Greece, Spain, and Portugal are often the preferred choices for holidaymakers, celebrated for their spectacular scenery and abundant attractions. Nevertheless, these locations can transform into tourist hotspots during the height of summer, leaving visitors seeking peace and quiet rather disappointed.

But don’t despair, there’s a secret paradise that some experienced travellers claim could easily surpass them all. Nestled along the Adriatic Sea and sharing borders with Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Albania, Montenegro represents an undiscovered treasure that has yet to be swamped by mass tourism. Its magnificent shoreline, pristine waters, and historic towns frozen in time have earned praise from visitors who believe it matches its more celebrated neighbours, without the overwhelming crowds, reports the Mirror.

The Bay of Kotor, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and resembling a fjord, stands as Montenegro’s crowning glory.

Surrounded by towering peaks, this bay features historical treasures such as Kotor and Perast, captivating guests with their undeniable appeal, reports the Express.

TripAdvisor feedback remains overwhelmingly positive, filled with accounts of Montenegro’s magnetism, with numerous visitors discovering it offers a refreshing alternative to the hectic Greek islands or packed Spanish coastlines.

One holidaymaker declared: “Montenegro stole my heart, even more than Greece!” whilst applauding the exceptional seafood and breathtaking panoramas.

“Greece was great, but Kotor Bay’s cliffs and medieval walls blew me away. Wandering through Kotor Old Town, I loved how peaceful Montenegro felt, far less tourist chaos than Athens or Santorini.”

Another holidaymaker who had recently explored Portugal’s Algarve posted: “Last summer, I toured Portugal’s Algarve coast. Lovely beaches, bustling towns, but Montenegro left a far bigger mark.

“Its Adriatic coastline is stunning, yet totally uncrowded compared to Portugal in summertime. Jaz and Mogren beaches felt like private retreats.”

A third globe-trotter declared that Montenegro surpassed even Spain, explaining: “I’ve been to Spain’s Costa del Sol several times (think sun, sea, sangria), but Montenegro feels more authentic and affordable.

“Beach days in Budva and Tivat cost a fraction of Spanish resorts, yet the scenery is just as spectacular.”

The coastal resort of Budva attracts numerous tourists to Montenegro, celebrated for its sandy coastlines, lively nightlife, and ancient Old Town district.

Travel deeper inland, and locations like Durmitor National Park offer mountain panoramas, hiking trails, and exhilarating white-water rafting experiences along the Tara River Canyon.

One adventurer revealed: “In just a few hours, I went from pebbled beaches on the Budva Riviera to the snow-capped peaks of Durmitor National Park.”

Numerous visitors emphasise Montenegro’s budget-friendly charm when compared to other European getaway destinations.

One traveller remarked: “Beach days in Budva and Tivat cost a fraction of Spanish resorts, yet the scenery is just as spectacular.”

Montenegro’s small size and easy navigation make it a gem for tourists. It’s been said that one can enjoy a morning hike, an afternoon on the beach, and an evening meal by the water all in one day.

Often hailed as one of the few places in Europe where you can experience both mountainous landscapes and coastal views within the same day, it’s no wonder Montenegro is a hit with travellers.