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Montenegro vs Greece: Which Destination Is Right for Your Next Vacation?

niksic
Niksic – Credit Dean Milenkovic

Montenegro vs Greece – They are two beautiful countries located in the southeastern part of Europe – and not too far from each other (circa 550 miles). They are known for their picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. If you are planning your next vacation and can’t decide between these two destinations (and we will try our best to be unbiased!), we hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Geography

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Parthenon, Athens, Credit GothPhil

Montenegro is a relatively small country in southern Croatia on the Adriatic coast. It is well-known for its dramatic mountain ranges, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking coastline. Greece, on the other hand, is a much larger country – around 10 times larger – located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa. It is known for its ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and diverse landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and forests.

Montenegro vs Greece – Culture

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Traditional Montenegrin Costume, Credit Adam Jones

Montenegro and Greece both have rich cultural heritage. Montenegro has been influenced by its Slavic, Ottoman, and Mediterranean neighbors over the centuries, resulting in a unique mix of traditions, music, and cuisine. Greek culture is equally diverse, drawing from ancient civilizations, Byzantine, and Ottoman cultures, as well as more recent European influences. Greek food, dance, and music are renowned around the world.

Montenegro vs Greece – Development

Montenegro is an up-and-coming destination that is rapidly gaining popularity among tourists – and it is very early in its journey. It has a growing tourism industry and is still relatively undiscovered. Greece, on the other hand, is a much larger country with a more established industry.

As a brief comparison and bearing in mind that Greece is 10x larger, there are over 400 5-star hotels in Greece compared with Montenegro which has approximately 20. While it means you have a lot more choice in Greece, prices are a lot lower in Montenegro with tourists getting a lot of bang for their buck.

In our opinion, equivalent properties are between 20 – 30% cheaper during the summer months in Montenegro. Looking at a cost comparison site, Whereandwhen.net, the cost for a 14-day trip to Greece (excluding flights) is $2,928, the equivalent price for Montenegro is $2,175. Montenegro has also been highlighted as one of the cheapest destinations to go to in Europe – see article.

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Hotel bay at Elounda, Crete. Credit Nick Papakyriazis

Having said that, Montenegro continues to develop its tourism with big developments in Lustica Bay and Budva. With tourism providing over $1bn of revenue in the last fiscal year, it is a high priority.

Greece is a member of the European Union, while Montenegro is a candidate country that is working on joining the EU – See Is Montenegro in the EU? Both accept the Euro as currency.

Montenegro vs Greece – Natural Beauty

Montenegro and Greece both have beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities. With its stunning mountain ranges and national parks like Durmitor, Biogradska Gora, and Skadar Lake, Montenegro is a nature lover’s paradise. It offers the unique opportunity to enjoy both the beach and mountains in a single day – especially with the Gondola taking you from Kotor straight to the Lovcen Mountains. Given that it’s a small country, you can see and do a lot in a single day.

skadar lake
Skadar Lake, Montenegro Credit MarcusSaul

Greece, on the other hand, is famous for its beautiful islands, beaches, and mountain ranges, including Mount Olympus and the Pindus Mountains. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, both Montenegro and Greece offer plenty of options.

Montenegro vs Greece – History and Architecture

Greece has an incredibly rich history and is often considered the birthplace of Western civilization. It is home to some of the world’s most famous ancient ruins, including the Acropolis in Athens, the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, and the Palace of Knossos in Crete. In this respect, it is unparalleled.

temple of apollo
Temple of Apollo, Credit Patar Knight

Montenegro also has a rich history and a mix of architectural styles, including Venetian, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian influences. Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most impressive examples of medieval architecture in Montenegro.

Montenegro vs Greece – Nightlife and Entertainment

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Partying in Budva, Credit Zeljko Joksimovic

Both Montenegro and Greece offer a lively nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and restaurants open until the early hours of the morning. Greece is well-known for its islands, which are known for their nightlife and beach bars. Montenegro’s nightlife is more relaxed, with a focus on outdoor activities, live music, and local cuisine. However, if you like to party the night away, Budva has a great reputation.

Conclusion

So what’s the answer – Montenegro or Greece – In conclusion, Montenegro and Greece are both beautiful and unique destinations in their own right. While they share some similarities, such as stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, each country offers a different experience to visitors.

Ultimately, the choice between Montenegro and Greece will depend on individual preferences, budget, and travel plans. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains, a lively party scene, or a mix of history and culture, both Montenegro and Greece have something to offer.

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