Discover Montenegro: Top Movies, TV Series, and Books Set in the Montenegro

Montenegro, with its captivating landscapes and rich culture, has long been a canvas for various artistic expressions. From films to books and TV series, let’s explore the cinematic allure of this Balkan gem.

Montenegro and the Silver Screen: 10 Noteworthy Films

The cinematic charm of Montenegro has been captured in numerous films. Let’s delve into some of them:

1. “Casino Royale” (2006) – This James Bond film prominently features the picturesque town of Budva and the famous Casino Royale.
2. “The Brothers Bloom” (2008) – This adventure-comedy film showcases the medieval beauty of Perast and Kotor.
3. “Coriolanus” (2011) – This adaptation of Shakespeare’s tragedy has several scenes shot in Herceg Novi.
4. “November Man” (2014) – This spy thriller showcases the coastal charm of Budva and Kotor.
5. “The Raven” (2012) – This mystery thriller features the stunning landscapes of Durmitor National Park.
6. “Force 10 from Navarone” (1978) – This war film captures the rugged beauty of the Tara River Canyon.
7. “Montenegro” (1981) – This Swedish film showcases the unique culture and lifestyle of Montenegro.
8. “Mamula” (2014) – This horror film is set on the real-life, abandoned island fort of Mamula.
9. “The Long Ships” (1964) – This British-Yugoslav adventure film features the scenic Bay of Kotor.
10. “The Sea Inside” (2004) – This Spanish drama film highlights the serene beauty of the Ulcinj Salina.

These films weave intriguing narratives against the backdrop of Montenegro’s diverse landscapes, bringing its unique charm to the global audience.

Small Screen Magic: 5 TV Shows Set in Montenegro

From historical dramas to modern thrillers, Montenegro has been a setting for various TV shows. Here’s a selection:

1. “The Cult” (2009-2010) – This Serbian TV show features the mysterious and historical city of Kotor.
2. “Besa” (2018) – This crime drama showcases the urban landscapes of Podgorica and Niksic.
3. “Black Sun” (2017) – This Serbian action-thriller series highlights the stunning coastal landscapes of Tivat.
4. “Nasa Mala Klinika” (2004-2007) – This popular comedy series is set in the charming town of Budva.
5. “Montevideo, God Bless You!” (2012) – Although primarily set in Serbia, this series features the beautiful landscapes of Herceg Novi.

These TV series present diverse narratives set against the panoramic beauty of Montenegro, offering viewers a glimpse into its cultural tapestry.

Animated Narratives: 5 Animated Films Set in Montenegro

The charm of Montenegro extends to animated films as well. Let’s take a look at some:

1. “A Stork’s Journey” (2017) – This film features a young bird’s journey across Europe, including the spectacular landscapes of Montenegro.
2. “Winnetoons” (2002) – This German animated film showcases the rugged beauty of the Balkans, with Montenegro playing a significant role.
3. “Lotte and the Lost Dragons” (2019) – This Estonian-Latvian film features the character Lotte embarking on an adventure across the Balkans, including Montenegro.
4. “The Golden Bird” (1959) – This classic Yugoslav animated film features various Balkan landscapes, including those of Montenegro.
5. “The Magic Sword: Quest for Camelot” (1998) – This film includes a character named Devon, who is said to hail from Montenegro.

These animated films bring the enchanting landscapes of Montenegro to life, offering engaging narratives for younger audiences.

Literary Montenegro: Renowned Books Set in Montenegro

The beauty and culture of Montenegro have inspired many authors. Here are some classic and contemporary books set in the country:

Classic:

1. “The Mountain Wreath” by Petar II Petrovic-Njegos – This epic poem explores the history and culture of Montenegro.
2. “Black Mountain” by Rex Stout – This classic detective novel is set in the rugged landscapes of Montenegro.
3. “The Bridge Over the Drina” by Ivo Andric – Although not entirely set in Montenegro, this book offers a vivid portrayal of the Balkan region.

Contemporary:

1. “The Tiger’s Wife” by Tea Obreht – This contemporary novel, set in the Balkans, includes several references to Montenegro.
2. “Montenegro” by Starling Lawrence – This adventure novel is set in the Montenegrin mountains.
3. “The Depths of the Sea” by Jamie Metzl – This thriller novel includes scenes set in the Bay of Kotor.

These books offer readers a literary journey through Montenegro’s rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

Exploring Montenegro’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Montenegro offers a wealth of cinematic locations. Here are some must-visit spots:

1. Budva – Featured in “Casino Royale” and “November Man,” Budva offers a blend of ancient and modern charm.
2. Kotor – This UNESCO World Heritage Site, featured in “The Brothers Bloom” and “November Man,” is known for its stunning bay and medieval architecture.
3. Perast – This picturesque town, featured in “The Brothers Bloom,” offers stunning views of the Bay of Kotor.
4. Durmitor National Park – Featured in “The Raven,” this park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its dramatic landscapes.
5. Mamula Island – The fort on this island, featured in “Mamula,” harbours a thrilling history.

Exploring these filming locations offers a unique blend of sightseeing and cinematic history.

Montenegro Accommodation: From Budget to Luxury

Montenegro offers diverse accommodation options, catering to various budgets:

Luxury:

1. Aman Sveti Stefan, Budva – This luxury resort offers a unique island experience with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
2. Regent Porto Montenegro, Tivat – This luxury hotel, overlooking the Bay of Kotor, offers a perfect blend of comfort and style.
3. The Chedi Lustica Bay, Tivat – This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and a world-class marina.

Budget:

1. Hostel Old Town, Kotor – Located in the heart of Kotor, this budget-friendly hostel offers comfortable accommodation.
2. Montenegro Hostel, Budva – This affordable hostel is a stone’s throw away from popular beaches.
3. Explorer Hostel, Podgorica – This budget-friendly option, located in the capital, offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.

Whether you’re seeking luxury or budget-friendly accommodation, Montenegro offers a wealth of options to suit your needs.

A Taste of Montenegro: Dining Options from Budget to Luxury

Montenegro’s culinary scene offers a range of dining options, from budget-friendly eateries to high-end restaurants.

Budget:

1. Tanja, Kotor – This family-run eatery offers delicious Montenegrin cuisine at reasonable prices.
2. Astoria, Budva – Located in Budva’s old town, this restaurant offers affordable seafood dishes.
3. Pod Volat, Podgorica – This traditional restaurant offers a range of affordable local dishes.

Luxury:

1. Catovica Mlini, Morinj – This upscale restaurant, set in an old mill, is renowned for its seafood dishes.
2. Stari Mlini, Kotor – This high-end restaurant offers a stunning riverside setting and a menu featuring local delicacies.
3. Langust, Prčanj – Overlooking the Bay of Kotor, this luxury seafood restaurant offers a memorable dining experience.

Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a gourmet experience, Montenegro’s culinary scene has something to offer every palate.

Montenegro Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Guide

Experience the cinematic allure of Montenegro with this five-day itinerary:

Day 1: Podgorica – Start with a tour of the capital, visiting key attractions like the Millennium Bridge and King’s Park.

Day 2: Budva – Explore the ancient charm of Budva, a location for many films such as “Casino Royale.”

Day 3: Kotor and Perast – Visit the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featured in several films and TV shows.

Day 4: Durmitor National Park – Experience the rugged beauty of this park, a location for “The Raven.”

Day 5: Mamula Island – End your journey with a visit to the historic fort on Mamula Island, a location for “Mamula.”

This itinerary offers a balance of sightseeing and cinematic history, providing a unique travel experience.

Montenegro’s Mysteries: Legends and Curiosities

Montenegro is rich in folklore and legends, adding a layer of mystery to its cinematic locations. Notable is the legend of the “Vila of Lovćen,” a mythical creature said to protect the Montenegrin people. This legend and others add a fascinating dimension to Montenegro’s cultural landscape.

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Montenegro

While Montenegro’s popular landmarks are often featured in films, the country also boasts lesser-known cinematic locations:

1. Skadar Lake – This lake, the largest in Southern Europe, has been a backdrop for several local films.
2. Ostrog Monastery – This stunning monastery, built into a cliff, has been featured in a number of regional films.
3. Cetinje – The former royal capital of Montenegro, with its historic buildings, is a less-explored cinematic location.

These hidden gems offer unique filming locations and lesser-crowded spots for tourists seeking offbeat experiences.

Packing for Montenegro: Essentials for Your Trip

When packing for a trip to Montenegro, consider the following essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear – Ideal for exploring the cobbled streets of old towns and hiking in national parks.
2. Versatile clothing – Pack for varying weather conditions, with a mix of casual and smart outfits.
3. Rain gear – Essential during the rainy season.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories.
5. Travel guide and map – Helpful for finding filming locations and hidden gems.

These items will ensure you’re well prepared for your cinematic journey through Montenegro.

Getting Around Montenegro: Transportation Tips

Montenegro offers various transportation options:

Rail – The rail network connects major cities, offering scenic routes along the way.

Car – Renting a car can be ideal for exploring the countryside. However, be prepared for mountainous roads and occasional heavy traffic.

Public Transportation – Buses are a reliable and economical option for getting around, especially in larger towns and cities.

Bike – Some cities, like Kotor and Budva, are ideal for exploring by bike.

These options make it easy to navigate the country and explore its cinematic locations.

Travel Documents for Montenegro

When planning your trip, ensure you have the following travel documents:

1. Passport – Should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Montenegro. Check the Montenegrin embassy’s website in your country for details.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, you’ll need an IDP along with your driver’s license.

Having these documents in order ensures a smooth journey to the heart of cinematic Montenegro.

Conclusion: Embark on a Cinematic Journey through Montenegro

From the coastal charm of Budva to the rugged beauty of Durmitor National Park, Montenegro offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveller in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Montenegro’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through Montenegro’s famous films, TV shows, and books, and discover the hidden gems that make this country a filmmaker’s dream. Happy travels!