Herceg Novi is the most western Montenegrin resort on the Adriatic coast. It was founded by Bosnian king Tvrtko I in 1382 and has a long and vibrant history.
What is special about Herceg Novi? It is sometimes called “Town of 100,001 Steps”. There is a legend that Ivo Andric, famous writer and Nobel prize winner, who lived most part of his live in Herceg Novi described it just in three words: “Stairs, stairs, stairs…”. And that’s true, many streets are simply stairs so you should be prepared to go upstairs or downstairs quite often during your stay here.
One of the best attractions in Herceg Novi is Pet Danica (Five Danica) Promenade. It was a railway connecting Herceg Novi port to Sarajevo, Bosnia, here in 19th century and now it is a very long and green embankment named after five young women who died protecting Herceg Novi during World War II. They were all called Danica.
Nowadays there are a lot of cafes and restaurants here, also you’ll find a bunch of small beaches. So it is a great place to rest during hot summer day.
Another top attraction is the Old Town of Herceg Novi which is about 6 centuries old. Its most significant monuments include Forte Mare, Kanli Kula and the Clock Tower.
And yes, stairs are also included here. It makes Old Town very picturesque but it may be hard to walk here during rains or storms.
Forte Mare fortress dating back to the 14th century is located in the city center and easy to find. It is open for visiting during summer season, the entrance cost is 4 euros in 2024. After its foundation, the fortress was several times rebuilt and enhanced – by the Turks, by the Venetians – and what we see now it is Austro-Hungarian version of Forte Mare fortress.
One of the symbols of Herceg Novi is the Clock Tower (or Sat Kula). It was built in 1667 during the Ottoman rule and served also as a city gate. Now it is located in the very historical center of Herceg Novi so you won’t miss it. Near the Clock Tower you will find a large square full of restaurants, shops, banks, etc.
Just near the Clock Tower, on the main square of Old Town – Belavista square – you will see St. Michael Archangel Orthodox Church built in 19th century and remarkable by its architecture representing a mix of different styles.
A luxury marine Portonovi (a rival of Porto Montenegro and another luxury marine on Adriatic coast) is located just a few kilometers from historical center Herceg Novi.