When people search for the best beach destinations in Europe, they often think Italy or anywhere along the Mediterranean Sea. And while a trip to the French Riviera in France or the Almafi Coast or Cinque Terre in Italy sounds idyllic, there are other places to consider for a beach holiday in Europe. For example, there are a plethora of more affordable beach holidays in the Balkan countries such as Croatia and Montenegro. So let me introduce you to a collection of gorgeous seaside towns along the Adriatic Sea at a fraction of the price you might pay anywhere else in Europe.

Let’s admit it, half of the reason why we have an addiction to travel is so that we can try new authentic foods that we can’t get at home (of equal deliciousness). PLUS, they say that “when you travel, calories don’t count”, riggght?

Montenegro is a Balkan nation located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, between Croatia, Albania, Serbia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo. It’s an up and coming country to visit in the Balkans and is quickly becoming a popular alternative to Croatia. Easily one of the best countries to visit in Europe for its enchanting beauty, rugged mountains and alluring coastline, begging you to visit. I’ll be sharing with you five of the best places to visit in Montenegro in 2 days as part of our 2-week Balkan Road Trip!

When considering a visit to Europe, some might become overwhelmed with the endless options when it comes to finding the best places to visit and the huge variety between countries. While hitting up Europe’s capital cities like London, Paris, Prague, or Rome, it’s always a great idea to include a few, smaller, picturesque towns, but finding these pretty little towns can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. So, I’ve gathered 50 small cities and cute towns in Europe that are just downright STUPID PRETTY!

We traded in Roman ruins, Venetian architecture, delicious pasta and gelato in Italy for a two week road trip through the Balkans visiting new, up & coming destinations as the mysterious veil over Eastern Europe is slowly disappearing. While we had wanted the romance of Tuscany and the Almafi coast, we decided that Italy is 1. Expensive. 2. Crowded 3. Typical for honeymooners. Don’t get me wrong, I have a serious love affair with Italy and I still want to go, but I found myself more intrigued by the lesser known. 

Ever dreamed of rubbing elbows with the rich and famous? Ever dreamed of laying on a private beach completely to yourself, without any screaming children, obnoxious tourists or loud cars? Ya, me too! Does a place even exist?

Budva (Будва) might seriously be my spiritual home. As one of the last Venetian outposts along the Adriatic, this fortified Stari Grad (Old Town) is simply oozing with charisma, backed by rugged mountains and vibrant turquoise waters. Budva is easily one of the most beautiful settlements and popular destinations in Montenegro. I could have stayed here forever as it’s without a doubt, one of the most stupid pretty towns in Europe!

Medieval fortress walls. Tiny cobbled-stoned alleys. Venetian architecture. Heart-stopping views. Romance and adventure. What’s not to love about Kotor?

Never heard of Kotor? **Gasp!!**

Well, then by all means, allow me to introduce you to this adorable town!