Stunning natural landscapes, towering mountains, warm and friendly people, and exceptional hospitality are how travelers describe Montenegro. Although this Balkan country is not as popular among Lithuanian families as Croatia, it attracts more and more visitors every year. In particular, it appeals to travelers who enjoy active holidays. Therefore, a trip to Montenegro with kids could be an excellent choice for your family.
Montenegro with kids: family travel guide – in this article, we share information about this beautiful country and its top attractions. Additionally, you will find our recommendations and practical tips to help make your family trip to Montenegro successful and unforgettable.
Montenegro with kids: family travel guide
Many Lithuanian families travel to the Balkan countries in summer, usually by car. This is a particularly convenient option when traveling with children. Moreover, it can be relatively inexpensive, especially when several family members share the journey. Flights and car rentals at your destination would cost considerably more.
However, the biggest advantage of traveling in your own or a rental car is the freedom to choose your route and stops. You will certainly want to make plenty of stops in Montenegro. After all, breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, lakes, rivers, and the Adriatic coastline await you almost everywhere.
Nevertheless, a family trip to Montenegro does not have to involve driving. You can also fly there for a holiday or sightseeing trip.
Currently, direct charter flights to Montenegro are also available. Therefore, this destination is an excellent choice for families who prefer not to travel by car.
As active and cultural holidays become increasingly popular, Montenegro is experiencing a revival as a tourist destination. This Adriatic country, surrounded by mountains, fascinates even seasoned travelers. Moreover, its Adriatic Sea views are just as beautiful as those in Croatia, yet its beaches are often much less crowded.
Medieval towns line the winding Bay of Kotor, including Herceg Novi and Kotor. These towns are known for their impressive Venetian-built waterfront fortifications. Meanwhile, the coastal charm shines through in Budva’s marinas and Perast’s palaces. Outdoor enthusiasts, on the other hand, head to Durmitor National Park, which features some of Europe’s most fascinating Alpine landscapes.
5 facts about Montenegro
- The capital and largest city is Podgorica. However, Cetinje is Montenegro’s historic and cultural capital.
- Montenegro is not yet a member of the European Union. Nevertheless, it has held official EU candidate country status since 2010.
- The country uses the euro as its currency, although it is not formally part of the eurozone.
- Montenegro has existed as an independent sovereign state only since 2006. Before that, it was united with Serbia and previously formed part of Yugoslavia from 1992.
- The official language is Montenegrin, which is almost identical to Serbian. The differences mainly involve pronunciation and a few words. The Cyrillic alphabet is also used.
Renting a car in Montenegro
Despite the mountainous terrain, Montenegro’s roads are generally in good condition and easy to drive on. Therefore, exploring the country by rental car can be a pleasant experience.
You can rent a car upon arrival or book one in advance. The latter is particularly important if you plan to travel during the peak tourist season. Prices and rental conditions vary depending on the company. However, during the off-season, you may be able to rent a car with full insurance for just €120 per week.
We often find particularly good prices through this platform, which compares offers from numerous car rental companies.
Alternatively, you can rent a car through the local Montenegro Car Hire platform.
Direct flights from Lithuania to Montenegro are currently available through travel agencies as charter services. Therefore, many independent travelers choose a direct flight from Lithuania to Dubrovnik, Croatia, and rent a car there. They can then explore both Croatia and Montenegro. Car rental prices in Dubrovnik are usually slightly higher than in Montenegro, especially during peak season. However, during the off-season, a week-long rental with full insurance and permission to cross international borders may cost around €320 (EasyRent Dubrovnik is one example).
The deposit is usually around €100. Some companies also offer discounts for cash payments. Nevertheless, keep in mind that prices rise during peak season, and finding your preferred car can become more difficult. This is particularly true in Croatia, which attracts large numbers of holidaymakers.
The most scenic driving routes in Montenegro
Durmitor National Park
Road P14 crosses Durmitor National Park between Žabljak and Plužine. It stretches for approximately 50 km and ranks among Europe’s most scenic driving routes, alongside Austria’s Großglockner High Alpine Road and Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway.
The road runs at an elevation of approximately 1,800–1,900 meters above sea level. Along the way, you will find numerous viewpoints, including the spectacular Sedlo Pass at 1,907 meters. From here, breathtaking views of the Durmitor Mountains unfold before you.
The route winds through mountain hairpin bends and offers spectacular scenery throughout. Consequently, you will want to stop for photos at almost every turn.
The Bay of Kotor scenic route
The best way to explore the Bay of Kotor is by car. If you are traveling from Budva, consider driving through Cetinje, Montenegro’s former capital, which is also worth visiting. From Cetinje, take the scenic P1 road around Lovćen National Park, followed by the P22 toward Kotor. This route is particularly beautiful, winding through mountain hairpin bends with magnificent views of the bay. Additionally, several viewpoints along the way offer perfect opportunities to stop and admire the scenery.
Best coastal destinations for a family holiday
Families visiting Montenegro primarily for a relaxing holiday usually stay in one of its coastal resort towns:
- Herceg Novi
- Tivat
- Bečići
- Budva
- Petrovac
- Kotor
All these destinations cater well to tourists. They offer a wide selection of hotels, entertainment, beautiful beaches, scenic coastlines, and remarkably well-preserved historic old towns. However, each destination has a different atmosphere. Some, such as Budva, are lively and reminiscent of Palanga, Lithuania, with numerous cafés, restaurants, and entertainment options. Others, such as Petrovac, are better suited to a peaceful family holiday.
Budget tip: Instead of having lunch at your hotel, visit a nearby pekara, or local bakery. You will find plenty of fresh pastries and even pizza sold by the slice.
Keep in mind that Montenegro is a mountainous country. Consequently, most beaches have pebbles rather than sand. At some locations, you may also need to descend rocky slopes to reach the beach.
Montenegro is also generally more affordable and comfortable for a relaxing holiday than Croatia. Furthermore, its beaches and tourist attractions are often less crowded.
Top 10 places to visit in Montenegro
The Bay of Kotor and the Old Town
The Bay of Kotor is an exceptionally beautiful bay surrounded by mountains. Its dramatic scenery includes a fjord-like landscape reminiscent of Norway. We also recommend taking a cruise or another boat trip. This way, you can comfortably admire the natural wonders and enjoy views of the old town from the water.
Children will especially enjoy a ride on a semi-submarine boat. Book your excursion at a great price.
Allow plenty of time to explore the old town on foot. Wander through its ancient narrow streets and discover historic fortifications built into the rocks.
You can find many boat trips and old-town excursions through our partner’s booking platform.
Podgorica
Montenegro’s capital is best known for its nightlife, cafés, and entertainment that continues until dawn. However, if you are not traveling in your own car, local taxis are a convenient option. They are particularly inexpensive.
Ostrog Monastery
Ostrog Monastery is a 16th-century monastery built into a cliff nearly one kilometer above sea level. It attracts not only Orthodox Christians but also believers from other religions. Nearby, you will also find a spring of holy water. Visitors can fill their bottles or simply take water away. In addition, full bottles are distributed to pilgrims free of charge.
You can also join an organized tour that includes a visit to Black Lake.
Tara River Canyon
The Tara River Canyon is a dream destination for white-water rafting enthusiasts, thanks to its exceptionally clear water. The canyon is protected as part of a national park, and its depth reaches approximately 1,300 meters. It is also worth visiting the impressive Đurđevića Tara Bridge, which crosses the river. As you admire the scenery, you may feel as though you have stepped into a movie!
Book your canoeing adventure quickly and securely.
The Blue Cave
The Blue Cave is one of Montenegro’s most impressive natural wonders. This underground world glows with sunlight reflected through the water, creating an extraordinary blue effect. You can reach the cave by boat or kayak. Therefore, it makes a memorable addition to a coastal family adventure.
Book your speedboat tour in advance.
Budva Old Town
Surrounded by mountains and turquoise waters, Budva is an excellent destination for both sightseeing and seaside relaxation. Its historic old town is filled with cafés and small shops waiting to be discovered as you wander through narrow streets. Additionally, the ancient fortifications along the waterfront bring the town’s history to life.
Petrovac
Petrovac is a small yet exceptionally charming town surrounded by mountains. It features a beautiful coastline and a pleasant promenade. One of its most distinctive landmarks is a rocky headland with the remains of a fortress and a viewing platform. As a result, it is an excellent place to enjoy coastal views in a relaxed atmosphere.
Sveti Stefan
Sveti Stefan is a rocky island covered with stone houses featuring red roofs. A narrow artificial causeway connects it to the mainland. Today, the island is largely dedicated to the luxurious Aman Resort. In the past, celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Kirk Douglas stayed here. Nevertheless, visitors can still admire the picturesque island from the mainland. One of Sveti Stefan’s beaches is also accessible to tourists. Paid parking is available near the beach. However, parking is prohibited in most of Sveti Stefan itself, and its streets are extremely narrow.
Durmitor National Park
Durmitor National Park features majestic mountains, emerald lakes, and numerous hiking trails. It is also home to Bobotov Kuk, the park’s highest peak, at 2,522 meters above sea level. Additionally, the park offers one of Montenegro’s most scenic driving routes, the P14 road. Žabljak is an excellent base for exploring Durmitor. The town is somewhat reminiscent of Zakopane in Poland. However, it can become overcrowded and highly commercialized during peak season. On the other hand, it offers a good selection of accommodation and restaurants. Alternatively, you can stay in Plužine, located beside the beautiful Lake Piva.
Book an excursion to the national park.
Biogradsko Lake
Biogradsko Lake is an excellent destination for families with children. During summer, you can admire its emerald waters at their most beautiful. Unfortunately, the lake may shrink significantly during autumn, making it less impressive than it appears in online photos. Therefore, it is worth visiting before water levels drop too much. You can also walk along the trail that circles the lake. The loop is approximately 3.4 km long and sometimes crosses picturesque wooden boardwalks suspended above wetlands. Along the route, you will find numerous picnic areas, benches, and information boards. Meanwhile, the walk offers beautiful views of the lake, the primeval forest, and the sweeping panorama of the Bjelasica mountain range.
Traveling to Montenegro with kids: practical tips
- Pack suitable clothing. Montenegro is a mountainous country with significant temperature differences between regions. For example, May temperatures may reach 24–27°C in Kotor, while Durmitor may see only 7–13°C during the day and around 2°C at night. Therefore, bring extra layers, especially when traveling with children.
- Mobile connectivity and internet. Montenegro is not an EU member, so EU roaming arrangements may not apply. You can buy a local physical SIM card for approximately €15–20, reportedly offering 500 GB or unlimited data. Alternatively, if your phone supports eSIM, you can purchase one for around €17 for approximately 4 GB.
- Maps. Download Google Maps for offline use before your trip. After all, mobile coverage and internet access are not available everywhere.
- Food. Be sure to try local dishes and wine. However, check Google reviews before choosing a restaurant, as food quality can vary considerably.
- Car travel. Driving is particularly convenient with children. Fortunately, Montenegro generally offers relatively inexpensive fuel and good roads. Nevertheless, watch out for cows, goats, and dogs on smaller roads. In mountainous areas, also be cautious of falling rocks.
Traveling to Montenegro with kids through a travel agency
If you prefer not to organize your trip independently, travel agencies can help. Direct charter flights from Vilnius to Montenegro are available. We sincerely recommend contacting our partners at AirGuru. Therefore, if you want a reliable travel agency to handle the planning and organize an unforgettable holiday, consider choosing a trusted partner.
