Best Day Trips from Krimovica
Krimovica sits at the crossroads of Montenegro's best destinations. Kotor is fifteen minutes north, Budva ten minutes south, and even Dubrovnik is a feasible day trip. Here is every day trip worth taking, with real driving times and local tips.
Kotor Old Town (15 min)
The closest major attraction and an absolute must. This UNESCO World Heritage medieval town sits at the head of Europe's southernmost fjord. Climb the 1,350 steps to the fortress for panoramic views (€8, start early to beat the heat), explore the maze of narrow streets, visit St. Tryphon Cathedral (built 1166), and have lunch at Bastion or Galion on the waterfront. Avoid cruise ship days — check kotor.me for the schedule. Allow a half day, or combine with Perast for a full day.
Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks (25 min)
Continue past Kotor along the bay to reach Perast, a single-street baroque town of stone palaces built by wealthy sea captains. Take a €5 boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a 15th-century church containing remarkable paintings and a tapestry woven with human hair over 25 years. The boat ride takes five minutes; boats leave continuously. Have lunch at a waterfront restaurant with the islands reflected in the still water. Allow 2–3 hours.
Lovćen National Park (40 min)
The mountain looming above Kotor rises to 1,749 metres. The drive up involves 25 hairpin turns with increasingly dramatic views — not for nervous drivers, but unforgettable. At the summit is the Njegoš Mausoleum, a monument to Montenegro's greatest poet-ruler, with 360-degree views stretching to Italy on clear days. Entry €5. The mountain village of Njeguši on the way up is famous for smoked ham (pršut) and cheese — stop at any roadside stall for a tasting. Allow a half day.
Sveti Stefan (20 min)
The iconic island hotel connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus. The island itself is an Aman resort (rooms from €1,000/night), but the public beaches on either side are open to everyone and the views are spectacular. Combine with the fishing village of Przno (2 min north) for an outstanding seafood lunch at Konoba Langust. The viewpoint from the road above is the classic photo spot — best in morning light.
Skadar Lake (1 hour)
The largest lake in the Balkans, shared between Montenegro and Albania. Take a boat tour from Virpazar through channels lined with water lilies, past ancient monasteries on tiny islands, watching pelicans and herons. Boat tours cost €15–25 per person for 2 hours. The surrounding hills are covered in vineyards — stop at Plantaže or a family winery for a tasting. The drive from Krimovica goes through the Sozina tunnel (toll €2.50) and takes about an hour.
Dubrovnik, Croatia (2 hours)
A feasible but long day trip. Cross the border at Debeli Brijeg (bring your passport, expect 15–30 min wait in summer). Dubrovnik's old town is magnificent — walk the city walls (€35), take the cable car for views, explore the marble streets. Allow a full day and leave Krimovica by 8am to maximize your time. Parking in Dubrovnik is expensive (€8–10/hour near the old town) — use the Gruž parking lot and take the bus. Consider staying overnight if your schedule allows.
Cetinje — The Old Royal Capital (30 min)
Montenegro's historical capital sits on a plateau above the coast. Visit the Cetinje Monastery (housing a relic said to be the right hand of John the Baptist), the National Museum in the former royal palace, and the collection of foreign embassies from when Cetinje was a European capital. The town has a faded grandeur that is fascinating. The drive from Krimovica goes over the mountain via Lovćen or through the Sozina tunnel. Combine with Lovćen for a full mountain day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best day trip from Krimovica?
Kotor Old Town (15 min) is the must-do. For a full day, combine Kotor + Perast + Our Lady of the Rocks. For nature, Lovćen National Park is unforgettable.
Can you do Dubrovnik as a day trip?
Yes, but it is a long day — 2 hours each way plus border crossing. Leave by 8am. Consider an overnight stay if possible.
Do you need a car for day trips?
A car is essential. Mata Apartments includes free parking. Roads are good but winding — drive carefully and enjoy the views.
Stay at Mata Apartments
3 apartments in Krimovica from €35/night. Free parking, WiFi, sea views.
