Your Ultimate Montenegro Travel Guide: Tips, Hidden Gems & Why You Should Visit
- Oluwadamilola Akinleye
- Apr 25
- 5 min read
Montenegro wasn’t on my 2024 bingo card, but somehow… it became one of my favourite travel surprises.
It started with a search. I had just four days — Thursday to Sunday — and an itch to see somewhere new. As a Nigerian passport holder living in the UK, my choices were slim unless I could find a destination that wouldn’t need me to chase down a visa. I needed somewhere beautiful, affordable, and most importantly, accessible. That’s how I found Montenegro.
To answer the question, I googled (and maybe you did too):
Can I travel to Montenegro from the UK? ✅ The answer is yes.
With a valid UK residence permit (BRP) or Schengen visa, Nigerian citizens can visit Montenegro visa-free for up to 30 days. Once that was settled, I looked into it further, and wow. Montenegro felt like Europe’s best-kept secret: dramatic mountains spilling into turquoise waters, quiet towns, warm and welcoming locals, and prices that didn’t leave my wallet crying. I couldn’t believe it had only become an independent country in 2006 — yet it already had so much heart.
So, is Montenegro worth visiting? Absolutely. And if you’re curious about where to stay, what to do, or how to make the most of a short trip, I’ve put together a free downloadable travel guide packed with tips, hidden gems, and planning advice to help you experience Montenegro like I did — but better.
Tips for Visiting Montenegro
If you're planning a trip to Montenegro, here are a few things I wish I had known before my trip — and a few tips to make yours even smoother.
When is the best time to visit Montenegro?
Montenegro enjoys warm weather between May and October, making it perfect for exploring the coast, hiking the mountains, or cruising along the Bay of Kotor. I visited in October, and the weather was still pleasantly warm, perfect for light layers and long days out.
SIM & Internet Access
As a digital girlie who needs internet on the go, I used Airalo to get an esim before my trip — and it worked flawlessly throughout Montenegro. Super convenient and affordable if you're hopping between towns or need Google Maps 24/7.
Currency
Montenegro isn’t in the EU, but it uses the Euro (€) as its currency. Most restaurants and shops take card payments, but keep a bit of cash for taxis or small vendors.
Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting
The roads are very narrow, and driving through the coastal towns can feel like a video game. If you're not confident navigating tight curves and hills, it might be better to take taxis or book tours.
Shops close early in smaller towns, especially outside the summer months. Plan grocery runs or souvenir stops earlier in the day.
How to Get Around Montenegro
You can get around Montenegro without a car, especially if you’re sticking to Kotor, Budva, or Tivat. Taxis are affordable — a 15-minute ride costs me around €8–10. However, if you want to explore lesser-known towns like Sveti Stefan or Lake Skadar, renting a car is cheaper and more flexible in the long run.
Top Highlights From My Trip to Montenegro
Montenegro might be small, but trust me, each day packed a punch. Here are some of the unforgettable moments from my 4-day adventure:
Wandering Through Old Kotor Town
I kicked off my trip with a stroll through the magical Old Town of Kotor. Think cobbled streets, medieval charm, and towering mountains hugging the town like a secret. Every corner felt like a scene from a fairytale. I ended the day with a scoop (or two) from Moritz Eis—highly recommend!
Porto Montenegro's Chic Vibes
On day two, I switched gears and headed to Porto Montenegro—a sleek, modern marina with serious Riviera energy. I walked along the water, window-shopped at designer boutiques, and soaked up the luxury. Dinner at Buddha Bar was the perfect close to a laid-back, luxe day.
Cruising the Coast: Tivat → Perast → Herceg Novi → Kotor
Day three was all about the sea. I joined a full-day boat cruise from Tivat that took us through Montenegro’s coastal gems. We made stops at Herceg Novi, strolled along Zanjice Beach, and dipped into the mystical Blue Cave—hands down one of the most surreal experiences. We also visited the tiny islet of Our Lady of the Rocks and cruised through the jaw-dropping beauty of Kotor Bay. The exact cruise I booked is linked here.
Jet Skiing & Cable Cars
Day four was an adrenaline rush from start to finish. I started with an early morning jet ski ride in Kotor Bay (so much fun!) and then tackled the Kotor cable car ride—a thrilling ride up into the mountains with panoramic views that felt like a rollercoaster. Dinner at Stari Mlini, a historic mill-turned-restaurant by the water, was the perfect ending. After that, I headed inland to Podgorica, Montenegro’s quiet capital—a surprising but refreshing contrast to the coast.
Foodie Favourites
The food in Montenegro? Chef’s kiss. Every single dish hit the mark—especially the seafood! Some of my top picks: the rib-eye steak at Buddha Bar, the crispy fried octopus at Stari Mlini, and fresh grilled fish along the coast. You’ll eat so well here—just thank me later.
I researched all of these ahead of my trip and included my notes, transport tips, and what to do in my free downloadable travel guide. Grab it here!
What I Missed But You Shouldn’t
My Montenegro trip was short and sweet, but there were a few gems I didn’t get to experience—and you definitely should if you have the time:
Sveti Stefan – This postcard-perfect islet is one of the most iconic sights in Montenegro. While access to the island is restricted, you can get incredible views from the coast.
Bar – A laid-back coastal town with rich history and stunning ruins. Great for a slower-paced day trip.
Lake Skadar – A massive freshwater lake and national park that straddles Montenegro and Albania. Perfect for kayaking, boat tours, and birdwatching.
If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding Albania to your itinerary—it’s just across the border! You can travel between the two countries by bus, taxi, or car, and border crossings are relatively straightforward. Just make sure to check entry requirements for your nationality ahead of time (Nigerians can visit Albania visa-free with a valid UK visa). It's a great way to experience more of the Balkans in one trip!
Final Thoughts: Why Montenegro Left a Mark
Montenegro completely exceeded my expectations. From the crystal-clear Adriatic waters to the towering mountains, dramatic cliffs, lush hills, and hidden caves, this country felt like nature showing off. It’s one of the most unique and underrated destinations in Europe, and the affordability made it even more special. Whether you're after scenic drives, quaint old towns, adventurous water activities, or just a peaceful escape, Montenegro delivers.
Would I go back? Absolutely—there’s so much more I want to see. On my next trip, I’ll make time for Durmitor, Bar, and Lake Skadar, all of which I missed this time. I’d also rent a car to explore more freely, especially since the roads (while narrow) offer some of the most stunning drives I’ve ever seen.
Planning your own Montenegro trip? I’ve created a free, easy-to-follow travel guide just for you, filled with tips I wish I knew before my trip, hidden gems, food spots, transport advice, and detailed highlights.
If you found this helpful or have questions about your trip, feel free to drop a comment or connect with me on Instagram – I’d love to hear from you and cheer you on as you explore!
Went to Montenegro last year and I absolutely enjoyed it.