Montenegro or Crna Gora (“Black Mountain”) is a country in Southeastern Europe, located on the Adriatic Sea and part of the Balkans. It shares borders with Serbia to the northeast, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the north and west, Kosovo to the east, Albania to the southeast, and Croatia to the southwest, and has a maritime boundary with Italy. Covering 13,812 square kilometres (5,333 sq mi), its capital and largest city is Podgorica—home to roughly 30% of its total population of 621,000.

During the Early Medieval period, three principalities were located on the territory of modern-day Montenegro: Duklja (south), Travunia (west), and Rascia (north). The Principality of Zeta emerged in the 14th and 15th centuries, while from the late 14th century to the late 18th century, large parts of southern Montenegro were under the Venetian Republic.

After falling under Ottoman rule, Montenegro regained independence in 1696 under the House of Petrović Njegoš—first as a theocracy, then as a secular principality. Independence was recognized by the Great Powers at the Congress of Berlin in 1878, and in 1910, the country became a kingdom. After World War I, it joined Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montenegro formed a federation until Montenegro’s independence referendum in May 2006, after which it declared independence.

Montenegro ranges from high peaks along its borders with Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania—part of the Dinaric mountain range on the western Balkan Peninsula—to a narrow coastal plain only 1.5 to 6 kilometres (1 to 4 miles) wide. The coastal plain meets the rugged mountains abruptly in the north, where Mount Lovćen and Mount Orjen plunge into the Bay of Kotor. At an elevation of 500 m (1,600 ft), the Zeta River valley is Montenegro’s lowest segment.

The mountains of Montenegro contain some of the most rugged terrain in Europe, averaging over 2,000 m in elevation. Bobotov Kuk in the Durmitor mountains reaches 2,522 m (8,274 ft). Due to a hyperhumid climate, these ranges were among the most ice-eroded parts of the Balkans during the last glacial period.

Two key mountainous regions—Durmitor and the Prokletije range—are particularly interesting for hikers. Here you’ll find the highest peak, Zla Kolata (2,535 m / 8,317 ft), as well as the stunning Grbaja and Ropojana valleys. Meanwhile, Montenegro’s coastal towns—like Kotor, Perast, Budva, and Ulcinj—offer a blend of medieval charm and Adriatic beaches. Another must-see is the national park at Lake Skadar, perfect for bird-watching, boat rides, and savoring local cuisine by the water.

Ulcinj

Ulcinj is located on the southern coast of Montenegro near the Albanian border. Famous for its long sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and centuries-old fortress, Ulcinj offers a blend of Eastern and Western cultures. The historic Old Town perched atop a rocky hill is a must-see, along with the stunning Velika Plaža (Long Beach) — a 13-kilometer stretch of fine sand perfect for sunbathing, water sports, and family fun.

With a rich Ottoman influence and a multi-ethnic atmosphere, Ulcinj’s winding streets, diverse restaurants, and lively festivals attract visitors looking for an authentic seaside experience beyond the usual tourist hotspots.