Our Montenegro journey, just before Christmas in 2018, included some of the country’s most stunning sites. This was our first trip to the Balkan Peninsula, so we made an effort to learn about Montenegro’s history and cultural heritage. We also practised pronouncing the names of the capital and other key locations, just in case we needed to ask the locals for directions.
Planning our Montenegro itinerary took some effort, but it was well worth it. Here’s how we organised it:
- Researching a travel guide
- Booking a flight
- Arranging a rental car
- Choosing a hotel
- Creating an 8-day Montenegro itinerary


Researching a Travel Guide
After browsing countless websites, we still felt we lacked basic information. We learned that WiFi in Montenegro might not be very reliable, so we opted for a paper travel guide instead. This turned out to be a brilliant decision, as the book became our lifeline during the trip. The internet connection was far too slow to look anything up efficiently.
Book a flight
In December, most flights to Montenegro land at Podgorica Airport, the main hub for Montenegro Airlines. We discovered a direct flight from Frankfurt to Podgorica, but seats were nearly sold out. Luckily, we managed to snag a few of the last tickets. The flight was about two hours long, and we were impressed with the comfort and service provided by Montenegro Airlines.


Arranging a Rental Car
Montenegro is a small country, but public transport, especially in winter, isn’t very frequent. Many places we planned to visit, like the mausoleum in Lovćen National Park, were only accessible by car. To save time, we decided to rent a vehicle.
The rental price was surprisingly affordable, and we picked up the car directly at the airport. Having a car gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace.


Choosing a Hotel
As the Adriatic coast was our main destination, we booked a 7-night stay at the 5-star Regent Porto Montenegro in Tivat. The hotel was simply exquisite, featuring a luxurious spa, unforgettable gourmet breakfasts, and delicious buffet meals. It also provided free parking, which was a great bonus.
Afternoon tea at the hotel was a delightful experience, and we appreciated how family-friendly it was while also being a romantic retreat for couples.


Create a 8-Day Montenegro itinerary
1st Day: We arrived at Podgorica Airport in the evening. After picking up our rental car, we drove straight to our first hotel.
2ed Day: Before heading to Tivat, we had a short stroll around the Millennium Bridge. Taking the M2.3 route, we reached our hotel and settled in.
3rd Day: Longing to see the sun-kissed Adriatic coast, we spent the entire day exploring the beaches along the coastline.
4th Day: The highlight of the day was visiting the Old Royal Capital, Cetinje, and the mausoleum in Lovćen National Park.
5th Day: We explored Kotor, one of the best-preserved medieval towns along the Adriatic coast. Climbing the 1,400 steps up the city walls rewarded us with breathtaking views of Kotor Bay and the old town.
6th Day: We visited Perast, a hidden gem of Kotor Bay. This quaint village is rich in history and stunning scenery. On our way back, we opted for a scenic ferry ride.
7th Day: Our day was spent in Budva, just an hour’s drive from Tivat. We were captivated by the sunset views in the late afternoon.
8th Day: On our final day of Montenegro itinerary, we enjoyed a leisurely walk around Tivat and the stunning Port Montenegro. Unlike the remote villages and old towns we’d seen, Tivat symbolises a modern Montenegro.

Travel tips
Accommodation
Most accommodations are located along the coastline and in tourist areas, with a few top hotels in the capital. Compared to southern European countries, hotel rates are quite affordable. Since Montenegro is primarily a summer destination, booking early can help secure lower prices.
Since Montenegro is more or less a summer destination, you need to book early enough to enjoy the low rate.
Booking.comOrganized Tours
Many tours start from Dubrovnik, Croatia, as it’s a popular cruise port. For those arriving in Podgorica, there are also good tour options starting from the capital, ideal for a stopover.



We love road trips. I’m just windering if you drive on the left or right and how safe did you feel driving. The freedom must have been awesome. Thanks for the post.
Hi Terri,
It is right driving. So it was not so difficult for us to cruise around there.
regards,
Mijia
Montenegro has been on my list for a while, it looks lovely! Thanks for all the detailed tips, I especially like the look of Lovćen National Park which I’d never heard of before.
Hi Freya,
You will love it. It is so gorgeous. You will feel being in top of the clouds.
I have never heard of this place. It certainly looks beautiful!
WOW! What a detailed road trip itinerary! I loved how you gave an overview of your trip and then provided links to each day’s activities.
What a beautiful place! You give a lot of great tips!
It seems like Montenegro is becoming a more popular spot! My friends visited for a wedding and others are going for their honeymoon. Looks so beautiful!
Wow! What gorgeous pictures! Looks amazing.