome to Perast, a hidden gem nestled on the edge of the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. This charming coastal town is steeped in history and beauty, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With its beautifully preserved stone buildings and baroque architecture, Perast is a picturesque destination that invites travelers to step back in time and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the Adriatic coast. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll be greeted by the sight of old churches and stunning palazzos. The town's most famous landmarks are the two islets off its coast, each boasting a significant religious structure: St. George, with its centuries-old monastery, and Our Lady of the Rocks, with its historic church and museum. A visit to these islets is a must-do; you can easily reach them by taking a short boat ride, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the region's lore and legend. Perast's waterfront promenade is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the view of the sparkling bay against a backdrop of dramatic mountains. Here you can savor the fresh local seafood in one of the quaint restaurants or cafes, all the while admiring the magnificent scenery and the leisurely pace of life. As the day winds down, the promenade becomes an idyllic spot to witness one of the most stunning sunsets on the Adriatic. For those interested in history and culture, the Maritime Museum of Perast offers insight into the town's storied past as a naval power during the Venetian period. The museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the town's seafaring traditions and its connection to the sea. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Perast is a destination that promises a memorable experience combining natural beauty, historical richness, and a touch of Montenegrin hospitality.

About the destination: Budva is a Montenegrin town on theAdriatic Sea and it is the centre of Budva Municipality. The coastal area around Budva, called the Budva riviera, is the center of Montenegrin tourism, known for its well preserved medieval walled city, sandy beaches and diverse nightlife. Budva is 2,500 years old, which makes it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Stari Grad (Old Town). The old town of Budva lies on a little island that was linked to the land by a sandbar and in time turned into a peninsula. • Budva Citadel. • Dancing Girl Statue. A statue of a topless girl doing the dancer's pose. Some people say that this is a statue of a young girl who drowned here but others say that this is just an ordinary statue. • Museum of the Town of Budva / Archaeology Museum • Mogren Beach,

About the destination: Welcome to Cetinje, the historical heart of Montenegro, where the past and present blend seamlessly to offer visitors an authentic taste of Montenegrin culture. Nestled at the foot of Mount Lovćen, within the Lovćen National Park, Cetinje's picturesque setting is as compelling as its rich heritage. Known as the "Valley of Gods," this quaint town once served as the royal capital of Montenegro and today stands as a monument to its storied past. Begin your exploration at the Cetinje Monastery, a bastion of Orthodox Christianity and Montenegrin spirituality. This 15th-century sanctuary is home to relics of Saint Peter of Cetinje, as well as the hand of John the Baptist, making it a site of immense religious and cultural significance. Stroll down the tree-lined avenues and you'll encounter a series of charming embassies and palaces, such as the Blue Palace, which now serves as the President's residence, and King Nikola's Palace, which has been transformed into a museum showcasing royal artifacts and national history. After immersing yourself in the town's history, take a leisurely walk to the Cetinje Historical Core to experience the local lifestyle. Here, amidst the vibrant market stalls and quaint cafés, you can sample traditional Montenegrin cuisine and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to try "Njeguški pršut," a local prosciutto that is a delicacy of the region, or sip on a strong "domaća kafa," the local coffee that is sure to energize your travels. Venture beyond the town's boundaries to discover the natural wonders that surround Cetinje. The serpentine roads lead to the majestic Lovćen National Park, where you can hike trails offering panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor on one side and the Skadar Lake on the other. The Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, perched atop Mount Lovćen's second-highest peak, provides not only a historical landmark but also an unparalleled vista of Montenegro's rugged landscape. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Cetinje's timeless allure is guaranteed to captivate your heart.