Montenegro has become 2026's trendiest destination, with British visitors surging by 164% from 2023 to 2024, according to travel data. British Airways now offers direct flights from Heathrow to Tivat from £164 return. But does it live up to the social media hype? Our reviewer put it to the test.
Tivat Airport: Small but Functional
Tivat airport is notably small, with one runway and a single waiting area. Arriving passengers may be advised to wait outside and clear security closer to departure. Montenegro is not in the EU, so visitors need a solid mobile data plan to avoid high charges. Construction is widespread; in May, roads to the airport were still being built, causing bumper-to-bumper traffic. One local said a 30-minute journey can turn into three hours on a bad day. Despite these teething problems, the holiday is worth taking.
Budva: Party Town with History
Budva is Montenegro's party town but avoids the drunk tourist scene of Albufeira or Magaluf. It offers a mix of beaches, restaurants, history, and cocktail bars. For a lazy beach day, Mogren Beach is a twin cove past the Old Town with blue water and stunning views. A short boat ride takes you to Saint Nikola's Island, locally called Hawaii, with three beaches. In the evening, the Old Town's narrow stone streets date back to Roman times. For local drinks, Blue Cat serves the Witchcraft (passion fruit, tequila, lime juice, spicy sesame) and has a resident kitten. Casper Bar is a bohemian wine bar under a pine tree with jazz and DJ sets. Manana offers spicy margs. Rooftop restaurant Vista provides sweeping views of Budva and the bay, with delicious seafood risotto.
Sveti Stefan: Controversial Resort
A short bus ride from Budva is Sveti Stefan, an island town with a private resort that has attracted celebrities like Novak Djokovic (married there in 2014), Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and the Beckhams. The resort caused controversy when locals were denied use of the island's beaches for A-listers, prompting a five-year closure. It has now reopened, and two beaches—Sveti Stefan Beach and King's Beach—are accessible to everyone. For dinner with a view, Olive offers a spectacular sunset perspective.
Kotor: UNESCO Heritage and Cat Paradise
Kotor, a 30-minute drive away, deserves two days. Its medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with Venetian architecture and cobbled streets. To avoid crowds, pick a day with only one cruise ship docked. Climb the San Giovanni Fortress (280m above sea level) for breathtaking bay views. The town, legend says built by fairies, houses the biggest and oldest Roman Catholic Church on the Adriatic. Try krempita, a local pastry and vanilla cream dessert. Kotor is known as one of the most cat-friendly places; locals care for a large feline population. On day two, take the Kotor Cable Car (€20 adult round-trip) for steep gondola views. At the top, the Alpine Coaster (€10) offers a scenic ride. Sunset DJ sets occasionally play. Don't miss Kraken, a floating wine bar where bottles are aged 20 meters underwater; staff swim down to retrieve your chosen tipple. It also serves charcuterie and fresh fish from Boka Bay.
Herceg Novi and Virpazar: Off the Beaten Path
Herceg Novi, the Town of Sun, is closer to Croatia than Kotor and often overlooked. Walk the 7km lungomare (Šetalište Pet Danica) past coves and swimming decks. Visit Kanli Kula (The Bloody Tower), formerly an Ottoman prison and Venetian lookout, now an open-air theatre with concerts; entry €4. Nature lovers should head to Virpazar for a boat ride on Skadar Lake, the largest lake in the Balkans (national park since 1983), home to 280 bird species including Dalmatian pelicans. A two-hour boat tour with coffee and croissants costs £17 per person via Virparis.
A Memorable Meal at One & Only Portonovi
For a special dinner, book Tapasake at One & Only Portonovi resort, a fusion of Mediterranean and Japanese flavors. The sushi is divine, and they cater to allergies. Dishes range £20-£30. The resort itself offers 20 pools and 27 spa treatment rooms, with June rates around £1,600 per night. British Airways Holidays offers seven nights at the 5* One&Only Portonovi from £3,399pp (including €7 tourism tax), with economy flights from Heathrow, one checked bag, and breakfast, on selected dates 1-30 September 2026.
