IHG Hotels & Resorts Expands Its European Portfolio with the Addition of Crowne Plaza Budva in Montenegro, Strengthening Its Presence Across the Balkans and Beyond

Published on November 11, 2025

IHG Hotels & Resorts is further cementing its presence in Europe with the addition of Crowne Plaza Budva in Montenegro, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s expansion across the Balkans. This new opening enhances IHG’s footprint in one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, strategically positioning the brand to tap into the growing demand for premium hospitality in Montenegro and beyond.

IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in the hospitality industry, has announced the signing of Crowne Plaza Budva in Montenegro, marking a new chapter in its expanding European portfolio. This collaboration with Uniprom Hoteli d.o.o. will bring the Crowne Plaza brand to one of Montenegro’s most iconic destinations. The opening of this property further expands the brand’s reach, which now includes over 110 hotels in operation and development across Europe, including the soon-to-open Crowne Plaza Durres in Albania and a new project slated for Kolašin, Montenegro.

In the Balkan region, IHG currently operates 12 hotels across Bulgaria, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia, with an additional 10 properties in the pipeline. Crowne Plaza Budva will join four existing IHG properties in Montenegro, namely Regent Porto Montenegro, voco Podgorica, Crowne Plaza Podgorica, and Iberostar Waves Herceg Novi.

Set to open in the first quarter of 2026, the 81-room hotel will be located in Budva, Montenegro’s premier tourism destination. Situated along the lively Slovenska obala promenade, just 70 meters from the sea, the hotel is perfectly positioned near parks, restaurants, and key cultural landmarks. Its close proximity to the Old Town and City Marina places guests at the heart of Budva’s growing tourist district.

The design of Crowne Plaza Budva blends contemporary style with the natural beauty of the Adriatic coast, offering an upscale experience for modern travelers. The hotel’s signature restaurant provides a stylish setting for guests to enjoy meals with stunning views of the sea, while the terrace – known as one of the most elegant spots along Budva’s promenade – serves as a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

In addition to its leisure offerings, the hotel will feature a variety of flexible, state-of-the-art meeting spaces, ideal for events ranging from intimate workshops to large-scale conferences and social gatherings. Equipped with the latest technology, these venues will support productivity, collaboration, and seamless connections for all types of business events.

(Mrs) Willemijn Geels, Vice President, Development, Europe, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Uniprom Hoteli d.o.o. to bring our Crowne Plaza brand to Budva – a destination that continues to attract tourists on the Adriatic coast. Budva’s growing appeal reinforces its role as a cornerstone of Montenegro’s tourism industry, making it an ideal location for our premium Crowne Plaza brand.

The signing marks an exciting step in our strategic expansion across the Balkans. With over 20 open and pipeline hotels across the region, we’re committed to growing responsibly and bringing our premium and lifestyle brands to vibrant markets like Montenegro. Crowne Plaza Budva will offer guests a premium stay in one of the country’s most dynamic coastal cities, becoming a standout destination for both business and leisure travellers.”

Veselin Pejović and Stevan Pejović, Uniprom Hoteli d.o.o, said: “We are excited to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to bring one of the world’s most trusted premium brands to Budva. Crowne Plaza Budva represents an exciting opportunity to showcase the best of Montenegrin hospitality in a location that is already renowned for its beauty and vibrancy.

Our vision is to create a destination that blends modern comfort with the unique charm of the Adriatic coast, offering guests an exceptional experience whether they are here for business or leisure. Alongside IHG, we are confident this project will set a new benchmark for upscale hospitality in Montenegro.”

Crowne Plaza is a renowned premium hotel brand with a presence in over 400 locations across major cities, airports, resorts, and suburban areas worldwide. Known for its purposeful design, thoughtful amenities, and a service culture focused on fostering connections, the brand has recently undergone a refresh. This includes a new visual identity and updated guest programs designed to cater to the evolving needs of blended travelers, solidifying its position as a leader and innovator in the upscale hotel sector.

IHG Hotels & Resorts is broadening its European presence with the addition of Crowne Plaza Budva in Montenegro, reinforcing its position in the Balkans. The new property marks an important step in IHG’s strategic growth, catering to the region’s rising demand for upscale accommodations. With Montenegro emerging as a key travel destination, the opening further strengthens IHG’s reach in this vibrant market.

The upcoming Crowne Plaza Budva will be part of a growing network of 92 operational Crowne Plaza hotels in Europe, with an additional 19 properties in development. Notable new openings include Crowne Plaza Paris Marne-la-Vallée, Crowne Plaza Katowice, and Crowne Plaza Istanbul West.