The Budva Riviera is a region set in the south of Montenegro, cloaked in pine woods, waterways and craggy canyons. It also has its own 320-kilometre strip of coastline, which is split into 100 separate beaches. Amid the picture-perfect scenery are treks for the intrepid and terracotta towns just waiting to be explored. Montenegro holidays offer quite the mix of both quiet, fishing villages, as well as lively party spots.

The capital of the Riviera, Budva, is a medieval build. Think of it as a labyrinth set out beside the sea, welcoming visitors to take a trip back in time as they scramble over the battlements of the citadel. Meanwhile, the nearby holiday hotspot of Becici is a fashionable destination for the wealthy, with luxury hotels and boutique markets. Similarly, Tivat has become a popular holiday spot for the rich and famous in recent years, so that’s definitely worth checking out – see what all the hype is about for yourself!

Wherever you stay in Montenegro, you’ll find a whole host of restaurants and bars available. If you’re keen for some home comforts, there’s plenty of pizza and pasta restaurants around, but if you want the full Montenegro experience, indulge in the cuisine and try some soups and goulash! They also love their grilled meats, so you’ll see plenty of kebabs, steaks and patties too!

Just because the rich and famous have grown to love it here doesn’t mean there aren’t affordable options. There’s plenty of cheap Montenegro holidays on offer with budget friendly hotels to suit family holidays and All Inclusive lovers.

The sleepy south

Head down the coast and you’ll find Petrovac, a dozy, down-tempo fishing village. Nestled coolly in the shade of a Venetian fortress, Petrovac is ever so popular because of its beautiful beach, yet it never gets overcrowded. Rest and relaxation comes first in this south-westerly resort, so be sure to bring a book or two. Beaches may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a holiday in Montenegro, but rest assured, there are some stunning sands!

Lake Skadar is located in southern Montenegro, easily accessible from Becici, and is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Balkans. It’s a protected national park surrounded by dramatic mountains, while just metres from the bank sit lily-pads that stretch out into the water like a field of grass. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 260 different species and the mountains are home to wild tortoises, coloured lizards and amphibians. Among the many spots along the bank of Lake Skadar, one of the most picturesque is Kator Bay. Here you’ll find rows of terracotta roofs and a sandy beach which is ideal for swimming.

You can even take a boat trip on the Golden Frog, the tiny wooden cruiser that takes visitors on trips past the many sights and sounds of the lake. Choose a cruise that suits you, with shorter and longer sailings available and a variety of tour guides who are all very friendly and knowledgeable on their surroundings. You’ll top up your tan, see some incredible views, and even learn a few things.

Admission to the national park is very low so it makes a great day out for keen nature lovers and those looking for a cheap holiday in Montenegro.

Climb the highest mountain

There are many popular activities to stick on your Montenegro holiday itinerary, but this one is a must! Reaching a whopping 1,749 metres high, the Lovcen Mountains are located just an hour’s drive from Becici. A trip up to the top yields remarkable views of 6,000 square-metres of national parkland. If you can brave the 461 stairs that lead to the mausoleum at Lovcen’s highest peak, you’ll see exactly why Petar II Petrovic Njegos, second ruler of Montenegro, chose to be buried here. The remarkable views will make you speechless.

It’s name means Black Mountain, which is a reference to how the mountains look from  far away as they are so densely covered in forests. The mountains make up a national park which can be a fun day out for all, particularly families, with an adventure park, picnic spots and public toilets. This is another incredible attraction n Montenegro with a low cost for entrance, simply pack up a picnic and spend the day exploring and taking in the views. You can book guided tours for the park too.

A cultural hub

Budva is a creative centre, hosting events which are fuelled by local and international artists. One such gathering is the Theatre City Festival, during which the entirety of the Old Town opens up to creatives who roam the streets, displaying their work and often blurring the lines between reality and performance.

One of the most popular Mediterranean music festivals kicks off in that same city every year. Sea Dance welcomes musicians from all over the Med each July to perform to crowds of revellers and is extremely popular with those enjoying Balkan holidays during peak season. While in September, Petrovac opens its venues up to the annual Jazz Festival, spreading music all throughout the country.

One of the most famous cities in Montenegro, Kotor, is well-known for its fjord-like scenery and mountainous bay. The Old City of Kotor is well-preserved with medieval architecture and numerous monuments of cultural heritage. Its buildings, with their terracotta-coloured rooftops huddle together and are criss-crossed with narrow streets and squares.

Many say that Montenegro is a cheaper and less crowded alternative to Croatia for those who love exploring culture, history and striking views. Montenegro holidays are ever growing in popularity, but they still go under the radar in comparison to Croatia, so they can be ideal for those looking for less crowds and great savings.

Escape to a hidden coast

Montenegro may hugely be about the views nad the culture, but the countless beaches are just as impressive and each stretch of sand boasts its own unique charm. Among these is Mogren, the hidden stretch of sand which got its name after Spanish mariner Mogrini was shipwrecked on its shores centuries ago. Once you see this idyllic strip you’ll wonder why he ever left.

The beach, which is split in two by a rocky passage, is one of the quietest spots in Montenegro, yet one of the most loved by those in the know. The waters are crystal clear, the sand is golden and its jsut a sort scenic walk to some beach bars. If you want a true escape from the world, Mogren is the place for you. There is a small entrance fee though, as this helps the upkeep of the beach and stops it from becoming over crowded.