Croatia & Montenegro: The perfect pair

From ancient walled cities to hidden beach coves and dramatic mountain backdrops, Croatia and Montenegro are a match made in Adriatic heaven. While each country has its own unique identity, traveling to both in one trip feels like discovering two sides of the same sparkling coin—rich in culture, charm, and coastline, yet refreshingly distinct.

One Week in Croatia & Montenegro: A Coastal Adventure I’ll Never Forget

Some trips are relaxing. Some are thrilling. And some, like this one, are the perfect mix of both. Here's how spent one week hopping between Croatia and Montenegro—two neighboring countries that couldn’t be more different in vibe, but somehow pair together beautifully. One is lively and iconic Croatia is balanced by Montenegro's graceful charm.

Day 1: Fly in Dubrovnik, Croatia

I flew into Dubrovnik and headed straight to Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, a Fora partner hotel which was only a 5-minute walk from the Old Town. Think: modern luxury with historic flair and views that made me melt when I opened the balcony door.

Off the Path: I also did a day trip to Trogir—a mini island town about 30 minutes away with fewer crowds and great seafood. Super easy to get to by Uber or local bus.

Flag: Zagreb will have more direct flights from the US, but if you don't mind a layover, Dubrovnik is the perfect starting point.

I don't pack in a lot of stuff on my travels, espcually if its my first time visiting. I lwandered around and grabbed a bite at Barba and ended the night at Buza Bar, a unique bar built right into the cliffside with neautilful dunsets, no signs, no frills. Just the sea and a cold drink.

Day 2: Old Town & Markets

I wake up early on days that I will be visiting touristy sites to beat the crowd. I was able to walk around Dubrovnik’s city walls—and it was 100% worth the 7am wake-up. The views of terra-cotta rooftops and the endless blue Adriatic were really gorgeous. This is a bucket list visit by Game of Thrones fans since most of the series was filmed here.

Off the Path: Walking through Gruž Market in the morning, where locals sell produce and fish. Taj Mahal (despite the name) serves Bosnian comfort food and was honestly one of my favorite meals of the trip.

Day 3: Swim, Drive, and Montenegro by Sunset

I started the day with a swim off the coast of Croatia and a lazy breakfast by the sea. Then I checked out and hit the road—yes, you can drive from Dubrovnik to Montenegro in just over two hours.

By afternoon, I was swimming in the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro’s glassy, fjord-like bay. Two seas, two countries, one day. (A top-tier travel flex, if I do say so myself.)

I checked into Forza Terra in Dobrota—a chic boutique hotel and Fora partner with killer bay views, a spa, and design-forward rooms.

Dinner was low-key and local at Konoba Portun in Perast. The kind of place where the grilled fish was caught that morning and the wine was poured without measuring.

Day 4: Kotor Old Town + Epic Views

I explored Kotor’s Old Town in the morning—go early to dodge the cruise crowds. It’s full of cats, churches, and cozy cafes. I grabbed a quick bite at Hoste, a spot run by young locals, for coffee and fresh pastries.

That afternoon, I hiked up to the San Giovanni Fortress. It’s a climb, but you’ll earn every jaw-dropping photo. And yes, I brought a cold bottle of water and a snack because it’s a trek.

Dinner was a romantic, white-linen affair at Galion, right on the water. The oysters were next-level.

Day 5: Private Boat + Tivat Vibes

This day was a dream. I hired a small boat (ask your hotel or a local operator) for a private cruise around Our Lady of the Rocks and the tiny islets near Perast. The captain brought rosé, and we swam off the side of the boat. 12/10 recommend.

Later, I headed to Tivat for shopping and cocktails at Porto Montenegro—Montenegro’s glitzy, yacht-filled marina. Think Monaco vibes, but without the price tag.

I checked into the Regent Porto Montenegro (Fora partner) for the night—classic luxury, perfect location, amazing pool.

Day 6: Beachy Bliss in Budva

Next stop: Budva. A little louder and livelier than Kotor, but I loved the change of pace. I spent the afternoon on Mogren Beach, rented a lounge chair, and read a book in the sun.

I wandered the Budva Old Town in the evening before heading to Nobu Montenegro for dinner. Yep, that Nobu—with Montenegro views and local twists on the signature dishes.

If you want serious luxury and it’s open for bookings, consider Aman Sveti Stefan—the iconic islet hotel. Otherwise, Budva or the nearby Dukley Hotel & Resort offers plenty of upscale options too.

Day 7: Coastal Coffee & Fly Out

I soaked in the last views of the Adriatic over one last cappuccino at the Regent before heading to Tivat Airport (TIV) for my flight home. It’s a small, efficient airport—super easy.

If you have a later flight, stop by Luštica Bay on the way for lunch or a dip.

Final Thoughts

Croatia gave me the iconic beauty and pulse I expected. Montenegro gave me room to breathe, time to linger, and views that felt all mine.

Together? They created a week I’ll always remember—and one I’ll be recreating for my clients again and again.

Want to plan your own Croatia-Montenegro duo with curated hotels, local guides, and those extra perks? I’d love to help make it effortless and unforgettable..