Best of Montenegro: Coast & Mountains
If you only have five days and want a bit of everything, this is the route. You start at Podgorica Airport, dip into Lake Skadar, climb to Lovćen and finish on the coast before returning south.
days recommended
5–7 days
km total
210 km
hours driving
4 h 0
Day by day
Day 1
Lake Skadar (Virpazar)
The Balkans' largest lake, lined with water lilies, fishing villages and wine cellars producing Vranac.
Insider tip: Take a boat trip through the water lilies and keep an eye out for pelicans.
Day 2
Cetinje
The historic royal capital, quieter than Podgorica and full of monasteries, museums and old embassies.
Insider tip: Combine Cetinje with the winding road up to Lovćen for the best views.
Day 3
Lovćen National Park
Climb the 461 steps to Njegoš Mausoleum for a 360-degree view over land and sea.
Insider tip: The road up is narrow and serpentine; drive slowly and enjoy the panorama.
Day 4
Kotor
The UNESCO bay town where mountain walls meet the water and cats outnumber cars in the old lanes.
Insider tip: Try the local seafood — grilled squid and black risotto are coastal staples.
Day 5
Budva
End the coastal leg with beaches, nightlife and the photogenic islet of Sveti Stefan.
Insider tip: Sveti Stefan is most photogenic from the public viewpoint on the mainland road.