Are you planning a trip to Montenegro and wondering how to spend 2 days in Herceg Novi?
Herceg Novi is known for being the sunniest city in Montenegro and one of the five largest cities in the country! Located at the Western Entrance of Kotor Bay and at the foot of Mount Orjen, this city offers a true Montenegrin experience.
In this itinerary, I will cover everything you need to know about how to spend 2 days in Herceg Novi, including how to get to Herceg Novi, where to stay in Herceg Novi, how to get around Herceg Novi, and exactly what to do each day! Plus, other things to do in Herceg Novi if you have more time 🙂
From breathtaking views to exploring the rich history, each moment in Herceg Novi promises a glimpse into the real coastal life of Montenegro.
2 Days in Herceg Novi: Amazing 2 Day Herceg Novi Itinerary for First Timers
When you arrive in Herceg Novi, you’ll be greeted with laid-back Mediterranean vibes and cobblestone streets with cafes and bars lining the bay.
Whether you’re drawn to its centuries-old architecture or coastal vibes, Herceg Novi promises a journey that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating.
But before we get into this detailed itinerary, let’s cover some frequently asked questions about visiting Herceg Novi!
Frequently Asked Questions About Herceg Novi
Is two days enough in Herceg Novi?
Two days in Herceg Novi is enough time to explore the main attractions and even take a boat tour of the area!
What shouldn’t you miss in Herceg Novi?
What you shouldn’t miss in Herceg Novi is the old town where you can explore Kanli Kula (Bloody Tower) and Forte Mare, wander through the small allies, and enjoy the promenade.
Is Herceg Novi, Ireland, worth visiting?
Absolutely! Herceg Novi is definitely worth visiting. It offers a blend of history, culture, and beauty. Plus, the laid-back coastal vibes make it a wonderful place to relax!
What is the best month to visit Herceg Novi?
The best time to visit Herceg Novi is typically during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is warm, and the beaches are perfect for swimming. However, spring and early autumn offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful landscapes.
Where to Stay in Herceg Novi
Your choice of lodging for your 2 days in Herceg Novi will depend on what kind of trip you are looking for and the type of traveler you are!
Below, I’ve provided a list of the top areas in and around Herceg Novi, with accommodation options in each one for three different budgets!
Old Town
Staying in or near the Old Town allows you to be close to Herceg Novi’s historic attractions, such as the Clock Tower, Kanli Kula, and the main square. Accommodations here are often charming, with a more traditional style, but you may have to navigate the town’s steep, narrow streets.
Recommended Accommodations
Vila Oliva – The property features an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and parking on-site among other facilities.
Apartmani Skver Sanja – Apartment with amazing views and close to shops and the bay!
Herceg Novi centar studio apartman LAMAIR – This apartment is in the heart of Old Town and comes with everything you need for an amazing stay!
Waterfront and Promenade
Many visitors prefer to stay near the Pet Danica promenade, which runs along the coast. Accommodations here are often modern and close to beaches, cafes, and restaurants. This area is convenient for those looking to relax by the sea and enjoy the town’s laid-back vibe.
Recommended Accommodations
Hotel Vila Hedonija – The boutique hotel is steps away from the sea and a short walk to the old town.
Apartments Cebra – This beachfront property offers access to a patio, provided mountain views, and a private beach area!
Apartmani Milosevic – This beachfront property offers access to a terrace and all rooms include a patio with sea views.
Suburban and Surrounding Areas
If you prefer a quieter setting, there are accommodations outside the main tourist areas, where you can enjoy more space, privacy, and often lower prices. Renting a car is advisable if you stay farther from the town center.
Recommended Accommodations
Iberostar Herceg Novi – This all-inclusive hotel also has private access to the Adriatic Sea.
Palmon Bay Hotel & Spa – This hotel has a private beach with parasols and sun loungers.
Vuksanovic Apartment – This private apartment provides everything you need for a great stay in a quiet neighborhood. This is where we stayed and absolutely loved it!
Getting To & Around Herceg Novi
Since Herceg Novi doesn’t have an airport, your journey will begin elsewhere. Depending on how you are traveling to Montenegro in the first place (likely by air), you have a few different transportation options to choose from!
By Air ✈
Tivat Airport (TIV): Which is located about 24 kilometers (15 miles) away. You can take a bus or rent a car to reach Herceg Novi in roughly a 30–40 minute drive, depending on traffic.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): In Croatia, located around 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Herceg Novi. This does include a border crossing which can increase travel time greatly. We took the bus and it took about 3 hours to reach Herceg Novi.
Podgorica Airport (TGD): Is another option, but it’s farther from Herceg Novi—around 113 kilometers (70 miles) away, which takes about 2 hours by car. While it’s still accessible, Tivat and Dubrovnik airports are generally more convenient for reaching Herceg Novi.
By Bus 🚌
Several bus companies offer routes to Herceg Novi from various cities within Montenegro and neighboring countries, especially from Podgorica, Tivat, and Dubrovnik.
Tickets are usually available at local bus stations or online via portals like Busticket4.me or GetByBus, where schedules and prices are posted.
By Car 🚙
If you prefer taking a road trip, you can rent a car and take the scenic road around the Bay of Kotor, known as the P1 or E65/E80 highway. This road hugs the coast and offers beautiful views of the bay and surrounding mountains. It connects Herceg Novi to Kotor and other towns along the bay, like Perast, and is often referred to locally as the “Kotor Bay Road” or “Bay of Kotor Coastal Road.”
This road can get extremely busy during the peak season so be prepared to sit in some traffic.
Getting Around Herceg Novi
Walking: Herceg Novi is a compact city, and many of its main attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. Walking is the best way to explore the streets and soak up the atmosphere.
Bus Services: The Blue Line operates as the main local bus service, providing transportation within the town and along the Bay of Kotor. Blue Line buses run between Herceg Novi and neighboring towns, including Igalo, Kumbor, and Bijela, which makes it easy to get around the area without a car.
Taxis: Readily available throughout the city, taxis are a convenient way to get around, especially if you have luggage or are traveling late at night!
2 Day Itinerary – Herceg Novi
Now that we know how to get to Herceg Novi, where to stay, and how to get around town, let’s begin our 2 day Herceg Novi itinerary!
Day 1: Historical Tour and Old Town
Morning:
Begin your 2-day Herceg Novi adventure with coffee and pastries at FABRIKA Coffee. This spot has amazing, freshly baked bread and pastries made on-site daily.
Next, head into Old Town (Stari Grad). Today, we will start at the top of Old Town and make our way down to the Promenade.
Start with Kanli Kula Fortress, which offers sweeping views of the bay. Wander through its historic walls and take in the beautiful panoramas of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding mountains. The cost to enter is 5 euros per person (cash only).
Afterward, head down to Belavista Square. This square is one of the town’s most charming spots. Here, you’ll find St. Michael’s Archangel Church’s unique mix of Gothic and Byzantine architectural styles.
And just steps away is the famous Clock Tower.
Lunch Break:
Choose from one of the many restaurants and cafes in the Old Town to enjoy some local cuisine. We recommend Konoba Karaca. Here, you will find locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the black risotto or other local delicacies.
Afternoon
Now, take some time to stroll Saint Jerome Square, admiring the churches, architecture, and adorable alleyways.
Then, make your way to Forte Mare Fortress. This smaller fortress offers closer access to the sea and a more intimate view of the Bay of Kotor. It costs 4 euros to enter (cash only).
After exploring the fortress, wrap up your day with a leisurely walk along the 7-kilometer seaside promenade. Enjoy the beach, stop by a waterfront café for refreshments, or dip your toes in the water if the weather is nice.
Evening
End your night enjoying a beautiful sunset over the bay of Kotor at one of the many seaside restaurants. The area is known for its fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes. Try Konoba Feral, known for its fresh seafood and traditional Montenegrin dishes. Konoba Feral offers a cozy and rustic ambiance with a beautiful view of the bay. Try the grilled octopus, black risotto, or local fish specialties.
Day 2 Blue Cave Excursion & Beach time
After seeing many of Herceg Novi’s main sites, today is a great day for an excursion to the Blue Cave. Herceg Novi has significantly cheaper tour options than Kotor or other cities on the bay, making this a great option for the second day. If this is your only stop in Kotor Bay, I would highly suggest getting a tour to Our Lady of the Rocks. We stayed in Perast, so we opted just for the Blue Cave tour. More on this later!
Morning
On your second day in Herceg Novi, wake up and go for breakfast at Peters Pie & Coffee. This cafe offers a lovely terrace and a variety of breakfast options, including fresh pastries, omelets, and coffee.
After breakfast, you can squeeze in the Herceg Novi City Museum, which is relatively small but provides insights into the local history and culture, which can enrich your overall experience. You only need about 15 – 30 minutes to see everything, and it costs 2 – 3 euros per person.
Late Morning/Afternoon
The Blue Cave Excursion usually starts at 11 am from the Harbor. We purchased our tickets the day before at a local travel agency – Happy Travel – for 20 euros a person.
The ticket included the boat ride, a stop at a former submarine base, views of Mamula Island, a stop at the blue cave where you can swim, and a final stop at a small village where you could purchase lunch or go swimming (or both!).
This tour was 2.5 hours and was a fantastic experience.
The views from the boat were stunning, and the blue waters of the cave were unreal. We enjoyed spending time on the beach, eating our packed lunches, and dipping our toes in the water.
Late Afternoon
After your excursion and the busy day exploring on day one, it’s time to really enjoy the laid-back Mediterranean vibe.
Grab your towel, a book, and a snack, and find the perfect spot to sunbathe and swim in the Adriatic Sea.
Herceg Novi has a few local beaches, such as Igalo Beach and Meljine Beach. Many of the ‘beaches’ around Kotor Bay are not white sandy beaches; they are rocky and often even have cement slabs budding up the sea.
Evening
Spend the evening strolling around the adorable streets and eating gelato from Moritz Eis.
Be sure to check out Fort Citadela along the promenade. It’s a free spot to explore the 15th-century ruins of a key defensive structure that now offers a panoramic view of the bay.
Then try Tri Lipe or Kantula for dinner if you haven’t yet. Enjoy traditional Montenegrin dishes or a fresh seafood dinner.
Optional Add-Ons
As mentioned above, while 2 days is an excellent start to visiting Herceg Novi, it’s not nearly enough time to explore the hidden gems and everything that this coastal town has in store for its visitors.
If you want to expand your trips, here are some additional add-ons and things to see.
Our Lady of the Rocks: This man made island is renowned for its picturesque setting, rich history, and beautiful frescoes.
Herceg Novi Market: This is a good spot to find local delicacies and experience the local culture.
Monastery of Savina: serene 18th-century Orthodox monastery perched on a hillside known for its stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
Hiking: The area around Herceg Novi offers various hiking trails. The trail to Mt. Orjen provides beautiful vistas and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Hiking: The area around Herceg Novi offers various hiking trails. The trail to Mt. Orjen provides beautiful vistas and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
Final Thoughts
I hope this guide has helped you plan your next adventure at Herceg Novi! As you can see, the coastal town of Herceg Novi is a must-do when visiting Montenegro. From wandering the cobblestone streets to eating fresh seafood, Herceg Novi will surely capture your heart.
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