2025 Bijela Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Ultimate Balkan Peninsula Travel Guide covering Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania, blending luxury experiences with in-depth exploration. Budget references included at the end. --- **Trip Highlights** **🏰 Cultural Epic Route** **Mostar** (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Exclusive early-morning photography rights at the Old Bridge, experience Ottoman-era coppersmith workshops **Sarajevo** (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Private guided tour near Latin Bridge uncovering WWI history, VIP explanation at the War Tunnel Museum **Bay of Kotor** (Montenegro): Midnight climb to the city walls for stargazing, private yacht exploration of the Blue Cave **🌿 Natural Wonders Chapter** **Durmitor National Park** (Montenegro): Helicopter aerial view of Black Lake, stay in forest treehouse hotels **Perast** (Montenegro): Chartered boat to Our Lady of the Rocks Island, exclusive access to the 16th-century church **🍷 Gourmet Luxury List** **Novi Sad** (Serbia): Century-old cellar tasting at Petrus Winery, Michelin-recommended Project 72 by the Danube **Zemun** (Serbia): Private dining at Saran Restaurant, savoring premium Danube sturgeon caviar --- **Top Accommodation Picks** 1. **Kotor, Montenegro** - **One&Only Portonovi** • The only six-star resort on the Adriatic, featuring private beaches + ESPA Spa • Reference rate: €1,500/night 2. **Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina** - **Hotel Mepas** • Infinity pool suspended over the Neretva River Canyon, executive suites with Old Bridge viewing terraces • Reference rate: €700/night 3. **Belgrade, Serbia** - **Square Nine Hotel** • Member of Relais & Châteaux, rooftop lounge overlooking Saint Sava Temple • Reference rate: €900/night --- **Exclusive Experience List** - **Sarajevo**: Intimate "Coffee & Stories" dinner hosted by Bosnian War survivors (€150/person) - **Budva Old Town**: Hire an archaeologist for a guided tour of 15th-century Venetian walls (€300/3 hours) - **Albania**: Jeep expedition through Theth to Valbona's hidden trails, picnic with freshly made shepherd’s cheese --- **Aesthetic Moments Guide** **🌅 Best Photography Spots** • Silhouette of divers at Mostar Old Bridge (daily at 14:00 in summer) • Morning mist over Perast’s twin islands (arrive at western reefs by 5:30) • "Tears of Tara River" waterfall in Durmitor National Park (best at noon when sunlight pierces the water curtain) **🎨 Artistic Easter Eggs** • "Invisible Sculpture" at Novi Sad’s Liberty Square: Touch bronze poetry plates to trigger light installations • Kotor Bay’s Shipwreck Bar: A 1940s warship wreck transformed into an underwater bar --- **One-Week Budget Reference (Luxury Edition)** | Category | Cost (EUR) | Details | |---------------------|-------------|------------------------------| | Round-trip Int’l Flights | 2,500 | Business class direct to Belgrade/Dubrovnik | | 7 Nights Luxury Hotels | 7,000 | Includes signature suites & butler service | | Private Transfers/Helicopter | 3,500 | Cross-border Mercedes V-Class + Kotor Bay helicopter tour | | Michelin & Private Dining | 1,800 | Winery VIP tastings + live seafood cooking at fish markets | | Exclusive Guides & Experiences | 2,000 | Includes war historians/artists as companions | | **Total** | **17,000** | Better value for two travelers | --- **Pro Tips** 1. Border Optimization: Travel counterclockwise from Belgrade to avoid Montenegro-Albania land border congestion 2. Seasonal Key: Visit in May or September to avoid crowds and enjoy lavender/grape harvest seasons 3. Hidden Perk: American Express Black Card holders can request special underground concerts at Lipa Cave, Montenegro For customized daily itineraries or special requests (e.g., castle proposals, film location tours), in-depth planning services are available. This land’s beauty lies in its untamed romance and profound history—may you encounter moments more captivating than *Lonely Planet*’s pages.

【National Day】: July 13 【Capital】: Podgorica 【Famous Cities】: Budva, Bar, Nikšić, etc. 【Continent】: Europe, Southeastern Europe Balkan Peninsula 【Population】: 622,000 【Language】: Montenegrin 【Area】: 13,800 square kilometers 【Religion】: Eastern Orthodox 【Government】: Parliamentary Republic 【GDP per Capita】: $8,761 【Currency】: Euro 【Exchange Rate】: 1 CNY = 0.1284 EUR 【Visa】: Visa-free with a valid Schengen visa 【Flights】: No direct flights; connections available via multiple European cities 【Attractions】: Sveti Stefan Island, Lake Skadar, Budva Old Town, Tara River, Kotor Bay and Old Town, Durmitor National Park, etc. 【Cuisine】: Pršut smoked ham, Sir cheese, Mediterranean seafood grill, Vranac red wine aged in walnut barrels Shared from Brother Xi's "Geography Mini-Class"

✨ Discover a lesser-known but stunning destination in the Balkans—Kotor! This small town in Montenegro is truly a "hidden gem" of Europe! 🏞 No need for group tours or visas! 🏰 Here, azure fjords are embraced by towering mountains, ancient walls are draped in ivy, and cobblestone streets still bear the footprints of the Middle Ages... It feels like stepping into a fairytale! 🏰✨ 📍 Old Town of Kotor Stepping into the Old Town feels like traveling back to the Middle Ages! 🏰 Cobblestone streets, ancient churches, and weathered walls make every snapshot Instagram-worthy! 📸 Don’t miss the St. Tryphon Cathedral with its iconic twin towers—it’s a must-see! 📍 Bay of Kotor Known as "the southernmost fjord in Europe," this place is absolutely breathtaking! 🌊 The azure waters surrounded by mountains make for a perfect boat tour experience! 🚤 It’s best to visit in the evening when the sunset casts a romantic glow over the water. 📍 Mount Lovćen For hiking enthusiasts, this is a must-visit! 🏞 From the summit, you’ll get an unobstructed panoramic view of the entire Bay of Kotor! 🏔 Though the climb can be tiring, the view at the top makes it all worthwhile! 📍 Local Cuisine When in Kotor, seafood is a must! 🦐 Check out a seaside restaurant called "Galion"—the views are amazing, and the seafood platter is fresh and delicious! 🍤 Don’t forget to try Montenegro’s local specialty, grilled meat—it’s worth a taste!

"Tears of the Adriatic" refers to this place! Although Montenegro is only 13,800 square kilometers (smaller than Beijing), it boasts fjords, snow-capped mountains, ancient cities, and blue lakes, all visa-free for Chinese passports! [Must-do Trio] 1️⃣ Bay of Kotor: A fjord resembling a coiled dragon. Take a yacht past the "Blue Window" cliff. The old town has more cats than tourists. Climb the 1,500 steps of the ancient city wall to overlook the entire sapphire bay. 2️⃣ Durmitor National Park: 18 glacial lakes strung together like pearls. The Black Lake resembles an overturned palette, and the golden pine forests in autumn are stunning. 3️⃣ Budva: Super exciting beach parties. Sunset cocktails at the cliffside bars are the best. [Hidden Gems] ✔️ Take a small train through the Tara River Canyon (Europe's deepest canyon). ✔️ Search for sunken treasures on Perast Island. ✔️ Enjoy freshly caught Adriatic red shrimp, seafood feast for around 100 per person. ✈️Tips: Self-driving from Serbia/Croatia is super convenient. Small cars are recommended due to the mountainous roads. PS: This is also a secret vacation spot for Europeans. Go now before it gets crowded with tourists!

#MarchGoodPlaces2025 Kotor is a famous tourist resort city in Montenegro. Thousands of tourists come here for sightseeing and vacation every day. This time I will introduce a travel guide to Kotor. Discover a rare but beautiful place in the Balkans - Kotor! This small town hidden in Montenegro is simply a "hidden" travel destination in Europe! Traveling with a group is also visa-free! Here, the blue fjord is surrounded by mountains, the ancient city walls are covered with vines, and medieval footprints are still left on the stone roads... It feels like walking into a fairy tale world. Kotor Old Town As soon as you enter the ancient city, it feels like you have traveled back to the Middle Ages! The cobblestone roads, ancient churches, and mottled city walls, every shot is a blockbuster! It's a great place to take photos, especially St. Tryphon's Cathedral. The twin tower design is very cool, don't miss it! Kotor Fjord This place is called "the southernmost fjord in Europe", it is really beautiful! The turquoise waters are surrounded by mountains, and a boat trip is simply a pleasure! Business hours: Come in the evening, the sunset shines on the sea, very romantic! Lovcen Overlooking the entire Bay of Kotor from the top of the mountain, the view is unobstructed! Although it is a bit tiring to climb up, it is all worth it when you see the scenery!

Introducing Kotor Bay in Montenegro! ! I was captivated by the crystal clear sea and nature, and I lost track of time for about an hour. The contrast between the mountains and Kotor Bay is truly beautiful. It's not a very large area for a tourist spot, so I think you can enjoy it in 4 to 6 hours! Tips for visiting ☑️ About access I took a day trip by bus from Dubrovnik in Croatia. It's a little difficult to get to on your own, so I recommend signing up for a tour! Please go and check it out! ! #0 yen trip February 2025

Kotor Bay, located in the southwestern part of Montenegro, is a butterfly-shaped bay extending into Montenegro from the Adriatic Sea. Known for its deep fjords, rich history and culture, and stunning natural scenery, it has been recognized by UNESCO as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Surrounded by towering mountains, Kotor Bay boasts breathtaking natural landscapes. The bay is home to many well-preserved medieval towns, ancient cities, churches, and bell towers, creating a unique blend of natural and man-made beauty. Among them, the ancient city of Kotor is a gem on this coastline and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city walls, built in the 9th century, encircle the entire ancient city, forming an impressive defensive barrier. Climbing the walls offers a panoramic view of the city and the Adriatic Sea, allowing visitors to enjoy the magnificent coastal scenery. In addition to the ancient city, the surrounding area of Kotor Bay features numerous beautiful beaches, towns, and islands. The town of Perast is one of the most picturesque ancient towns in the bay, with many Baroque-style palaces and churches, exuding an artistic atmosphere. Islands like Tivat and St. George attract visitors with their tranquility and mystery. Here, you can take a boat tour and experience the serene and mysterious ambiance, as if entering a forgotten world. Kotor Bay is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy activities such as rowing, sailing, and kayaking, feeling the gentle breeze on your face. Additionally, the underwater world of Kotor Bay is uniquely charming, with many coral reefs and diverse marine life, making it an excellent choice for diving enthusiasts. In Kotor Bay, you can also savor authentic local cuisine. The seafood here is fresh and delicious, especially the local specialty pizza and wine, which leave a lasting impression. In the small towns and restaurants along the way, you can fully enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Kotor, Montenegro, the "Cat City" surrounded by ancient city walls, is definitely a niche and fresh experience! Not only is there a magnificent Great Wall, but also the southernmost fjord in Europe, the Bay of Kotor, which is so beautiful that Lonely Planet has praised it as "one of the most beautiful bays in the world"! The ancient city of Kotor was built in the Middle Ages and was an important port of the Venetian Republic. The old city is surrounded by a 4.5-kilometer-long city wall. Climb to the top of the city wall and overlook the entire Bay of Kotor, absolutely stunning! British poet Byron once exclaimed: "This is the most perfect masterpiece of nature and mankind." Tips for the Great Wall: Challenge 1350 steps: Start from the old city, ticket price is 15 euros, the whole journey takes 2-3 hours, climb up the winding Great Wall, and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the sea and the old city, take a photo and post it on your social media, you will definitely get a lot of likes! Tito's Gate: This is the main entrance to the Great Wall, named after the Yugoslav leader Tito, and the slogan on the gate "Not mine, don't want it, mine, absolutely not give it!" is full of the style of an iron-fisted leader. The date above is also the date of the liberation of Kotor after World War II. Fjord activities: Boat tour: Take a boat tour into the Bay of Kotor and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the surrounding mountains. You can also visit the Blue Cave, which feels like you are in a Nordic fjord. Fjord hiking: Hike along the coastline and enjoy the stunning scenery of the azure sea and the emerald mountains. Take a photo and post it on your social media, you will definitely get a lot of likes! Summer is the paradise for European handsome guys and beautiful girls. Food recommendations: Montenegrin grilled meat platter: A paradise for meat lovers, with generous portions and local red wine, it's a blast! Seafood risotto: Fresh seafood from the Bay of Kotor, paired with fragrant rice, every bite is a burst of happiness! Absolutely Venetian flavor. Accommodation and transportation: Accommodation: There are many characteristic guesthouses in the old city, with affordable prices and the sound of waves at night. Don't miss the sunrise and sunset. Transportation: You can take a bus from the capital of Montenegro, Podgorica, or Dubrovnik, Croatia, which is convenient and affordable. Tips: Remember to bring water and sunscreen when climbing the Great Wall, don't be sunburned into a "Black Mountain" person! Don't forget to take a photo with the city's cats, they are the "mascots" of Kotor! There is also a cat museum.

A trip to the Bay of Kotor and the town of Kotor is a journey into one of the most picturesque and historically rich regions of Montenegro. As you approach the Bay of Kotor, the stunning scenery immediately captures your attention. Upon arriving in Kotor, you are greeted by the sight of the well-preserved medieval town nestled at the foot of the mountains. One of the highlights of visiting Kotor is climbing the fortress walls to the top of the hill. The hike is steep and challenging, but the panoramic views of the bay and the town below are well worth the effort. As you ascend, you pass by ancient fortifications and small chapels, each offering a unique perspective of the landscape. #europetrip

Tivat, Montenegro: Discover the Shining Pearl of the Balkans 🌊🏰 Tivat, a coastal town in southwestern Montenegro, is known for its charming natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and unique coastal style. As one of Montenegro's main tourist cities, Tivat not only boasts beautiful beaches and clear waters, but also has a long history and unique architecture that attracts visitors from all over the world. 1️⃣ Bay of Kotor 🌊 The Bay of Kotor is one of the most famous attractions around Tivat, with its charming sea views and rich historical sites. Take a boat ride through the ancient cities in the bay, admire the ancient city walls and castles, and feel the weight of history and the vicissitudes of time. Standing on the Kotor city walls, overlooking the entire bay, is a breathtaking experience. 2️⃣ Tivat Old Port 🚢 Tivat Old Port is the heart of the city, where a variety of yachts and fishing boats are moored, creating a unique coastal landscape. Stroll through the streets and alleys of the old port, and you can enjoy the colorful houses and bustling street life. Here, you can taste the local seafood and feel the gifts of the ocean. 3️⃣ Sveti Stefan Island 🏝️ Sveti Stefan Island is a shining pearl near Tivat, and the entire island is contracted by Aman Hotel, making it a luxurious resort. Although you need a reservation and a guide to get on the island, the beautiful scenery and tranquil atmosphere are definitely worth a try. On the island, you can enjoy the leisurely time on the beach or experience the high-end services and facilities in the hotel. 4️⃣ Tivat Marina ⛵ Tivat Marina is a highlight of the city, where a variety of yachts and sailboats are moored, creating a beautiful coastal landscape. Stroll along the marina, admire the elegant yachts and the magnificent sea views, and be enchanted. If you are interested in sailing, you can also participate in yacht sailing activities and feel the speed and passion of the sea. 5️⃣ Durmitor National Park 🌲 Although Durmitor National Park is a certain distance from Tivat, the natural scenery here is definitely worth the drive. The park has magnificent canyons, clear lakes, and dense forests, making it a great place for hiking and adventure. Here, you can enjoy the embrace of nature and feel the power and beauty of life. 6️⃣ Food Tour 🍴 Tivat's food is also a highlight, with its seafood and local specialties making your mouth water. Try the local grilled fish and sausages and experience Montenegro's unique food culture. In addition, you can also taste the local wine and beer, adding a rich taste to your food tour. In Tivat, you can enjoy the leisurely time by the sea and feel the unique charm of the city. Whether you are strolling through the streets and alleys or taking a boat trip to explore, you will be filled with joy and memories.

If you're looking for a natural retreat away from the crowds in Montenegro, Vrmac Hill is the perfect choice. Located between the Bay of Kotor and Tivat, this mountain offers tranquil forest trails and stunning bay views, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts! 🚶‍♂️ Perfect for Hiking: Experience the Wild Beauty Vrmac Hill offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy flat paths to more challenging mountain routes, catering to different fitness levels. Along the way, you'll pass through dense pine forests, with soft pine needles underfoot and the fresh scent of wood in the air, as if entering a primeval world. Climb halfway up the mountain and look back at the Bay of Kotor, and you'll be greeted by a breathtakingly serene and magnificent seascape. 🌄 Sunrise and Sunset: A Photographer's Dream The best viewing point on Vrmac Hill is at the top, especially for capturing sunrises or sunsets. As the sun rises or sets, the soft light bathes the bay and mountains in a warm golden hue. Every photo taken here is a natural masterpiece. 🏰 Historical Ruins: Forgotten Castles in the Mountains During your hike, you'll come across some interesting historical ruins, including remnants of old castles and fortresses. These ruins seem to tell ancient stories, revealing the passage of time, and are particularly appealing to adventurous visitors. 🌿 Immerse Yourself in Tranquility: Escape the Urban Hustle Vrmac Hill is rarely disturbed by tourists, making it an ideal place for self-reflection and contemplation. Apart from the gentle mountain breeze and the chirping of birds, you'll hardly hear any other sounds. Here, you can truly feel embraced by nature and temporarily leave your worries behind. 🌟 Tips • Gear Recommendations: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring enough water and snacks. • Hiking Routes: It's recommended to choose hiking routes starting from Kotor or Tivat, as they offer diverse scenery and easier access to parking spots. • Best Seasons: Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and more beautiful scenery. On Vrmac Hill, every step is a conversation with nature. There's no urban noise here, only the sound of nature's breath, allowing you to truly calm down and enjoy the present moment.

#travellerswonderland Cruising through the Bay of Kotor was an unforgettable experience! This stunning fjord-like bay in Montenegro is surrounded by towering mountains and charming medieval towns. The boat ride cost around €25 per person, and it was worth every cent. We stopped by the beautiful town of Perast, where we visited the island church, Our Lady of the Rocks (€5 entrance fee), and admired the views of the bay. As the boat glided through the crystal-clear waters, I couldn’t stop taking photos—the scenery was just too beautiful. The highlight was entering Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its ancient city walls and cobbled streets. I highly recommend walking up to the Kotor Fortress for panoramic views, though it’s quite a climb! The peaceful atmosphere of the bay and the mix of history and nature make this a must-visit spot. #BayofKotor #MontenegroMagic #CruisingTheAdriatic #KotorViews #MediterraneanEscape #TravelGoals

Beautiful view of Bay of kotor. This is along the way from Bosnia to Montenegro crossing border. Peaceful serene

#myhiddengems Nestled in a stunning fjord, Kotor is a medieval town with breathtaking views and a rich history. Wander through its narrow, winding streets, explore ancient fortifications, and relax by the shimmering waters of Kotor Bay. This hidden gem combines natural beauty with historical intrigue, making it a captivating spot on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast.

A fjord is a geographical concept, referring to a special landform formed by seawater flooding into a canyon. Kotor Fjord is located in the southwest of Montenegro on the Adriatic Sea and is one of the most beautiful fjords in the world. The Kotor Fjord is interwoven by four bays surrounded by two land masses, forming a deep fjord shaped like a butterfly. The narrowest part is only 340 meters, with towering peaks on both sides reaching up to 1500 meters, and a length of 32 kilometers. The bay is composed of several small bays connected by narrow passages, making it a natural sheltered harbor and one of the best natural ports in Europe. At the same time, it is also the most beautiful fjord in Southern Europe and a highly attractive tourist resort in Montenegro. The natural scenery of Kotor Fjord is clear and bright, surrounded by mountains, with deep and blue seawater that can accommodate large cruise ships. Enjoying the fjord scenery from a boat is ever-changing and full of charm!

#myhiddengems Compared to my previous holiday in Kotor more than a decade ago. The tourist numbers have really gone up. But that can be said about most of montenegro in the last couple of years. Having said so, Kotor was still the stunning little town with gorgeous views that I can recollect. It has a rich culture and heritage. The town has been part of the scene since the middle ages. This 2000 year old town is also unesco heritage. The Bay of Kotor is rich in hidden beaches, while some of the most beautiful ones are even walking distance from the old town. Famous beaches are: Bajova Kula, Orahovac, Risan, Perast and the main beach of Kotor, which starts from the center of Kotor. A day trip to the village of Njeguši, ancient Cetinje, together with Lovćen and Skadar National Park is an ideal way to enhance your overall understanding of Montenegro history. The ideal The ideal day trip from Kotor is one of the most beautiful cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, called Mostar. #myhiddengems #100waysoftravel #beachlife #cherryblossom2024 #montenegroseaside #europe #nature

#hiddengems My trip to Kotor, Montenegro, was absolutely magical. The old town's cobblestone streets and historic charm made every stroll a journey through time. Climbing to the San Giovanni Fortress offered stunning panoramic views of the shimmering Bay of Kotor. The local cuisine was a delight, with fresh seafood and delicious regional specialties. A boat tour to the enchanting Church of Our Lady of the Rocks added a unique touch to the adventure. The combination of natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals made Kotor an extraordinary destination. It's a place where every corner has a story and every view is a postcard. I can't wait to return and explore more of this captivating coastal gem.

The Bay of Kotor, also known as Boka Kotorska, is one of the most stunning and well-preserved natural areas in Montenegro, located in the southwestern part of the country along the Adriatic Sea.The Bay of Kotor is often mistaken for a fjord due to its dramatic cliffs and deep waters, but it is actually a ria, a submerged river canyon.The bay is surrounded by steep mountains and has numerous small, picturesque towns and villages along its coastline. The waters are crystal clear, making it a popular spot for sailing and other water activities.

#EuropeanTravel #BayofKotor #Montenegro The Bay of Kotor consists of several small and wide bays, connected by narrow channels, and is one of the most sophisticated ports in Europe. The bay's back is formally a river system, but very violent tectonic movements and karstification have separated this river. On the outermost part of the bay are the Bay of Tivat and a small military port, and the Bay of Herceg Novi on the sea side is the inlet of the Bay of Kotor. A little further in, to the northwest, is the Bay of Lisan. On the land side, a long wall extends from the fortified old city to the Palace of St. John, and the desolate highlands of Mount Oren are covered with small fortresses. The calm sea of ​​the fjord coast boasts a very unfamiliar but wonderful landscape.

Montenegro, facing Italy across the sea and Albania across the lake. The warm and humid air flow in winter makes the coast of Montenegro warmer than the inland. Whether in Kotor or Budva, it rarely drops to 0℃. Some people describe the Bay of Kotor as "God used six days to create humans, and the remaining one day to create the Bay of Kotor."