Herceg Novi sits at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, where mountains meet the Adriatic in a quiet, charming dance. As someone who’s driven visitors across Montenegro, I’ve seen how this coastal town captures travelers with its mix of history, gardens, and laid-back vibe. We’ve taken countless guests along its winding roads, and it’s always a hit—especially for those who want more than just beaches. In this Herceg Novi travel guide, I’ll walk you through top attractions, scenic shores, and handy sightseeing tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Why Visit Herceg Novi?
We’ve explored every corner of Montenegro, and Herceg Novi stands out for its balance. It’s less crowded than Kotor, even in peak season, yet offers more beach options than its medieval neighbor—think Žalo or Njivice—plus partial views of the open sea. Still, when it comes to beaches, it can’t rival Budva’s expansive sands like Jaz or Mogren.
The town stretches along a 3 km promenade, with stone houses climbing up green hills, delivering local charm over tourist glitz. It’s not about flashy nightlife or packed resorts—unlike Budva’s high-energy scene—it’s for those who enjoy strolling through history, sipping coffee by the sea (€1.50-2), and taking in views that don’t demand a crowd. Far more affordable than Budva’s buzz, Herceg Novi keeps prices gentle—think rooms at €50-80/night versus Budva’s €90-220. Additionally, the location near the Croatian border is suitable for a visit to Dubrovnik from Montenegro, as it is only 50 kilometers away.
Top Things to See and Do in Herceg Novi
This town packs a lot into its compact frame. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss when sightseeing in Herceg Novi.
Old Town Herceg Novi: A Step Back in Time
The Old Town, or Stari Grad, is a maze of narrow streets and stone steps. It’s small—about 1 km²—but dense with history. Start at Sahat Kula (Clock Tower), a 17th-century relic from Ottoman days. Entry’s free, and it’s a quick 10-minute wander to take in the architecture.
Nearby, Trg Hercega Stjepana (Bellavista Square) is a shaded spot with cafés. A coffee costs €1.50-2, and it’s where locals linger. The old town’s charm isn’t overdone—some buildings show wear, but that’s part of its honest appeal.
Forte Mare: Fortress with a View
Forte Mare sits above the promenade, a short climb from the Old Town. Built in the 14th century and upgraded by Venetians, it’s €4 to enter. The 20-minute walk up rewards you with a panorama of the bay—I’ve seen travelers linger here just for the photos. In summer, it hosts open-air movie nights.
The stone walls are weathered, and paths can be uneven, so watch your step.
Kanli Kula: History Meets Drama
Higher up, Kanli Kula (“Bloody Tower”) is a 16th-century fortress turned amphitheater. Entry is €3, and it takes 30 minutes to explore. The name comes from its days as a prison—gruesome, sure, but the views soften the story. It’s 200 meters above sea level, and on clear days, you can spot Kotor’s mountains 45 km away.
We’ve driven guests here who rave about the mix of rugged stone and coastal vistas. It’s less polished than Forte Mare, but that’s its draw.
Savina Monastery: Peace and Gardens
A 2 km walk east (or 5-minute drive) from the center, Savina Monastery is a serene stop. Founded in the 11th century, it’s free to enter, though donations are welcome. The smaller church has 17th-century frescoes, and the grounds are dotted with flowers year-round. You’ll spend 30-45 minutes here, soaking in the calm.
The sea’s just 100 meters away—a short stroll to the shore.
Promenade and Pet Danica Walkway
The 3 km Pet Danica promenade runs along the coast, connecting Igalo to the Old Town. It’s flat, free, and lined with cafés. A seafood lunch—grilled fish with blitva—costs €12-16.
We often tell visitors to walk it at sunset. The pace is slow, and the views toward the bay’s entrance are uninterrupted.
Best Beaches in Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi isn’t a beach hotspot like Budva, but it has solid options. Here are the top picks for coastal relaxation.
Žalo Beach
Right in town, Žalo Beach stretches 300 meters along the promenade. It’s concrete and pebble, public, and free. There’s no rental gear, but cafés are steps away—perfect for a break.
Igalo Beach
A 1.5 km walk west (or 5-minute drive), Igalo Beach is 800 meters long, part sandy, part pebbly. It’s known for therapeutic mud—locals swear by it. It’s quieter than Žalo, with a few beach bars charging €3-5 for drinks.
Njivice Beach
Just 2 km northwest, Njivice is a 500-meter pebble stretch. It’s less central, so it feels more local. The shallow entry suits families, and parking’s €1-2/hour nearby.
Local Food and Dining in Herceg Novi
Exploring Herceg Novi attractions isn’t complete without tasting its food. The town’s coastal location means fresh seafood, while Balkan influences add hearty options. Here’s what to try.
Top Dishes
Riblja Čorba: A rich fish soup, often €5-7, packed with local catch. Grilled Octopus: Tender, served with olive oil and potatoes, around €12-15. Ćevapi: Balkan minced meat rolls with bread and onions, €6-8—a budget-friendly bite.
Where to Eat
Konoba Feral on Šetalište Pet Danica is a go-to for seafood—think mussels in garlic sauce for €10. Tri Lipe in the Old Town serves Balkan classics like grilled meats in a rustic setting, mains €8-12. Gradska Kafana, perched with the best elevated views of the bay, offers dishes like lamb under the bell (€15-18) and a relaxed vibe—we’ve sent guests here for the panorama alone.
Hidden Gems Near Herceg Novi
Beyond the main sights, Herceg Novi offers lesser-known spots for curious travelers.
Rose Village
A 15 km drive south to Luštica Peninsula, Rose is a tiny fishing village with stone houses and a pebbly beach. It’s quiet, with a café or two serving €2 coffee—perfect for a peaceful escape.
Mamula Island
Just 5 km offshore, this former fortress-turned-luxury-spot is reachable by boat trip from Herceg Novi (€15-20 round-trip from Herceg Novi). Tours are limited, but the views and history make it a unique stop.
Shopping and Souvenirs in Herceg Novi
For keepsakes, Herceg Novi has a few gems. The Old Town’s small shops sell handmade jewelry (€10-20) and olive wood carvings (€5-15)—great for gifts. Along the promenade, look for local honey (€8/jar) or rakija (€10/bottle). Bargaining isn’t common, but cash gets you better deals than cards.
Getting to Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi’s 115 km from Podgorica Airport (TGD), about a 2-hour drive through winding roads. Buses cost €7-10 and take 2.5-3 hours, but a Podgorica to Herceg Novi transfer cuts the hassle. From Tivat Airport (TIV), it’s 30 km—45 minutes by car.
Practical Tips for Visiting Herceg Novi
- Best Time: Any season works—summer’s warmest, off-season’s calm.
- Budget: €50-70/day covers food, transport, and fees. Guesthouses are €50-80/night, hotels €90-120.
- Packing: Comfy shoes for stone paths, light jacket for cooler nights.
- Getting Around: The town’s walkable, but a car (€30-50/day) or a Tivat to Herceg Novi transfer helps for beaches and nearby spots.
- Best Beaches: Žalo’s central, Igalo’s therapeutic, Njivice is local—pick by vibe.
Herceg Novi doesn’t overwhelm—it invites you to slow down.
Need a Handy Guide to Herceg Novi?
Get all the essentials—boat tours, taxis, hotels, and more—in one place. Download our free Herceg Novi Travel PDF with contacts and tips to make your trip seamless. No email needed, just click and go!
Dubrovnik from the boat – image by Montenegro Limo
Nearby Places to Visit from Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi’s location near the Bay of Kotor makes it a great base for day trips. Here are some top spots within reach.
Trebinje
Just 30 km northeast (45-minute drive) across the border in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Trebinje is a quaint town with a historic old bridge and riverside cafés. It’s less touristy than Dubrovnik, with wine tasting at nearby monasteries starting at €5.
Porto Novi
A 10 km drive southeast (20 minutes), Porto Novi is a luxury resort and marina on the bay. It’s perfect for a stroll among yachts or a upscale meal—expect mains from €15-20.
Dubrovnik
40 km northwest (1-hour drive, including border crossing), Dubrovnik’s UNESCO old town is a must-see. Walls entry is €35, but the views and Game of Thrones vibes are worth it. Plan extra time for border queues.
Blue Cave (Plava Špilja)
20 km south by boat (30-45 minutes from Herceg Novi harbor), the Blue Cave is a stunning sea grotto with glowing blue water. Boat tours from Herceg Novi cost €15-20, often paired with Mamula Island—bring a camera.
Igalo
2 km west (5-minute drive), Igalo is a spa town known for therapeutic mud baths. It’s a quick visit for relaxation, with treatments from €10.
Luštica Peninsula
15 km south (30-minute drive), Luštica offers quiet villages and Rose Beach. It’s a peaceful escape with homemade rakija at €2/shot in local konobas.
Kotor and Perast
45 km east (1-hour drive), Kotor’s historic old town and fortress, plus Perast’s island charm, are classics. Kotor’s fortress entry is €8, while Perast boat rides are €5.
Why Herceg Novi Over Other Coastal Towns?
Budva is 23 km away (40-minute drive) and louder, with nightlife and bigger beaches. Kotor, 45 km east (1-hour drive), has more tourists and a tighter old town. Herceg Novi sits between—less hectic, with its own rhythm. We’ve seen visitors pick it when they want history without the hype.
FAQ: Herceg Novi Travel Tips
- How far is Herceg Novi from Podgorica?
It’s 115 km, a 2-hour drive. Book a Podgorica to Herceg Novi transfer with us to beat the 2.5-3 hour bus ride. - How long does it take from Tivat to Herceg Novi?
About 45 minutes (30 km). Opt for our Tivat to Herceg Novi transfer for a quick trip. - What’s the best time to visit Herceg Novi?
Any time—summer’s busy and warm, off-season’s quiet and cool. - How much time do I need in Herceg Novi?
One day hits the Old Town and fortresses; two if you add beaches or Igalo. - What are the best beaches in Herceg Novi?
Žalo’s central, Igalo’s got healing mud, Njivice feels local—pick your style. - What’s near Herceg Novi to visit?
Igalo (2 km), Luštica (15 km), or Kotor (45 km)—all easy drives. - What’s the weather like in Herceg Novi?
Warm summers (30°C+/86°F+), mild winters (5-15°C/41-59°F)—check forecasts.
