Croatia has experienced major tourism growth in recent years, with a 21 percent increase year-on-year, based on the most recent tourism figures. In December 2023, Croatia had an all-time high of 16,854,869 tourist arrivals. By June 2024, Croatia had 2,531,654 tourist arrivals, up from 1,658,615 in May, which represented a 21 percent increase.

In May, foreign tourist arrivals increased by 21 percent year-on-year, with millions of visitors flocking to the nation for its incredible views, hospitality and historic sites.

Whether you’ve already visited Croatia and are hoping to find a similar experience elsewhere or want to beat the crowds of some of Croatia’s busiest regions, travel experts are pointing to neighbouring Montenegro.

Given that the border crossing of Montenegro is just an hour’s drive on average from Dubrovnik Airport, many holidaymakers visiting Croatia opt to visit on a day trip.

However, the region also makes a fantastic base for your holiday, promising sun-kissed shorelines and stunning views.

Montenegro is among one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations, with the Statistical Office of Montenegro reporting 2,183,975 arrivals in 2022.

The destination has been described by travel experts from holiday specialists at Headwater as a “lesser-visited European gem”. The holiday company offers walking holidays to Montenegro, with many available throughout Autumn 2024 and beyond.

“The emerging destination of Montenegro is home to rugged cliffs and mountains, glittering blue waters and long stretches of beach and coastline, all with fewer visitors than neighbouring Croatia,” said an expert from Headwater.

“On this walking holiday, guests can enjoy the cultural and atmospheric highlights of the Balkan region away from the crowds that flock to its better-known resorts.”

The winding Bay of Kotor is known for its stunning mountain vistas and sparking Adriatic waters, with similar views to those found along the Croatian Dalmatian coast.

Posting to Tripadvisor, a former visitor to the Bay of Kotor said: “The scenery is spectacular with the mountains, villages, and the famous Madonna of the Rocks Byzantine-style church on the artificial island.”

The walled town of Kotor is home to several Romanesque churches, including Kotor Cathedral, and is characterised by its postcard-worthy streets and squares. It’s also home to the Maritime Museum, which explores local seafaring history.

The nation promises a slower approach to life, with a rich cultural heritage combining Orthodox, Catholic, Italian and Ottoman influences. Visitors can explore the winding cobbled streets of Montenegro’s quaint towns and villages or soak up the greenery of the nation’s vast rural expanses.