Montenegro is experiencing a surge in popularity among British tourists, with visitor numbers nearly tripling since 2017. Last year, the country welcomed 118,746 UK visitors, and June of the current year saw a record 22,833 British tourists, an increase from 16,886 in June 2025.
This tiny nation, situated between Croatia and Albania and roughly two-thirds the size of Wales, offers a compelling mix of Adriatic coastline, rugged mountainous interiors, and a rich tapestry of cultural sites. Its well-preserved old towns showcase medieval, Ottoman, and Venetian architecture, complemented by exquisite monasteries and centuries-old fortresses. The country's cuisine is also a highlight, featuring fresh seafood, cured meats, grilled dishes, and traditional stews, all utilizing seasonal produce.
Montenegro is easily accessible via direct flights to Podgorica and Tivat, offered by Ryanair and easyJet, respectively. Its affordability further contributes to its growing appeal.
Coastal Charm and Historic Towns
Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is frequently cited as the most beautiful town on the Montenegrin coast. Nestled on the Bay of Kotor beneath Mount Lovcen, its historic center features medieval walls enclosing a network of narrow streets, squares, churches, and a notable cathedral. Visitors can hike up to St. John's Fortress for panoramic views.
Herceg Novi, located at the northern end of the coast near the Croatian border, offers a pleasant old town cascading down a hillside, overlooked by fortresses. It is noted for having lower prices compared to southern destinations. The town's waterfront promenade is ideal for sunset walks.
Perast, another picturesque town on the Bay of Kotor, is characterized by old stone houses along the waterfront. It serves as a departure point for boat tours to the nearby islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks.
Further south, the old town of Ulcinj, founded in the 5th century BC, is known for its pirate history and massive walls. Nearby is Velika Plaza, Montenegro's longest beach, stretching seven miles and offering both sandy and shingle sections. The southern part of Velika Plaza is popular for kite surfing.
Stari Bar, situated on a hillside above the modern port of Bar, is an atmospheric ruin dating back to the 9th century, with some structures predating Byzantine rule and ancient olive terraces over 2,000 years old. The town was abandoned after a major earthquake in 1979.
Mountainous Landscapes and Adventure
Durmitor National Park, Montenegro's most famous, is a vast highland plateau with rocky summits exceeding 2,000 meters and one of the world's deepest canyons. The park offers multi-day treks, shorter hikes, cycling routes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. The small mountain town of Zabljak serves as a base, with notable attractions including Black Lake.
The River Tara carves a 1,300-meter deep canyon through the Durmitor plateau, recognized as one of Europe's premier locations for white-water rafting. Rafting trips often traverse the deepest parts of the canyon.
Prokletije National Park, also known as the Accursed Mountains, is located on the Albanian border and presents Montenegro's wildest terrain and dramatic mountain scenery. Popular bases include Lake Plav and the valleys of Gusinje and Vusanje.
Mount Lovcen, rising above the Bay of Kotor, features the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegos. Access is available via an asphalt road from Cetinje or a cable car from Kotor, with the summit platform offering spectacular views.
Natural Wonders and Cultural Sites
Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, is a vast wetland straddling the border with Albania and is a habitat for abundant birdlife. Activities include boat tours and kayaking, with lakeside dining available in Virpazar.
Ostrog Monastery is a significant pilgrimage site and one of Montenegro's most visited tourist attractions. It is uniquely situated within an overhanging cliff face.
The town of Cetinje, Montenegro's former medieval capital, offers a quieter experience away from the coast and houses several museums, including the National Museum of Montenegro. The nearby town of Rijeka Crnojevica, with its old stone bridges, is known for restaurants serving local freshwater fish.
Podgorica, the current capital, is described as a vibrant city with numerous restaurants and bars, and a mix of historic and modern architecture, including the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. The atmospheric old Ottoman quarter, Stara Varos, is a notable area.
Jaz Beach, located west of Budva, is one of Montenegro's many Blue Flag beaches, stretching for about one and a half miles and offering numerous facilities. Festivals are often held on the grounds behind the beach.