Central Montenegro Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more in Central Montenegro. Plan your trip with our ultimate guide.


Introduction to Central Montenegro

Central Montenegro is a region located in the heart of Montenegro in the Balkans. The region offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, cultural significance, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal tourist destination.

Central Montenegro boasts an impressive range of historic buildings, traditional villages, natural wonders, and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the most exciting sights and experiences that Central Montenegro has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Central Montenegro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Central Montenegro is home to several cultural sites that capture the region’s rich history and heritage. Here is a list of the must-visit museums and historical places in Central Montenegro:

  • Cetinje Monastery: One of the most important sites in Montenegro, Cetinje Monastery is a stunning example of traditional Balkan architecture and is a significant religious site.
  • Njegos Mausoleum: Located on Mount Lovcen, the mausoleum honors the late Montenegrin ruler, Petar II Petrovic-Njegos. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • King Nikola’s Palace: This beautifully preserved palace was once the residence of King Nikola and his family.
  • Ostrog Monastery: Built into the face of a sheer rock wall, Ostrog Monastery is a stunning feat of engineering and one of the most significant Christian pilgrimage sites in the Balkans.
  • Stari Bar Fortress: This medieval fortress is located on a hill above the old town of Bar and provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Central Montenegro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Central Montenegro boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery, with rugged mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Durmitor National Park: North of the city of Niksic lies Durmitor National Park, which is home to the impressive Durmitor mountain range, the country’s largest canyon, and glacial lakes.
  • Biogradska Gora National Park: This is a stunning national park that has an abundance of mountain trails, pristine lakes, and forests that offer the perfect outdoor adventure.
  • Lake Skadar National Park: Skadar is one of the largest lakes in the Balkans and is an excellent spot for bird watching, boat trips, and kayaking.
  • Lovcen National Park: Situated at 1,700 meters above sea level, Lovcen National Park boasts incredible views of the Bay of Kotor and Mount Lovcen.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central Montenegro

Central Montenegro is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking and biking are some of the best ways to explore the stunning landscape of the region. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Central Montenegro:

  • Via Dinarica: This trail is over 1200 kilometers long and passes through five countries, including Montenegro. It provides incredible views of the rugged mountain range.
  • Durmitor National Park: Durmitor National Park has many hiking paths suitable for different skill levels. The trails offer stunning views of the mountains, canyons, and lakes.
  • Prokletije National Park: This national park is one of the most unspoiled natural wonders in the Balkans and is a perfect spot for hiking and trekking.

Best Things to Do in Central Montenegro: Activities and Tours

Central Montenegro offers many exciting things to do, from exploring natural wonders to cultural sites and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best things to do in Central Montenegro:

  • Rafting on the Tara River: Tara River is Europe’s deepest canyon, and it offers an unforgettable white water rafting experience.
  • Wine tours in Crmnica: Montenegro is famous for its wine, and Crmnica region is one of the best places for wine tours. Visitors can sample some of the region’s finest wines.
  • Visit Ostrog Monastery: Ostrog Monastery is one of the most remarkable sites in Montenegro and is a perfect destination for religious or cultural tourism.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central Montenegro

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Central Montenegro:

  • Day 1: Arrival in Podgorica and exploring the city.
  • Day 2: Visit the ancient city of Stari Bar and take a hike through the canyon of the River Cijevna.
  • Day 3: Visit the stunning Ostrog Monastery and then transfer to Biogradska Gora National Park.
  • Day 4: Trekking in Biogradska Gora National Park and visiting Biogradska Lake.
  • Day 5: Explore the beautiful Durmitor National Park and Zabljak, Montenegro’s highest town.
  • Day 6: Visit the historic city of Cetinje and then drive to the coastal town of Budva.
  • Day 7: Relax on Montenegro’s beautiful coastline and enjoy some of the best beaches and seafood in the country.

Food and Drink Scene of Central Montenegro

Food and Drink Scene in Central Montenegro is delicious, and the local cuisine is an excellent reflection of the region’s culture and history. Here is a list of must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buzara: This is a seafood dish made with mussels, garlic, and white wine.
  • Pastrmajlija: A traditional Montenegrin dish, it’s a soft and fluffy bread topped with tender lamb meat.
  • Kacamak: A hearty dish made of cornmeal mixed with cheese and butter.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: Montenegro is renowned for its wine, and there is no better place to sample it than Central Montenegro.
  • Rakija: A traditional drink made from distilled fruit, usually plums or grapes.

Where to Stay in Central Montenegro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central Montenegro has an incredible range of accommodation available, from luxury five-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are a few of the best places to stay in Central Montenegro:

  • Hotel M podgorica: This hotel is located in the center of the capital city, Podgorica. It offers easy access to the city’s attractions and is perfect for business and leisure travelers.
  • Hotel Porat: Located in Rijeka Crnojevica, this hotel is the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to explore Lake Skadar. It offers stunning views of the national park.
  • Eco Village Nevidio: This lovely guesthouse is located in the heart of Durmitor National Park and is perfect for those looking for a peaceful getaway in the beautiful mountains.

What to Buy in Central Montenegro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Central Montenegro has plenty of locally made products that make excellent souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Central Montenegro:

  • Montenegrin Wine: Perfect for wine enthusiasts, Montenegro’s wine scene is thriving.
  • Olive Oil: Montenegro produces some of the best olive oil in the world, and you can find it at local markets.
  • Handmade Crafts: Stradun Market in Cetinje is excellent for handmade crafts such as pottery and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Central Montenegro

Central Montenegro has a rich and unique culture that reflects its history and geography. Some customs include:

  • Traditional Clothing: The traditional clothing of the region is heavily influenced by the Ottoman Empire and the Balkan region’s history.
  • Family Values: Family is the cornerstone of Montenegrin society, and locals place great importance on family values and hospitality.
  • Folk Music and Dance: Folk music and dance are important cultural expressions in Central Montenegro, and you can often find performances at local festivals and events.

Best Time to Visit Central Montenegro

The best time to visit Central Montenegro is between May and October when the weather is warm and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities. July and August are the busiest months with plenty of tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central Montenegro

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Learn a few basic Montenegrin phrases.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites or customs.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Litter in natural areas or cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central Montenegro

Central Montenegro is a safe destination for tourists, and violent crime is uncommon. It is advisable to be cautious at night, especially in crowded areas, and keep valuables in a safe place when traveling to busy areas.

Health in Central Montenegro

Montenegro offers excellent medical care, especially in the major cities. However, it is advisable to have travel insurance before traveling to the country.

Getting to Central Montenegro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central Montenegro

Podgorica airport and Tivat airport are the two major airports in Montenegro. Both airports have flights from major cities around Europe.

Bus Stations Near Central Montenegro

Podgorica and Cetinje have bus stations that connect Central Montenegro to other parts of the country.

Other Options

Private taxis and car rentals are also available for transportation. However, driving can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain.

How to Get Around in Central Montenegro

The best way to get around Central Montenegro is by car or renting a bike/scooter. Central Montenegro has a relatively small road network, and the roads are well maintained and excellent for sightseeing.

Where to Go Next from Central Montenegro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

From Central Montenegro, visitors can enjoy day trips to nearby destinations such as:

  • Budva: A popular coastal resort town in Montenegro.
  • Kotor: A charming town on the Bay of Kotor with a well-preserved medieval center.
  • Dubrovnik: The famous walled city in Croatia with stunning architecture and historical sites.

Conclusion

Central Montenegro is a fantastic destination and offers visitors a unique travel experience. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich culture and history, there is something for everyone in this Balkan gem. With this comprehensive travel guide, planning your next trip to Central Montenegro should be a breeze.



    Lovćen National Park
    Mount Ostrog
    Nikšić
    Podgorica
    Rijeka Crnojevica
    Tuzi
    Virpazar