Europe's 'prettiest' country that costs 'a fraction' of Spain holiday

Greece, Spain, and Portugal remain the preferred choices for countless holidaymakers, celebrated for their spectacular scenery and abundant attractions. Nevertheless, these locations can transform into tourist hotspotsduring summer's peak, disappointing those seeking serenity.

Yet there's no need to worry, as there exists a concealed paradise that experienced travellers claim could potentially surpass them all. Positioned along the Adriatic Sea and sharing borders with Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Albania, Montenegro represents an undiscovered treasure that hasn't yet been overwhelmed by mass tourism.

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Its magnificent shoreline, pristine waters, and preserved historic settlements have earned praise from visitors who believe it matches its more renowned counterparts, without the overwhelming crowds.

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

Surrounded by towering peaks, this inlet features historical treasures such as Kotor and Perast, captivating guests with their allure, reports the Express, reports the Mirror.

TripAdvisor feedback remains overwhelmingly favourable, with accounts of Montenegro's appeal, as numerous visitors discover it provides a refreshing alternative to Greece's hectic islands or Spain's packed coastlines.

One holidaymaker declared: "Montenegro stole my heart, even more than Greece!" celebrating 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 in their estimation, 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, famous for its sandy coastlines, lively nightlife, and ancient Old Town district.

Head 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 makes it a gem for tourists, with its easy-to-navigate layout. Holidaymakers have shared that you can enjoy a morning trek, an afternoon on the beach, and a waterside dinner all in one day.

It's also frequently mentioned as one of the few places in Europe where you can relish both mountainous scenery and seaside vistas within the same day.