Montenegro is approaching the upcoming summer tourist season with what industry experts describe as “moderate optimism,” driven partly by shifting global travel patterns but constrained by persistent domestic challenges.
The ongoing crisis in the Middle East is influencing tourist behavior, with many travelers increasingly seeking safer destinations. This trend could benefit Montenegro, although business representatives note that the country has not implemented sufficiently coordinated or concrete measures to fully capitalize on this opportunity.
One of the key developments ahead of the season is the long-awaited reopening of Sveti Stefan, one of the country’s most iconic tourist resorts, which has been closed for five years. The reopening will take place in phases, while Villa Miločer is expected to welcome guests starting May 21, marking two decades since Montenegro’s independence.
The government has emphasized that the new agreement related to the resort eliminates the risk of potential damages exceeding €100 million and introduces a new model under which the state will receive a 10 percent share of annual profits. At the same time, authorities have pledged that there will be no additional construction in the protected Miločer park area.
However, the move has also sparked political controversy, with opposition figures calling for an investigation into the arrangements surrounding the resort, raising concerns about potential mismanagement and public interest.
Despite these developments, structural issues remain a concern for the tourism sector. Industry representatives point to infrastructure, particularly road conditions and overall communal readiness, as one of the main obstacles ahead of the season. They also highlight that neighboring countries such as Albania and Croatia have responded more quickly by strengthening cooperation with tour operators and airlines, giving them a competitive advantage.
Overall, while external circumstances may work in Montenegro’s favor this year, the success of the tourist season will largely depend on how effectively the country addresses long-standing internal challenges and improves coordination with international partners.
