Robb Report Monaco & Côte d’Azur and WAWW Guide reveal the best places to eat, play and sleep in the Adriatic’s most enchanting destination.
A jewel of the Adriatic, Montenegro is an excellent choice for an autumn getaway, with sun-drenched days, sparkling waters, and a rich tapestry of history. Beyond its stunning scenery, recent luxury developments like Porto Montenegro and Lustica Bay have transformed the region, offering options for sophisticated leisure alongside the timeless charm of the local scene.
Where to eat
MayaBay, Porto Montenegro
MayaBay Porto Montenegro draws inspiration from the dreamy island destination of Maya Bay in Thailand. The tropical influence is apparent in the MayaBay design, which is soft, elegant, and refined, blending traditional and contemporary Asian elements. The cuisine features Japanese and Thai fusion dishes. The drinks menu includes curated wine, sake, and tea selections that complement the Asian dishes. MayaBay is conveniently located in the luxury waterfront village of Porto Montenegro. It overlooks the stunning Boka Bay and boasts a state-of-the-art superyacht marina.
Ćatovića Mlini, Morinj
Located in Morinj village, halfway between Herceg Novi and Kotor, Ćatovića Mlini boasts a unique history. This former mill, transformed by the Ćatović family over 200 years ago, is now one of Montenegro’s finest restaurants.
Rustic charm complements the diverse Mediterranean menu, featuring fresh seafood alongside regional specialities like homemade cheese and prosciutto. An impressive wine list offers interesting local and international options, catering to every taste.
During summer, the outdoor terrace is a great place to enjoy hearty local dishes, soaking up the sunshine while gentle breezes cool you. In winter, blankets ensure cosy outdoor dining for those who prefer al fresco dining year-round.
Reaching Ćatovića Mlini requires a short car trip or a scenic boat journey—a small price to pay for an unforgettable evening.
Bokka Modern, Porto Montenegro
Located in the heart of the upscale Porto Montenegro Yachting Marina, Bokka is a contemporary bistro that celebrates the vibrant flavours of the Balkans.
Bokka offers a contemporary take on the often overlooked culinary treasures of the Balkans, a region with a rich gastronomic heritage influenced by Austrian, Greek, Italian and Ottoman traditions. Bokka Modern is committed to local and sustainable sourcing, whether from the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic or the fertile valleys of the Balkans.
The place is famous for its high-calorie breakfasts, with a generous spread of local cheeses, cured meats and warm breads, complemented by the rich flavours of kajmak and ajvar. Bokka’s Catch of the Day, served crudo, is a hit with seafood lovers. No visit to Bokka is complete without tasting the signature brodet, a hearty seafood stew full of Mediterranean flavours. The extensive wine list has been carefully curated to complement the menu and offer a taste of the diversity of the local viticulture.
Luca, Luštica Bay
Luca Restaurant in Luštica Bay offers a contemporary twist on traditional Montenegrin cuisine. Using only the finest organic, locally sourced ingredients, the restaurant creates a luxurious dining experience that honors the country’s culinary heritage.
The interior beautifully blends modern design with traditional Montenegrin charm, while the outdoor setting is simply breathtaking. Indulge in classic dishes like steak in oil or red wine sauce, or savor the renowned slow-cooked lamb. Pair your meal with a glass of exceptional local Vranac wine for a truly authentic experience.
To finish on a sweet note, be sure to try the homemade apple pie with vanilla ice cream.
Forza Kuk, Kotor Bay
Perched atop the Bay of Kotor, Forza Kuk offers a dining experience that is as much about the ambience as it is about the food. Located at the top of the cable car ride from the sea to the Lovcen Mountains, the restaurant offers diners breathtaking panoramic views of one of Montenegro’s most picturesque landscapes. The ride itself is an adventure, climbing 3,900 metres in just 11 minutes.
Once at the top, guests are treated to a culinary journey that combines traditional Montenegrin flavours with modern cooking techniques. The menu is a celebration of local produce, with an array of fresh seafood, homemade cheeses and prosciutto. Desserts are a standout, with a variety of handmade ice creams, cakes, cookies and the famous bureks. The interactive food stations, including a bakery and Balkan grill, add an element of entertainment to the dining experience, while the extensive wine list ensures there is a perfect match for every dish.
Forza Kuk’s commitment to year-round dining, with both cosy indoor and scenic outdoor seating, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to savour the essence of Montenegro’s culinary heritage in any season.
Where to play
Nikki Beach, Bay of Tivat
Sun-drenched days, pulsating beats, and endless celebrations—that’s the magic of Nikki Beach. Nikki Beach clubs around the world are playgrounds for jetsetters, celebrities, and anyone who wants to live life to the fullest.
It’s famous for legendary parties and iconic DJ sets. The menu is full of international delights, with some sushi and Mediterranean staples. Nikki Beach’s signature style is white plush sunbeds and luxurious cabanas. It’s family-friendly, too: while adults unwind, little ones can splash around in their dedicated pool area.
Ribarsko Selo, Lustica Peninsula
Perched on the northern coast of Montenegro’s Lustica Peninsula, Ribarsko Selo offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Montenegrin life.
This charming fishing village caters to a variety of tastes, boasting a deluxe apartment with a Jacuzzi and private swimming pool for those seeking luxury. For a more rustic vibe, five bungalows lie hidden amidst pine trees. Each bungalow features an intimate terrace, perfect for soaking in the sea views.
Freshness is a cornerstone of Ribarsko Selo’s experience. Every day, between 11 and 12 AM, local fishermen arrive with their bounty of freshly caught fish and seafood. The restaurant prepares culinary specialties using fresh ingredients, including organically grown vegetables from the nearby garden.
Ribarsko Selo’s appeal extends beyond its great views and gourmet fresh food.For those seeking relaxation, massage treatments are available. Active travellers can explore the nearby beaches of Mirište and Žanjice, renowned for their beauty, by renting a kayak. If you’re visiting on a Friday, be sure to catch one of Ribarsko Selo’s lively cabaret nights. The village also boasts its own pier, allowing for a convenient arrival by boat.
Ramla Beach, Lustica Bay
Ramla Beach is the perfect mix of laid-back vibes and energetic fun. It’s a place to soak up the sun, dance to live music, or simply unwind with a good book. Imagine weekend afternoons with live bands and acoustic sets, or cosy movie nights under the stars. There’s a real Ibiza feel here, but with a touch of bohemian elegance.
If you’re after action, there’s paddleboarding, kayaking, and even e-foiling. But if relaxation is your thing, you can while away the hours in a cabana or on a swinging daybed, sipping on something refreshing and munching on fruit. The food here is seriously good too, with stunning views to boot. It’s the ideal spot for a special celebration.
Tucked away in an olive grove, the bar and terrace are perfect for people-watching and enjoying a expertly made cocktail.
Ramla Beach has a lovely story. Born out of a quiet winter, it was created to be a place full of positivity and joy. Now it’s a spot for the whole family to enjoy, with something for everyone.
Where to sleep
Mamula island, Bay of Kotor
Steeped in history, Mamula Island, a tiny emerald teardrop in Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, has undergone a dramatic metamorphosis. Once a stoic Austro-Hungarian fortress guarding the entrance in the mid-19th century, it has been transformed into an exclusive hotel.
Accessible by both sea and sky (guests can arrive by helicopter), Mamula Island sheds its past as a wartime prison. The meticulously restored fort now pulsates with a new life as an opulent boutique hotel boasting just 32 exquisite rooms.
The island’s crown jewel is a state-of-the-art spa with treatments like floatation therapy and halotherapy chambers, traditional yoga, and ancient healing ceremonies.
Regent Porto Montenegro, Tivat
Regent Porto Montenegro sits in the heart of Porto Montenegro village,where guests can explore the vibrant shops and restaurants right on their doorstep.
This spectacular waterfront property, designed by Parisian architect Tino Zervudachi, pays homage to the region’s Venetian heritage. Inspired by Venetian Renaissance architecture, the chic and sleek building is cleverly divided by a stunning open-air pool club.
The hotel boasts 175 luxurious rooms, suites, and residences, each featuring a balcony overlooking the breathtaking vistas of Boka Bay. The nautical theme flows subtly throughout the décor, with wood accents and a calming colour palette of blue, cream, and beige fabrics. Linen canopies above the beds add a whimsical touch, resembling billowing sails.
Outside, the central, double-height atrium, with expansive views of the sea, leads out into a tranquil water garden. The ground floor offers a variety of dining and entertainment options, including a café, restaurant, library, and bar. For ultimate relaxation, there is a choice between the indoor or outdoor swimming pool, or a day in the spa featuring a hammam.
The sprawling Pool Club offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere – the perfect place to soak up the beauty of Boka Bay.
One&Only Portonovi
Europe’s first One&Only resort in Portonovi offers a luxurious escape beside the glistening Adriatic Sea. One&Only Portonovi occupies a resplendent setting at the entrance of Boka Bay, a fjord-like idyll on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast. It’s part of the newly built Portonovi marina resort, nestled at the mouth of Kotor Bay. This location is fantastic for exploring the region. You can take a scenic drive or sail up Kotor Bay, a meandering inlet framed by rugged mountains, to the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor and the tiny village of Perast, with its two church-crowned islets.
One&Only Portonovi offers a contemporary take on Venetian architecture. Picture arcaded buildings in pastel hues and unabashedly plush interiors designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates. The grand lobby boasts sweeping views down to the deep blue bay. Grey marble floors are adorned with antique Persian rugs, and a modern bronze-boulder fountain adds a touch of whimsy.
The resort’s Chenot Espace medical spa is a destination in itself. For food and beverage, La Veranda serves up renowned Montenegrin recipes. Alternatively, head to the poolside Tapasake Club for a taste of Asian fusion cuisine. Sabia by Giorgia Locatelli offers mouthwatering rustic Italian fare, while Caminetti is the place to be for cocktails with a view.
Hotel La Roche, Tivat
Nestled in the heart of Tivat, Montenegro, Hotel La Roche presents a fusion of luxury and local charm. This family-owned boutique hotel, managed by the Pekovic family, stands out with its unique white Brač stone facade, reminiscent of a rock formation, which is fittingly reflected in its name. With only nine apartments and twelve rooms, the hotel offers an intimate and exclusive experience, spread over an area of 1,320 square metres. Guests can indulge in the panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor from the hotel’s infinity pool or enjoy the vibrant local scene along the marina and promenade.
The rooftop bar and restaurant provide a perfect backdrop for sunset drinks, while the gourmet cuisine, with a focus on local ingredients and Mediterranean flavours, promises a delightful dining experience. The hotel’s signature dish, black cuttlefish risotto, is a testament to its commitment to quality and tradition, offering guests a taste of Montenegrin culinary artistry under the stars.
Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa, Igalo
Situated in the quaint town of Igalo, Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa is an oasis of luxury and tranquillity. It’s conveniently located near the beach and the old town, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.
With 204 well-appointed rooms, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, complemented by a host of modern comforts. The hotel’s extensive facilities, including a private beach, several swimming pools and a comprehensive fitness and business centre, cater for both leisure and business guests.
The culinary journey is equally impressive, with a buffet-style main restaurant and a la carte option on the roof terrace, where the menu features the stunning Boka Kotorska backdrop. The spa centre, with its mineral water pool, steam bath, sauna and a range of therapeutic treatments, promises a rejuvenating experience for those seeking a peaceful escape.
Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa is a great example of a hotel that offers a holistic experience, combining relaxation, luxury and the allure of Montenegrin hospitality.
