Montenegro
The Adriatic coastline
Places mentioned in the guide
Montenegro’s Adriatic coast is a stunning blend of azure waters, sandy (but also pebbled) beaches, and historical towns. From the popular and bustling resorts to more tranquil hideaways, here is a comprehensive guide to exploring the highlights of Montenegro’s coastline.
Budva Riviera
As the major resort in Montenegro, Budva is the star attraction along the coast. In summer, it is packed with tourists who come for its excellent beaches and its nightlife (the most vibrant on the coast). The Old Town (Stari Grad) is a must-see, with its narrow, cobblestone streets and ancient stone buildings. Key sites include the Citadel, the Church of Saint John, and the Archaeological Museum.
Nearby Beaches:
- Slovenska Beach: This is Budva’s main beach, stretching for nearly 2 kilometers. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the lively beach bars and restaurants.
- Mogren Beach: Accessible via a scenic coastal path from the Old Town, Mogren Beach is divided into two parts by a cliff. It offers clear waters and a more secluded atmosphere.
- Jaz Beach: Just a short drive from Budva, Jaz Beach is one of the longest beaches in Montenegro. It’s known for hosting music festivals and its excellent swimming and sunbathing conditions.
Often referred to as Montenegro’s Hawaii, Sveti Nikola Island is a short boat ride from Budva. The island features secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for a day trip away from the crowds.
Just a few minutes east from Budva, Bečići boasts a stunning sandy beach that stretches for nearly 2km and is perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts. The area offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Budva.
Pržno is known for its charming bay, lined with old stone houses and olive groves. The beach here is small but beautiful, and the village offers several excellent seafood restaurants. Pržno’s tranquil ambiance makes it a perfect escape from the busier coastal areas.
From Pržno, a 30-min walk through the woods of Miločer Park will lead you to Sveti Stefan, one of Montenegro’s most photographed locations. While this iconic islet is now a luxury resort, you can enjoy the stunning views and sunbathe on the public section of the nearby beach.
The coastal town of Petrovac marks the end of the Budva Riviera and is known for its relaxed vibe and beautiful surroundings. The main beach is perfect for families, with its sandy shores and calm waters, although it becomes seriously packed in summer.
Nearby Beaches:
- Perazića Do Beach: Accessible by a short hiking trail or by boat, this beach is known for its seclusion and tranquility.
- Lučice Beach: Just a short walk from Petrovac, Lučice Beach is a crescent-shaped bay surrounded by lush greenery. It provides a slightly quieter experience than Petrovac's main beach.
- Buljarica Beach: One of the longest beaches on the Montenegrin coast, Buljarica Beach offers plenty of space to relax and enjoy the natural beauty. It’s less crowded than other beaches, making it a great spot for those seeking solitude.
Bar to Ulcinj
The modern town of Bar is an important port and commercial center, and is unlikely to be part of many visitor's itineraries. However, it’s the ancient town of Stari Bar that draws visitors. Located inland on a hilltop, Stari Bar is a fascinating collection of ruins from various historical periods, surrounded by olive groves.
The surrounding areas also offer some of the best canyoning opportunities:
- Rikavac Canyon: Known for its rugged beauty, Rikavac Canyon is a perfect initiation to canyoning for families and suitable for kids from 8 years on.
- Medjurec Canyon: This lesser-known canyon offers a more challenging and complete experience: numerous jumps into blue-green pools carved in cliffs, high waterfalls and mini natural toboggans.
Montenegro’s southernmost town, Ulcinj is known for its strong Albanian influence, evident in its architecture and culture. The old town is a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings. While Ulcinj features a series of little coves for swimming and sunbathing, the main draw is Long Beach. Stretching for 12km, this stunning beach is a haven for kitesurfers and sunbathers alike. The vast expanse of sand ensures plenty of space for everyone. For maximum tranquility, the nearby Ada Bojana, a triangular island, offers more secluded beaches and a nudist resort.
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