Best Places to Live In Montenegro and Buy Property
Montenegro, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers diverse living environments for both locals and expatriates. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant coastal lifestyle, a dynamic city life, or a tranquil retreat in the mountains, this beautiful Balkan nation has something for everyone.
We’ll highlight options across various regions, from coastal hotspots to central urban areas and the scenic northern mountains.
Podgorica – The Central Hub
Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro with a population of about 180.000 people. What it lacks in coastal charm, it makes up for with its industrial and business appeal. It offers a thriving economy, a wide selection of neighborhoods to choose from, and affordable property prices.
Convenience and Safety: The city is incredibly safe and everything is close. You won’t have to deal with hours-long traffic jams during peak times.
Central Location: It takes an hour to reach both the coast and the northern region with ski resorts and national parks. Its central location makes it easy to travel around the country.
Growing Community: Podgorica is seeing an influx of foreign companies, digital nomads and expats. Still, it is rarely crowded like Budva during the summers.
Here you will find wide avenues with multi-storey buildings by the neighborhoods with private houses, modern offices across preserved buildings of the past.
Podgorica is the optimal option for those who prefer the dynamic setting of a larger city. You can visit the National Montenegrin theater, live music shows, galleries, cinema, and malls. Restaurants offer dishes with variety beyond the traditional Montenegrin cuisine.
Tivat – The Luxury Destination
Home to the prestigious Porto Montenegro marina, Tivat is emerging as a luxury hotspot, which attracts affluent buyers and yacht owners.
Tivat is ideal for those looking to invest in upscale property for sale, whether it’s a luxurious apartment with sea views or a modern house. Its proximity to both the sea and various amenities makes it a desirable location for families and professionals alike.
Highlights:
Modern Amenities: Tivat features modern apartments and villas, as well as gated communities and waterfront retreats, often with stunning sea views.
Beachfront Access: Enjoy easy access to beaches and luxury marinas.
Growing Community: Tivat is home to a vibrant expat community, making it an excellent place for socializing.
Those looking to buy a house or buy an apartment in a modern, upscale environment with access to luxury amenities will find a property that is perfect for them here.
Bar – A Blend of Life and Tranquility
If you plan to live in Montenegro permanently, we recommend considering buying real estate in Bar. Located on a plain, with wide streets, plenty of free parking, bus routes, a large sports center, children’s and sports parks.
Highlights:
Sunniest Town: Out of all coastal towns, Bar receives the most sunlight during the year. Coupled with a wide promenade and beaches with coniferous trees, there is plenty of opportunity to spend time outside.
Pleasant Atmosphere: Bar never feels crowded or too chaotic despite the number of visitors. Excellent infrastructure and wide roads are a big plus.
Well-Connected: The railroad station and the port give the pulse of life to the city.
In the historical part of the city – Old Bar – grows the oldest olive tree in Europe, which is more than 2,000 years old.
Even though Bar sees quite a bit of tourists during the summer, it still doesn’t feel crowded like Budva due to the wide streets. Another big plus is that most restaurants and other venues work even in the off-season. Also, prices for products and services are lower compared to the rest of the coast.
Kotor – A Historical Haven
Nestled in a bay, Kotor is famous for its medieval architecture and stunning mountain backdrop. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique living experience for those who appreciate history and culture.
Highlights:
Historical Charm: Explore ancient streets, fortresses, and the iconic Kotor Cathedral.
Waterfront Properties: Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay from your home.
Cultural Events: Kotor hosts numerous festivals and cultural events throughout the year.
Budva – The Coastal Gem
Budva is perhaps the most popular destination for those seeking a beachfront lifestyle. Renowned for its picturesque Old Town, Budva combines history with modernity. The stunning coastline features numerous beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural scene. Here, you can find a variety of properties for sale, from luxurious villas to contemporary apartments, making it an ideal location to buy a house or buy an apartment.
Highlights:
Beachfront Living: With stunning beaches like Mogren and Slovenska, you’ll have easy access to sun and sea.
Property for Sale: Budva offers a range of properties, from luxurious villas to modern apartments.
Vibrant Nightlife: Enjoy a bustling nightlife scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Budva is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Montenegro, renowned for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and historical sites. Living here means enjoying the best of coastal life.
Herceg Novi – Where Art and History Intersect
A green town on the border with Croatia rich in history. You can get here either by driving through the entire Boko Kotor Bay or by ferry. The lowest crime rate on the coast, real estate prices are low, as well as reasonable food prices.
Highlights:
Historical Significance: Home to beautiful historical sites and serene locations.
Scenic Views: Nestled in the bay with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Affordable Living: Generally lower property prices compared to coastal areas.
It is quiet and peaceful, there are no large stores and entertainment centers. The air is fresh and clean.
However, the topography of this town can be an issue for some. Herceg Novi is called “the city of a thousand stairs”: due to the terrain, there is a huge number of stairs, as well as a lack of parking spaces.
The promenade stretching for several kilometers, speckled with numerous restaurants and bars, is one of the most picturesque and favorite places of Herceg Novi.
Herceg Novi has become a hotspot for artists, musicians and other creative people. Festivals, concerts and exhibitions are often held here.
Kolasin and Zabljak – The Time In the Nature
For nature enthusiasts, Kolasin and Zabljak are the two towns that are ideal to live in or stay for a vacation. Known for its breathtaking mountain landscapes, Zabljak offers opportunities for outdoor activities year-round, from skiing in the winter to hiking in the summer. The area boasts a unique charm and tranquility, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Kolasin is another great place to buy a property if you like peaceful life in nature or want to rent the property out. Also known for its ski resorts and great hiking trails, Kolasin is favored by outdoor enthusiasts. It is very close to national parks, and the annual pass for all national parks in Montenegro is 10€.
Highlights:
Natural Beauty: Enjoy hiking, nature walks, and local cuisine. A perfect place to buy a cabin or a chalet in the mountains with scenic views.
Cultural Heritage: Known for its traditional Montenegrin homes and smoked ham.
Rural Charm: Experience a slower pace of life away from the bustling coast.
Nature lovers and those looking for unique property for sale options in a serene mountain environment.
Conclusion
Montenegro’s diverse regions offer a wealth of options for those seeking the best places to live. Whether you prefer the coastal charm of Budva and Kotor, the urban convenience of Podgorica, or the serene landscapes of northern Montenegro, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. With a variety of properties for sale across the country, now is an excellent time to consider your options to buy a house or buy an apartment in this captivating destination.
As Montenegro continues to evolve, its real estate market is likely to grow, presenting new opportunities for both local and international buyers. Whatever your lifestyle preference, Montenegro’s rich offerings can meet your needs, ensuring a fulfilling living experience in this beautiful corner of the world.