Montenegro Sees 50 per-cent Surge in Foreign Visitors 2023

Montenegro, a small country on the Adriatic coast, has experienced a remarkable surge in tourism in recent years. This hidden gem has, in the past, been often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors (Croatia, Greece, and Italy). 

However, Montenegro has recently been attracting warranted attention from travelers, who are drawn by its magnificent landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. When planning a visit to Montenegro, it's important to note that you will require a Montenegro visa for entry. Make sure to check the specific visa requirements and application process based on your nationality before embarking on your journey.

MONTENEGRO TOURISM DATA

Impressive Year-on-Year Growth

• The number of overseas visitors to Montenegro rose by 52.2% year-on-year in February 2023, with around 38,391 tourists arriving in the country.
• This followed a huge 63.5% increase in the first month of the year.

LATEST DATA ON TOURIST ARRIVALS (PERSONS)

How Many Tourists Come To Montenegro?

In August 2023, Montenegro welcomed a total of 240,754 tourists, which is equivalent to 0.241 million persons. 

This figure represents the number of tourist arrivals in the country for that particular month. It's worth noting that this number can vary throughout the year, with August being one of the peak months for tourism in Montenegro.

Long-term Growth Trend

• From 2011 to 2021, Montenegro’s tourist arrivals have nearly doubled, growing from around 1.19 million to 2.34 million visitors.
• Consistent annual growth rates ranging from 5% to 15% highlight the country’s increasing popularity amongst travelers.

Economic Impact

• The substantial increase in tourism has bolstered Montenegro’s economy, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country.

Natural Beauty and Culture

• Montenegro's diverse landscape includes stunning beaches, lush forests, and dramatic mountain ranges, creating a captivating experience for visitors.
• Rich history and well-preserved medieval towns add to the country's charm.

Who’s Visiting?

• Foreign visitors accounted for 78% of overnight stays, with domestic visitors making up the remaining 21%.
• Key source countries for tourists include Serbia, Russia, and Germany, with notable increases in Chinese and American visitors.
• Montenegro's efforts to strengthen ties with China and promote its tourism offering have led to a significant increase in Chinese tourists.
• Celebrities like Madonna, the Beckhams, and Angelina Jolie have also chosen Montenegro as a destination.

Seasonal Patterns

• Montenegro's tourism industry follows a strong seasonal pattern, with the majority of visitors arriving during the summer months (June to August) due to the Mediterranean climate.
• Winter tourism is gaining traction, with visitors attracted to the country’s snow-capped mountains and skiing opportunities, evidenced by the growth in tourist numbers in January and February of 2023.

Conclusion

Montenegro's impressive growth in tourism can be attributed to its diverse landscape, rich cultural heritage, and effective marketing efforts. This transformation has positioned Montenegro as a must-visit destination for global travelers, showcasing its potential as a thriving tourist hotspot on the Adriatic coast.