Montenegro: The best excursions starting from the capital

Montenegro,Mountains,,Durmitor,Piva,,Tara,Panorama

Montenegro, an emblematic Balkan country, is known for its landscapes of lush green mountains and idyllic beaches. With a surface area of around 14,000 km2, this country is ideal for excursions starting in the capital.

A trip to Montenegro promises a wide variety of sights, thanks to its natural spaces and proximity to the Adriatic Sea, offering hills and seascapes aplenty. What's more? You can discover the country while staying in one of the capital's many hotels. Teeming with architectural styles ranging from Brutalist to Socialist, Podgorica is just a day trip away. Here is a selection of the must-see places and essential destinations you can discover on excursions from the metropolis... Or why not as part of a spontaneous road trip? Get ready for a change of scenery in Montenegro.

Durmitor National Park, a pristine natural setting

Durmitor National Park offers vast expanses of nature and a host of outdoor activities. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980, takes its name from Durmitor, a karstic massif in the Dinaric Alps. Its highest point or summit is Bobotov Kuk, a destination for many experienced hikers. What makes this park so special? Its many ecosystems and landscapes, from glacial rock amphitheaters to caves and rivers (Tara, Susica and Draga), and of course its many lakes and Europe's last black pine forest. Rafting, quad biking, hiking or trekking: this is an excursion for sports enthusiasts of all kinds... Or for anyone who can appreciate a natural countryside.

A must-do? Taking a walk around Crno Jezero, also known as Black Lake.

Locatedabout1h15 by car from the capital.

The town of Bar, Montenegro's seaside resort

Bar is Montenegro's main port one of the country’s mains tourist destinations. Indeed, the town bore witness to the nation’s history, as evidenced by its many archaeological sites surrounded by mountains, its ancient fortified town and its various public and religious buildings. The city's current architectural profile retains strong Italian, Ottoman and Turkish influences, making it an ideal excursion destination. This is also where you can have some of the country's best fish dishes.

Nearby, there is also the Skadar nature reserve and lake. Virpazar, the departure point for the cruise boats, is a 30-minute drive away. Once you've settled in, enjoy the Montenegrin mood and the sublime ecosystem - notably the many birds.

Locatedabout1 hour's drive from the capital.

Budva and Petrovac, history and authentic villages

Like a city from a postcard, encircled by walls, Budva has a strong historical aspect. Dating back 2,500 years, it is one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic coast. Despite a marked tourist presence, it remains one of Montenegro's must-visit towns, where you can stroll the streets looking for the most beautiful church it has to offer, coffee in hand.

Just 15 minutes from Budva, you can reach the island of SteviStefan. Now a luxury hotel complex, you may only admire it from a distance.

Finish this excursion in one of Montenegro's most beautiful villages, the coastal village of Petrovac, which, thanks to a lesser tourist presence, has a more authentic feel to it. Here, as throughout the country, the sea meets the mountains, offering magnificent views. Take advantage of the peace and quiet, and enjoy a delicious seafood dish on the seafront, or take a stroll to Kastio castle, at the tip of the town. The breathtaking sunset also deserves an honourable mention.

Located about 1 hour's drive from the capital.

The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro's “southermost fjord”

Accurately nicknamed the ‘fjords of the Mediterranean’, the Bay of Kotor, also known as Boka is one of the most popular tourist spots in Montenegro. And with good reason! It is a true gem. This bay, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique landscape thanks to its waters surrounded by mountains. The town itself is also well worth a visit, especially the old town with its Venetian-style architecture. Take your time wandering through the narrow streets, the many churches, the markets and the harbour. Some will enjoy a swim on the beach by the same name, while braver people might opt to climb the 1,500 steps rising up to the panoramic vantage point on the fortress.

On your trip to Kotor, take this opportunity to visit the charming fishing village of Perast, just 10 kilometres away, and take a boat trip to the island of Gospa od Skrpjela, where you can visit a church built thanks to a legend.

Located about 1h30hours by car from the capital.