Location: North-western entrance to the Bay of Kotor – approx. 2 hrs from Budva

Known for: Fortresses, old town, Igalo health resort, “Pet Danica” promenade, mimosa blossom

Highlights: Fort Kanli Kula, Forte Mare, Savina Monastery, waterfront promenade

Best time to visit: May–October; year-round for the health resort

The Best Sights in Herceg Novi

For its size, Herceg Novi is remarkably rich in sights – fortresses, monasteries, churches and viewpoints alternate throughout the compact old town, all easily explored on foot.

Fort Kanli Kula – the Bloody Tower above the city

Fort Kanli Kula – meaning “Bloody Tower” – perches on a hill above the old town and is the most famous landmark of Herceg Novi. Originally built by the Ottomans and later expanded by the Venetians, it now serves as an open-air amphitheatre for concerts and theatre performances. The view from the top over the bay is spectacular.

Forte Mare – the sea fortress on the waterfront

Forte Mare sits right on the water’s edge and is one of the most striking features of Herceg Novi’s coastline. Built in the 14th century and expanded several times, it offers wonderful views across the bay and surrounding mountains – especially in the evening when the fortress walls are illuminated.

Fort Spanjola – the highest viewpoint of all

The highest of the three forts offers the widest panorama – on a clear day you can see deep into the bay all the way to Kotor. The walk up is a little longer, but the fort is less visited than Kanli Kula and well worth it for those seeking peace and panoramic views.

Savina Monastery – a peaceful counterpoint to the fortress culture

A short distance outside the old town, the Orthodox Savina Monastery nestles in lush greenery directly on the water. Two churches, ancient cypresses and an almost meditative stillness – the monastery is one of the most underrated spots in Herceg Novi. Appropriate dress required (covered shoulders and knees).

Who should visit the sights?

Old Town & Promenade – the Heart of Herceg Novi

The Old Town – terraced above the bay

Herceg Novi’s old town climbs in terraces up the steep hillside above the bay – narrow lanes, steps, small squares and constantly surprising views of the water. No mass tourism like Dubrovnik, but the same Mediterranean atmosphere. You can wander for hours and always discover something new.

The centrepiece is Belavista Square with the Church of St Michael the Archangel and the famous clock tower Sahat Kula – one of the most photographed motifs in the city. All around: cafés, restaurants and the unhurried rhythm of everyday south Montenegrin life.

The “Pet Danica” Promenade – six kilometres on the water

The seafront promenade “Pet Danica” (meaning “Five Days”) stretches for around six kilometres along the sea and is the tourist hub of the city. Restaurants, cafés, stalls and hotels line the route – perfect for a stroll, a swim, or simply sitting and watching the bay.

Igalo Health Resort – Wellness & Wellbeing All Year Round

What many visitors don’t realise: Herceg Novi is not just a summer destination but a year-round health resort. In the suburb of Igalo, the renowned Institute “Dr. Simo Milošević” has been drawing guests from across Europe for decades. Treatment uses mildly radioactive healing mud from the bay, seawater therapy and various rehabilitation programmes.

The mild climate of the bay – with over 200 sunny days a year and a sheltered position behind the mountains – makes Herceg Novi a pleasant travel destination even in winter. Anyone visiting Montenegro outside peak season should definitely consider Herceg Novi.

Who is the health resort for?

Visiting Herceg Novi – Getting There & Practical Tips

Getting to Herceg Novi

Herceg Novi as Your Starting Point for the Bay of Kotor

Herceg Novi sits at the western entrance to the Bay of Kotor – the ideal starting point for exploring the whole bay. From here the coastal road leads directly to Perast and on to Kotor. Anyone wanting to see all three simply drives along the bay – one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Europe.

Herceg Novi stands in the shadow of the big names – Kotor, Budva, Sveti Stefan – and that is precisely why it is so enjoyable. Less mass tourism, more authenticity, a character all its own. Three fortresses, a lively Belavista Square, a six-kilometre promenade and a health resort welcoming guests all year round.

Our advice: Don’t just drive through. Allow at least half a day – and don’t miss the viewpoint at St Nikolas in Žlijebi.