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Herceg Novi, Montenegro is a fabulous and picturesque seaside destination! The deep turquoise water lures travelers to visit the Bay of Kotor and tourists will find that there are many things to do in Herceg Novi, as well.
Herceg Novi: Top Montenegro Destination
For those planning a trip to Montenegro, Herceg Novi is becoming a popular choice. The town stretches along the northern coast on the western end of Kotor Bay, just opposite the opening to the Adriatic Sea.
Herceg Novi History
The history of Herceg Novi dates to the year 1382. Originating as a fishing village, Stefan Tvrtko I Kotromanic – the first King of Bosnia – built a fortress in Herceg Novi. The city went on to thrive in the salt trade and became an important port.
However, Herceg Novi then experienced tumultuous times. Beginning in 1482, the area was ruled by the Turks, Spaniards, Italians, Habsburgs, French, Illyrian Provinces, and the Austro Hungarians. Post WWI, it became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia.
After the break up of Yugoslavia in the nineties, Herceg Novi was included in the short lived union of Serbia & Montenegro. In 2006, Montenegro – or Crna Gora – declared independence with Herceg Novi as the 3rd largest city in the new country.
Planning a Trip to Herceg Novi, Montenegro
We are highlighting the best Herceg Novi things to do to help fellow travelers plan their visit. That said, there is more to planning a Herceg Novi trip than making an itinerary. Therefore, we also share tips on what to eat, where to stay and how to get there.
Those planning to see more Montenegrin destinations should read our guides to the Medieval town of Kotor, quaint Perast and buzzing Budva.
Visiting Montenegro from abroad? Our Top Tips for European Trip Planning is where you should get started!
As you plan your vacation, organization is key. Our 26-page Travel Planner Printable will help you stay on top of all the details of your trip!
28 Things To Do in Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Our list of What To Do in Herceg Novi features the top sights and best attractions. We include a helpful Map of Herceg Novi Things To Do at the end of the article.
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Herceg Novi Travel Guide to plan your trip to Montenegro!
#1 Discover Herceg Novi Old Town
Discovering the small Old Town tops our list of Herceg Novi things to do. The area is comprised of just a few pedestrian-only streets sandwiched between two fortresses. The steep, narrow, twisting lanes in Old Town Herceg Novi pass by colorful houses, vibrant flora and pretty squares.
#2 See the Sea Fortress
One of the best Herceg Novi attractions, the Forte Mare is impressive…and impossible to miss! The 14th century stone fortress sits right on the shoreline of Herceg Novi Bay atop a rocky outcrop. The magnificent and mighty fortifications provide stunning views of the coastline and the Bay of Kotor.
#3 Snap a Photo Under the Herceg Novi Clock Tower
Once the main gate into the Herceg Novi Stari Grad, the Clock Tower is a symbol of the city. The defensive tower was built in 1667 under Turkish rule.
The stairs that lead up to the clock tower are a popular spot to stop for photo ops. However, as you walk below and through it, don’t miss the “Black Madonna” artwork made from burnt wood that hangs inside.
#4 Take in the Views from Kanli Kula
Kanli Kula – which translates to Bloody Tower – is the fortress that sits at the top of the Herceg Novi Old Town. Dating to the 16th century, the it was used as a prison. Today, however, Kanli Kula is a concert venue with seats for 1,000 guests, but can also be toured for a fee.
#5 Stand in St. Jerome Square
During your Old Town Herceg Novi sightseeing, make your way to the spacious and picturesque St. Jerome Square (also called Mico Pavlovic Square). The St. Jerome Catholic Church that sits at it’s center was built in the 17th century and named for the city’s Patron Saint.
The space is often void of tourists and quiet – except for the sound of instruments being played at the music school next door.
Take in the sea views from the area next to the bell tower and from the raised platform across from the church.
Walk down the steps opposite the church entrance and pass the Monument to the Heroes of Naval Battles on the Adriatic – identifiable by the large anchor. Continue down and around to the left to the charming Church of St. Leopold Mandic.
#6 Light a Candle at St. Arhangel Mihailo Church
Bellavista Square marks the center of the Old Town – and St. Arhangel Mihailo Orthodox Church stands in the middle of it – along with the Old Water Fountain.
The Saint Michael Archangel Church was only built in the 19th century and features a smattering of architectural styles, including Byzantine, Roman-gothic and Islamic.
Korcula stone was used for the exterior carvings, while the interior is decorated in Italian marble. Go inside and listen to the peaceful music and light a candle.
Visitors wondering what to do in Herceg Novi in the early evening should consider having a drink or late lunch at one of the restaurants that ring Bellavista Square. The outdoor tables at Bellavista Lounge offer the best views – especially when the late afternoon sunlight illuminates the church portico.
#7 Visit the St. Savina Monastery
One of the best things to see in Herceg Novi is the St. Savina Monastery complex. Sitting on lush grounds of old cypresses and fruitful vineyards, the monastery offers a serene retreat from the city center.
The complex – which is free to enter – is comprised of three churches, including one that dates to the year 1030. Guests can also visit a small museum, the elevated cemetery (which offers wonderful vistas) and the gift shop, where they sell bottles of wine made from the cultivated grapes.
#8 Explore the Abandoned Spanjola Fortress
Fort Španjola Herceg Novi is the upper town fortress – and an absolutely fascinating place to explore. It’s a steep uphill hike, but it’s well worth the effort (or grab a taxi for a ride up).
Sitting atop Bajer Hill and peeking out above the neighborhood just below it, the abandoned fortress is overgrown and crumbling in some sections. However, the views are nothing short of phenomenal. Visitors are free to roam at their own risk.
Construction began in 1538, during the one-year rule of the Spaniards, but was never completed. The remains of that original fort were demolished by the Turks and completely replaced in the mid-1500s and subsequently modified by various rulers over the years.
#9 Spend an Afternoon at a Herceg Novi Museum
Those looking for things to do in Herceg Novi when it rains (or it is too hot) can visit a museum. In fact, there are two museums in Herceg Novi, Montenegro that are recommended: the City Museum and the Iva Andrica House.
The Gradski Muzej displays artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history of the municipality. The venue occupies a former house – and some rooms feature everyday items once used by local residents. For many visitors, the highlight of the Herceg Novi City Museum is the garden, which offers nice views over Boka Bay.
The House of Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andrić is another interesting space. While the house contains little of his personal affects (he only lived there for five years in the 1960s), it does detail the story of his life. Tickets are inexpensive and include a tour.
#10 Stop by the Church of the Holy Salvation
Located in the Topla District, the Church of St. Salvation – or Crkva Sv. Spasa – is an interesting Herceg Novi place to visit.
The Orthodox church was built in 1709 and completely renovated in 1864 to the style still evident today. The grounds are inclusive of the smaller Church of St. George and a cemetery.
#11 Size Up the Statue of King Tvrtko I Kotromanich
Tvrtko Square is a beachfront piazza in Herceg Novi. What can’t be missed is the towering King Tvrtko I Kotromanic Statue that stands at the middle of it.
Rather than looking out to the bay, Tvrtko is looking up at the city that he founded. The statue is prominently placed at the base of the Sea Fort along the pedestrian promenade right next to the Herceg Novi Marina.
#12 Look Down at the Collapsed Citadela in the Sea
Built on the very edge of the sea, the Mastel-Mezzaluna Citadel was long the first line of defense from sea invaders. It stood for hundreds of years as part of Herceg Novi’s strong fortification system. However, during the devastating 1979 earthquake, it broke apart and collapsed into the sea.
#13 Hike through the Savina Forest
One of the lesser-known things to do in Herceg Novi is to hike through the dense Savina Forest. A network of trails traverses the protected area, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Trekkers can follow the shaded paths through the forest to Savina Monastery and the town of Meljine.
#14 Sip Wine at the Savina Winery
Boasting a spectacular viewpoint, the Castel Savina Winery offers visitors a unique vineyard-and-wine tasting experience.
Guests are provided with a guided tour, three tastings and nibbles of local fare. The price is a bit steep for the region, but the wine is some of the best in Montenegro. Savina Winery Tours must be booked in advance.
#15 Enjoy an amazing Herceg Novi View
Visitors seeking a stellar view in Herceg Novi for free can find one in a bit of an odd spot: the Dubrava Parking Lot.
This viewpoint, which sits atop an abandoned building that is covered in litter and broken glass, does offer unobstructed panoramic vistas of the Kanli Kula Tower, St. Jerome Church Bell Tower and the entrance to Kotor Bay.
#16 Stroll the Waterfront Promenade in Herceg Novi
The pedestrian-only waterfront promenade, called Šetalište Pet Danica, is a coastal path that stretches for nearly 4.5 miles.
To the west, the walkway follows the curves of the coast past cafes and beaches to the city of Igalo. Eastbound, the path reaches to the town of Meljine and the posh Lazure Marina Hotel & Marina.
The promenade is popular both day and night as a place to stroll and take in the views across the bay and the soaring mountains above.
#17 Eat Ice Cream at Do Do Café
On hot summer days, the waterfront stroll is best enjoyed with an ice cream cone in hand! The best ice cream shop in Herceg Novi is Do Do Café, which has two locations right along the Pet Danica Walkway.
The shop offers a variety of flavors and single dip cones are delicious and cheap. However, for a real sweet treat, sit down at a waterfront table for an indulgent sundae.
#18 Venture inside Tito’s Villa Galeb
For visitors interested in learning more about the Yugoslav era, Tito’s Villa is a Herceg Novi must see.
The nearly 60,000 square foot Villa Galeb was built in just 6 months during 1976 for Yugoslavia President Tito. One of 33 official residences, Tito stayed in the palatial residence just four times before his death in 1980.
Visitors can join one of the guided tours to see inside the villa, including Tito’s private living quarters and the communal bomb shelter. Tour times vary by season and day of week, so it’s best to check at the Igalo Tourist Information Office during your stay.
#19 Splash around at Herceg Novi Beaches
When the weather is warm, it is hard to resist spending time on a Herceg Novi beach. In fact, it’s the best thing to do in the summer months!
The beaches in Herceg Novi run all along the shoreline. There are small pebble beaches, where swimmers ease into the water and large concrete platforms that are perfect for diving right into the sea. The beaches do get very crowded in the peak season and at most spots you can rent lounge chairs and umbrellas.
Some of the best beaches are Herceg Novi Plaza (near the marina), Plaza Topla (to the east), Rafaello Plaza (near a strip of cafes and restaurants) and Bla Bla Beach (which is further east of town).
#20 Embark on a Montenegro Tour
While Kotor Bay is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Montenegro, the surrounding area is also stunning. Dramatic peaks rise sharply from the sea – and a serpentine road enables visitors to embark on a journey into those mountains and beyond.
The Great Montenegro Tour features gorgeous mountain peaks, pristine lakes and ancient villages. The highlights are Lovcen National Park, Cetinje (the former royal capital), a boat ride on the Crnojević River that flows into Skadar Lake and a stop across from the famous Montenegro islet, Sveti Stefan near Budva.
#21 Take Day Trips from Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi day trips to nearby destinations – like Kotor and Dubrovnik – are a fantastic option for those looking to see even more of the region.
Kotor – Herceg Novi Day Trip
Getting to Kotor from Herceg Novi is as simple as hopping on a bus – so it’s easy to plan the trip on your own. The drive from Herceg Novi to Kotor is about an hour – and the entire route features majestic landscapes as the road hugs the shoreline.
The perfectly preserved Medieval town boasts numerous shops, squares and churches. However, the highlight is Hiking in Kotor to the hilltop fortress. To plan your complete day trip, read our post on all The Best Things To Do in Kotor.
Dubrovnik – Herceg Novi Day Trip
Dubrovnik, Croatia is just 30 miles north of Herceg Novi. The drive can take as little an hour, depending on the border crossing time. Expect the Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik Bus to take at least 2 hours each way.
The walled city of Dubrovnik is a wonderful place to visit – even if just for a day! Walking the walls, going to the top of Mount Srd, swimming at the beaches and discovering Old Town Sights are a few of the top things to do in one day in Dubrovnik. We share details on how to plan your trip in our article, What To Do in Dubrovnik.
#22 Set Sail on a Full Day Kotor Bay Tour
Boat trips from Herceg Novi are one of the fun things to do – and a full day tour of the Bay of Kotor offers good value for money.
Highlights of a Petar Boats tour are visiting the village of Perast, spending time in Kotor, swimming at Stoliv and docking on the Lady of the Rocks Island. The tour also includes a welcome Rakija drink, a snack lunch of fried fish and refreshing watermelon on the boat ride back.
#23 Take a Blue Cave Tour from Herceg Novi
The Blue Cave is another top spot to see on the Bay of Kotor. Located on the Lustica Peninsula, boats enter through a small opening into a spacious cave that is naturally illuminated.
Water taxi Herceg Novi tours depart multiple times a day. In addition to seeing the brilliant cave, passengers sail past Mamula Island, where a fort from the 1800s and former political prison has been restored as a luxury hotel. Additionally, there is time to soak in the sun at Zanjic Beach – the best beach in Lustica.
#24 Kayak from Herceg Novi to Rose
Active travelers can skip the boat tours in Herceg Novi and instead paddle around the Bay of Kotor in a kayak!
With a kayak rental from Herceg Novi, it is possible to plan your own route. Paddling across the bay to the Lustica Peninsula and Rose Village is a popular option. Travelers can also opt to join a tour, where a guide leads the way to the best spots along the shoreline (like the WWII submarine shelter).
#25 Relax at a Spa in Herceg Novi
Visitors looking for a relaxing spa treatment should look no further than the Palmon Bay Hotel and Spa. The 4-star property provides luxury spa services – including exceptional massages and treatments in their spacious facilities.
#26 Enjoy Herceg Novi Nightlife
Beach clubs, waterfront cafes and fun bars are all part of the energetic nightlife in Herceg Novi during the summer season. That said, there are plenty of places to sip a glass of Montenegrin wine or cool down with a beer or cocktail.
Local Craft Beer
Our go-to spot for a refreshing brew is Pub GOT, where they serve local craft beer on tap from Fabrika (based in nearby Risan). Grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables on the steps (but be sure to take a peek inside the fun pub, too!).
Another Montenegrin craft beer to look for is Mammut, which hails from Niksic (also home to the country’s mass-produced beer, Niksicko).
Montenegro Rakija Drinks
Loza is the local and basic rakija in Montenegro – and the potent drink is worth a try. However, on hot summer nights, Pelinkovac – served with a slice of lemon and ice – is a great after-dinner drink!
#27 Have Coffee at Grandska Kafana, Herceg Novi
The grand Gradska Kafana is one of the best places in Herceg Novi for a coffee, drink or meal. The long patio offers picture-perfect views of the Sea Fort and the bay.
The classy waiters are quick and kind – and drinks are more affordable than you would think for the premier location!
#28 Eat at the Best Restaurants in Herceg Novi
One of the things we love about Montenegro – and the Balkans, in general – is the amazing food. The restaurants in Herceg Novi did not disappoint! While there are numerous places to eat in Herceg Novi, we are featuring a few of our favorites.
Restoran Bife Beograd
The Bife Beograd Restaurant is an iconic place for meal in Herceg Novi. An institution in the city, Beograd has been open since the 1930s. While the street-level seats are great for a coffee or lunch, we recommend heading upstairs to a table with a view for dinner.
The food at Beograd is superb. From tasty pizzas to massive burgers to decadent meat dishes (the beef steak tagliata was divine), every bite is delicious. Start with the antipasti platter – and take it from there, you can’t go wrong!
Tri Lipe
One of the absolute best restaurants in Herceg Novi, Tri Lipe delivers in every way possible! Take a seat in the shaded garden patio and prepare for a feast.
Known for their grilled meats, fresh seafood and huge portions (at amazing prices), we think it is best to order a couple of different dishes and share them with the table. The mixed grill (an assortment of meats on a platter) and seafood risotto are on point!
Tri Lipe is also one of the best places in Herceg Novi to get fast food sandwiches to go. The incredibly inexpensive and massive pljeskavica is grilled and served plain. Then you get to add your own toppings. Yum!
Konoba Karaca
A bit of a hidden gem, Konoba Karaca is one of the Herceg Novi restaurants that is frequented by locals and tourists alike. Each dish is prepared to order (so it may take a little longer) and the atmosphere is casual and authentic.
Mussels are a popular dish, but we ordered the whole grilled fish, black risotto and local meat and cheese as a starter. The food tasted phenomenal, the service was friendly and it was well-priced, too!
Pekara Penino 2
A modern bakery near the Herceg Novi market, Pekara Penino is a go-to spot for traditional burek (a Balkan meat pastry) and divine desserts.
Herceg Novi Map
Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Map of Herceg Novi Attractions below. Visitors can also pick up free Herceg Novi Maps from the Tourist Information Center.
Herceg Novi Travel Tips
Now that you know all of the best Herceg Novi things to do, we have a few tips for your trip. Remember to check out our Advice for European Vacations, too.
How To Get to Herceg Novi
There is no Herceg Novi Airport. The closest airport is in Dubrovnik, Croatia – but there are nearby airports in Tivat and Podgorica, Montenegro. Read our hacks for Finding the Best Airfare and then start your search on Skyscanner.
Dubrovnik Airport to Herceg Novi
From the airport, the Dubrovnik – Herceg Novi distance is just 18 miles – but it does require a border crossing, which can take some time depending on traffic.
Private Transfer to Herceg Novi from Dubrovnik Airport
The easiest way to get from the DBV Airport to Montenegro is with a private driver. We recommend booking a private transfer in advance.
Bus from Dubrovnik to Herceg Novi
Travelers already in Dubrovnik can hop on a regional bus from the Dubrovnik Bus Station. The Dubrovnik to Herceg Novi Bus is affordable (about $20) and efficient. Although travel times are listed at an hour, our recent ride took about 1.5 hours even with a quick border crossing.
Visitors coming from Split, Croatia will not find a direct Herceg Novi Bus. Instead, take a bus (or catamaran) from Split to Dubrovnik and then a bus to Herceg Novi.
Tivat Airport to Herceg Novi
The Tivat-Herceg Novi Bus is not ideal – as the local buses do not actually stop at the airport! Instead, the best Herceg Novi – Tivat route is with a private driver.
Podgorica to Herceg Novi
Getting to Herceg Novi from Podgorica Airport is best with a private driver, as public transit options are slim and complicated. We recommend booking a driver from Podgorica to Herceg Novi in advance online.
How To Get around Herceg Novi
Getting around Herceg Novi is best done on two feet. Many of the lanes are pedestrian only – and the waterfront promenade is a great route to travel between sights, beaches and restaurants.
That said, nearly all of Herceg Novi sits on a steep hillside – so there are stairs…a lot of stairs. In fact, they are impossible to avoid and not in the best condition. There are many uneven staircases and most are without railings.
Rent a Car
Visitors who want the freedom to explore beyond town should consider renting a car. Just bear in mind that parking is very limited and the road rules are very liberal. Before you make your reservation, read our tips for Getting the Best Car Rental Rates.
Blue Line Herceg Novi Bus
The Blue Line Bus #1 runs the coastal road from Kamenari (where you can catch the ferry to Tivat) to Herceg Novi and then on to Igalo. The Blue Line #2 bus makes stops in Meljine, Herceg Novi and Igalo.
Autobuska Stanica: Herceg Novi, Main Bus Station
Those traveling by bus will arrive and depart at the Herceg Novi Bus Station. It is located above the Old Town on the main coastal road (E65).
Unfortunately, there is no Herceg Novi to Kotor Ferry. Same goes for getting from Herceg Novi to Perast or Budva.
Best Time To Go to Herceg Novi
The best time to travel to Herceg Novi depends on your interests and budget. There are pros and cons to visiting in every season.
Summertime – High Season
For many visitors, the summer months are the best time to go to Herceg Novi. The weather is hot and full of sunshine. It’s perfect for long days at the beach and on the water.
Herceg Novi is a very seasonal destination…and everything is open in the peak summertime (really just July and August). However, the prices for accommodations are highest in the summer, beaches can get crowded and loud and some restaurants are difficult to get into.
Autumn and Spring – Shoulder Season
The shoulder season can also be a great time to visit Herceg Novi, Montenegro. There are far fewer crowds, and the weather is slightly cooler – but nice enough to be outdoors and possibly even warm enough for a swim.
Plus, prices are slightly better for accommodations. The downside to traveling in the shoulder season is that not everything is open.
Winter – Low Season
Wintertime visitors will find rock bottom prices – but not much open in the way of restaurants and shops. The city will be void of crowds. The weather is crisp, but the sun often still shines – which is perfect for long coastal walks and hikes in the mountains.
Where To Stay in Herceg Novi
We are featuring a few of the top-rated hotels in Herceg Novi in a range of prices. You can also search on Booking.com – but first, read our tips for Booking Hotels at the Best Price.
Garni Hotel Bokeška Noć
A family-owned guesthouse within a short walk to a small beach, Garni Hotel features balconies with sea views. Some rooms have kitchens – but an included breakfast is made fresh daily by the owner and served on the patio. Check availability!
Hunguest Hotel Sun Resort
The Sun Resort Hotel in Herceg Novi is a large, beachfront property that offers rooms at affordable rates. The hotel has a pool – and guests have free use of loungers and umbrellas at the private beach area, as well. However, the rooms are slightly dated and there are no balconies. Check rates!
Palmon Bay Hotel
Modern and chic, the Palmon Bay Hotel in Igalo is a top choice for a stylish stay. The hotel gets rave reviews for the terrace dining, spa services, waterfront pool and beach and exceptional service. Check availability!
Iberostar
An all-inclusive property, Iberostar offers luxury amenities in an absolutely sublime setting. The beachfront resort sits across the bay from Hergec Novi and features a pool, restaurant and 4 bars. Check rates!
Herceg Novi Apartments and Tourist Tax
There are many vacation rentals in Herceg Novi. Travelers can find apartments on Booking.com or Airbnb.
If you choose to stay in an apartment, you will likely need to register and pay the Montenegro Tourist Tax. (This is included when staying at hotels and they take care of the registration for you.)
In order to accomplish this, your host (or owner, if different) will need to provide an ownership document to take to the Tourist Information Office (along with your passport). The tourist tax fee for Herceg Novi is one Euro per day, per guest.
Shopping Herceg Novi
In the Old Town and along the waterfront, most shops cater to tourists – offering souvenirs, swimwear and beach gear.
The biggest shopping center in Herceg Novi is the HDL Novi Mall, which is to the west near the Croatian border.
The small produce market in Herceg Novi is tucked into a little plaza just west of the clock tower. Not only is it a good place to pick up fresh, in-season produce, but the vendors also sell olive oil and better-priced souvenirs.
What To Pack for your Trip to Montenegro
Ok, it’s time to talk about what to pack for your trip. So grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Montenegro!
Comfortable Shoes
Despite the hills and dodgy sidewalks, it’s best to get around Herceg Novi on your own two feet. So, don’t forget a good pair of walking shoes. My preferred travel shoes are versatile and lightweight trainers – but I wear my favorite flip flops to get to and from the beach.
Beach Gear
Your accommodations will likely supply towels, but you will want your swimsuit, beach hat, good sunscreen and polarized sunglasses. Of course, you will need a great travel day bag to carry it all in, as well!
The water in Kotor Bay is clear – so bring snorkel gear if you have it. Also consider water shoes that you can wear on the pebble beaches (trust us on this one).
Travel Camera
Herceg Novi and the Bay of Kotor are incredibly photogenic! We recommend a real travel camera for your trip. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It takes excellent photos and is a great budget camera for travelers.
Montenegro Travel Insurance
Trip Insurance could provide coverage for lost luggage and delayed flights. It might also cover cost in the unfortunate case of injury or illness while traveling.
Start planning your trip to Montenegro! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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