Herceg Novi is often called the “City of Sun and Stairs”, but for drone pilots, it’s a playground. On my recent road trip through Montenegro, we took a break from our base in Porto Novi to explore this historic gem.

If you’re looking for the perfect shot of the iconic Forte Mare, here is how to plan your visit and your flight.

Driving into Herceg Novi can be tricky due to the narrow streets and limited space. We found a great spot at Parking Opština (Garaža). It’s a multi-story garage that is quite affordable, secure, and—most importantly—just a short walk from the heart of the Old Town. From there, you can easily descend through the charming alleys toward the sea.

Before launching the drone, we spent some time wandering through the town’s narrow streets. Founded in 1382 by King Tvrtko I of Bosnia, Herceg Novi is a fascinating blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Austrian influences.

As you reach the coastline, the Forte Mare (Sea Fortress) dominates the view. Built between the 14th and 17th centuries, this fortress literally rises from the rocks and is considered one of the most important historical landmarks in the area.

This was my primary flight location. I chose to fly at 9:00 in the morning, which gave me excellent lighting conditions for two reasons:

• Morning Light: The sun is positioned over the sea and to the south of the fortress, providing bright and clear lighting without harsh midday shadows.
• Angle: With the sun hitting the ancient stone at a slight angle rather than directly from behind the drone, you get beautiful depth and contrast that really highlight the rough texture of the walls against the turquoise water.

After the flight, we enjoyed a walk along the seaside promenade, passing by the legendary Jadran restaurant. We continued through the Topla Tunel—a former railway tunnel that has been converted into a pedestrian path.

It’s a unique, cool passage that led us back toward the parking garage, marking the end of a perfect photo mission before heading back to Porto Novi.