Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi is known for its natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, breathtaking coastline, and lush greenery. Located on the southern western part of Montenegro at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor, it is one of the most stunning natural harbors in Europe.

Most importantly, it’s becoming a popular tourism destination thanks to its stunning natural landscape, health and wellness centers, historical landmarks, beautiful beaches, and cultural events and festivals hosted throughout the year.

It also mixes architecture with medieval fortresses, Renaissance buildings, and Baroque churches.

The nearest international airport to Herceg Novi is the Tivat Airport, only 25 kilometers away (about an hour by car), making this an accessible town.

Expats and travelers are drawn here because of its cost of living, Mediterranean climate, and lifestyle advantages.

Expat Community In Herceg Novi

The town of Herceg Novi has a small expat community, but it’s diverse. Herceg Novi is home to families, young individuals, and retirees from various countries.

Most expats who choose to settle here are from Western Europe. You might find one or two from the United States.

You’ll also encounter several digital nomads, remote workers, entrepreneurs, investors, students, and tourism industry professionals.

Once you get to Herceg Novi, try joining a Facebook group like Expats in Herceg Novi area or Herceg Novi Connections & Community (Locals and Expats). This will help you to start making connections.

And, if you ever need help finding a trustworthy lawyer, a real estate agent, figuring out the banking system, etc., your fellow expats will know the ins and outs of your new home having gone through everything you’re going through when they first arrived.

The cost of living in Herceg Novi is among the reasons expats choose to live here.

For instance, a couple could live in Herceg Novi on a monthly budget of about US$1,400.

It all comes down to your lifestyle choices and practices.

Find the beauty in living and eating like a local, you’ll save yourself quite a bit in terms of groceries. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge from time to time though.

Check foreign currency exchange rates.

Apartment Or House Rental Budget (For A Couple) In Herceg Novi

Things To Do In Herceg Novi

Herceg Novi offers a variety of activities for tourists and residents to enjoy.

Whatever your plan is––sunbathing on the beach, watersports, hiking, visiting historical sites, or having a relaxing spa day––this coastal town in Montenegro has something for you.

1. Visit The Beaches Of Herceg Novi

Herceg Novi has beaches with its unique characteristics.

Topla Beach has a mix of concrete platforms and pebbles and is known for its calm waters. This is a great beach when traveling with small children.

Zanjice Beach is about 1 hour and 40 minutes from Herceg Novi but it’s well worth the drive. This beach features crystal clear water and a sandy shore.

The atmosphere is relaxed making this a gorgeous place to spend the day if you’re wanting a stress-free day.

Miriste Beach is 1 hour and 40 minutes from Herceg Novi. It’s well worth the visit if you’re looking to escape busier areas.

For example, Miriste Beach has a pebble shoreline and it surrounded by olive trees.

Zanjice Beach and Miriste Beach are about an eight-minute walk from each other.

Other beaches to visit are Kamenovo Beach, Lucice Beach, and Rose Beach.

2. Explore Herceg Novi The Old Town

The Old Town of Herceg Novi is known as Stari Grad. It features narrow streets, picturesque squares, churches, cafés, and centuries-old buildings.

With history dating back to the 14th century, the Old Town’s architectural styles reflect everything it’s been through. You’ll find traces of Baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and medieval forts.

And, don’t forget to explore the narrow and winding cobblestone streets filled with nooks and crannies, hidden squares, and historical landmarks. If you like photography, you could plan a photoshoot day here.

The atmosphere in the Herceg Novi Old Town will surely help you create unique shots.

3. Visit Forte Mare

Forte Mare is a historical landmark in Herceg Novi. Built in the 16th century by Venetians during their rule, Forte Mare was used as a defense for the town and the harbor.

It’s strategically located at the entrance of Kotor Bay giving it a full view of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding coastline from various lookout points.

In addition to being a historic site, Forte Mare is also a venue for cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts. Make sure to search what events will be taking place during your visit.

4. Go To Kanli Kula

Kanli Kula translates to “Bloody Tower” in Turkish. It’s a fortress that was built in the 15th century which served many purposes throughout the years such as a prison, a defensive structure, and a military garrison. Its name likely comes from its use for the military, referring to all the battles that occurred around and within.

The Kanli Kula was built on a hill overlooking the entrance of the Bay of Kotor. Because of its strategic positioning, this historical building offers an amazing view to its visitors.

From here, you’ll have a panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding coastline. This is a great spot to get some breathtaking photos.

This structure, like the Forte Mare, is not just a historical structure but also a cultural venue. It hosts art exhibitions, concerts, musical performances, and more throughout the year.

So, look up what events will be taking place during your time in Herceg Novi.

5. Go Hiking And On Nature Walks

Herceg Novi offers great opportunities to spend time in nature.

Hiking and nature walks are a great way to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

This region is known for having lush green landscapes and picturesque coastal views. Plus, it’s home to various plants and animal species.

In short, it’s a good place to go on a hike here, you’ll see some olive trees, pines, and aromatic herbs, all native to the Mediterranean vegetation.

We recommend to spend time in nature in Orjen Mountain (the highest coastal mountain in Montenegro), Lustica Peninsula, Dinarska Planina (also known as Dinaric Alps), and nature reserves such as Lustica Bay Nature Reserve or the Grahovo Valley.

Herceg Novi, like most of Montenegro, is safe for tourists and residents. However, petty crime exists everywhere in the world.

Just follow basic safety practices:

1. Be aware of your surroundings.
2. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night.
3. Be cautious when interacting with strangers.
4. Don’t flash your wallet or carry lots of cash.
5. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
6. Lock your homes and cars.
7. Keep valuables out of sight.

Also try to keep up to date with the daily Herceg Novi news.

Popular tourist sites in Herceg Novi may attract pick pocketers. So, be extra attentive when visiting these places.

Also keep your bag (or purse or fanny pack) in front of you and your wallets, keys, and cell phones in the bag when on public transportation.

Do not place your wallet or cell phone in your back pant pockets.

Health Care In Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Herceg Novi, like the rest of Montenegro, has a health care system that offers basic services to both residents and tourists.

Most importantly, Herceg Novi has private health care facilities and providers. The hospitals, clinics, and specialist centers cater to anyone (resident or tourist).

Also, doctors and other health care professionals are more likely to speak English if they work in the private health care system.

Unless you have some knowledge of the local language, we wouldn’t suggest you go to public health care providers unless you have someone local who you trust to go along with you.

Herceg Novi has pharmacies where you can get over-the-counter meds and prescription meds. Pharmacists here should be able to help you with basic health concerns you may have.

Whether you’re just visiting or if you become an expat in Herceg Novi, we recommend you invest in international health care insurance. By having insurance, you’ll ensure you’ll get the quality health care that you require.

The quality of the health care in Herceg Novi will vary.

Generally, Montenegro’s health care is decent. If you need any serious procedures done, you may want to consider getting those done abroad.

Moving To Herceg Novi, Montenegro

Americans and Canadians can come to Montenegro visa-free and stay for 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, apply for a temporary residence permit.

Montenegro has a unique residency program: You can buy real estate worth any value and be granted temporary residency.

This is the best way to get residency in Montenegro. Plus, it can be pretty affordable for Americans retirees.

Stay up to date on any changes that may happen to residency and visa requirements for Montenegro by visiting the Embassy of Montenegro in the States or online.

More information about moving to Montenegro.