Montenegro’s climate is varied according to altitude, with the coastal regions having warm Mediterranean weather veering towards humid sub-tropical patterns. Cool, rainy winters and short, warm to hot summers are typical in the region. Temperatures vary widely with altitude, with Podgorica set at almost sea level, seeing averages in July of 80°F, spiking to 104°F, and Cetinji in the karst region over 2,000 ft above sea level, only getting to 71°F in the summer. January temperatures range between 46°F in Bar on the south coast to 26°F in the mountains of the north.
The mountainous regions of Montenegro see the most rainfall in all of Europe, with annual amounts in Crkvice above the Bay of Kotor getting 194 inches a year. Even in coastal regions, 118 inches a year is the average. Podgorica sees 63 inches, making it the world’s wettest capital outside the tropical zone. As with the rest of the Mediterranean countries, most of the rain occurs in the colder months, although in the high mountains a second period of heavy rainfall occurs. Snowfall at lower altitudes is rare, but the mountainous regions average 120 days a year over the winter period.
Best Time to Visit Montenegro
As with most vacation destinations, the best time to visit for one may be another’s worst time, depending on what you like to do. Winter sports fans find Montenegro’s ski slopes and après-ski an affordable alternative to the overpriced and overcrowded Alpine resorts, but might go elsewhere in summer for a beach vacation.
For visitors wanting to spend a good amount of time exploring Montenegro’s natural beauty, late spring and early summer are warm and pleasant, making outdoor activities a joy. A beach holiday here is as good as it gets, with plenty of hot sun and warm seas. The shoulder seasons are the best time to look for bargains in accommodation, and the hotels which stay open between October and April may offer good deals.