Not to be mistaken with the larger lake of the same name on the River Shannon, Lough Derg in Co. Donegal is a renowned place of pilgrimage. A traditional three-day pilgrimage takes place each August, but the Lough is open to visitors (including anglers!) year-round. The Lough is composed of over 30 islands and inlets, the most famous of which is Station Island - it is said that when St. Patrick traversed Ireland converting kings to Christianity, Jesus appeared to him here and revealed the entrance to Purgatory! The Lough's name comes from the Irish word "dearg" (red) as a local legend holds that a local mortal once called the magic powers of the lake to transform a worm into a vicious cow. Once defeated, the red blood of the cow changed the colour of the rocks (which are in fact sandstone) to red.

A lesser-know attraction, the National Opera and Ballet is Sophia's hidden gem. Performances are of very high quality, and good seats are easy to get (and incredibly great value). This is also the place to go and listen to classical music by great masters like Wagner and Rossini.

Perched on the edge of Tivat, Complex Bizanti is a cluster of old, abandoned buildings that offer a peek into the town’s past. Built in the 14th century by the Bizanti family, the place has definitely seen better days, but there’s still a certain charm to it. These days, it’s more of a hidden spot—popular with urban explorers and photographers who love its eerie, atmospheric vibe. It’s not a typical tourist attraction, so don’t expect any guides or amenities. Just keep your wits about you, as the site isn’t maintained and can be a bit tricky to navigate. But if you’re into history and a little adventure, it’s worth the visit.