Herceg Novi is a beautiful fortress town on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast at the western entrance to the Bay of Kotor. With a relaxed pace, this coastal town offers a refreshing alternative to the more tourist-heavy destinations in the region.
Is Herceg Novi worth visiting? Absolutely! Although it’s sometimes overshadowed by other towns in the vicinity like Kotor and nearby Dubrovnik in Croatia, whether you’re looking for relaxing swimming spots, historic sites, or great restaurants in Herceg Novi, this town is a pretty getaway that you’re sure to enjoy.
Here are some of the highlights and best things to do in Herceg Novi to help you plan your trip.
Things to do in Herceg Novi
You’ll be forgiven if all you decide to do during your trip is relax, swim and eat, but there are some fantastic historic sites and day trips that can elevate your time.
Watch the sunset from Forte Mare Fortress
Perched right by the sea, Forte Mare Fortress (translated as Sea Fortress) was built between the 14th and 17th centuries and guards the city entrance from the sea.
It’s impossible to miss as it climbs up from right by the main promenade towards the top of the old town, where it offers panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor. It was one of the main fortifications of the city and was restored by the Venetians in the 17th century.
One of the most memorable things to do in Herceg Novi is watch the sunset from Forte Mare. There’s a bridge leading from the main entrance to the fortress into the old town, and it’s a popular spot at dusk for people taking photos.
The fortress regularly hosts events including music nights and film screenings, so if you’re looking for things to do in Herceg Novi in the evening then check out the events website for up to date listings.
Take a boat tour to the famous Blue Cave
The Blue Cave, on the Lustica Peninsula is one of the most popular things to do in Herceg Novi for good reason. It’s a spectacular grotto with water that appears shimmering and illuminated as the sun hits.
Speedboats depart from numerous places in the area including from the Herceg Novi harbour and Zanjice beach and you’ll enjoy the coastline views on the way and historic sights including the Mamula Fortress.
You can go into the entrance of the the Blue Cave by boat, but the highlight is swimming and snorkelling, where it’s possible to see right to the bottom of the sea.
Sample a local beer on the old town steps
Halfway up the steep steps in the old town, I can guarantee if you’re visiting in summer then you’ll be in need of refreshment.
Pub Got is a great stop, surrounded by palms and greenery, with plenty of outdoor seating and views towards the harbour. It serves cold local beers and ales and has live music nights and friendly staff.
Visit the historic Savina Monastery
Nestled amongst the dense trees, Savina Monastery is the name of three churches just outside the main town. The Great Temple of the Assumption, the Church (or Temple) of St. Sava and the small Church of the Assumption make up the site, built between 1648 and 1841.
The monastery is open everyday from sunrise to sunset and they have morning and evening services at 6am and 6pm.
Walk through the Old Town
Herceg Novi’s Old Town is a maze of stone steps, narrow alleys, and photogenic corners. Climbing to the top is a bit of a workout especially in the summer, but it’s such a pretty area. Starting at the main promenade, you can walk up the stairs, passing some cute cafes and some of the most picturesque restaurants in Herceg Novi with pink bougainvillea creating shady walkways.
The old town is over 500 years old and is surrounded by a wall which was built between the XIV to XIX centuries.
Visit the monument to King Stefan Tvrtko
Right by the harbour is the impressive monument to the founder of the city.
Made in Zagreb by Dragoljub and Miodrag Dimitrijevic the statue was installed in 2013. Tvrtko I was the king of Bosnia, Dalmacia and Croatia during his reign of 1353-1391. Now he stands watch over the harbour and the 5.6m tall statue welcomes ships, sailors, and tourists at the city port.
Sample Montenegrin Wine at Castel Savina
A short walk from the monastery brings you to Castel Savina, a picturesque vineyard, home to some of the best regional wines. The vineyard dates back to 2014 and now they have two hectares with numerous grape varieties including Shiraz, Merlot, Grenache and one indigenous white varietal, Žižak.
Visits have to be booked online and include an introduction to our winery’s history, a walk through the cellars and vineyard and a curated tasting alongside local delicacies.
Visit Belavista Square and the Serbian Orthodox Church
Belavista Square is one of the most picturesque corners of the old town of Herceg Novi. The central spot is the Serbian Orthodox Church – Saint. Michael Archangel – built between 1883 and 1905.
It’s surrounded by restaurants and cafes as well as artists showcasing their work at pop up stalls. It’s a lovely spot to come at dusk, as the sun peeks around the buildings and locals stop for a quick coffee or wine at some of the nearby bars. You’ll also get the chance to hear the bells chiming out from the church tower.
Eat some fresh local seafood with a view
Almost all of the restaurants in Herceg Novi serve up delicious seafood and trying some local dishes is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
A favourite spot of mine was Konoba Skver which has tables right by the water. Owned by a local fisherman, it has some wonderful fresh catch of the day options, as well as giant salted anchovies and a good selection of local wines.
Walk along the promenade to the marina
The promenade of Herceg Novi, also known as the Pet Danica Promenade, is a 6-7 kilometer long walkway stretching from Igalo to Meljine. Along the walkway is the Lazure Hotel & Marina – one of the nicest hotels in the region with a private beach and some lovely in house restaurants that are open to the public.
The promenade goes along the coast and has plenty of places to stop for ice creams, coffees or a glass of wine or two. It’s wide enough for pushchairs/wheelchairs and it’s a popular spot for runners in the cooler hours.
Herceg Novi Old Town is great to view from a distance and it’s lovely when you’re walking back towards town and get the views of the historic walls and fortress. Also, if you’re someone looking for cheap holidays and opportunities to save money then it’s a great free activity to do in the area.
Jet2 holidays offer holidays to Montenegro with flights from London Stansted Airport to both Dubrovnik and Kotor. Check out the flights to Dubrovnik with Jet2 here.
