Embark on a captivating 7 night journey through Montenegro, exploring at your own pace some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. From breathtaking natural scenery to cities steeped in history, each stop offers a unique glimpse of this still-unspoiled destination. Be mesmerised by the scenic panoramas of Lake Skadar and soak up the authentic charm of the village of Virpazar. Continue to vibrant Budva, famous for its lively atmosphere and Adriatic coastline, before venturing into the rugged landscapes around Rikavac and uncovering the rich history of Bar. Enjoy a relaxing day on Budva’s beaches, then wander the medieval streets of Kotor, a city that feels frozen in time. Finally, marvel at the picturesque town of Perast and its iconic islet crowned by the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Your itinerary

7 night stay:

Day 1: Arrival in Podgorica → Budva
Day 2: Budva ⇄ Rikavac ⇄ Bar 
Day 3: Budva
Day 4: Budva ⇄ Bay of Kotor ⇄ Perast ⇄ Herceg Novi ⇄ Porto Montenegro 
Days 5-7: Leisure days
Day 8: Budva → Departure from Podgorica

The freedom to explore: 

Discover our expertly curated self-guided tours, designed to offer the perfect balance of structure and flexibility. While our travel experts suggest itineraries to help you explore each destination in depth, you have the freedom to tailor activities and pace to suit your personal preferences. Rest assured, the carefully selected hotels will remain as listed, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience throughout your journey.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN PODGORICA → BUDVA

Arrive at Podgorica Airport, pick up your hire car, and set out towards the Adriatic coast. The road winds past mountains and open water before reaching the lively seaside town of Budva. If time allows, you may detour to the wild wetlands of Lake Skadar National Park or pause in the small lakeside village of Virpazar for a glimpse of traditional stone houses and vineyards; both stops are optional extras available to book at the next stage of the booking process. Check in at the Smart Club Monte Mare 4*, a short walk from the beach, where sea breezes drift across the pool terrace. Settle into your room, enjoy dinner at the hotel, and ease into the rhythm of the Montenegrin coast.

• Arrive at Podgorica Airport (TGD)
• Pick up your car hire
• All inclusive
• Night at Smart Club Monte Mare 4*

DAY 2: BUDVA ⇄ RIKAVAC ⇄ BAR

After breakfast, drive inland towards the dramatic Rikavac Canyon. An optional guided canyoning excursion (available to book at the next stage of the booking process) can take you through clear streams and narrow rock corridors, with short rappels beside waterfalls and natural pools. Later, continue to the historic town of Bar, where crumbling walls and quiet courtyards hint at centuries of trade and conquest. Nearby stands the legendary Stara Maslina, one of the oldest olive trees in Europe, its twisted trunk said to be more than two thousand years old. On the return drive, pause at Sveti Stefan as the sun sinks over the Adriatic, before heading back to Budva.

• All inclusive
• Drive to Rikavac & Bra
• Night at Smart Club Monte Mare 4*

DAY 3: BUDVA

Wake to a slow morning by the sea. Spend the day enjoying Budva’s beaches, where pale sand meets clear, gently lapping water. Consider to opt for a cooking class in the home of Miško Rađenović, offering a glimpse of everyday Montenegrin life, available to book at the next stage of the booking process. Kamenovo Beach offers a wide sweep of shoreline and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. For something quieter, walk the coastal path to Mogren Beach, tucked beneath cliffs just outside the old town walls. In the evening, wander through the lantern-lit lanes of Budva Old Town, where cafés and small boutiques stay open late.

• All inclusive
• Night at Smart Club Monte Mare 4*

Today is devoted to the remarkable landscapes of Bay of Kotor. An optional cable car ride up Mount Lovćen reveals a sweeping view across the fjord-like bay and terracotta roofs below, available to book at the next stage of the booking process. Continue to Kotor, where medieval lanes twist between palaces, churches, and quiet squares inside the fortified walls. A short drive brings you to Perast, a serene waterfront town facing the tiny island of Our Lady of the Rocks, reachable by an optional boat excursion, available to book at the next stage of the booking process. Later pass through Herceg Novi before crossing to Tivat for a gentle evening stroll around the marina at Porto Montenegro, then return to Budva.

• All inclusive
• Night at Smart Club Monte Mare 4*

DAYS 5-7: LEISURE DAYS

Spend the following leisure days relaxing by the pool or wandering down to the quiet sands of Čanj Beach, where the water lies clear against a backdrop of low green hills. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the hotel’s spa, sauna, or shaded terrace. As evening arrives, the Adriatic air cools, and the sound of the sea drifts inland. 

• All inclusive
• Night at Smart Club Monte Mare 4*

DAY 8: BUDVA → DEPARTURE FROM PODGORICA

After breakfast, drive back through the hills towards Podgorica Airport. Return your hire car and check in for your flight home.

• All inclusive
• Drop off your car hire
• Depart from Podgorica Airport (TGD)

Enhance your stay with an activity package featuring carefully chosen experiences, from a quiet boat trip across Lake Skadar to a visit to Besac Fortress for local wine and lunch overlooking the water. It also includes a ride on the Kotor cable car, a speedboat journey through Boka Bay, and a relaxed cooking class in the home of Miško Rađenović, offering a glimpse of everyday Montenegrin life.

Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Montenegro is a hidden gem, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical charm. From its rugged coastline to its dramatic mountain landscapes, this small yet captivating country invites you to explore its diverse offerings, from ancient towns to scenic vistas.

Must-sees:

• The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where mountains meet the Adriatic in a breathtaking display of natural beauty
• Kotor Old Town, a medieval gem with its Venetian architecture, museums, and charming cafés
• The historic town of Perast, home to beautiful baroque palaces and scenic views over the Bay of Kotor

Culinary culture:

Montenegrin cuisine reflects its varied cultural influences, with Italian, Turkish, and Slavic flavours merging to create a distinct gastronomic experience. Fresh seafood is abundant, particularly in the coastal regions, where dishes like grilled fish and black risotto take centre stage. Inland, hearty meals of lamb and wild boar are complemented by local wines and rakija, a traditional fruit brandy.

Dive deeper:

For a more immersive experience, explore the stunning landscapes beyond the main tourist spots. The small town of Herceg Novi, with its cobbled streets and old fortifications, offers a slower pace of life. Alternatively, venture into the Durmitor National Park, where rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and dense forests provide a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking solitude in nature.

Good to know:

The currency in Montenegro is the Euro (EUR), and the climate varies from Mediterranean along the coast to continental inland. Summer months (June to September) are the busiest for tourism, while spring and autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Transport around the country is easy with buses, while ferries connect key coastal towns.