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Summer trip help

I’m planning to have a 2 week holiday in Montenegro this August, flying into Tivat. Most of the time we’ll stay at an all inclusive hotel because nobody in the family (except me) is keen on sightseeing in August heat. I do like doing more than just a resort holiday.

I thought about a few nights in Kotor but it might be a bit too busy with all the cruise ships. It’s a holiday with kids so ideally I was thinking about boat trips with a bit of snorkelling or similar, beaches, and eating at some nice fish restaurants as well as taking in the atmosphere of a lovely town. If you’ve been to Montenegro where would you recommend for a few days?

Posted by
5869 posts

Hi, Helen! What a wonderful sounding trip. First, here’s a link to my 2023 trip report.
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/trip-reports/16-nights-in-montenegro

I was solo and would do things differently with kids. I have not stayed in Kotor - it looked too busy for me. But my next trip, I want to stay in Budva for a few days. Nicer beach, more activity and restaurants. I love Perast, but I don’t think staying there fits your description.

I imagine you will have a car? If so, maybe some time in the mountains would provide space and outdoor activity (and maybe less heat) as a contrast to the coast. I stayed here, but there are many options on both sides of the canyon.

Posted by
1063 posts

We really liked staying in Kotor tho we went at Easter so it may be less crowded then than in summer. There were cruise ships during the day but it got quiet in the evenings and we almost had the town to ourselves. I agree Budva is a good option especially if you want to go to the beach (Kotor doesn't really have a beach). Bar is meant to have a nice beach as well tho we didn't make it that far south.

I never really thought of the Adriatic as a place for snorkelling but after reading your query I looked it up and was quite impressed... you have given me an idea for future trips. Good luck with your planning!

Posted by
1974 posts

Thanks both. The hotel I’m going to book is in Bar. It’s a new and not open yet so they’re offering some great prices. I don’t think we will get a car as we won’t travel around much once we get to the main hotel.

I’ll focus on Budva as that sounds good for everyone. Kotor looks so pretty but maybe more suitable for an adult trip.

Posted by
25060 posts

Don’t go to one of the most wonderful destinations in Europe and spend too much time in the hotel.

You ought to be doing one-3-or-4-hour exploration every morning. But you need someone who knows how and where. Some you can do on your own, some will need a guide. I go back every year so I am an expert, right? No way, I still call a travel agency. Sometimes to book everything, sometimes just for day trips and sometimes just for planning assistance.

Do a search in the forum with the name Dijana for reviews.

Dijana Krkotic
Doclea Travel
+382 68 456 630 (phone or WhatsApp)
[email protected]
www.docleatravel.com.

Have a great trip. I will be back in the Spring and do another trip report.

Posted by
1974 posts

Mr E I love your enthusiasm but there is zero chance anyone will be up for that kind of schedule! I will try to get to some of the places you recommend. I’m going to book it all tonight - 3 nights Budva and then 11 nights AI in Bar. Total cost will only be £4K including flights which is brilliant for August.

Posted by
25060 posts

Helen, I didnt think you would do much of it but I thought if I threw out enough something would stick. The list is why I dont get bored. This is where i go when I want to be spoiled. I book some fly fishing in the high country then I call the travel agent, "I am comig 23 May, I will be there 10 days, give me a list of things to keep me busy." And it always works. Even a cooking class worked out good once. I didnt cook, I just watched then ate it. I am thinking about a repeat on that.