Herceg Novi, a picturesque coastal town at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, offers a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and wellness opportunities. Visitors can explore ancient fortresses, wander through a vibrant Old Town, enjoy diverse beaches, and experience its renowned healing sea mud.
The Old Town, with its cobblestone alleys and small squares, provides a setting for local life and quaint cafes. The Pet Danica promenade offers a lively waterfront with restaurants and beach bars, suitable for leisurely strolls and casual socializing. Hostels within the area also present opportunities to connect with fellow travelers.
Top 7 Things to do in Herceg Novi
Visitors can immerse themselves in Herceg Novi's historical fortresses, enjoy scenic coastal walks and diverse beaches, embark on adventurous boat trips, and discover spiritual sites.
1. Exploring Herceg Novi Old Town
Wandering through Herceg Novi's Old Town provides a charming journey through cobblestone alleys and lively squares. One can discover architectural gems such as the Clock Tower, which offers a great photo opportunity, and the beautiful St. Archangel Michael Church on Belavista Square. The Old Town maintains an authentic feel with numerous cafes, making it ideal for leisurely exploration.
Cost: Free to explore.
Transport: The Old Town is centrally located and easily accessible by foot from most accommodations in Herceg Novi.
2. Visiting Forte Mare Fortress
Perched dramatically above the sea, Forte Mare is a 14th-century fortress that has been a crucial part of Herceg Novi's history. Exploring its walls offers commanding views of the Adriatic Sea and the entrance to the Bay of Kotor. During the summer, it transforms into an open-air cinema and cultural event venue, providing a unique historical setting for entertainment.
Cost: Entrance fee is €2.
Transport: Forte Mare is a short walk from the Old Town's main pier and accessible from the seafront by climbing steps or via a stone bridge from the Old Town area.
3. Discovering Kanli Kula Fortress
Climbing to Kanli Kula, or the 'Bloody Tower,' reveals a rich history as a former Ottoman prison. While its past is somber, with visible prisoner carvings on the walls, the fortress now serves as a stunning open-air amphitheater. From its elevated position, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the entire city and the Bay of Kotor.
Cost: Entrance fee is €4 for adults, with children under 12 entering for free.
Transport: Kanli Kula is located above the Old Town and can be reached by a 10-minute walk uphill from the center, involving many steps from the small southern gate of the Old Town.
4. Strolling Along Šetalište Pet Danica
This 7-kilometer long promenade, also known as the Five Danica Promenade, stretches along the waterfront from Igalo to Meljine. It offers a continuous path for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling, passing by various beaches, cafes, and restaurants. The promenade connects different parts of the coastal area, providing a dynamic experience of local life and seaside views.
Cost: Free to access. Bicycle or rollerblade rental may be available from local shops near the promenade.
Transport: The promenade is a central feature of Herceg Novi's coastline, easily walkable from most areas. Taxis or local buses can reach its different sections.
5. Taking a Blue Cave and Mamula Island Boat Trip
Embarking on a boat trip from Herceg Novi is an adventurous way to explore the Bay of Kotor's natural wonders. These tours typically visit the breathtaking Blue Cave, where sunlight creates an ethereal blue glow in the water, offering a unique swimming experience. Many trips also include a panoramic view or stop at Mamula Island, home to a historic fortress now transformed into a luxury hotel, and often visit former submarine tunnels.
Cost: Group tours typically cost around €30 per person. Private boat tours vary, starting from approximately €80 to €150 per hour for the boat (often for up to 6 people) for shorter excursions, or higher for longer private tours.
Transport: Tours usually depart from Škver Harbor in Herceg Novi.
6. Visiting Savina Monastery and Winery
Situated about 2 km east of Herceg Novi, the Savina Monastery is a serene Serbian Orthodox complex composed of three churches. It is a place of deep spirituality and historical significance, nestled within lush Mediterranean vegetation. Visitors can explore the ancient churches, including the smaller 14th-century church with remnants of frescoes, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. The monastery grounds also feature the Savina Winery, where one can sample local wines.
Cost: Entrance to the monastery grounds is free. Wine tasting at Savina Winery would incur a separate cost.
Transport: The monastery is about 2 km from Herceg Novi's center. It can be reached by a pleasant 20-25 minute walk, a short taxi ride (€1-€3, 2 minutes), or a local bus (€1-€4, 7-17 minutes).
7. Experiencing Igalo's Healing Mud
Igalo, a town adjacent to Herceg Novi, is renowned for its therapeutic sea mud and mineral springs. The 'Mud Beach' provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the healing properties of the natural peloid, which is believed to reduce pain and improve joint mobility. One can freely apply the mud for a natural wellness experience directly at the beach. More extensive treatments are available at the specialized Simo Milosevic Institute.
Cost: Accessing the natural healing mud at Blatna beach (Mud Beach) is free. Treatments at the Simo Milosevic Institute have varying costs depending on the program.
Transport: Igalo is easily accessible by walking along the Pet Danica promenade from Herceg Novi, or by a short local bus or taxi ride.
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