3. Montenegro, the Balkans
Best for Adriatic beaches, stunning scenery and vivacious nightlife
Sun-drenched Adriatic beaches. Fairy tale medieval villages. Epic mountains. There’s no denying that Montenegro is a looker.
And there’s plenty here if you’re looking for night life, too. For example, Budva Riviera is known for its classy, cocktail-fuelled summer gatherings. During high season, its waterfront and beaches form a chain of lively clubs. Few places are prettier to party.
For a culture fix, you’ll want to spend time in the walled medieval city of Kotor — a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After exploring its quaint squares, and marvelling at its palace and cathedral, head to Kotor Bay. This spectacular, steep-sided inlet is surrounded by towering mountains.
Meanwhile, nature-lovers will want to see lily-speckled Lake Skadar. The national park here is one of the best birding sites in Europe, while the lake itself is perfect for kayaking.
Durmitor National Park is also a hotspot for hikers and nature-lovers. With fifty peaks over 2000 metres, glacial lakes galore, and almost 200 bird species, it’s another of Montenegro's UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
All of which means Montenegro is one of the best places to visit in July for a summer break that’s big on natural beauty and fun-filled evenings.
See more places to stay in Budva and Kotor, Montenegro.