Montenegro is a stunningly picturesque Balkan country characterized by its rugged beauty, including forested mountains, a charming Adriatic coastline, rich historic monuments, and well-preserved medieval towns. The Bay of Kotor, often regarded as one of the world's most beautiful bays, is home to the breathtaking town of Kotor. While Montenegro might not be as frequently visited as some other destinations, it is undeniably a gem worth exploring, particularly when combined with a visit to Croatia.
Bay of Kotor: A magnificent inlet featuring the enchanting medieval town of Kotor, complete with its charming cobblestone streets, lively squares, ancient churches, and a vibrant dining scene.
Budva: Beautiful beaches and a charming old walled town center, perfect for leisurely exploration on foot or for embarking on a day trip to the unique Sveti Stefan resort.
Lake Skadar: A vast freshwater lake protected as a National Park, offers an ideal setting for hiking and wildlife observation.
Perast: Although a small town, is a treasure trove of well-preserved Venetian and Baroque architecture.
Ulcinj: One of the region's oldest towns, is known for its delightful town center and stunning surroundings.
Montenegro features a Mediterranean climate along its coastline, characterized by dry summers and mild yet rainy winters. In the more central and northern regions, a continental climate prevails, resulting in significant temperature variations due to altitude. While Montenegro can be visited throughout the year, the most favorable months are typically April through June and September through October.
Currency: Euro
Language: Montenegrin is the official language, but Serbo-Croatian is also widely spoken. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language can be appreciated by the locals.
What makes it special: Montenegro, with its sun-dappled waters, picturesque bays, and rich historical heritage, is a true delight for nature and history enthusiasts. Being the seventh country in the world with the largest number of UNESCO protected areas per square meter, Montenegro is home to the deepest canyon in Europe and the second in the world just after the Grand Canyon – Tara River Canyon.
Weather: Montenegro is most enjoyable to visit during April and October when the weather is typically dry and warm. July and August can be quite hot during the day but cooler at night.
Social customs: Montenegro has its own unique social customs and traditions that visitors should be aware of to show respect for the local culture. Montenegrins commonly greet with a handshake and maintain good eye contact. A firm handshake is a sign of respect. Men often greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks, and women may do the same. When addressing someone, use their title and last name in formal settings. In informal situations, first names are used. Montenegrins are generally relaxed about titles and honorifics. It's customary to bring a small gift when invited to someone's home, such as wine, chocolates, or flowers. If you're offered a gift, it's polite to open it in front of the giver. When dining in someone's home, wait for the host to start the meal. During the meal, keep your hands visible above the table. It's polite to finish everything on your plate. Montenegrins hold deep respect for the elderly. Show deference to older people and offer your seat to them when appropriate. When visiting churches or religious sites, dress modestly and speak softly. Women should cover their shoulders, and men should remove their hats. Montenegro is a diverse country with various ethnic and religious groups. It's important to be respectful of the different cultures and traditions, especially in multi-ethnic areas like the coastal region.
