Best Things to Do in Herceg Novi, ​​Montenegro

Herceg Novi is a particularly charming town on the coast of Montenegro and is one of the most beautiful and interesting places in the country. It is considered the gateway to the famous Bay of Kotor, situated in a dreamlike location directly on the Adriatic Sea. With over 200 hours of sunshine a year, this pearl of the coast is also known as the “city of eternal green and summer“. While the temperatures are still freezing in the mountains, the first flowers are already blooming in the Mediterranean town of Herceg Novi. During a vacation, there are so many breathtaking things to do in Herceg Novi. Visitors can enjoy a picturesque baroque old town, discover many attractions and the beaches invite for swimming. Due to its proximity to Kotor and Dubrovnik, this charming town can also be explored as part of a day trip, and it is also considered a good starting point for boat trips in the surrounding area.

In this travel guide, we give you all the important information and tips about Herceg Novi in Montenegro. We will show you the best things to do in Herceg Novi, wonderful excursions and activities, some stunning pictures and impressions of the old town, and where to find recommended accommodation.

Good to know!

If you are looking for a special place to stay on the coast of Herceg Novi, we can recommend the charming little hotel Casa del MareBlanche.

The best time to visit Herceg Novi is from May to the end of October. At this time of the year you can expect pleasant temperatures, lots of sun and little rain!

If you are currently planning to travel around Montenegro, then you will want to check out our perfect Montenegro road trip itinerary!

Not only Herceg Novi is worth seeing, but also the surrounding area is beautiful. Thanks to its ideal location, you can explore some of the best things to do in Montenegro from there!

 

Things to Do in Herceg Novi

In Herceg Novi there are a number of beautiful attractions to visit. Most of them are located directly in the historic old town and can be easily explored on a walking tour. But also the surroundings of Herceg Novi are worth seeing and offer numerous possibilities for excursions! To help you keep track, we’ve put together a list of the best things to see and do in Herceg Novi, Montenegro:

Nikola Durkovic Square & Clock Tower

Nikola Durkovic Square is the center of the Old Town, also known as Stari Grad, and certainly, one of the most famous sights of Herceg Novi. This is where locals and tourists meet for a cozy coffee or to shop in the small boutiques. From Durkovic Square, a staircase leads directly to the city’s landmark, the Sahat Kula clock tower. This monument was built in 1667 by Sultan Mahmud and is still one of the most important landmarks in the Old Town. The Bulgakov Museum is also just a few steps away from the square.

Belavista Square & Archangel Michael Church

A fascinating attraction in the center of Herceg Novi is the beautiful Belavista Square, also called Herceg Stjepan Square. The Mediterranean flair of the old stone houses, the white fountain and the Orthodox churches create a picturesque setting. The mixture of oriental and Romanesque-Gothic architectural elements is impressive. Several interesting sights, such as the Orthodox Church of Archangel Michael, built of white stone, are located on this square.

Kanli Kula

A must-see is Kanli Kula, a fortress from Turkish times, located in the upper part of the old town of Herceg Novi. Its name means something like “Bloody Tower” because the fortress from 1539 served for years as a prison. Today, this impressive structure is a beautiful open-air stage and one of the most popular venues on the Montenegrin Adriatic. But a visit is also worthwhile outside the events because from Kanli Kula you have a dreamlike view of the old town, the picturesque churches and the deep blue sea.

Spanish fortress

The Spanish Fortress, also called Tvrdava Spanjola, is located in the upper part of the Old Town of Stari Grad. It was built during the short conquest of the Spanish and completed by the Turks. From the ruins of this Spanish-Turkish fortress you can enjoy a truly magnificent view of the bay of Herceg Novi. An interesting place that should be included in a city tour, especially because of the view.

Jerome Church

The Church of Sveti Jeronima, also called the Church of St. Jerome, is one of the most beautiful churches in the old town of Herceg Novi. It was built in 1856 on the site of a Catholic Church from the 17th century. Worth seeing are the interior of this church with the works of the well-known painter Tripo Kokolja, as well as the cannons and anchors, which are located right next to the church. The view of the sea is a special highlight. It is a must-see when walking through the town of Herceg Novi.

Forte Mare & City Walls

Forte Mare is a fortified tower, renovated several times, located on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. Its present appearance dates back to the Turkish rule, the name Forte Mare comes from the time of Venetian rule in the 18th century. The historical fortress is located on the western wall of the old town of Herceg Novi and is one of the most important attractions of this coastal town. The narrow streets of the old town lead down to the sea to this beautiful fortress. During the summer months, movies are shown on the fortified tower of Forte Mare.

Beaches in Herceg Novi

In and around Herceg Novi you will find several charming beaches and swimming opportunities. The most beautiful beach in town is Blatna Plaza at the western end of the promenade, under Forte Mare. You can also cool off along the Pet Danica promenade. In addition, you can find some good swimming opportunities to the east, such as in the towns of Bijela, Meljine and Zelenika.

Really nice beaches near Herceg Novi are Zanjice, Miriste, Dobrec and Arza, which are located on the Lustica peninsula. The best way to get there is by boat.

Tip: If you want to learn more about the beaches of Montenegro, then check here: Top 7 most beautiful beaches in Montenegro.

Boat trip to the Blue Grotto and Mamula Island

A boat trip past the mighty fortress island of Mamula and a visit to the Blue Grotto are among the highlights of a trip to Herceg Novi. The island is home to a fortress dating back to Austrian rule in the mid-19th century, which later served as a prison. Today, this tiny, round island houses a luxury hotel in a class of its own!

Well worth seeing is also the Plava Spilja or better known as the Blue Grotto. These blue sea colors and the crystal-clear water are just breathtakingly beautiful and a real highlight in Montenegro. For this trip, you should leave early, so you can discover this natural jewel all by yourself. The Blue Grotto can be easily reached by boat from Herceg Novi and a visit is highly recommended. Boat tours are offered in the city.

Excursions from Herceg Novi

During your vacation in Herceg Novi you have the opportunity to make many great trips in the surrounding area. We have summarized the most beautiful destinations and attractions in the area for you at a glance:

A popular destination is the city of Dubrovnik in Croatia, 50 kilometers away, which is world-famous for its UNESCO Old Town and the Dubrovnik Wall.

Beautiful and probably the most important attraction around Herceg Novi is the city of Kotor, 40 kilometers away, as well as the beautiful bay of Kotor.

A real insider’s tip and only 30 kilometers from Herceg Novi is the town of Perast with its charming old town and the offshore monastery islands.

You should also visit the city of Budva, which has a charming old town, a lively nightlife and great beaches.

 

Where to stay in Herceg Novi

The small resort town of Herceg Novi and its surroundings offer many good accommodation options. You can find everything from cheap apartments, chic pensions, holiday homes and even excellent hotels. If you want to spend some pleasant days in Herceg Novi, we’ve put together the following recommendations and hotel tips for you… it’s worth a look!

  • Nice Guesthouse: The Guest House Tomanovic is a charming pension at a reasonable price. Guests love the hospitality, the central location and the view.
  • Beautiful Apartments: The apartment house Belani has beautiful modern apartments and a central location just a few steps from the promenade.
  • Fantastic Hotel: The Hotel Casa del Mare Blanche is located on the Herceg Novi Riviera. It has only 12 cozy rooms and its own pebble beach.
  • Boutique Hotel: The Boutique Hotel & Spa Casa del Mare Mediterraneo is one of the top hotels on the Herceg Novi coast and offers an excellent breakfast.

Find the best Accommodation & Hotel:

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