Herceg Novi — City of Stairs

Herceg Novi (approx. 13,000 inhabitants) is located at the western entrance to the Bay of Kotor, directly on the border with Croatia (Dubrovnik is only 45 km away). The city is lovingly called the "City of Stairs and Flowers" — both are true: Herceg Novi climbs steep terraces up the hillside, connected by countless stairs, lined with subtropical gardens with palms, oleanders, mimosas, and agaves.

Sights

• Forte Mare — The mighty sea fortress at the harbor (14th century) is a venue for concerts and film screenings in summer. From the terrace: panoramic view over the bay. Admission: 2€.
• Kanli-Kula (Bloody Tower) — The Ottoman fortress high above the city now serves as an open-air cinema and theater with one of the most spectacular stage settings on the Adriatic: the Bay of Kotor as a backdrop. Admission: 2€.
• Old Town & Belavista — The compact old town with its clock tower, the Orthodox Church of Archangel Michael, the Catholic Church of St. Jerome, and the winding alleys is full of cafés and patisseries. The promenade "Pet Danica" (Five Daytimes) is the city's meeting point.
• Savina Monastery — A Serbian Orthodox monastery from the 11th century, nestled in an ancient forest east of the city. The small church from the 11th century preserves valuable icons and frescoes. The garden with cypresses and sea view is a place of deep tranquility. Free of charge.
• Blue Grotto (Plava Špilja) — Accessible by boat tour from Herceg Novi (half-day tour: 25–40€). The cave on the Luštica Peninsula fills with azure light when the sun shines through the water. Best in the morning with calm seas.

Beaches & Surroundings

The beaches directly in Herceg Novi are small and concrete — the nicer bathing spots are in the surroundings:

• Žanjice & Mirište — On the Luštica Peninsula, accessible by boat (5€) or car. Pebble beaches with crystal-clear water and beach bars. The most popular bathing excursion from Herceg Novi.
• Rose — A picturesque fishing village on Luštica, accessible by boat. Time capsule atmosphere, little tourism, excellent fish restaurants.

Herceg Novi is the ideal starting point for day trips: Dubrovnik (Croatia) is 45 km away (approx. 1.5h with border crossing), the Bay of Kotor and Perast are right around the corner, and the Luštica Peninsula offers untouched beaches and the Blue Grotto.