Located at the point where the Montenegrin mountains slope into the sea at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, Herceg Novi offers a quieter alternative to the popular old town of Kotor. Seen from the water, it appears in tiers that rise up the hillside in a cascade of terracotta roofs, stone walls and palm-lined terraces that hang above the Adriatic. Up close, it is even more interesting: staircases worn smooth by centuries of footsteps, beautiful squares lined with café tables sitting beneath the old clock tower, and glimpses of the water between archways and climbing bougainvillaea.
Not only is the geography of the town layered, but its history is too. Founded in the 14th century as a trading settlement, Herceg Novi has passed through the hands of numerous empires, from the Ottomans and Venetians to the Spanish and Austro-Hungarians, each leaving behind fragments that still shape the town today. A number of impressive fortresses stand watch over the water, while architectural details shift subtly as you move from one street to the next. Unlike Kotor and its historic walls, Herceg Novi feels a little more eclectic, with an identity built from centuries of change.
Yet for all its history, this is also the ideal coastal escape. For most visitors, days revolve around the sea: morning swims in the clear waters, slow walks along the Pet Danica promenade, and long lunches of seafood that stretch into the afternoon. By evening, as the light softens across the bay and the town gathers along the waterfront, people settle in for glasses of wine in the warm air, sountracked by the crashing of waves.
While Herceg Novi may not have the same tourist draw as Kotor, it has its own equally beguiling atmosphere, and only a fraction of the crowds.
Why Visit Herceg Novi?
Herceg Novi offers a different perspective on Montenegro’s coast compared to other popular towns. While nearby Kotor is famed for its dramatic setting and Budva for its beaches and nightlife, Herceg Novi sits somewhere in between. It has a beautiful Old Town that is filled with history, as well as spectacular fortresses and churches, but without the same crowds. At the same time, it offers direct access to the Adriatic, with swimming spots, promenades and boat trips all within easy reach.
The town’s layout also makes it relatively unique. Often called the “city of steps,” Herceg Novi climbs steeply from the waterfront, meaning that the more you explore, the more you will be rewarded with ever-changing views across the bay. This vertical setting creates a great sense of discovery, with each staircase leading to a new terrace, hidden courtyard or viewpoint.
There’s also a strong sense of everyday life here. While Kotor is very much set out to cater to tourists, in Herceg Novi, markets, cafés and restaurants have a more local feel, giving it more of a lived-in feel that can sometimes be missing in more heavily touristed places.
Perhaps most importantly, Herceg Novi is well-positioned for exploring the wider region. From here, you can easily visit Perast, take a boat to the Blue Cave, or even cross into Dubrovnik for the day.
How to Get to Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi sits at the northwestern entrance to the Bay of Kotor, close to the Croatian border, making it one of the easiest Montenegrin coastal towns to reach, particularly if you’re flying into either Montenegro or southern Croatia. Below is a breakdown of the most convenient nearby airports and how to continue your journey.
From Tivat Airport (TIV)
Tivat Airport is the closest airport to Herceg Novi, located around 25km away. By car, the journey typically takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and whether you take the Kamenari–Lepetane ferry across the narrowest point of the bay.
While this is the most convenient option if you’re staying entirely within Montenegro, it’s worth noting that it’s a tiny airport with limited facilities. From Tivat, you can hire a car, arrange a private transfer or take a taxi. Public buses are available from Tivat town rather than directly outside the airport, so they require a short connection.
From Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Croatia’s Dubrovnik Airport is possibly the most practical choice for international travellers, particularly from the UK and wider Europe as flights here are more frequent than to Montenegro’s airports. It’s roughly 30km from Herceg Novi, and the drive takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on border traffic or queues.
You can reach Herceg Novi by rental car, private transfer or cross-border bus. Keep in mind that you will need to cross the Montenegro–Croatia border, so carry your passport and allow additional time during the peak summer months. Despite the border crossing, this is often the simplest and quickest route.
From Podgorica Airport (TGD)
Podgorica Airport is Montenegro’s main international airport and offers year-round connections. However, it’s further away than any of the other options, around two to three hours by car.
The drive takes you either through the mountains or along parts of the coast, depending on your chosen route. This airport works well if you’re combining Herceg Novi with some other inland destinations, such as national parks or the capital, before heading to the coast.
Travelling Overland
If you’re already in Montenegro, Herceg Novi is well-connected by bus to towns including Kotor and Budva, and there are cross-border services to and from Dubrovnik. Buses are affordable and relatively frequent, though summer traffic along the Adriatic Highway can slow journey times.
Getting Around
Herceg Novi is built in tiers, rising steeply from the waterfront into the hillside, and although much of its charm lies in navigating its stone staircases, narrow alleyways and stepped squares are easily explored on foot, you need to be prepared for some steep climbs. If you’re staying near the Old Town or along the seafront, you’ll find that most restaurants, swimming spots and historic sights are within walking distance. Comfortable shoes are essential, as this is not a flat coastal resort.
The heart of town, including the Old Town (Stari Grad), Forte Mare and Kanli Kula, is largely pedestrianised. Wandering on foot allows you to discover its lovely shaded courtyards, hidden churches and panoramic terraces that you’d easily miss by car. The Pet Danica promenade, which stretches for several kilometres along the water towards Igalo, is flat and ideal for leisurely walks, with frequent access points for swimming.
Local buses run along the main coastal road connecting different neighbourhoods, including Igalo and Meljine, and are useful if you’re staying further from the centre. Taxis are affordable and widely available, particularly during summer, and can save you a steep uphill return late in the evening.
Where to Stay in Herceg Novi
The town and resort of Herceg Novi covers quite a large area, spreading along the coast from the modern and upmarket marina area of Portonovi, through the old town, towards the border with Croatia. While choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your experience of Herceg Novi, this variety also means that there is something to suit every kind of traveller, whether you want luxury by the marina, historic charm in the old town, or a relaxed beachside base with easy access to the promenade and sea. Here’s a curated selection of standout options across different styles and budgets.
One&Only Portonovi
This is one of the most prestigious addresses on the Bay of Kotor, located within the Portonovi resort development. Expect ultra-high standards of comfort, stylish design, and impeccable service throughout. Many rooms and suites face the marina or open sea, giving you sweeping water views right from your terrace. On-site amenities include fine dining restaurants, wellness and spa facilities.
Lazure Hotel & Marina
Situated in the quiet Meljine area, this is widely regarded as one of Herceg Novi’s best all-around hotels. Rooms and suites here often have sea views, and the property blends historic charm with contemporary comforts. With a pool overlooking the bay, spa options and several in-house dining experiences, it’s a great choice if you want resort-style relaxation without straying too far from the town’s Old Town and sights.
Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa
Located in nearby Igalo, this family-friendly resort also has a large pool area, spa facilities and easy beach access. The long promenade linking Igalo with Herceg Novi’s centre makes it simple to walk into town for dinner or sightseeing.
Midrange & Budget Accommodation Options
For travellers prioritising value and local hospitality, Herceg Novi has plenty of options that feel more like a home away from home.
- Guest House Tomanovic – An authentic guest house that gives a true feel of Montenegrin hospitality, with lower nightly rates and a more local vibe.
- Hotel Talia – A simple, comfortable and budget-friendly hotel that offers solid rooms and good access to the centre. Great for short stays or travellers watching their budgets.
- Boka Bay Residences – Apartment-style accommodation set right on the scenic Pet Danica waterfront walk, these residences offer space, sea views and a location perfect for long morning coffees or sunset drinks by the water.
The Best Things to Do in Herceg Novi
From climbing centuries-old fortresses to swimming in clear Adriatic waters or exploring local markets, there are plenty of things to keep you occupied for a multi-day stay in Herceg Novi.
Explore the Old Town (Stari Grad)
Although Herceg Novi’s Old Town isn’t packed with attractions, it can be an atmospheric place to explore, brimming with layers of history that reveal themselves gradually as you climb its steep terraces. Built into the hillside, it unfolds in layers, with steep stone staircases connecting a series of squares, churches and hidden passageways that have largely been unchanged over the centuries. It’s much less touristy or polished than Kotor, which is part of the appeal. Here, the Old Town is more eclectic, shaped by centuries of different rulers, including the Ottomans, Venetians and Austrians.
Nikola Đurković Square is the ideal place to start, it’s the social centre of the town, lined with cafés and historic buildings. From here, narrow alleyways branch off in all directions, leading you past small shops, quiet courtyards and residential corners. As previously mentioned, one of the defining features of Herceg Novi is its vertical layout. Often referred to as the ‘city of steps’, you need to embrace the climb and prepare your legs if you want to see the entirety of the town.
As you make your way upwards, you’ll come across landmarks such as the Clock Tower (Sahat Kula), a remnant of Ottoman rule, and a series of small churches that reflect the town’s varied cultural history. Its setting on the bay means that you get wonderful views from almost every corner; glimpses of the bay framed by archways, laundry lines stretching between stone buildings, and the sound of church bells echoing through the streets.
In my opinion, it’s best to wander without a set itinerary; Some of the best viewpoints are unmarked, found at the end of a staircase or behind an unassuming doorway. Take your time, stop for a coffee or a cold drink along the way, and allow yourself to get slightly lost.
Climb the Fortresses
Herceg Novi’s dramatic setting at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor meant it was heavily fortified over centuries, and climbing its fortresses is one of the best ways to understand both its history and geography. Scattered across the hillside above the Old Town, these stone strongholds were built and rebuilt by successive empires, from the Ottoman, Venetian, Spanish and Austro-Hungarian, each leaving its mark on the town.
The most accessible is Forte Mare, positioned just above the waterfront at the edge of the Old Town. Dating back to the 14th century, it has been expanded multiple times and now offers a series of terraces, walkways and viewpoints that look directly out over the Adriatic. It’s the perfect first stop, particularly in the morning or early evening, when the light over the bay is at its best. In the summer, it occasionally hosts film screenings and events, further adding to its appeal.
From there, the climb continues upwards to Kanli Kula, one of the most striking fortresses in Herceg Novi. Originally built during the Ottoman period and once used as a prison, its name translates to ‘Bloody Tower’, and it has since been transformed into a large open-air amphitheatre. Today, it hosts concerts, performances and cultural festivals during the warmer months. Even outside of events, tit’s worth a visit, with wide stone steps and sweeping views over the red rooftops of the Old Town and the bay beyond.
For those willing to venture further, Španjola Fortress sits higher still above the town. Built by the Spanish in the 16th century during a brief period of occupation, it’s less visited than the other fortresses but offers a quieter experience. The climb is steeper and takes you away from the main tourist routes, but the reward is a sense of space and uninterrupted panoramic views stretching across the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains.
Walk the Pet Danica Promenade
Running for several kilometres along the coastline, the Pet Danica promenade is the backbone of daily life in Herceg Novi. This flat, palm-lined walkway connects the Old Town with neighbouring districts like Igalo, making it a lovely spot for a walk.
Along the route, you’ll pass a mix of beaches, cafés, small marinas and shaded seating areas. It’s just as popular in the early morning, when locals come out for a walk or coffee, as it is in the evening, when the promenade fills with people enjoying the cooler air.
Visit Savina Monastery
Just a short walk east of the Old Town, Savina Monastery offers a peaceful contrast to the busier parts of town. Surrounded by pine trees and set slightly above the shoreline, the monastery complex dates back centuries and includes several churches adorned with frescoes and religious artwork.
Beyond its historical and cultural significance, the setting itself is part of the appeal. The grounds are quiet and shaded, with glimpses of the bay visible through the trees, making it an ideal place to pause and take in a different side of Herceg Novi.
Browse the Local Markets
To get a sense of everyday life, it’s worth seeking out one of Herceg Novi’s local markets. The main green market near the centre of town is a lively spot where locals shop for fresh produce, cheese, olives and cured meats, while butchers and fishmongers surround the square, showcasing the local catch. Depending on the season, you’ll find stalls piled with ripe fruit, herbs and regional specialities.
Take a Blue Cave Boat Tour
One of my favourite experiences from Herceg Novi was heading out onto the water to explore the coastline by boat. The Blue Cave is the main attraction here and is included on almost all boat tours. Located along the rugged edge of the Luštica Peninsula, this natural sea cave is known for the surreal blue glow that fills its interior as a result of sunlight reflecting through the seabed and illuminating the cave walls from below.
Most tours depart directly from Herceg Novi’s harbour, typically in small speedboats or group excursions. Although the Blue Cave is the main destination, the journey is just as much a big part of the experience, taking you past a coastline that feels far wilder and less developed than the town. Along the way, we headed inside former Yugoslav submarine tunnels carved into the cliffs, which were incredibly cool, exploring the hidden, tunnel-like structures that added an unexpected historical dimension to the trip.
Reaching the Blue Cave, our boat paused long enough for us to swim inside. Entering the cave from the water is what makes the experience so magical, floating beneath the arched rock ceiling, with the water glowing in vivid shades of electric blue.
Our tour had additional stops at secluded coves and beaches, where we had time to swim and relax with an ice-cold beer. Some itineraries circle further around the peninsula, giving you a broader sense of the bay’s geography and the contrast between its busy towns and quieter, more untouched stretches of coastline.
In total, trips usually last between two and four hours, making them easy to fit into a half-day itinerary. It’s worth bringing swimwear, sunscreen and water, as well as some cash if your tour includes a beach stop. While group tours are widely available, private boat trips can also be arranged if you’re looking for a more flexible experience.
Tours from Hercog Novi
While Herceg Novi itself is relatively easy to explore independently, joining a tour can be one of the best ways to venture out into the wider region, particularly if you’re short on time or want local insight along the way. From boat excursions around the bay to cross-border cultural trips and inland adventures, there’s a wide range of organised tours departing directly from the town.
Boat tours are among the most popular excursions from Herceg Novi, giving you a scenic way to explore the coastline. Most itineraries include highlights such as the Blue Cave, the rugged shores of the Luštica Peninsula and swimming stops in secluded coves. You’ll aslo get the chance to explore former submarine tunnels carved into the cliffs, as well as beaches like Žanjic Beach, where you may have time to swim or stop for lunch.
If you’d prefer to explore by land (or a mix of land and boat), guided tours around the Bay of Kotor often include stops at other popular towns or villages. These tours usually combine walking tours of Kotor’s Old Town with a visit to Perast, where you can take a short boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks.
If you want to venture further afield, Herceg Novi is a convenient starting point for day trips to Dubrovnik. Organised tours typically include transport, border assistance and a guided introduction to the Old Town, followed by free time to explore independently.
The Best Beaches in Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi may not be known for its beaches, but what it lacks in sand it more than makes up for with clear Adriatic water, scenic coves and easy access to the sea. Much of the coastline here is made up of pebble beaches, rocky inlets and concrete bathing platforms typical of Montenegro’s coast, many of which are connected by the long Pet Danica seaside promenade. This means you’re rarely far from a place to swim, whether you’re looking for a lively beach club atmosphere or a quieter stretch of shoreline.
Below are some of the best beaches to visit in and around Herceg Novi.
Igalo Beach
At the western end of town in the suburb of Igalo, Igalo Beach is one of the most accessible and family-friendly stretches of coastline in the area. Unlike many of the rocky swimming spots around here, the seabed at Igalo is sandy and shallow, which makes it ideal for kids and families. The beach is backed by cafés, bars and restaurants along the promenade, so it’s easy to spend a full day here without having to leave in search of sustenance
Igalo is also known for its mineral-rich therapeutic mud, which has long been associated with the nearby health institute. It’s a legacy that has made the area popular for wellness tourism.
Žanjic Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in the wider Herceg Novi area, Žanjic Beach sits on the Luštica Peninsula across the bay. This sheltered cove is covered in smooth white pebbles rather than sand, but the water is emarkably clear water, taking on vivid shades of turquoise on sunny days.
Žanjic is best reached by boat from Herceg Novi’s harbour, making the journey part of the experience. Many boat tours also combine a stop here with a visit to the nearby Blue Cave, creating a classic summer day trip along the Adriatic.
Rafaello Beach
Another one along the Pet Danica promenade, this beach is small and pebbled, but its lively setting surrounded by cafés, restaurants and bars gives it a vibrant summer atmosphere. Some sun loungers line the waterfront, and the water here is typically calm and clear, making it ideal for a refreshing swim between exploring the town.
Savina Beach
Just east of the Old Town, near the historic Savina Monastery, Savina Beach offers a quieter and more scenic alternative to the busier central swimming spots. This pebble beach is set beneath pine trees and feels slightly removed from the bustle of the promenade, giving it a more peaceful atmosphere. The views across the bay towards the mountains are beautiful here, and the water is crystal clear.
Lalovina Beach
Located further east in the neighbourhood of Meljine, Lalovina Beach is a broad pebble beach popular with locals. Compared with the more central swimming spots, it tends to feel more spacious and less crowded, particularly outside peak summer weekends.
Where to Eat & Drink in Herceg Novi
Food is a central part of the experience in Herceg Novi, where the restaurants and cafes reflect the area’s seafaring heritage and Montenegrin cuisine. As such, you should expect menus built around fresh seafood, grilled meats, seasonal vegetables and Mediterranean flavours, with many places offering terraces that either overlook the bay or are tucked into atmospheric Old Town squares. Many restaurants are relaxed konobas, the local, traditional taverns, where long, sociable meals are the norm and the day’s catch is often the highlight.
Below are some standout places to eat and drink while exploring the town.
Konoba Škver
Where: 34, Unutar Plivačkog vaterpolo kluba Jadran, Šetalište Pet Danica, Herceg – Novi 85340, Montenegro
When: Tuesday to Sunday 12pm – 10pm; Monday 9am – 10pm
My favourite dining spot in Hecog Nocvi, you’ll find Konoba Škver right on the Pet Danica waterfront promenade. It’s the kind of place where the location is almost as memorable as the food, almost. Tables sit just right beside the water, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed lunch after a swim or a sunset dinner by the marina. The owner is a keen fisherman and will go out each morning to catch the very fish that’s served in his restaurant, shown by the dozens of photographs lining the walls depicting him and his friends with their most prized catch.
As such, the restaurant is particularly known for grilled fish and tuna steaks, often sourced locally, along with seafood starters such as anchovies or squid salad. The octopus with garlic and rosemary was a particular favourite of mine. With the sea breeze drifting through the terrace and boats passing by, it captures the easygoing Adriatic dining atmosphere perfectly.
Moritz Eis
Where: Njegoševa, Herceg – Novi 85340, Montenegro
There are plenty of spots serving ice cream in Herceg Novi, and the question of which shop serves the best is hard-fought, with so many establishments vying for the money of sweltering tourists. I wouldn’t normally recommend a chain, instead opting for a local, independent spot. However, the gelato from Moritz Eis was good enough to shout about.
They have 9 stores in Montenegro, one of which is in Herceg Novi, while the others are in Tivat, Perast, Kotor, and Budva. All of these serve the same flavours, which range from traditional tastes such as chocolate, berries or salted caramel, to the more interesting rhubarb and ginger or baked peach and vanilla. I chose to give my taste buds a challenge and sample the lemon and basil sorbet, which is as delicious as it sounds.
Gradska Kafana
Where: 34, Unutar Plivačkog vaterpolo kluba Jadran, Šetalište Pet Danica, Herceg – Novi 85340, Montenegro
When: Tuesday to Sunday 12pm – 10pm; Monday 9am – 10pm
Set above the waterfront in the centre of town, Gradska Kafana combines sweeping views over the Bay of Kotor with a menu of classic Montenegrin and Mediterranean dishes. The terrace is the main reason to visit, making it an excellent place for dinner with a view or an evening drink as the lights of the bay begin to glow after sunset. We popped in for a quick coffee at midday, and even then, when the cafe was quiet, it felt like the best place in town to be.
On the menu you’ll find grilled seafood, meat dishes and traditional regional recipes, served in generous portions and accompanied by local wines. Its central location and panoramic setting make it a popular stop during an evening stroll through the Old Town.
Konoba Kruso
Where: Šetalište 5. Danica, Herceg – Novi 85340, Montenegro
When: Sunday to Thursday 12pm – 11pm; Saturday & Sunday 12pm – 12am
Another option along the promenade is Konoba Kruso, which is a laid-back restaurant that is also known for its seafood and pasta dishes. You’ll find it on the Pet Danica walkway, which makes it the ideal place to stop while having a coastal walk, either for a long lunch or evening dinner beside the water. The menu focuses on simple, well-prepared Adriatic classics such as grilled fish, seafood risotto and fresh salads paired with local Montenegrin wines.
Kantina65
Where: 5 Save Kovačevića, Herceg – Novi 85340, Montenegro
When: Monday to Saturday 8am – 12am
For something slightly different from traditional konobas, Kantina65 is a more modern and casual place for a bite to eat. Featuring creative comfort food, from burgers and grilled dishes to Mediterranean-inspired plates, this is a good option if you’re looking for variety after several seafood-heavy meals.
Koffein Speciality Coffee Shop
Where: 2 Stepeniste 28 oktobra, Herceg Novi, Montenegro
When: Daily 8am – 8pm
Speciality coffee shops are few and far between in Herceg Novi, but If you’re in need of a caffeine break, Koffein Speciality Coffee Shop is widely considered the town’s best stop. Located on the stone steps leading up toward Nikola Đurković Square in the Old Town, it’s a small but stylish café known for carefully brewed drinks, from flat whites and lattes to filter coffee and cold brews.
With a few small tables outside and a photogenic tiled counter inside, it’s an ideal place to start the day before exploring the Old Town or climbing the nearby staircases to the town’s historic fortresses.
Read More: Where to Eat and Drink Around Kotor Bay: The 10 Best Restaurants
When is the Best Time to Visit Herceg Novi?
Herceg Novi is certainly a seasonal destination, and the best time to visit largely depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for, whether that’s long beach days, cultural exploring or a quieter coastal escape.
Late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to early October) are widely considered the ideal times to visit. During these months, temperatures are warm but not too hot, typically ranging between the low to mid-20s°C, The Bay of Kotor is far less crowded than in peak summer, yet most cafes and restaurants are open. The sea is also warm enough for swimming, particularly in early autumn after the summer heat has lingered in the water.
I visited in August, at the peak of summer, which is by far the busiest and hottest time of year. This is when Herceg Novi is at its liveliest, with bustling promenades, beach clubs in full swing and a calendar of local festivals and events. Temperatures often climb above 30°C, and the town sees an influx of both international visitors and regional holidaymakers. If you’re looking for a classic Adriatic summer with long, sun-soaked days and a vibrant atmosphere, this is the time to come. However, you’ll need to book accommodation well in advance and be prepared for higher prices and busier beaches.
Winter (November to March) is the off-season, when Herceg Novi becomes much quieter and many tourist-focused businesses close or reduce their hours. However, the town retains a local charm, and the mild coastal climate means it rarely gets too cold.
Day Trips from Herceg Novi
One benefit of staying in Herceg Novi it’s positioned right at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor. From here, it’s easy to explore some of Montenegro’s most beautiful coastal towns, historic landmarks and natural attractions within a short drive or boat ride.
Kotor
Not many people travel to Montenegro and don’t visit Kotor. It’s one of the most popular destinations in the country and relatively easy to reach from Herceg Novi. This UNESCO-listed town sits deep within the Bay of Kotor and is famous for its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, labyrinthine streets and imposing stone walls that climb steeply up the surrounding mountains.
I would always recommend hanging around for at least 48 hours, but in just a day, you can spend time wandering through the historic squares, visiting churches such as St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and climbing part of the city walls for sweeping views across the bay. The journey from Herceg Novi takes roughly an hour by car, depending on traffic, and the scenic drive around the bay is part of the appeal.
Perast
Just a short distance from Kotor lies the elegant baroque town of Perast. It’s much smaller and quieter than its neighbour, but is known for its grand stone palaces and peaceful waterfront setting. The town’s most famous sight is the tiny island church of Our Lady of the Rocks, which sits just offshore and can be reached by a short boat ride.
Blue Cave and the Luštica Peninsula
For a more nature-focused outing, boat trips from Herceg Novi often head towards the dramatic coastline of the Luštica Peninsula. One of the highlights here is the Blue Cave, a sea cave where sunlight reflecting through the water creates a striking blue glow inside the cavern.
Most excursions include swimming stops at secluded coves as well as time at beaches such as Žanjic Beach. These boat trips are a great way to experience the wilder side of the Adriatic coastline that you can’t easily reach by road.
Dubrovnik
Thanks to its location near the Croatian border, Herceg Novi also works well as a base for visiting Dubrovnik. Often called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the city is famous for its monumental medieval walls, limestone streets and terracotta rooftops overlooking the sea.
The drive typically takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on traffic at the Montenegro–Croatia border. Once there, you can explore the Old Town, walk the famous city walls and enjoy panoramic views across the Adriatic before returning to Herceg Novi in the evening.
Lovćen National Park
If you’re looking to escape the coast for a day, Lovćen National Park offers a dramatic contrast to the seaside landscapes of the Bay of Kotor. Located in Montenegro’s mountainous interior, the park is known for its rugged peaks, scenic viewpoints and the mausoleum of national poet and ruler Petar II Petrović-Njegoš.
The drive into the mountains is spectacular, with winding roads revealing ever-expanding views over the bay and the Adriatic beyond. It’s an excellent trip for travellers who want to see a different side of Montenegro beyond its coastal towns.
Suggested 2–3 Day Herceg Novi Itinerary
If I’m honest, Herceg Novi is the kind of place that you could easily visit for a week or more. Despite the town itself being relatively small, there are enough day trips and excursions to keep you occupied, especially when paired with some time spent swimming and relaxing. Here, days can be spent flitting between the Old Town, the sea and long waterfront walks. Having said that, if you’re visiting as part of a wider Montenegro itinerary, in two to three days you can experience the highlights while still leaving time to soak up the laid-back coastal atmosphere.
Day 1: Old Town & Fortresses
Start your first day exploring the heart of Herceg Novi in the Old Town (Stari Grad), where narrow stone staircases are squeezed between shaded squares and historic buildings. Make your way up to the iconic Clock Tower before continuing on to Forte Mare, one of the town’s most striking sea fortresses, where the vista stretches out across the entrance to the Bay of Kotor.
From here, climb higher to Kanli Kula, a former Ottoman fortress turned open-air amphitheatre. The panoramic views from the top are some of the best in the area, particularly in the morning before the heat of the day sets in. It’s worth stopping at Gradska Kafana for a quick coffee on their beautiful terrace, and the interior itself is just as lovely.
For lunch, pause in one of the Old Town’s restaurants before spending the afternoon wandering at your own pace, dipping in and out of churches, courtyards and viewpoints. I highly recommend Konoba Škver, with its waterfront setting and extensive fresh fish menu that is difficult to beat.
As evening approaches, head back towards the waterfront for dinner, where you can watch the light fade over the bay.
Day 2: Beaches & the Promenade
Your second day should be spent by the water. Ideally, begin with a relaxed walk along the Pet Danica promenade, which runs for several kilometres along the coastline, lined with beaches, cafés and swimming spots.
Stop for a swim at one of the central bathing areas, such as Rafaello Beach, or head further towards Igalo if you prefer a more traditional beach setting with shallower water. The beauty of Herceg Novi is that you can easily move between these different places, alternating between swimming, coffee stops and lunch by the sea.
In the afternoon, continue along the promenade or find a quieter stretch to relax, perhaps near the pine-shaded shoreline around Savina. As the day winds down, settle in at a waterfront bar or restaurant for sunset drinks, followed by a leisurely dinner.
Day 3: Bay of Kotor Adventure or Coastal Escape
If you have a third day, you have probably seen all of the town’s major sights, so it is best used to explore beyond Herceg Novi. A good option is a boat trip around the bay, often including stops at the Blue Cave and beaches along the Luštica Peninsula. These trips offer a chance to swim in secluded coves and see the coastline from a different perspective.
Alternatively, take a day trip to Kotor, where you can explore the medieval Old Town and climb the city walls for sweeping views, or visit the elegant waterfront town of Perast and its island church, Our Lady of the Rocks.
If you’d prefer to stay closer to base, you could simply spend another day enjoying Herceg Novi’s beaches, cafés and a slower pace of life.
FAQs
If you’re looking for sea views, historic fortresses and a slower, greener stretch of Montenegro’s coast, it’s an ideal base. Below, you’ll find answers to the most commonly asked questions about visiting Herceg Novi.
Is Herceg Novi worth visiting?
Herceg Novi is the ideal place to visit if you’re drawn to the Adriatic coast of Montenegro but are wary of the peak-season intensity that is found around the more popular parts of the coast. Compared with Kotor and Budva, Herceg Novi feels a little more relaxed and off the beaten track, lived-in, with fewer cruise crowds and a stronger sense of everyday Montenegrin life, while still catering well to tourists.
How many days do you need in Herceg Novi?
Herceg Novi works well as either a short stop or a base for exploring the wider region. If you’re just planning to explore Herceg Novi itself and the surrounding area, then two to three days is more than enough time. However, if you’re planning a full Bay of Kotor itinerary, I would stretch this to 5 – 7 days. Make sure to add in some relaxation time to enjoy the nearby beaches.
- 2 days gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, climb the fortresses, swim, and enjoy sunset drinks by the water.
- 3 days allow for a boat trip around the Bay of Kotor, a visit to the Blue Cave, or a day trip to one of the nearby towns.
Are there sandy beaches in Herceg Novi?
Herceg Novi is not known for wide sandy beaches. Much like a lot of Montenegro’s coastline, the beaches and shores are generally pebbled, with rocky coves and concrete bathing platforms built into the waterfront to give people a place to sunbathe.
If sandy beaches are a must for you, you’ll need to travel further along the coast or towards parts of the Luštica Peninsula. That said, the clean and clear Adriatic waters and easy access to the water around the town more than compensate for the lack of sand.
Can you Visit Kotor from Hercog Novi?
Whether Herceg Novi is better than Kotor depends entirely on what you’re looking for. While, in my opinion (which is personal and may differ from the opinion of others), Kotor is arguably more dramatic, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town that climbs up the hillside, beautiful, and has more sights worth seeing. It’s compact, striking and undeniably photogenic. However, it can also be extremely busy in summer, particularly when cruise ships are in port.
Herceg Novi, by contrast, is more spread out and less concentrated around a single historic centre. It has easier access to swimming spots, a longer stretch of waterfront, and generally has fewer day-trippers than Kotor. While it may not be as stunning or impressive as Kotor, it offers a more relaxed coastal break.
Wherever you decide to stay, you can visit one town from the other on a relatively easy day trip. The journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by car, depending on traffic and whether you drive the full curve of the bay or take the Kamenari–Lepetane ferry to shorten the route.
Driving gives you the most flexibility, allowing you to stop in picturesque villages such as Perast or Gornji Stoliv along the way. Buses also run between the two towns, though they can be slower and less frequent outside peak season.
You would probably need an early start to your morning, but an entire day should give you ample time to explore Kotor’s Old Town, climb part of the fortress walls and eat at some of the city’s wonderful restaurants or cafes in it’s pretty squares before returning to Herceg Novi in the evening.
Can You Visit Dubrovnik from Hercog Novi?
Dubrovnik is another popular day trip from Herceg Novi, and it is almost easier to reach from the town than the Montenegrin towns of Budva and Kotor. The Croatian city lies roughly 45 minutes to an hour and a half away by car, depending on traffic and border crossing times. Buses and organised tours are widely available.
Because you’ll be crossing an international border between Montenegro and Croatia, it’s essential to carry your passport and allow extra time during the peak summer months, as the crossing can be slow at times. I think this part of Croatia deserves a little longer than a day trip, but if you just want to see the walled city and tick it off your bucket list, it’s worth the journey.
