The small country of Montenegro offers a gorgeous Adriatic coastline, striking Balkan Mountains and plenty of sites with cultural, historic and natural appeal. Explore the beaches and old towns of this Southeastern European nation for a relaxing and informative vacation.

Visit historic towns bordering the Bay of Kotor, a jagged inlet surrounded by tall mountains. In Kotor, a medieval city and UNESCO site, see the 12th-century St. Tryphon Cathedral. Climb the ancient steps along the Kotor Walls crisscrossing the hillside behind the Kotor Old Town to reach the Castle of San Giovanni at the top of a hill. From the fortress, gaze down on the terracotta rooftops and sparkling blue-green waters of the bay.

Travel north along the bay to Perast. View the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks and the abbey of St. George on two picturesque islands. See ancient mosaics in the town of Risan, which was founded in the 3rd century B.C. In contrast, admire the luxurious yachts in the modern marina of Porto Montenegro in Tivat.

The small country has 117 beaches stretching for 45 miles (73 kilometers). Visit some of the best around Budva. On the way to Mogren Beach, note the symbol of the city, the beautiful statue of a dancer in an elegant pose. Stay on the picturesque island of Sveti Stefan.

Despite its small size, Montenegro has five national parks. Head inland to Cetinje for National Park Lovcen to find the country’s typical plants and wildlife and the Njegos Mausoleum. Lake Skadar National Park has more beaches and beautiful views. Swim in the lake or climb into the hills for hiking and spelunking. See a mix of old and new in the capital city of Podgorica. Montenegro’s Niagara Falls is just one of the area’s many outdoor attractions.

Go north to Zabljak for Durmitor National Park. Raft down the Tara River through the deep Tara River Canyon, gaze up at the beautiful Tara Bridge and view the pine-covered mountains of Montenegro.