Reisgids voor Montenegro: essentiële tips

1. What are the top attractions in Kotor?
Top attractions in Kotor include the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and the Kotor Fortress (St. John’s Fortress) with panoramic views after a steep hike. Don’t miss a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made islet in the Bay of Kotor.

2. What is the best time to visit Montenegro?
The best time to visit Montenegro is late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October) for mild weather, ideal for exploring Kotor and hiking in Durmitor National Park. Summer (July to August) is great for beaches in Budva, while winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing in Kolašin.

3. Do I need a visa to travel to Montenegro?
Montenegro is visa-free for EU, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. You’ll need a passport valid for at least three months beyond your departure date. Check with the Montenegrin embassy for other nationalities.

4. What are the best beaches in Montenegro?
Top beaches include Sveti Stefan Beach for its scenic islet views, Jaz Beach in Budva for its lively atmosphere, and Lučice Beach in Petrovac for a quieter vibe. Plavi Horizonti in Tivat offers sandy shores, and Drobni Pijesak near Sveti Stefan is a hidden gem with turquoise waters.

5. Is Montenegro expensive to travel to?
Montenegro is budget-friendly compared to Western Europe. Daily costs average $50–$90 per person for accommodation, food, and transport. A mid-range trip can cost $600–$1,000 for a week. Budva and Sveti Stefan are pricier, but rural areas like Podgorica or Kolašin are more affordable.

6. What are traditional Montenegrin foods to try?
Try njeguški pršut (smoked ham from Njeguši), kačamak (a polenta-like dish with cheese), and burek (flaky pastry with meat or cheese). For seafood, enjoy crni rižot (black risotto with squid ink). Pair your meal with a glass of Vranac, a local red wine, or rakija (fruit brandy).

7. What are the best outdoor activities in Montenegro?
Popular activities include hiking in Durmitor National Park, home to the Tara River Canyon, rafting on the Tara River, and kayaking in the Bay of Kotor. Ski in Kolašin or Žabljak during winter, or explore Lake Skadar by boat for birdwatching and stunning views.

8. What are the best historical sites in Montenegro?
Visit the Old Town of Kotor, a UNESCO site, and the medieval town of Budva with its ancient walls. Cetinje, the old royal capital, offers the Cetinje Monastery and King Nikola’s Museum. The Ostrog Monastery, carved into a cliff, is a spiritual highlight.

9. What are the best festivals in Montenegro?
Top festivals include the Kotor Carnival (February), the Sea Dance Festival in Budva (July) for electronic music, and the Boka Night (August) with decorated boat parades. The Southern Soul Festival in Ulcinj (June) celebrates music, and the Days of Wine and Fish in Virpazar (September) highlights local flavors.

10. How can I travel around Montenegro?
Buses connect major towns like Kotor, Budva, and Podgorica affordably. Renting a car is ideal for exploring rural areas like Durmitor or Lake Skadar, as roads are scenic but public transport can be limited. Taxis are available in cities, and ferries operate across the Bay of Kotor for a quicker route.