Family Holidays in Montenegro
Montenegro is an outstanding family destination — genuinely safe, surprisingly affordable, with beaches that have calm shallow water and enough castles, boats, and mountains to keep children of every age entertained for weeks. Krimovica is the ideal family base, and here is why.
Best Beaches for Children by Age
For toddlers and non-swimmers (0–5): Trsteno Beach is unbeatable. The cove is sheltered from waves, the water is shallow for the first 15 metres with a sandy bottom, and the beach is small enough that you can see your children from anywhere. It is five minutes from Krimovica with free roadside parking. For young swimmers (5–10): the western section of Jaz Beach has a gentle slope into the water, plenty of space for sandcastle building, and no beach bar noise. It is free (no sunbed charge) and three minutes from Krimovica. For older kids (10+): Bečići Beach has water sports — jet skis, banana boats, parasailing, and paddleboard rental. The wide sandy beach and shallow water make it safe for independent swimming. It is 15 minutes from Krimovica. Beaches to avoid with small children: Ploče (deep water, concrete platforms, no shallow area), Mogren (long walk with no shade, steep access), and Sveti Stefan (expensive sunbeds, pebble beach, strong currents on windy days).
Activities That Children Actually Enjoy
The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks from Perast (€5 per person, children under 5 free) is a hit with all ages — a short exciting boat trip to a tiny island with a church full of paintings and a fascinating story about sailors dropping rocks into the sea for centuries. The Kotor cats are a highlight for animal-loving children — the old town has dozens of friendly street cats, and the Cat Museum near the north gate sells cat-themed souvenirs. Climbing the Kotor city walls is suitable for children aged 8 and up who are reasonably fit — 1,350 steps to a castle with incredible views. Bring water and snacks. Lipa Cave near Cetinje (40 min from Krimovica) offers guided tours through a spectacular limestone cave with stalactites and underground chambers — suitable for all ages, €10 adults, €5 children. The Aqua Park in Budva (summer only) has water slides and pools. Horseback riding is available near Budva for children aged 6 and up.
A Typical Family Day from Krimovica
Morning: drive three minutes to Jaz Beach, arriving by 9am before the crowds. Swim and play until 11:30am when the sun gets strong. Return to the apartment for lunch — the full kitchen means you can prepare children's favourites rather than relying on restaurant food. Afternoon rest during the hottest hours (the apartment has air conditioning). Late afternoon: drive to Trsteno for a second swim in the calm turquoise water, or take a day trip to Kotor (15 min) to explore the old town and see the cats. Evening: dinner at Restaurant Carevic in the village — the relaxed atmosphere means nobody minds if children are restless, and the food is excellent. The lamb under the sač is a family-sized dish that everyone shares. Back at the apartment by 8:30pm — the village is quiet enough that children sleep easily.
Why Krimovica Works for Families
The Family Suite at Mata Apartments is the largest apartment with garden access where children can play safely, a full kitchen for preparing meals and snacks, and space for up to 5 guests (from €40/night). The free private parking eliminates the stress of finding spots at beaches and towns — you load the car with beach gear, drive three minutes, and you are at the sand. The quiet village means no traffic noise, no late-night bar music, and a safe environment. Restaurant Carevic is two minutes away for evenings when you do not want to cook. And the location between Budva (10 min) and Kotor (15 min) means you are never far from shops, pharmacies, or medical facilities if needed.
Practical Tips for Families
Sun protection is essential — the Adriatic sun is significantly stronger than Northern Europe, especially for fair-skinned children. Use SPF 50, reapply after swimming, and seek shade between 12pm and 3pm. Bring water shoes for pebble beaches — they make the difference between comfortable and miserable for small feet. Most restaurants welcome children but high chairs are not always available — bring a portable booster seat if your child needs one. Pharmacies in Budva (10 min) stock nappies, children's medicine, and sunscreen. The nearest hospital with a paediatric department is in Kotor (15 min). Montenegro is extremely safe — violent crime is virtually nonexistent, and Montenegrin culture genuinely adores children. Do not be surprised if waiters bring your children free ice cream or if strangers in the street stop to admire your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montenegro safe for family holidays?
Extremely safe. Violent crime is virtually nonexistent, petty theft is rare, and Montenegrin culture genuinely adores children. The main risks are sunburn and winding mountain roads.
Which beach is best for toddlers in Montenegro?
Trsteno Beach near Krimovica — a sheltered cove with shallow, calm water and a sandy bottom. Five minutes from Mata Apartments with free parking.
Is there a family apartment at Mata Apartments?
Yes, the Family Suite is the largest apartment with garden access, full kitchen, and space for up to 5 guests. From €40/night with free parking.
What is there for older children to do?
Kotor city walls climb (1,350 steps to a castle), boat trips to islands, water sports at Bečići Beach, Lipa Cave tours, horseback riding, and the Budva Aqua Park in summer.
Stay at Mata Apartments
3 apartments in Krimovica from €35/night. Free parking, WiFi, sea views.
