A stepped stone lane in a coastal old town with laundry and old houses
Guide · Herceg Novi

Herceg Novi: a guide to the town of stairs

7 min read

Herceg Novi is the first town to greet you at the entrance to Boka, and the greenest of them all — full of mimosa, palms and Mediterranean greenery. They call it the "town of stairs" because it climbs the slope along a series of staircases that link the old town, the sea and the upper quarters.

The old town

The heart of the town is the old town, entered through Belavista square and the Sahat Kula (clock tower). Above the sea it's guarded by the Forte Mare fortress, and at the top rises Kanli Kula (the "Bloody Tower"), a former fortress-prison and today a summer stage with a magnificent view.

The Pet Danica promenade

Pet Danica is the town's seafront promenade, several kilometres long, linking beaches, bathing spots, cafés and marinas. A walk along it at dusk — with the scent of sea and pines — is one of Herceg Novi's loveliest rituals.

Igalo and wellness

Neighbouring Igalo is known for the "Dr Simo Milošević" Institute and its healing sea mud and mineral water. For decades this has been an address for thermal and spa therapies, so Herceg Novi also offers that health-and-wellness side of a holiday.

Savina and around

Above the sea, in the shade of greenery, sits Savina Monastery with three churches and a view over the bay. Along the coast follow Meljine, Bijela, Zelenika and Kumbor — quiet places with bathing spots and local taverns.

Beaches and trips

Herceg Novi is the starting point for the finest boat trips: Žanjice, Mirišta, Rose and the Blue Cave at the mouth of the bay. Thanks to the nearby border, a day trip to Dubrovnik is also within reach.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Herceg Novi called the town of stairs?
Because it's built on a steep slope above the sea — its quarters, old town and shore are linked by countless staircases instead of streets.
What is Igalo known for?
For the "Dr Simo Milošević" Institute, its healing sea mud and mineral water — one of the best-known spa and wellness addresses on the Adriatic.
How far is Herceg Novi from Dubrovnik?
Herceg Novi is the closest of the Boka towns to the Croatian border, so a day trip to Dubrovnik is easily doable.
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Joga na plaži — jutarnji čas

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Ketering za proslave i vile

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Plaža Žanjic — ležaljke i beach bar

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Panorama Bokokotorskog zaliva brodom

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Plava špilja i Tri ostrva — brodski izlet

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Studio Galeb — uz šetalište, Herceg Novi

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