A historic Mediterranean city at the mouth of Europe's most beautiful bay, where Ottoman, Venetian, and Austro-Hungarian heritage blend with coastal charm.
Herceg Novi (Херцег Нови) is a city of 30,000 at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor — a UNESCO World Heritage site often called Europe's southernmost fjord. Founded in 1382 by Bosnian King Tvrtko I, the city has been shaped by centuries of Venetian, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian rule, each leaving their mark in stone.
Today Herceg Novi is known for its warm microclimate, lush vegetation, and a cultural energy that punches above its weight — hosting film festivals, music events, and one of Montenegro's most vibrant food scenes. It's just a 15-minute walk from our apartments in Igalo.
The heart of Herceg Novi is its compact, atmospheric Old Town — a maze of narrow streets, stone staircases, and hidden squares draped in bougainvillea.
A seaside fortress dating to the 14th century. Now a cinema and event venue in summer, with stunning views over the bay entrance.
"Bloody Tower" — an Ottoman-era fortress above the Old Town. Today it's an open-air theater seating 1,000 for summer performances.
A stunning Serbian Orthodox monastery complex dating to the 11th century, set among ancient Mediterranean forest.
The main square at the top of the Old Town — lined with cafés, with views over terracotta rooftops to the bay.
The Old Town is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes — Herceg Novi is famous for its staircases (locals joke the city has more stairs than people).
For a small city, Herceg Novi has a rich cultural calendar:
The Herceg Novi Green Market (Zelena Pijaca) is one of Montenegro's best — a daily market selling fresh produce, local cheese, honey, olive oil, and dried figs. Arrive early for the best selection. The surrounding streets have small shops selling Montenegrin souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and local wines.
Herceg Novi's location makes it a perfect base for exploring the region:
45 min drive along the bay. UNESCO Old Town, city walls hike, cat museum. Don't miss it.
40 min drive. Tiny baroque town. Take a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks island church.
45 min drive. Cross the Croatian border to explore the famous walled city. Day trip essential.
20 min by boat. Žanjice and Mirište beaches — crystal-clear water, seafood restaurants.
Herceg Novi is walkable, but here's what to know:
Our 8 apartments in Igalo are a 15-minute walk from the Old Town — close enough to explore, quiet enough to relax.
View Apartments