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Montenegro • Adriatic Coast • Beaches & Resorts
Top 5 places to visit in Montenegro, chosen by travelers
The most popular beach regions and resorts in Montenegro, selected from real reviews of Admiral Travel clients and updated for the current holiday seasons.
The most beautiful beach resorts in Montenegro, explained simply
The top 5 places to visit in Montenegro are a collection of the most popular beach destinations in this picturesque country, created according to our clients’ reviews. We offer an honest overview of regions and resorts in Montenegro, taking into account the quality of beaches, hotel service level, sightseeing options, as well as infrastructure for active entertainment.
Tourist resorts in Montenegro are noticeably different from well–known destinations in Turkey or Bulgaria: you won’t find huge all–inclusive complexes and giant waterparks here, but you will find a family–friendly atmosphere, incredible scenery, medieval towns and a special Balkan vibe – peace, slow rhythm and closeness to nature.
Montenegro is a country in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula, often called by its Italian name “Montenegro”. It is famous for its mild climate, unspoiled nature and lush greenery at the foot of rocky mountains, as well as excellent beaches stretching along the Adriatic coast. From May to October, thousands of tourists come here, attracted by clear turquoise water, clean beaches and the good traditions and hospitality of the locals. In recent travel seasons, Montenegro has remained one of the most accessible and popular Mediterranean destinations for travelers from Moldova, Romania and many other countries.
Travelers visit Montenegro all year round, but beach holidays in the warm season and ski activities in winter are especially popular. Summer is sunny and dry, with air temperatures usually around +26/+29 °C, and sea temperatures peaking in August. These conditions are ideal for diving and kitesurfing, boat and yacht trips, excursions and extreme sports in the mountains, swimming in the sea and relaxed sunbathing on the shore.
The most beautiful 5 places to visit in Montenegro are grouped around several coastal towns. The best–known areas are the Budva Riviera, Kotor, Herceg Novi, the Ulcinj Riviera and the Tivat Riviera. According to tourists, many of the top destinations for a successful holiday are concentrated around Budva: they offer a wide range of accommodation, comfortable beaches and a very well–developed tourist infrastructure.
How can you get from Chisinau to Budva and other popular resorts in Montenegro? The first option is a direct flight to the city of Tivat (in some seasons – to Podgorica), followed by a transfer to the hotel. The second option is a trip by personal car, which allows you to visit several countries on the way. The third option is a bus tour from Chisinau (hotel transfer is included in the price). In this way, a family holiday at the seaside turns into a fun road trip of approximately 30 hours. *In Montenegro, there are cases when the tourist coach cannot drive directly up to the hotel due to narrow roads or steep altitude, so tourists are sometimes transferred to a minibus or dropped off at the nearest accessible point.
Top 5 places in Montenegro (Admiral Travel version)
• Budva – the most famous resort in the country, ideal for nightlife, the waterpark and lively infrastructure.
• Petrovac – a quiet resort in a picturesque bay, perfect for romantic and relaxed family holidays.
• Becici – a resort with a long award–winning beach, popular for its good price–quality ratio.
• Rafailovici – a former fishing village, now a small paradise for lovers of fresh fish and seafood.
• Sveti Stefan – the most bohemian and exclusive area, favored by celebrities and demanding travelers.
Popular resorts in Montenegro: general overview
Tourists who have not yet decided where to spend their summer holiday often ask whether there are sandy beaches in Montenegro, which places are comfortable with children, whether there is All Inclusive and, more specifically: what sea washes Montenegro? We will answer step by step and create a mini Montenegro guide for those who are planning a seaside holiday.
Sand or pebbles?
We have highlighted 5 of the most beautiful beach areas in Montenegro: almost all beaches are pebbly, except for the long sandy beach in the resort of Ulcinj (near the border with Albania). The water there is not quite as crystal clear as on pebble beaches, but the gentle slope into the sea makes the resort comfortable for family holidays. On the shores of the Budva Riviera there are areas with sand (often imported), especially on the beaches in Petrovac and Rafailovici. In some regions of Montenegro, beaches have concrete platforms, because the cliffs meet the sea directly and can be unsafe for swimmers (for example in some parts of Tivat).
Family holidays in Montenegro
In Montenegro, holidays with young travelers are often focused on swimming in the sea and excursions: there is very little large–scale children’s infrastructure, big waterparks and themed parks. When choosing a resort, it is important to pay attention to the slope into the water, the type and safety of the beach, the convenience of pedestrian routes and the possibilities to organize children’s meals. Great choices for holidays with kids in Montenegro are Budva (there is a large seasonal waterpark), Becici, Petrovac, Rafailovici and Sveti Stefan. *The best places for older travelers are around Petrovac, where the terrain is relatively gentle.
All Inclusive or not?
As for food, All Inclusive is not very common in Montenegrin resorts. More often, hotels offer breakfast only or half board (breakfast and dinner). For those who prefer self–catering, apartments are a very popular option. It is also possible to stay in a private villa where the owner cooks on request. This way you can try traditional home–style dishes, learn more about the lives of Montenegrins and appreciate authentic Balkan hospitality.
The sea in Montenegro
The coast of Montenegro is washed by the Adriatic Sea. The water here has a rich emerald–turquoise shade, and the mountain slopes come very close to the shore, forming picturesque coves. The largest bay in Montenegro is the Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska). Short boat trips here are very popular: small cruise boats take you along the coast to visit tiny villages and sea landmarks, usually at very affordable prices (from around 5 euros depending on the season and route).
Top 5 places to visit in Montenegro
As mentioned, we created a “Montenegro – top 5 most beautiful places” list: the most popular destinations among Admiral Travel clients over the last years are the resorts of the Budva Riviera – the town of Budva, the resort of Petrovac, the villages of Rafailovici and Becici, and the island–resort of Sveti Stefan. Reviews of these resorts show that, despite their geographical proximity, each of them has its own character and advantages, attracts tourists from all over the world, and has some nuances to consider when you are planning a family holiday, a youth trip or a romantic getaway.
1. Budva
Which resort in Montenegro would you recommend first of all? Our managers hear this question very often. Budva is the place that usually comes to mind when people think about holidays in Montenegro. It is a major tourist center about 20 km from the airport, where you can find all types of accommodation – from luxury hotels to small authentic seaside villas. Five public beaches are kept in excellent condition, and some sections have sandy areas. The shoreline is protected from storms and cold currents by the nearby island of Sveti Nikola, which you can reach by water taxi. Tourists are also attracted by Budva’s historical heritage: the Old Town with narrow medieval streets, old stone houses with red tiles, Christian churches and fortress walls is very well preserved.
The main feature of Budva, Montenegro’s most famous resort, is its lively atmosphere: many tourists, plenty of music, bars and clubs, and prices higher than in neighboring villages. If you enjoy an active and fun holiday (waterpark, beach attractions, discos, cafés, restaurants), Budva is definitely for you.
2. Petrovac
Petrovac is one of the most sought–after resorts in Montenegro, located in a beautiful bay formed by horseshoe–shaped cliffs. The town of Petrovac lies on relatively flat terrain, which makes it convenient for tourists of all ages, and is protected from winds by mountains on three sides. It is about 17 km from Budva and is perfect for a quiet family break (but be careful with children – in some places the entrance to the sea is quite steep), as well as for cultural tourism. Here you can visit a 16th–century fortress and medieval Christian monasteries with unique frescoes. In fact, civilization existed here long before: in the 4th–3rd centuries BC, an ancient Roman settlement with mosaics was located in this area, and these mosaics were discovered by archaeologists near the town.
Petrovac is an ideal Montenegrin resort for those looking for tranquility and romance. In addition to the main public sandy beach, there are beautiful grottos and secluded swimming spots. There are no huge crowds, but there is a special healing microclimate created by the mix of sea air and pine forests surrounding Petrovac from the landward side.
3. Becici
Where in Montenegro can you find a calmer and more budget–friendly holiday? Becici is often mentioned as a good value resort. This small, quiet town borders Budva, but can offer no less impressive views and experiences. It stretches in a line along a 2–kilometre beach, and most hotels here are located on the first line. Even if your hotel is a bit higher on the slope, the beach is still close. The descent to the beach and climb back to town are quite steep, which may be challenging for older people, but for active tourists strolling along flower–lined streets is a real pleasure. There are no ancient monuments here, but from the viewing platform at the Church of St. Thomas you get a stunning panorama of the area. If you have always dreamed of paragliding, this is the place: there is all the necessary equipment and experienced instructors. A flight over the picturesque Blue Flag beach, often listed among Europe’s most beautiful, is a dream that can easily come true in Becici.
4. Rafailovici
Where in Montenegro can you enjoy warm sea, fine sand and some of the best fish restaurants? Naturally, in a place where fishing families have lived for generations – the old village of Rafailovici, which has now become a popular resort on the Budva Riviera. Most tourists stay in small private villas with terraces, but there are also nicely equipped hotels and apartments. The sea in Rafailovici is shallow, warm and clean, making it ideal for children, and the beach infrastructure includes a small marina for boats (boat trips and boat rentals are very popular).
Many locals work in the service sector or supply fresh fish to the numerous restaurants – there are about 20 of them in this small town! Gourmets from all over the Budva Riviera come here to taste traditional regional fish dishes and seafood. Some of the most popular restaurants are “Trei Pescari”, “Porat”, “Stefan” and “Alexander”. There are also several grocery shops, a few pizzerias and snack cafés, so arranging meals for both children and adults is very easy.
5. Sveti Stefan
Where in Montenegro do global celebrities, millionaires or royalty stay? Montenegro has a truly unique place where some of the world’s most famous guests have vacationed (including Sophia Loren, Yuri Gagarin, Sylvester Stallone, Claudia Schiffer, members of European royal families and others) – the premium island–hotel of Sveti Stefan.
The resort consists of two parts – the island and a village on the mainland shore. They are connected by a narrow causeway, and free public access to the island is restricted: only hotel guests can enter the complex. The promenade leading to the elite hotel divides the beach into two sections: one belongs to the hotel, the other is accessible to locals and regular tourists. In the mainland village of Sveti Stefan, accommodation prices are noticeably lower than on the island, but still higher than, for example, in Budva. Here you will find lovers of luxury and quiet walks in shady parks, fans of refined restaurants and comfortable boutique hotels. Pleasant weather, well–maintained sand and pebble beaches and spectacular views make Sveti Stefan one of the most prestigious and expensive resorts in Montenegro.
Things to do in Montenegro beyond the beach
– Walk through old towns: the maze of cobbled streets in Budva and the fortress in Petrovac feel like open–air museums, perfect for atmospheric photos and evening strolls.
– Boat trips in the Bay of Kotor: short cruises to postcard–perfect villages, churches on small islets and hidden coves accessible only from the sea.
– Water activities: kayaking, SUP boarding, snorkeling in clear coves, as well as jet skis, water skiing and parasailing along the busier parts of the Budva Riviera.
– Local food: fresh fish and seafood in Rafailovici, homemade desserts, Montenegrin prosciutto and cheeses served in small family–run konobas (taverns).
– Mountain excursions: easy hikes with sea views, rafting on the wild river Tara, and walks in national parks for those who want both adrenaline and raw nature.
Suggested 1-day itinerary on the Budva Riviera
– Morning: a calm beach session in Becici or Rafailovici, a late breakfast on a terrace overlooking the sea and some relaxed swimming.
– Midday: a short transfer to Budva, a walk along the seafront promenade and a visit to the Old Town – fortified walls, churches and narrow streets filled with tiny shops.
– Evening: a 1–2 hour boat trip around Sveti Nikola island, sunset on the water and dinner in a restaurant serving local cuisine.
– Night (for those who like nightlife): bars with live music or clubs in Budva, especially lively during the peak summer season.
2-day itinerary: Budva, Petrovac & Sveti Stefan
Day 1: Budva & Rafailovici – Morning on the beach in Budva or Rafailovici, lunch with fresh fish, then some time for water sports. In the evening, walk through Budva’s Old Town and watch the sunset from the fortress walls or viewpoints.
Day 2: Petrovac & Sveti Stefan – In the morning, head to Petrovac for beach time and a walk to the fortress or nearby monasteries. In the afternoon, stop at several viewpoints overlooking Sveti Stefan for unforgettable photos and then spend some time on the mainland beach near the causeway.
This itinerary is easy to adapt to the age and interests of your group, and to how much you want to mix classic beach time with more active exploration.
Where Montenegro is and how to get there comfortably
Montenegro is located on the Adriatic coast, between Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo and Albania. The distance from Moldova makes both bus tours and combined trips with flights realistic options.
– By plane: most often you will fly into Tivat or Podgorica, depending on season and the schedule of charter or regular flights. From there, transfers to Budva, Becici, Rafailovici, Petrovac or Sveti Stefan are relatively short.
– By coach: bus tours from Chisinau generally include a transfer directly to the hotel or to the nearest point accessible to large vehicles, taking into account narrow roads and steep slopes. The journey can take about 30 hours, but the upside is seeing several Balkan countries in one trip.
– By car: you can build a route through Romania and Serbia, or via Bulgaria and Albania, planning flexible stops in national parks, small towns and scenic viewpoints along the way.
To wrap up our overview of the most beautiful resorts in Montenegro, we should stress that we’ve only mentioned the top 5 destinations most loved by our travelers. These are places that will reliably give you unforgettable impressions and plenty of positive emotions. Montenegro remains a country full of hidden corners and is always welcoming to its guests. Everyone can discover their own secluded bay, plan an individual route in the mountains near the coast, try rafting on a wild river or fly over the sea with a paraglider. Don’t forget to take memorable photos – chances are these moments will become some of the brightest in your travel history.
Ready for your dream holiday? Book your ideal tour to one of the top 5 resorts in Montenegro now and start your unforgettable Adriatic adventure!
Frequently asked questions about holidays in Montenegro
Here are some of the most common questions we receive from travelers about Montenegro’s resorts, beaches, transport and trip planning.
When is the best time to go to Montenegro for a beach holiday?
The classic beach season runs roughly from May to October, with peak season in July and August when the sea is warmest and most beach facilities are open.
Are there sandy beaches in Montenegro?
Yes, the best–known natural sandy beach is in Ulcinj, and on the Budva Riviera you’ll find sandy sections in Petrovac, Rafailovici and on some urban beaches in Budva.
Is Montenegro suitable for holidays with small children?
Yes, especially where there is a gentle entrance into the sea and decent infrastructure: parts of the beaches in Budva, Rafailovici, Becici and Petrovac are very family–friendly. Always check beach type and slope when choosing a hotel.
Is there a waterpark and entertainment for teenagers near Budva?
Yes, a large seasonal waterpark operates in the Budva area, and the coast offers many water attractions, boat trips and activities that teenagers usually enjoy.
How common is All Inclusive in Montenegrin hotels?
All Inclusive exists but is not as widespread as in Turkey. More often you will find breakfast only or half board packages, and you can easily eat out in local cafés and restaurants.
What is better: a hotel or an apartment in Montenegro?
Montenegro is famous for its apartments and family–run villas, but in Budva, Becici and Sveti Stefan you will also find international chain hotels of different categories, including premium options.
What currency is used in Montenegro?
Montenegro uses the euro. It is wise to have some cash for small purchases, although most hotels and many restaurants accept bank cards.
Do I need a visa to travel to Montenegro?
Visa rules depend on your nationality and length of stay. For many European travelers the regime is quite liberal, but you should always check the latest entry requirements before departure.
How long does the bus trip from Chisinau to Montenegro take?
Usually around 30 hours, depending on the route, traffic, border crossing times and rest stops. The upside is that you see several Balkan countries along the way.
Which excursions are a must–do in Montenegro?
Popular choices include boat trips in the Bay of Kotor, excursions to the old royal capital Cetinje, the Tara River canyon, national parks such as Durmitor and Lovcen, and combined tours including Albania or Croatia.
Is Montenegro a safe destination for tourists?
Overall, Montenegro is considered a safe and calm destination. As everywhere, it is sensible to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and follow basic travel safety rules.
Can I combine Montenegro with other countries in one trip?
Yes, Montenegro is often combined with Croatia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia, either in organized multi–country tours or in tailor–made routes by car.
What about mobile internet and Wi-Fi in Montenegro?
In major resorts most hotels and many restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, and local mobile operators usually have tourist SIM packages with generous data for the summer season.
What kind of clothes should I pack for a trip to Montenegro?
For the coast, light summer clothes, swimwear and comfortable sandals are enough. If you plan mountain excursions or rafting, also pack sportswear, trainers and a light jumper or jacket for cooler evenings in the mountains.
