If blue water, heritage buildings and sun-soaked days are what you are looking for in a holiday, then Montenegro and Croatia are your answer. Only two hours apart and easily connected, we recommend combining stays along the Bay of Kotor and Dubrovnik’s old town to create an itinerary that features good food, history and slow beach days.
WHAT TO DO
BOAT TRIP ON THE BAY OF KOTOR
The best way to see Montenegro is from the water, with a day trip showcasing the old towns, crystal-clear bays and dramatic mountains of the Bay of Kotor. Make sure to stop at Our Lady of the Rocks, a famous church perched upon a man-made island.
PERAST
Charming Perast is one of the most beautiful towns in Montenegro, featuring stunning baroque architecture. We recommend spending a few nights here to slow down, stroll the waterfront and ensure you have time for a swim or two.
WALK THE OLD CITY WALLS OF DUBROVNIK
Best achieved early in the morning before the days heat sets in, no trip to Dubrovnik is complete without walking the city walls. With views over the old town and beyond, take in the wonder of this 13th-century landmark, and spot some movie locations along the way.
BEACH HOPPING
Home to some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches, backdropped by the city walls, spend your days in Croatia hopping from beach to beach. Our top picks in Dubrovnik are Beach Sulic, Sveti Jakov or Bellevue Beach.
WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK
TRATTORIA ROSMARINO - MONTENEGRO
With sweeping views over the Bay of Kotor and Our Lady of the Rocks, Trattoria Rosmarino is a dining experience not to be missed. Serving fresh seafood alongside an extensive wine list, this is where to go for a fine dining experience.
TAJ MAHAL - DUBROVNIK
Grab a table along one of Dubrovnik's old lanes and settle in for a magical evening. Taj Mahal showcases Bosnian cuisine from the region, think flaky borek, juicy chevapi, smoked vegetables and various cheese dishes.
COGITO COFFEE - DUBROVNIK
After an early morning spent walking the city walls of Dubrovnik, this is the perfect stop for an iced latte and a quick break. Serving locally roasted coffee, enjoy your brew while soaking in Dubrovnik's Old Town.
LADY PIPI - DUBROVNIK
Overlooking the red roofs of Dubrovnik, come to Lady Pipi for fresh seafood and a crisp bottle of wine enjoyed on an open-air terrace. A great spot to watch the sun set over the Adriatic, but be prepared for a line.
WHERE TO STAY
HERITAGE GRAND PERAST
Situated in an 18th-century restored Venetian palace, Heritage Grand Perast is the definition of luxury. With views over the Bay of Kotor, spend your days perched at the beach club, dining at the restaurant or indulging at the luxury day spa.
HOTEL EXCELSIOR DUBROVNIK
Directly on the Adriatic Sea, with views across Dubrovnik, Hotel Excelsior is the perfect place to spend some blissful days strolling the old town, swimming in the ocean and enjoying a morning coffee from your balcony.
WELLNESS HIGHLIGHT
Combining stunning scenery and various swimming spots, the Setnica Walking Trail in Dubrovnik is the perfect wellness activity. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or morning run, make sure to pack your bathers for a post-walk dip.
WHAT TO PACK
MARINE COCONUT (HYDRATION) SACHETS
Easy to chuck in your carry-on or handbag, the Marine Coconut Sachets are the perfect hydration after a day of sun. Combining coconut water powder, marine minerals, and essential electrolytes to support your hydration, mineral balance, recovery, and everyday wellbeing, to elevate your travel energy.
A GOOD SARONG
From beach to boat, a good sarong will give you an effortless sense of style as you explore beaches, sip coffee or a cocktail, and enjoy some of that coveted European sun.
