The best time to visit Montenegro is in spring and early autumn. Summer is a popular option, just keep in mind that the coast can get very hot and busy with tourists. During the winter months, the weather in Montenegro is cold, wet and windy so the conditions are not ideal for sightseeing but this is the best time to go skiing!
High Season - July and August
These are the warmest and driest months of the year in Montenegro. Book hotels in advance since this is the busy tourist season. The warm water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling but the heat may be unbearable at midday as temperatures rise to 32°C. Escape the hot crowded beaches and head to the mountains for hiking in pleasant weather with beautiful lakes and forests full of wildlife.
Highlights: Sailing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, biking, mussels and wine
Events: Theater City Festival in Budva, Summer Carnival in Kotor, Montenegro Film Festival Herceg Novi
Shoulder Seasons - March to June and September to October
In spring, you can see flamingos at Ulcinj or go birdwatching at Skadar Lake Park. In autumn, you can go rafting when the water is calm and pick fruits like pomegranates, grapes, persimmons, olives and figs. Anytime between April and October, you can hike in Durmitor and Prokletije National Park. The water temperature in the Adriatic Sea becomes comfortable enough for swimming from the end of May until October.
Highlights: Beaches, kitesurfing, hiking and seafood.
Events: Carnivals, Festivals, Podgorica City Marathon, Freeclimber Montenegro Cup
Low Season - November to February
In the winter, temperatures drop to nearly freezing and snow covers the mountain areas. Montenegro is an affordable destination for snowboarding and skiing. Visit Montenegro’s top ski resorts - Kolašin, Savin Kuk Žabljak and Lokve.
A strong wind called the ‘Bora’ blows in from the north east and it rains a lot which can make it very cold and uncomfortable to do activities outside near the coast.
Highlights: Skiing
Events: Mimosa Festival in Herceg Novi and New Years Eve celebrations in Podgorica, Kotor, Herceg Novi and Kolasin
Read more:
Find a Travel Buddy - Guide to Montenegro