Herceg Novi: A City of Festivals, Gastronomy, and Mediterranean Charm

Days of Mimosa - A Festival That Awakens the City

Under the slogan “While everything sleeps, the mimosa awakens,” the 57th edition of the Mimosa Festival, taking place from February 13 to 28, brings more than 60 diverse events - from community and children’s programs to cultural, sports, and gastronomic happenings.

During the opening weekend alone, nine regional music stars will perform: Nina Badrić, Goran Karan, Kaliopi, Danijel Alibabić, Zana, Riblja Čorba, YU Grupa, Breskvica, and Dejan Petrović Big Band. The final weekend will culminate with a concert by Aca Pejović.

“The festival also includes traditional events such as the Mimosa, Fish and Wine Feast, flower exhibitions, wine salons, masquerade balls, the international carnival, the Skalinada race, beach Picigin, culinary competitions, and card tournaments. The festival concludes with the ‘Trial of the Carnival,’ accompanied by majorettes and city brass bands - an event symbolizing the spirit and identity of the town,” representatives of the Herceg Novi Tourist Organization told HEDONIST magazine.

Culture and Art - A Festival Town

Herceg Novi is a city of festivals and culture, where tradition meets contemporary artistic expression. Throughout the year, it hosts various events, including the Montenegro Film Festival, HAPS (Herceg Novi April Theatre Festivities), Trg od Knjige (The Book Square), Music Days, Operosa Festival, Jazz Bay Festival, Guitar Art Summer Fest, and the Herceg Novi Comic Festival.

Many of these events take place within historic fortresses and towers, transforming heritage sites into open-air stages beneath the Mediterranean sky.

Gastronomy That Captivates All the Senses

“The gastronomy of Herceg Novi blends Mediterranean freshness, Italian influence, and Balkan traditions, using local ingredients from both the coast and the hinterland. Specialties include fish stew with polenta, black risotto, mussels in buzara sauce, grilled fish, octopus salad, collard greens with cured meat, and desserts such as priganice (fried dough bites), candied orange peel, and orange cake. Restaurants and traditional taverns offer authentic menus with sea views, whether in the old town or in untouched villages of the hinterland,” the Tourist Organization explains.

Tourism That Connects People and Cultures

Tourism in Herceg Novi is more than travel - it connects people and cultures, encourages direct interaction between visitors and locals, and strengthens tolerance and mutual understanding. The town demonstrates how culture and tourism can complement each other, offering visitors the opportunity to experience local customs, traditions, and the Mediterranean way of life.

Activities for Every Taste

During spring and summer, Herceg Novi offers the perfect balance between beaches and swimming, cultural events, and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, diving, sailing, hiking, cycling, and scenic trails at the foot of Mount Orjen and across the Luštica Peninsula.

“Attractive excursion sites such as the fishing village of Rose, the beaches of Žanjic and Mirišta, and the Blue Cave are ideal for day trips, while the panoramic route ‘Life on Luštica’ is recommended for a full-day exploration of Mediterranean living,” representatives of the Herceg Novi Tourist Organization told HEDONIST magazine.

The town demonstrates how culture and tourism can complement each other.

Herceg Novi - More Than a Vacation

All these elements make Herceg Novi a destination that rightfully carries the slogan: “Herceg Novi - More Than a Vacation.” The town unites tradition, culture, gastronomy, and nature, offering an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

• Written by Anđelka Marković / HEDONIST