Highlights of Montenegro self-drive

Enjoy complimentary UK airport lounge access before your flight to Tivat. On arrival, collect your rental car before beginning your journey into the heart of Montenegro. Travelling north via Nikšić, stop at the remarkable Ostrog Monastery, one of the Balkans' most important pilgrimage sites, dramatically built into a near-vertical cliff face. Enjoy a traditional Montenegrin lunch at the renowned Koliba Bogetići restaurant before driving into the rugged landscapes of Durmitor National Park. On arrival in Žabljak, check in for a three-night stay at an alpine chalet-style hotel surrounded by some of the country's most spectacular mountain scenery.

Stay: Hotel North Story, Žabljak

Spend the day exploring Durmitor National Park, a region renowned for its dramatic peaks, glacial lakes and dense pine forests. Those wishing to delve deeper into the landscape may opt for a guided walking excursion, accompanied by a local expert, offering insights into the park's natural heritage and traditional way of life. The experience culminates with lunch at a local family home. Alternatively, enjoy the freedom to explore independently or simply relax and take in the mountain surroundings.

The following day is devoted to discovering the impressive landscapes of the Durmitor Massif. Follow scenic mountain roads through a region of soaring peaks, remote villages and expansive highland vistas, stopping whenever you wish to admire the views and experience a taste of rural Montenegrin life. Enjoy lunch in one of the local villages before returning to Žabljak for a relaxed evening in the mountains.

Stay: Hotel North Story, Žabljak

After breakfast, depart the mountains and begin your journey south towards Montenegro's Adriatic coast. En route, travel through the beautiful landscapes of Skadar Lake National Park, known for its rich birdlife, tranquil waters and striking mountain backdrop. Along the way, choose from two optional experiences. Wine enthusiasts may wish to visit the Šipčanik Wine Cellar, a former underground aircraft hangar transformed into an atmospheric tasting venue belonging to Montenegro's largest wine producer. Alternatively, take to the water on a leisurely boat trip across Skadar Lake, passing water lilies, small islands and peaceful lakeside scenery.

Later, continue to the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, where you'll check in for a four-night stay. Spend the evening at leisure exploring the medieval streets and squares of the beautifully preserved old town.

Stay: Hotel Libertas, Kotor

On your first full day in Kotor, we recommend taking a scenic drive around the bay, stopping in some of its most picturesque coastal settlements. Discover the elegant baroque architecture of Perast, admire the famous island church of Our Lady of the Rocks, visit Risan's impressive Roman mosaics and perhaps continue to Herceg Novi. On your return journey, cross the bay by ferry before stopping at Porto Montenegro in Tivat, one of the Mediterranean's most prestigious superyacht marinas.

Over the next couple of days, you'll have ample time to explore Kotor and its surroundings further. For a deeper insight into the region's history, you may wish to join a guided walking tour of Kotor's UNESCO-protected old town, exploring its labyrinth of medieval streets, Venetian palaces and historic squares. Alternatively, embark on an optional full-day excursion taking in Budva, one of the Adriatic coast's oldest settlements, before continuing to Cetinje, Montenegro's former royal capital and cultural heart. From here, travel into Lovćen National Park, whose mountain roads reveal some of the country's most spectacular panoramas, before visiting the traditional village of Njeguši, renowned for its locally produced smoked ham and cheese. 

Of course, there's also plenty of time to relax by the water, seek out nearby beaches and enjoy local cuisine and drinks while overlooking the bay. You may also be interested in visiting the family-run Moric Olive Farm on the Luštica Peninsula. Here, you'll learn about traditional olive cultivation, sample locally produced olive oil and enjoy a selection of homemade regional specialities in a peaceful rural setting.

Stay: Hotel Libertas, Kotor

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to Tivat Airport, where you'll drop off your hire car and catch your flight home, bringing your Montenegro adventure to a close.