Things To Do
in Plav
Plav is a small Montenegrin town nestled near the Prokletije mountains and beside Plav Lake, offering dramatic alpine scenery and a gateway to outdoor adventures. The town blends mountain culture with a riverside calm, where traditional markets, rustic konobe, and welcoming locals create a relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by rugged peaks and green valleys, Plav serves as a base for hiking, fishing, and lake activities, with the Lim River adding to its charm.
Across seasons, it reveals changing faces—from snowy highlands to sunlit lakesides and wildflower-filled meadows.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Plav and check in to your cozy accommodation nestled in the heart of the town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in Montenegrin specialties like pita and coffee. Take a stroll around the picturesque lakeside, breathing in the fresh mountain air.
Explore the natural beauty of Plav by visiting the nearby Prokletije National Park. Hike along the trails that lead you to stunning viewpoints overlooking the valleys and stunning peaks. Stop for a picnic lunch amidst the serene landscape, surrounded by lush greenery.
Return to Plav and relax at a traditional restaurant by the lake, savoring local dishes such as grilled trout. Engage in conversations with local residents, learning about their culture and heritage. End the night with a calming walk along the shores of Lake Plav as the sun sets.
Start your day with a visit to the fascinating Plav Mosque, a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of the area. Absorb the intricacies of the architecture and take in the tranquil atmosphere. Head to a local bakery to sample some fresh pastries with a cup of coffee.
Visit the Historical Museum of Plav to delve deeper into the region's history and traditions. Engage with informative exhibits that showcase artifacts and personal stories from the past. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby eatery featuring local cuisine.
Attend a cultural event if available, immersing yourself in traditional music and dance. Enjoy conversations with locals, making connections through shared stories and laughter. Wind down your evening in a cozy tavern, tasting local wines and spirits.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 👖1 pair of jeans | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-3 |
| 🚍Ticket (local transport) one-way | $0.80-1.50 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night (budget) | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and lake views
- Warm, hospitable locals and good value
- Wide range of outdoor activities in a compact area
- Accessible base for exploring northern Montenegro
- Limited nightlife and urban amenities
- Smaller infrastructure in some rural areas
- Seasonal crowds in peak summer months
- Some remote trails require careful planning and preparation
- "Dobar dan" - Good afternoon / Hello
- "Hvala" - Thank you
- "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
- "Gdje se nalazi…?" - Where is…?
- "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mogu li platiti karticom?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Plav
Visit one of these nice places.
Glass-still water reflecting the surrounding peaks; ideal for silhouettes and long-exposure shots as the light changes.
Historic stone bridge with the river’s rush and mountain backdrop; great for architectural and landscape photography.
Panoramic overlook near Plav offering sweeping views of rugged peaks and valleys—especially striking at golden hour.
Food in Plav
Plav Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy dairy top served with warm cornbread or flatbread, a staple accompaniment in many Montenegrin meals.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught trout prepared grilled or roasted, often served with lemon and herbs.
Small minced-meat sausages served with onions, grilled peppers, and flatbread; widespread and satisfying in towns like Plav.
Flaky pastry stuffed with cheese or meat; a common grab-and-go option from bakeries and street stalls.
Roasted red pepper and eggplant relish, served as a side or spread with bread and grilled meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market where you can find dairy, honey, olives, fruit, and rustic snacks from nearby farms.
Seasonal stalls near the town center offering grilled fish, pastries, and fresh fruit along the river.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and engaging eye contact are common. Learn a few basics in Montenegrin or Bosnian/Albanian to show respect.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; be respectful of local customs and prayer times in communities with diverse beliefs.
Accept invitations when offered, and modestly reciprocate hospitality when possible; gifts are appreciated but not required if you’re a guest in a local home.
Safety
Tipping in Plav
Ensure a smooth experience
In Montenegro, a tip of about 5-10% in smaller cafes is common if service is good; in nicer restaurants 10-15%. Round up bills for small services or taxis if you’re satisfied.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in markets. Cards are increasingly accepted in larger restaurants and hotels; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cool nights; ideal for lake activities and hiking. Expect peak tourism in July–August; afternoons can be sunny and bright.
Crisp air and golden foliage; great for scenic drives and fewer crowds. Some trails may be muddy after rains.
Snow in higher elevations; some passes may be closed. Cozy cafes and winter hikes are popular, but plan for cold mornings.
Mild temperatures and blooming meadows; rivers run high from spring melt. A good time for wildlife viewing and fewer tourists.
Plav at Night
Hiking in Plav
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of alpine routes with panoramic overlooks, glacial lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows for varying skill levels.
Gentle to moderate hikes along forest paths and lake shores, suitable for families and day trips.
Airports
How to reach Plav by plane.
Main international gateway to Montenegro; provides broader flight options and connections; roughly 140-180 km by road from Plav.
Coastal regional airport with some international routes; distance to Plav varies with the chosen route but generally involves a longer drive through the interior.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the region with multilingual neighbors and strong local traditions.
Significant communities contributing to the area’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local clubs and community fields are common in towns and villages.
Popular in schools and indoor centers; local leagues and friendly matches occur seasonally.
Prokletije and surrounding ranges draw outdoor enthusiasts for ridge walks, alpine lakes, and scenic viewpoints.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plav.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy dairy-based dishes like kacamak with cheese, grilled vegetables, ajvar, burek with cheese, salads, and fruit. When ordering fish, opt for non-meat proteins and communicate clearly about no meat products in broths or sauces.