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If it feels like everyone on your social feed is in Montenegro this summer, it’s probably because they are.
The tiny Balkan country has quietly become 2026’s trendiest destination, with TikTokers and travel experts dubbing it ‘Europe’s best kept secret’.
Montenegro saw 86,709 British tourist arrivals during the first eight months of 2025, a 7.2% increase from 2024, and with viral videos showcasing its immaculate beaches, charming old towns and towering mountains, it’s only getting more popular.
British Airways recently launched direct flights from Heathrow to Tivat for the summer season from £164 return.
Everyone’s talking about it, so we had to see for ourselves. What is there to see, what is there to do, and, most importantly, does it live up to the hype?
Mental notes
Be aware, Tivat airport is small. Very small.
With one runway and a single waiting area, on arrival you may be advised to wait outside, then clear security closer to departure.
Montenegro is, of course, in Europe. But it’s not a member of the European Union (yet), so you’ll need to sort a solid mobile data plan; otherwise it’ll cost you a small fortune.
Lastly, expect to see a lot of construction.
When I visited in May, they were still building the roads to the airport, causing bumper-to-bumper traffic at points. One local said can turn a 30-minute journey into three hours on a bad day.
But teething problems aside, I can assure you, it’s a holiday worth taking.
The party town
Budva is Montenegro’s party town, but it’s not plagued by drunk tourists like Albufeira or Magaluf.
Instead, this ancient coastal resort is a lively mix of beaches, restaurants, history and cocktail bars.
For a lazy-beach day, pack a picnic and head to Mogren Beach.
It’s a twin cove just past the Old Town with beautiful blue water and stunning views; a welcome respite from the crowds on the main strip.
Alternatively, hop on a short boat ride to Saint Nikola’s Island, just a kilometre off-shore. Locals call it Hawaii.
It’s got three beaches to choose from and I’m still upset that I didn’t have time to lounge on them myself.
In the evening, head to the Old Town where the narrow stone streets date all the way back to Roman times. The atmosphere is buzzy, but not overwhelming.
To drink with the locals, stop off at Blue Cat. Order the Witchcraft (passion fruit + tequila + lime juice + spicy sesame), you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re lucky, you might even get to cuddle the resident kitten.
For a more upmarket vibe, head to Casper Bar, a bohemian wine bar tucked under a pine tree that hosts jazz and DJ sets.
Alternatively, if you’re a sucker for a spicy marg, make for Manana.
Tip: book in for dinner at rooftop restaurant, Vista. You’ll be treated to sweeping views of Budva and the bay, and delicious seafood risotto.
Sveti Stefan and its controversial resort
A short bus ride from Budva is the gorgeous island town of Sveti Stefan.
Its private island resort has been a draw for the rich and famous, with Novak Djokovic getting married there in 2014, and the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor and the Beckhams all dropping by.
It’s stunning to look at, although it caused quite the stir with locals who were denied use of the island’s beaches so A-listers could enjoy them.
This prompted a five-year closure, but the hotel has now re-opened and two of its beaches – Sveti Stefan Beach and King’s Beach – are now accessible for everyone to enjoy.
For a gorgeous dinner with a view of the infamous resort jutting out into the ocean, book a table at Olive for a spectacular sunset.
Kotor
A 30-minute drive away is Kotor. I wish I’d spent more time here, so allow yourself about two days to enjoy it at a leisurely pace.
The medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, thanks to its Venetian architecture and cobbled streets.
It’s a big hit with tour groups, so try to pick a day where only one cruise ship is docked instead of three.
Rise bright and early to climb to the San Giovanni Fortress, starting with serpentines from the east part of the Old Town.
These paths lead to the summit which is a dizzying 280m above sea level. Your reward is a breathtaking view of the bay below.
Back down in the town (which, legend has it, was built by fairies) soak in the history of the biggest and oldest Roman Catholic Church this side of the Adriatic.
Then grab a krempita — a beloved local dessert which is basically a big slag of pastry and vanilla cream.
As you wander, you’ll notice well looked-after cats lounging in the sun.
Locals go above and beyond for the large feline population here, earning Kotor (and indeed Montenegro in general) the title of one of the most cat-friendly places on earth.
On your second day, take the shuttle bus to Kotor Cable Car and get a very steep gondola up the mountain (€20 for an adult round-trip).
If you’re afraid of heights this is not for you, but if you can brave it, the views are gorgeous. Once you reach the top, there’s a day of adventure waiting for you.
Pick up some speed on the Alpine Coaster, a single track scenic ride (€10). Just try not to hold up traffic by putting your brakes on like I did.
Sunset DJ sets spin the decks up here from time to time, too, so check the calendar. It would make for a beautiful summer night.
Back on terra firma, don’t miss the unique experience of visiting Kraken: a floating wine bar.
The bottles are stored and aged underwater, 20 metres deep to be precise, with staff having to swim down to grab your chosen tipple. You can also get some lovely charcuterie and fresh fish from Boka Bay.
The Town of Sun and Virpazar
For an authentic experience away from the tourist traps, the sleepy town of Herceg Novi is a great day out.
Lovingly referred to by locals as the Town of Sun, it’s one of the youngest towns in the Mediterranean. In fact, it’s closer to Croatia than it is to Kotor, and is often overlooked by foreign visitors.
Wander along the 7km lungomare (Šetalište Pet Danica), the promenade tracing the edge of the bay. It’s an easy walk that weaves past small coves and swimming decks.
For a slice of history, head up through the streets to Kanli Kula: ‘The Bloody Tower’.
Formerly an Ottoman prison, then a Venetian lookout, now a stunning open-air theatre, what once was a place of refuge is now a venue for concerts and performances.
Entry is just €4, so it’s well worth a visit.
Nature lovers should head to Virpazar, where you can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Skadar Lake, the largest lake in the Balkans.
It’s been a national park since 1983 and is home to 280 species of birds including the Dalmatian Pelican alongside pygmy cormorants, storks and grey herons.
You can enjoy a two-hour boat tour complete with coffee and croissants around the lake for £17 per person. Book with Virparis.
A meal to remember...
If you’re visiting the Montenegrin coast and want a dinner to remember, head to the One & Only Portonovi resort and book yourself a table at Tapasake.
A fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese flavours, the sushi here is nothing short of divine. What’s better is they cater to allergies, no problem.
I tried the handmade mochi, crispy rice with beef tartare, nigiri, sashimi and more, and honestly, I’ve never had better.
It’s not cheap though; most dishes are around the £20 to £30 mark.
Of course, you can stay at One & Only too, which is a very relaxing experience with 20 pools and 27 spa treatment rooms.
Prepare your bank account: prices in June will set you back about £1,600 per night, but since it’s just been named one of the top 10 best hotels in the world by La Liste, it’s justifiable.
Alternatively, British Airways Holidays offers seven nights, at the 5* One&Only Portonovi, from £3,399pp (includes €7pp Tourism Tax, payable locally), travelling on selected dates between 1 September – 30 September 2026 inclusive.
Includes economy (Euro Traveller) return flights from London Heathrow Airport, one checked bag per person and accommodation with breakfast.
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