The Treasure Chest of the Adriatic

With landscapes ranging from rainforests to snowcapped ridges and a wealth of temples, mosques, and cathedrals, this is a country overflowing with riches for travelers of all ages and interests.  

Montenegro’s People and Culture

Montenegro has long been a crossroads country, where the Christian Orthodox East meets the Catholic West. It is a place of natural and cultural wonders, where the stunning Adriatic Sea provides a scenic backdrop for medieval walled villages and breathtaking mountain peaks. 

Montenegro’s history is a complicated one. Once part of the Roman and Byzantine Empires, a variety of religions, ethnic groups, and traditions have always formed a diverse cultural tapestry in Montenegro.For much of its history, Montenegro was ruled by the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty, who served as state and spiritual leaders for 225 years. The World Wars of the 20th century blurred the borders between Montenegro and its neighbors, when the nation became a member of the Slavic States, then part of the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, before regaining its full independence with a historic vote on May 21, 2006.

Montenegro is a true cultural crossroads, but it’s also unique because of its tribal traditions. Under threat of invasion from the Ottoman Empire, Montenegrins formed tribes and clans similar to those of Scotland. Almost every Montenegrin knows which tribe and clan they come from. The tribal culture of Montenegro is a special treat for visitors looking for an authentic cultural experience. Many mountain villages have preserved their traditional language, local customs, and cuisine. You won’t want to miss the regional variations of Montenegro’s seafood, smoked meats, and the country’s favorite dessert: donuts served with honey and dried figs.   

Adriatic Adventures

Montenegro is blessed with a picturesque Adriatic coastline with some of the warmest sea waters in the world. Many of Montenegro’s oldest cities cluster along the coast, including Kotor, an ancient walled town that’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beauty of this fortified town is multiplied by the scenic Bay of Kotor, considered one of the most beautiful bays in all of Europe.

The Budva Riviera ranks high on the list of best destinations on the Adriatic. Budva’s old town was built on a peninsula for extra protection from invaders—a strategy that appears to have worked. Today, you can visit a variety of medieval monuments, including St. John’s Church, constructed in the 7th century!

Budva’s coastline is known as “the Riviera of Sandy Beaches,” so of course it’s perfect for a swim. Pick any hamlet or historic site along this coast and you’re sure to find a gorgeous beach nearby. In addition to swimming, the coastline offers endless opportunities for kitesurfing, sailing, fishing, and even scuba diving.