11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Montenegro and Albania With Itinerary from Podgorica to Shkoder, Bar, and Kotor

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across Montenegro and Albania, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Podgorica in Montenegro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Shkoder, where you will stay for 3 nights.

One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Gorica Park. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Dajbabe Monastery and learn what makes this standout monastery unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended Millennium Bridge. After exploring the monument, head to Orthodox Temple Of Christ's Resurrection. This increasingly popular church is a highlight in Podgorica.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Shkoder. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Shkoder’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Montenegro and Albania.

Dine in style at Restaurant PURI, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Restaurant Elita boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Shkoder.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Fontana, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 3 of your European tour in Montenegro and Albania, you’ll start and end your day in Shkoder, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Shkoder in Albania. Shkoder remains your base for 2 nights more.

Catch Mesi Bridge before the crowds roll in. This respected monument is sure to ignite your curiosity.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Shirq. This car ride takes around 36 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Buna River - Velipoja. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Shirq’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Velipojë. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in Velipojë, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Velipoja Beach. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the beach before you continue to your next stop.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Shkoder. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Albania in a new light.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pasta e Vino, a top-rated dining destination in Shkoder. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vila Bekteshi Restorant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pasta te Zenga. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shkoder this evening.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip through Montenegro and Albania. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Bërdicë e Sipërme in Albania. With 1 night left in Shkoder, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy all that Site Of Witness And Memory has to offer. This is an often recommended museum you should not miss.

After soaking in Shkoder’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bërdicë e Sipërme. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Bërdicë e Sipërme, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Rozafa Castle, an increasingly popular castle in Bërdicë e Sipërme. Explore its history-steeped features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Lead Mosque, Shkodër. This increasingly popular mosque is a top recommendation in the area.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that Shkoder boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the region.

Make sure to reserve a table at MANIFATURA, an iconic dining spot in Shkoder. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Fish Art, a popular restaurant in Shkoder. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Rozafa Sea Food, a hidden gem nestled in Shkoder. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Montenegro and Albania. Today's main destinations are Shkoder in Albania, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Bar. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Check out the intriguing mosque, Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque. Afterward, continue to "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. , a museum every traveler should visit. As you explore Shkoder’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Kole Idromeno Street. This curiosity-inducing street is an essential stop.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Bar’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Bar's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant PLANET, a highly-rated dining destination in Bar. If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Balkan, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dublin Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bar this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Food House, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Nice Vice offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Montenegro and Albania! Enjoy your evening in Bar to the fullest!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Petrovac na Moru in Montenegro. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kotor, your home for 3 nights.

After soaking in Petrovac na Moru’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Budva. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 26 min. When you arrive in Budva, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hiking Trail "reževići", a worthwhile hiking area in Petrovac na Moru. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Kastio Castle. This often recommended castle is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Petrovac, Budva is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most mesmerizing beach in the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Budva, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Petrovac na Moru to Budva may take around 26 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Budva, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Budva is Budva Riviera, a beloved beach that draws attention for its mesmerizing features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Jaz Beach, an eye-catching beach that stands out in the town.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Kotor. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Montenegro and Albania by rewarding yourself with a taste of Kotor’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Catedrale Pasta Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Mondo? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kotor.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Jazz Club Evergreen, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Old Winery Wine Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Patisserie By Wine House provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

As the night falls in Kotor, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 8, you will wake up in Perast with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Kotor before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Montenegro and Albania.

Kampana Tower is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This culturally significant monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Kotor Cats Museum, another must-visit landmark and underrated museum renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Kotor by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St. Tryphon's Cathedral. This UNESCO world heritage-designated church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Kotor experience.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Kotor. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the town’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at BBQ Tanjga, an iconic dining spot in Kotor. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Platanus Kotor, a popular restaurant in Kotor. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Konoba Scala Santa, a hidden gem nestled in Kotor. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Pub "old Town" Kotor. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, "ladovina" Kitchen & Wine Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Harbour Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

As the night falls in Kotor, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

On day 10 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Montenegro and Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence Meljine in Montenegro. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Podgorica, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kotor, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Meljine. This drive usually takes around 57 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Savina Monastery. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

Set your GPS to Danilovgrad Municipality and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Danilovgrad Municipality beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Old Town. Spend some time admiring the awe-inspiring features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop.

Danilovgrad Municipality’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Herceg Novi behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 58 min. Danilovgrad Municipality welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Ostrog Monastery is a well-known monastery we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Podgorica.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Montenegro's delectable cuisine at one of Podgorica's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restoran Stefan, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Baščaršija offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Chi Le Ma is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Podgorica.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Berlin, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Pub Www. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Ethno Jazz Club "sejdefa", another top-rated place in the area.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!