Winter Vacation in Montenegro 2025/2026: Skiing, Spa Hotels, Weather, and Prices (Guide)
A winter trip to Montenegro lets you discover two completely different worlds located just a couple of hours apart: snow-covered peaks and ski slopes in the north, and a peaceful, evergreen coastline in the south. This is...
Traveling to Montenegro in winter lets you discover two completely different worlds located just a couple of hours’ drive apart: snow-covered peaks and ski slopes in the north, and a peaceful, evergreen coastline in the south. It is a country of contrasts, offering a rare combination of active mountain holidays and meditative seaside walks in a single trip.
Winter in Montenegro is the time for the best deals. Accommodation and tour prices, especially on the coast, drop significantly. Luxurious 4- and 5-star hotels with excellent SPA complexes become available for half the summer price. This makes it possible to enjoy a premium holiday without major expenses.
The absence of tourist crowds is another undeniable advantage. You can explore Kotor’s narrow streets, walk along Budva’s fortress walls, and enjoy the silence of ancient Perast without the rush and queues. Winter also brings unique experiences: in February, Herceg Novi hosts the famous “Mimosa Festival,” when the whole city is immersed in the fragrance and gold of blooming trees. And what could be better than watching the stormy Adriatic while sitting in a cozy café with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of local Vranac wine?
Winter Weather: Temperatures on the Coast and in the Mountains (Comparison)
Climate dualism is the main feature of winter in Montenegro. While a true alpine winter reigns in the north of the country, the south continues to enjoy a mild Mediterranean climate.
On the coast, in cities such as Budva, Kotor, and Bar, the weather remains comfortable and mild. Daytime temperatures here range from +10°C to +15°C, and at night they rarely drop below zero. It is a wonderful time for long walks through old streets, lunches on open café terraces, especially in sunny weather, and enjoying the sea air without the exhausting summer heat. Snow on the Adriatic coast is extremely rare.
At the same time, in the mountain regions where the main ski centers are located — Kolašin and Žabljak — you’ll find a full winter experience. Here, at altitudes above 1,000 meters, snow often falls from December to March. Air temperatures usually stay below zero, dropping to -10°C, which creates ideal conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
Mountains or Sea? Tips for Choosing the Perfect Winter Holiday
Who the mountains are for:If you are a fan of skiing, snowboarding, active holidays, and dream of snowy landscapes, an authentic mountain atmosphere, and cozy evenings by the fireplace, then northern Montenegro is your choice. The resorts of Kolašin and Žabljak offer an excellent alternative to expensive Alpine centers, winning on price while not уступая in slope quality or natural beauty.
Who the sea is for:If your goal is peace, privacy, cultural immersion, and rejuvenation, head to the coast. Winter is the perfect time for lovers of history, long walks along deserted beaches, culinary discoveries, and SPA relaxation. It is a wonderful choice for a romantic getaway away from the hustle and bustle.
Thanks to Montenegro’s compact size, these two types of holiday can easily be combined. You can stay in a comfortable hotel on the coast and take day trips to the mountains for skiing, or, conversely, stay in a mountain chalet and go on an excursion to medieval Kotor.
Montenegro Ski Resorts: Kolašin vs Žabljak
Guide to Kolašin 1600 and 1450: Slopes, Ski Passes, Hotels
Kolašin is rapidly earning a reputation as Montenegro’s most modern and developed ski center. Thanks to significant investment in infrastructure, it offers a level of service comparable to European resorts, but at much more attractive prices.Located on the picturesque slopes of Mount Bjelasica, surrounded by Biogradska Gora National Park, Kolašin is the ideal choice for those who value comfort, quality, and variety.
Kolašin 1600 ski complex. Source: skijalista.me
Ski Resort Kolašin 1450 and 1600 — Which One to Choose?
The key advantage of Kolašin is that it is not two separate resorts, but a single modern ski system consisting of two bases —Kolašin 1450andKolašin 1600. They are connected by lifts, allowing skiers to move freely between the ski areas with a single ski pass, using a shared network of 45 km of slopes.
Kolašin 1450:This is the historic but fully modernized base of the resort. Its slopes run mainly through forested terrain and intertwine with one another, allowing new descent routes every time. This area is ideal for beginners and intermediate skiers. There is also a floodlit slope for night skiing.
Kolašin 1600:The newest ski center, located at a higher altitude. It offers wider, more open, and more challenging slopes aimed at experienced skiers and speed enthusiasts. The resort is equipped with modern 6-seat chairlifts with heated seats, which quickly take you to the summit of Troglava at an altitude of 2,035 meters.
Choosing between the two bases is essentially choosing your starting point for the day. Beginners and families with children usually start at 1450, while advanced skiers prefer to head straight up to 1600.
Map of the Kolašin 1450 and 1600 ski complexes. Source: skijalista.me
Comparison of Kolašin Ski Centers
Feature
Kolašin 1450
Kolašin 1600
Base altitude
1450 m
1600 m
Highest point
1973 m (Ključ Peak)
2035 m (Troglava Peak)
Slope type
Forest, intertwined
Open, wide
Lift modernity
Upgraded, including a 6-seat lift
Newest, including a heated 6-seat lift
Best for
Beginners, families, intermediate skiers
Experienced skiers, speed enthusiasts
Ski pass prices (1 day)
Single ski pass for both centers (from €25 for adults)
Single ski pass for both centers (from €25 for adults)
Prices for a Ski Holiday in Kolašin (2025/2026 Season)
Ski passes:A single ski pass is valid for both ski areas.
One-day: about €25 for adults and €16.5 for children.
Seven-day: about €110 for adults and €75.5 for children.
It is recommended to check prices on the official websiteskijalista.mebefore traveling.
Equipment rental:A full set (skis/snowboard, boots, poles) will cost about €13–19 per day. Rental shops are available both at the resort itself and in the town of Kolašin, where prices may be slightly lower.
Instructor services:Both private and group lessons are available. The cost of a four-hour lesson with an instructor is about €60.
Source: skijalista.me
What to Do Besides Skiing (Après-ski and Sights)
Nature Be sure to visit Biogradska Gora National Park with its primeval forest and glacial Biogradsko Lake. In winter, these places have a special, fairy-tale beauty.
Culture Take a trip to Morača Monastery (13th century) — one of Montenegro’s most important spiritual and historical landmarks, located in the picturesque canyon of the river of the same name.
Activities For adventure lovers, snowmobile safaris and snowshoe walks along the snowy trails of the national park are organized.
In town After an active day on the slopes, you can relax in one of the many restaurants serving national cuisine, visit the hotel SPA center, or stop by one of the local nightclubs.
Guide to Žabljak (Durmitor): Savin Kuk and Entertainment
Žabljak is the complete opposite of Kolašin. It is the highest town in the Balkans (1,450 m), located in the very heart of Durmitor National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A holiday here is less about modern service and more about immersion in wild, untouched nature. The atmosphere is more authentic, and the landscapes are truly epic.
Ski Areas: Savin Kuk, Javorovača, and the Ghost of Štuoc
The ski infrastructure in Žabljak is simpler and more fragmented than in Kolašin. There are several separate ski areas here.
Savin Kuk (Savin Kuk):
This is the main and most popular ski area, located at the foot of the mountain of the same name. The total length of the slopes here is about 4.7 km.The resort offers slopes of different difficulty levels — blue, red, and one black — making it suitable for skiers of various abilities. The lifts take you up to 2,313 m, where breathtaking views of the Durmitor massif open up.
Javorovača (Javorovača):
A small slope with a total length of 800 m, located near the town center. It is the perfect place for teaching children and adults taking their first steps on skis or a snowboard. There is a separate, cheaper ski pass here.
Štuoc (Štuc):
Often mentioned as a third ski area, but it is important to know that the lift here has not been operating for many years, so you should not count on skiing in this area.
Savin Kuk, Žabljak. Source: nestvarna.blog
Ski Areas in Žabljak
Feature
Savin Kuk
Javorovača
Location
At the foot of Savin Kuk mountain
Near the center of Žabljak
Total slope length
~ 4.7 km
800 m
Difficulty level
Blue, red, black
Blue only (for beginners)
Lifts
2 chairlifts, 3 drag lifts, 1 children’s lift
2 drag lifts, 1 children’s lift
Ski pass price (1 day)
~ €15 (adult)
~ €8 (adult)
Suitable for
Skiers of all levels
Children and absolute beginners
Prices for a Ski Holiday in Žabljak (2025/2026 Season)
A holiday in Žabljak is generally more budget-friendly than in Kolašin.
Ski passes (Savin Kuk):
One-day: about €15 for adults and €9 for children.
Seven-day: about €93 for adults and €55 for children.
Prices may increase slightly during the peak period in January.
Equipment rental:
Rental prices here are among the lowest in Europe. A standard set costs €5–7 per day, while a premium set costs €8–10 per day.
Žabljak. Source: nestvarna.blog
What to Do Besides Skiing: Other Activities, Black Lake, Đurđevića Tara Bridge
Žabljak’s greatest treasure is the nature surrounding it.
Black Lake (Crno jezero):
The jewel of Durmitor. In winter, the lake freezes and is covered with a thick layer of snow, turning into a vast white field ideal for walks, sledding, and photo sessions.
Đurđevića Tara Bridge:
A visit to this grand bridge spanning Europe’s deepest canyon is a must. In winter, the road to it is regularly cleared, and the snow-covered slopes of the canyon look especially impressive.
Activities:
Winter Durmitor offers plenty of entertainment: snowshoe walks through virgin forest (in the local language
hodanje na krpljama), snowmobile safaris, and visits to the Ice Cave (access may be difficult in winter). Even if you do not ski, it is worth taking the Savin Kuk cable car to enjoy the panoramic views.Panoramic views:
Do not miss the chance to drive to the Čurevac viewpoint, which offers one of the best views of the Tara River canyon.Read also: National Parks of Montenegro: A Complete Guide to the Gems of the Wild
Wintering by the Sea: What to Do in Budva and Kotor in the Off-Season
Montenegro’s winter coast is a place for those seeking solitude and a reset. It is a time for contemplation, leisurely walks, and rejuvenation. In winter, the coastal towns shed the mask of noisy resorts and reveal their true historical face. It is also the perfect time to visit SPA hotels, which in the low season offer their services — indoor seawater pools, saunas, hammams, and wellness treatments — at very attractive prices.
Which Coastal Towns Are Best to Visit in Montenegro in Winter
Kotor and Perast:
In winter, the Bay of Kotor is often wrapped in a light haze, giving it a special, mystical atmosphere. Exploring Kotor’s medieval streets and climbing the fortress walls without the summer heat and tourist crowds becomes a real pleasure.
Budva and Bečići:Winter Budva is not a party capital, but a cozy Old Town where you can sit for hours in a café overlooking the deserted beach and the fortress. In the neighboring settlement of Bečići, some of the country’s best SPA hotels are located, such as the legendary
Splendid
.Herceg Novi:This town is worth visiting in February to catch the famous “Mimosa Festival.” It is a bright and fragrant celebration marking the coming of spring, with parades, concerts, and tastings.
Mimosa Festival in Montenegro. Source: portonovi.com
What to Do in Montenegro in Winter
Walks:
Winter is the best time for long walks along promenades and deserted beaches, exploring old towns (Budva, Kotor, Bar, Ulcinj) and fortresses.
Gastronomy:
Visit oyster farms in the Bay of Kotor to taste the freshest oysters and mussels. Enjoy fresh fish dishes and local Vranac wine in authentic restaurants that are packed with tourists in summer.Nature and Photography:
Winter sea is incredibly photogenic. Go hunting for dramatic shots of the stormy Adriatic or take a drive along the scenic coastal roads.
Where to Stay in Montenegro in Winter: From Mountain Chalets to SPA Hotels on the Coast
In the mountains (Kolašin and Žabljak):
Accommodation options here are wide-ranging: from luxurious 5-star hotels to cozy apartments and separate chalet-style houses with fireplaces. In Kolašin, for a premium stay, consider
Bianca Resort & SPA
or
Swissôtel Resort Kolašin
. In Žabljak, popular choices includeHotel Soa,Hotel Rezident, andCasa di Pino EcoLodge. Important tip: mountain accommodation for the New Year holidays and peak season (January–February) should be booked several months in advance.On the coast:In winter, the main focus should be on 4-5* hotels with good SPA complexes, as they provide a comfortable stay in any weather. Among the best areSplendid HotelandHotel Zeta
in Bečići,
Merit Starlit Hotel & ResidencesandHotel Imperial Conference & Spain Budva,SIROandRegent Porto Montenegroin Tivat,One&OnlyandLazure Hotel & Marinain Herceg Novi,Stara Čaršija Hotel & SPAin Bar.Lazure Hotel & Marina
Swissôtel Resort Kolašin
Accommodation Prices in Montenegro in Winter (per night, 2 adults)
Type of accommodation
Mountain resorts (Kolašin/Žabljak)
Coastal towns
Apartments/Guesthouse
from €30–50
from €25–40
3-4* Hotel
from €70–100
from €50–80
5*/SPA Hotel
from €150–350
from €90–200
Restaurant Guide: What and Where to Eat in Winter
Mountain cuisine:
Hearty, meat-based, and warming, it is perfect for cold weather. Be sure to try:
Kačamak:
a thick porridge made from cornmeal with young cheese and potatoes — Kolašin’s signature dish.
Lamb under the sač:the most tender meat, slow-cooked under a special metal lid in embers.
Njeguši prosciutto:the famous cured pork ham (similar to jamón), served as an appetizer.
Kolašin layered cheese (lisnati):a delicate cheese reminiscent of mozzarella.
Coastal cuisine:
Light, Mediterranean, with plenty of fresh seafood.
Buzara:
shrimp or mussels stewed in a wine and garlic sauce.
Crni rižot:black risotto with cuttlefish ink and seafood.
Fresh grilled fish:dorada, sea bass, trout, caught in the Adriatic Sea or mountain rivers.
The average restaurant bill per person will be €15–20 without drinks. A set lunch can be found for €4–5. Soups cost €5–7, and large portions of meat dishes with a side cost €15–25.
Jagnjetina ispod sača
Kačamak
Transportation in Montenegro: How to Get There and Travel Around the Country
Arrival:
Montenegro has two international airports — Podgorica (TGD) and Tivat (TIV). For a ski trip, it is more convenient to fly into Podgorica. For a coastal holiday, fly into Tivat.
Transfer from Podgorica Airport to Kolašin:
Train:The cheapest option, but not the most comfortable because of the condition of the carriages. Travel time is about 1.5 hours, cost — €3–9.
Bus:Travel time 1.5–2 hours, cost — €3–15.
Taxi/Transfer:The fastest way. Travel time about 1 hour, cost — €50–60.
Transfer from Tivat to Žabljak:Bus:
A direct trip takes about 4 hours, cost — about €20.
Taxi/Transfer:The trip takes about 3 hours and costs from €85 to €160 depending on the company.
Car rental:
This is probably the best option in winter. Renting a car gives you the freedom to move between the mountains and the coast, fully realizing the “two holidays in one” concept.
Prices:
Car rental prices for an economy-class vehicle start from €25–30 per day. It is best to book in advance online to get the best price.
Important:When renting a car in winter, make sure it is equipped with
winter tires
(this is legally required) and that there aresnow chains
in the trunk. Mountain roads can be snowy, and safety comes first.
What to Pack: Checklist for a Winter Trip to Montenegro
Clothing:
Use the layering principle. For the mountains, a warm waterproof jacket and pants, thermal underwear, a fleece, and waterproof shoes are essential. For the coast, a mid-season jacket, sweater, and comfortable walking shoes will do.
Gear:
Don’t forget sunscreen (the sun is very strong in the mountains), sunglasses, a hat, and gloves.
Documents and money:Passport, travel insurance (make sure it covers skiing), cash in euros (small mountain cafés and markets may not accept cards).
Electronics:Power bank for charging devices on the go, adapter (Montenegro uses type C and F sockets, standard in Europe).
Winter Holiday Prices 2026: Trip Budget
Expense item
Mountain holiday (Kolašin)
Combined holiday (Coast + mountains)
Accommodation (7 nights)
€560 (4* hotel)
€420 (4* hotel on the coast)
Car rental (7 days + fuel)
€240
€240
Food (cafés/restaurants)
€350
€350
Ski passes (5 days)
€220
€150 (3 days of skiing)
Equipment rental (5 days)
€150
€90 (3 days of skiing)
Other expenses (souvenirs, national park entrance fees)
€80
€100
Total
€1600
€1350
This budget is approximate and may vary depending on personal preferences.
Is It Worth Going to Montenegro in Winter?
When it comes to Montenegro, the imagination conjures up sun-drenched Adriatic beaches, turquoise bays, and lively summer resorts. However, the true, untouched character of this amazing country reveals itself in winter, when the heat subsides and tourist crowds disappear.
Winter Montenegro offers European-quality skiing at Balkan prices, the chance to enjoy the silence and beauty of the Adriatic without the summer bustle, and the opportunity to combine two completely different types of holiday in one trip. It is a country where, in a single day, you can descend from a snow-covered peak and then drink coffee on the promenade to the sound of the surf.
When planning your trip, remember the need to book mountain accommodation well in advance, to have winter tires on your car, and to be prepared for changeable weather. But most importantly — be open to new experiences!
Header photo source:
nestvarna.blog
Зимняя Черногория предлагает европейское качество горнолыжного отдыха по балканским ценам, возможность насладиться тишиной и красотой Адриатики без летней суеты, а также шанс совместить два совершенно разных вида отдыха в одной поездке. Это страна, где за один день можно спуститься с заснеженной вершины, а затем выпить кофе на набережной под шум прибоя.
Планируя поездку, помните о необходимости раннего бронирования жилья в горах, обязательном наличии зимней резины на автомобиле и готовности к переменчивой погоде. Но главное — будьте открыты к новым впечатлениям!
