The country is a hidden gem in Europe and travellers say it’s less crowded than Spain, Greece and Portugal
Tourists have praised the country as being better than Spain, Portugal and Greece(Image: Givaga via Getty Images)
Greece, Spain and Portugal remain firm favourites for countless holidaymakers, celebrated for their spectacular scenery and abundant attractions. Yet these hotspots can transform into tourist traps during the height of summer, leaving peace-seekers somewhat disappointed.
Fortunately, there’s a lesser-known destination that some experienced travellers believe could actually surpass them all. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea and sharing borders with Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Albania, Montenegro remains a treasure trove that’s yet to be swamped by mass tourism.
Its spectacular coastline, pristine waters and perfectly preserved towns have earned praise from visitors who believe it matches its more famous neighbours, without the overwhelming crowds.
The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site resembling a fjord, stands as one of Montenegro’s finest attractions. Cradled by mountains, this bay features historic treasures such as Kotor and Perast, captivating visitors with their enchanting character.
TripAdvisor reviews overflow with glowing accounts of Montenegro’s appeal, with numerous visitors finding it a refreshing alternative to the heaving Greek islands or packed Spanish coastlines.
One visitor remarked: “Montenegro stole my heart, even more than Greece!” while praising the exceptional seafood and stunning panoramas.
“Greece was great, but Kotor Bay’s cliffs and medieval walls blew me away. Wandering through Kotor Old Town, I loved how peaceful Montenegro felt, far less tourist chaos than Athens or Santorini.”
Another traveller who had recently explored Portugal’s Algarve wrote: “Last summer, I toured Portugal’s Algarve coast. Lovely beaches, bustling towns, but Montenegro left a far bigger mark.
“Its Adriatic coastline is stunning, yet totally uncrowded compared to Portugal in summertime. Jaz and Mogren beaches felt like private retreats.”
A third globetrotter declared that Montenegro surpassed even Spain in their eyes, saying: “I’ve been to Spain’s Costa del Sol several times (think sun, sea, sangria), but Montenegro feels more authentic and affordable. Beach days in Budva and Tivat cost a fraction of Spanish resorts, yet the scenery is just as spectacular.”
The coastal town of Budva attracts hordes of visitors to Montenegro each year, celebrated for its sandy shores, buzzing nightlife, and its charming historic Old Town.
Venture deeper inland, and destinations such as Durmitor National Park offer breath-taking mountain scenery, hiking trails, and exhilarating white-water rafting along the spectacular Tara River Canyon.
One adventurer revealed: “In just a few hours, I went from pebbled beaches on the Budva Riviera to the snow-capped peaks of Durmitor National Park.”
Numerous visitors are keen to flag Montenegro’s budget-friendly credentials when stacked up against other well-loved European getaways.
One tourist noted: “Beach days in Budva and Tivat cost a fraction of Spanish resorts, yet the scenery is just as spectacular.”
Montenegro’s small size makes it especially appealing for holidaymakers, as the country is remarkably easy to get around. Travellers have said that you can fit in a morning trek, an afternoon on the sand, and dinner by the waterfront.
It’s also frequently mentioned as one of the few places in Europe where you can experience both mountain scenery and seaside panoramas within a single day.