Towns

Montenegro is one of the most interesting spots in the world. Even though it covers only 14,000 km2 and has some 630,000 citizens, it has contributed hugely to the world’s cultural heritage.  During centuries of rich history, Montenegro has survived and remained one of the shining examples of the fight for freedom and for its own survival.  Christian, Muslim, Illyrian, Byzantine, Turkish, and Slav civilization merged, making Montenegro a permanent crossroads of culture and history.

The country has changed its name on many occasions, from Latin times where it had the name of Prevalis, through medieval times as Zeta, to the modern title of Crna Gora (Montenegro).  It is a Mediterranean country and is one of the most southern European states, sitting on the southern Adriatic Sea. It lies on the Balkan peninsula in the very heart of Europe, opposite the heel of Italy.

The most southern spot is located in the mouth of river Bojana in the Adriatic Sea, and the most northern spot is found deep inland not far from the junction of three borders, Bosnia, Serbia and Montenegro. Even though the distance between these two spots is only 190 km, between the Mediterranean climate of the south and the cooler mountain peaks of the north, there are many climatic differences on the way – Montenegro is sometimes called the land of 6 continents.

Montenegro lies on 13,812 km², and it owns also 4,800 km² of the surface of the Adriatic Sea. In Europe the only countries that are smaller than Montenegro are: Andorra, Lichtenstein, Luxembourg, The Vatican City, Monaco, and San Marino. But, when considering the diversity of its geography and long, rich history, then Montenegro adopts a role of greatness. 

There is an abundance of towns that have evolved through the centuries;  although they may look alike at first sight, once their traditions and customs become more familiar, they arouse curiosity and create a desire to find out more about their rich history.

The country is naturally divided into three geographical areas - coastal, central and mountain.  In each one of these regions you will find a slighty different atmosphere bringing local customs to light.

Coast towns          : Ulcinj, Bar, Sveti Stefan, Budva, Tivat, Kotor (World Heritage Site), Herceg Novi, Perast 

Central towns       : Podgorica, Niksik, Cetinje,  Danilovgrad,

Mountain towns    : Kolasin, Mojkovac, Bijelo Polje, Berane, Pljevlja, Rozaje,  Zabljak, Plav 

The coastal towns are very attractive, still rich in architectural detail from the ancient times, stunning against the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.

The towns of the central region are rich in history and culture, a source of many stories of glorious victories against the armies that tried to occupy the area. There is also a strong contemporary spirit which is clearly felt and which is helping to develop these cities into economic and cultural centres.

Towns in the northern mountainous part of Montenegro are looking to develop winter tourism.  These small towns, with differing charms and architecture, are becoming increasingly attractive to the tourists.

Coastal Towns:

Herceg Novi is easily remembered by its huge number of Mimosa trees and even larger number of flights of steps.  It enjoys a significant number of sun-filled days in any year and as such is known as the City of Sun. It has a population of 27,593 (including Igalo)

Kotor located along one of Montenegro's most beautiful bays, is a city of traders and famous sailors.  The well preserved Old City dates back to the middle ages and there is much to see – it is a designated UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage site. The Kotor bay area attracts investors from the UK and other nationalities

Tivat is located in the central part of the Boka Kotorska bay. Although it is the youngest town in the Boka region, Tivat has a lot of interesting and attractive features.  In the city it self there is the natural marina - Kaliman.

Budva is the metropolis of Montenegrin tourism thanks to the great number of beaches that make this a most desirable tourist destination. Apart from its natural beauty, such as its bay islands and beaches, Budva is rich in historic monuments. The Old Town lies on a small peninsula and is a maze of narrow streets and squares.  The Budva coast is 21 km long with 17 beaches. It is among the most beautiful coasts in the world. This stretch of coastline, between Budva and Bar is typically less mountainous with stretches of soft sandy beaches.

Sveti Stefan is a picturesque island, with a sandbar linking it to the shore. Until 50 years ago it was a pretty little fishing village, until it was transformed into a unique, luxury hotel. The tiny, original C15 church still remains and it is still as attractive. Its picture is often seen in Montenegrin promotional material.

Bar is a town with a modern outlook on life and it continues to grow.  It is a spotlessly clean port with several large green areas for relaxation in the summer heat.  There are several tourist attractions such as the Old Town, Haj-Nehaj Fortress, the castle of King Nikola and other cultural monuments to the past.  There is also an olive tree that is more than 2000 years old plus Skadar Lake and its National Park, housing a huge population of various birds.

Ulcinj is the southernmost city on the Montenegrin coast and has a natural potential for tourism to thrive.  The longest beach at the Adriatic sea is here – Velika Plaza 13 km long plus there is Ada Bojana – a unique river island with wonderful sandy beaches and Valdanos – a unique bay sheltered with a bank of old olive trees.  Ulcinj has been partially re-built and is now a foodies’ delight.

Perast commanded a strategically important position, in 18th century, owing to its many safe harbours, when it had as many as four active shipyards. It is now an area for potential property investors. It lies in the area of the bay of Tivat. 

Central Towns:

Podgorica is the official commercial and cultural centre of Montenegro. The name originates from 1326 and it is built amongst five rivers, the Zeta, Moraca, Ribnica, Cijevna and Sitnica. Most of the city was destroyed during WW II, so Podgorica is relatively new, with many modern buildings, but also with lots of green spaces and parks.  Nine kilometres away from the city is the International Airport, with has excellent rail and bus links. It has a population of 152,025 inhabitants.

Niksic built in the 4th century, is to the west of Montenegro.  Niksic is flanked by three lakes: Krupac, Slano and Liverovici. During the summer months these lakes are the main places for day trippers and holiday makers. Niksic is also well known for its production of the famous Niksicko beer. Its population is 74,706.

Cetinje is situated at the base of the Lovcen mountain.  Cetinje has many museums, as well as the Art Academy, parks and from Orlov Krs there is great view of the city and the mountain of Lovcen. It is the former royal capital and the seat of the throne. Its population is 20,307.

Danilovgrad is on the banks of the River Zeta in the middle Bjelopavlici valley. It got its name after its creator, Prince Danilo. As the surrounding mountains are over 1000 meters high, Danilovgrad is well placed for the development of winter sports tourism.  The city is also well known for quality marble and a number of artists are attracted to the city, to create works of marble.

Mountain Towns:

Kolasin is a city founded by Turks in 17th century. The rivers Tara and Moraca stream along it and is surrounded by the mountains of Sinjajevina, Bjelasica, Kljuc and Vucje. Kolasin is located at 954m and as such offers excellent potential for winter sports, as well as summer activities. 

Mojkovac, is located on the west bank of the Tara River between mountains Bjelasica and Sinjajevina, close to the old mining community of Brskovo.  

Bijelo Polje got its name, some say, from the white flowers that cover this entire city in Spring. Bijelo Polje is situated in the valley of the River Lim making for picturesque walks, wells and forests. It has a population of 55,628.

Berane is surrounded by highlands. After years of varied settlements, the Turks built a fortress in 1862 and in 1912 it became part of Montenegro.  In this young city you will find broad avenues, with squares and parks for relaxation.  It is geared towards winter tourism. It has a population of 38,953.

Pljevlja is in the scenic valley of the rivers Cehotina and Brznica in the very north of Montenegro.  Pljevlja is an example of Islamic and Christian cultures. It has a population of 39,593.

Rozaje is a city on the north-eastern tip of Montenegro, surrounded by magnificent mountains Hajla, Mokra gora, Krstac, Zljeb and Turjak. The Ibar River flows through it and forests abound. Summer and winter tourism works well here. Ski slopes and lifts are established. 

Zabljak is the city at the highest altitude of the Balkans - 1456 m. Its location is at the centre of the Durmitor mountain. Zabljak has excellent winter tourism.  It also houses the deepest canyon in Europe, on the River Tara.  The surrounding lakes attract holidaymakers in the summer for boating trips and white-water rafting.

Plav is located at the foot of the Prokletije Mountain, on the springs of the river Lim.  Winter and summer water sports abound here with all the lakes, torrential rivers and cliffs to climb.