Montenegro is a rather underrated hidden gem in the Balkans. It should be on more people’s radars as a potential summer holiday destination. It’s the perfect destination for both beach getaways and city breaks, with direct flights from the UK to two of the country’s cities—Tivat and Podgorica.
Highlighted as an ‘up and coming’ destination by Condé Nast Traveller, the country has options for any type of holiday, with wild beaches and hidden paths, alongside private beaches, beach clubs, and superyachts. Plus, it’s a completely stunning country, so you’ll have plenty of photos to share with your friends, family, and social media followers.
The capital city of Podgorica is a direct flight from London Gatwick and takes less than three hours.
Perfect for a city break, Podorica, there’s plenty to do, from visiting the Ottoman-era neighbourhood of Stara Varoš, to enjoying a riverside walk to Waterfall Niagara (not to be confused with the similarly named Niagara Falls on the US-Canada border).
While history buffs can enjoy strolling through the city’s historic sites, including the beautiful Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja church, or the ancient Duklja Ruins, which date back to the Roman era, and are just a few miles from the city centre.
Travellers looking for a relaxing beach getaway should head to Budva, another beautiful city that offers sandy stretches and pebbly coves, popular beaches that will be buzzing with tourists and quite secret beaches that are loved by the locals.
One popular beach is Slovenska Plaža, which is close to the old town and has both public and private sections. Those looking for something a bit quieter could head to the picturesque Mogren Beach or the somewhat isolated Ploče Beach.
Many hotels and resorts in the city also have their own private beaches, so it you’ve book a stay in the city you may not have to travel far for some beach sun.
If summer holidays aren’t what you’re looking for, then wait till winter and head to the mountainous village of Kolašin, where you can enjoy some skiing.
Visitors to the Kolasin ski center have left rave reviews, with one writing: “Ot was amazing experience. We went there to snowboard, and it was awsome. Ski tracks were great! We will come again next year!”
While another added: “Will remember this place because my 5 and 7 y.o, kids learned to ski here. Great ski instructors Ksenija & Ivan – more than grateful for their patient approach and fun we had with them.”
And a third penned: ” What a great resort to go to. There was plenty of snow and many runs to go down. Exciting and some scary runs but didnt take long to get back into skiing after over 20 years of not doing it.”
