Montenegro is without a doubt one of my favorite Balkan countries. Once a hidden gem, it is now gaining the attention it deserves, offering everything from charming cities and cultural landmarks to remarkably diverse natural landscapes — all at a fraction of the price of its now famous neighbor, Croatia!
This guide provides a carefully crafted itinerary: a 4-day core Montenegro itinerary covering the essentials of Kotor, Durmitor, and beyond, plus three optional extensions (adding up to 4 extra days) for those who want to explore Montenegro’s top spots in greater depth.
- Day 1: Kotor
- Day 2: Perast or Montenegrin Riviera
- Optional Extra n°1: More time around Kotor
- Day 3: Lovćen NP, Cetinje & Skadar NP
- Optional Extra n°2: Full Day at Skadar Lake
- Day 4: Durmitor NP & Ostrog Monastery
- Optional Extra n°3: 2 Full Days at Durmitor NP
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Montenegro Itinerary (4 to 8 Days)
Montenegro’s compact size makes it ideal for a short yet fulfilling trip. This 4 day core Montenegro itinerary showcases the country’s must-see attractions, combining historic towns, stunning landscapes, and cultural highlights. For convenience, days 3 and 4 rely on guided tours, but can be done independently if you rent a car. However, if you plan to rely solely on public transport, you’ll need more than 4 days to cover everything.
To make things easier, the base of the Montenegro itinerary is Kotor, which is by far the most popular spot in Montenegro.
Day 1: Exploring Kotor – A UNESCO World Heritage Gem
If you’ve seen postcard-worthy images of Montenegro, Kotor is likely among them! This enchanting town is famous for its beautifully preserved Old Town, featuring Venetian architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively piazzas. Spend your first day wandering its historic streets and climbing the Kotor Fortress for panoramic views of the bay.
Kotor Old Town
Step into the heart of Kotor’s charm by wandering through its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This labyrinth of cobblestone streets, historic squares, and quaint alleys is brimming with history and character. Marvel at the well-preserved architecture, including Romanesque churches, Venetian palaces, and charming stone houses. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the Square of Arms (Trg od oruzja). The Old Town’s lively squares are dotted with cafes and boutiques, offering the perfect opportunity to relax and soak in the atmosphere of this timeless gem.
Kotor Fortress
For the best views in Kotor, ascend to the imposing Kotor Fortress, perched high above the Old Town. The hike up the fortress steps is both a challenge and a reward, with panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and surrounding mountains unfolding at every turn. The fortress, a testament to Kotor’s strategic importance through the centuries, features ancient stone walls and crumbling battlements. It’s a steep climb of about 1 300 steps, taking roughly 35 minutes, and the loose, uneven rocks make proper footwear essential.
🎟️ Admission to the Kotor Fortress hike costs 15€ (as long as there is an attendant at the entrance, otherwise you may get away for free, especially during low season).
🕒 The Kotor Fortress hike is accessible all year long. I recommend going as early as possible in the morning: not only you will beat the crowds (and maybe even the ticket collector), but also avoid the heat!
Cats of Kotor
Kotor isn’t just famous for its stunning bay and historic charm; it’s also renowned for its feline residents. Known as the “Cats of Kotor,” these friendly, photogenic creatures have become an endearing part of the town’s identity, and locals lovingly care for them. You’ll spot them lounging in sunny squares, weaving through cobblestone streets, or napping near ancient stone walls. For the most passionate, it is even possible to visit the Cat Museum for quirky memorabilia or support the local cat population by donating at one of the feeding stations scattered around the Old Town.
Kotor’s famous cats originally arrived with sailors who brought them aboard their ships. These feline companions helped protect the town, nestled between the sea and mountains, by keeping mice, rats, and snakes at bay.
Day 2: around Kotor
The second day of the Montenegro itinerary is set to venture beyond Kotor to discover more coastal gems. The first option I suggest is spending a half-day exploring the charming town of Perast. Alternatively, head to the Montenegrin Riviera and visit nearby towns like Budva, with its sandy beaches and buzzing Old Town, or Herceg Novi, famed for its lush greenery and medieval fortresses.
Perast (Half-day tour from Kotor)
Visiting the picturesque village of Perast, just 14 km from Kotor, feels like stepping into a postcard. This tiny gem is celebrated for its stunning baroque architecture, tranquil waterfront cafes, and a serene atmosphere. My favourite activity there was to take a short boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a beautiful church and museum. Another great thing to do is to visit the Church of Saint Nicholas, whose iconic tower is the most recognizable feature of Perast’s outline. You can visit the small chapel on the ground floor and climb the 150 stairs to the top of the tower for just 1€, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views.
Perast offers more than just its famous landmarks: its waterfront promenade is a delightful way to soak in the town’s charm. Stretching for 1.5 kilometers, this scenic route invites you to stroll past elegant palaces while enjoying stunning bay views. For a leisurely experience, start in the Penčići district near the beach, wander past the marina, and continue to the Luka district at the other end. Along the way, climb the hillside for even higher vantage points, or pause to sip a drink at a cozy café.
🎟️ Once in Perast, a boat ride to the Our Lady of the Rocks islet costs around 5€. If you want to enter the church and museum, there is a small fee of 2€.
🕒 The Our Lady of the Rocks island is usually open from 9AM to 6PM during peak season.
🚌 A one-way bus ticket from Kotor to Perast costs 1.5€, to be paid in cash to the driver. The journey lasts around 35 minutes.
🌐 Find the latest bus timetable on Blueline buses’ website to plan your visit, by checking the “Novo Nacelje Škaljari to Risan” table. Make sure to read and translate the information carefully, since there might be some specificities depending on the day of the week. I reckon hopping from the Kotor Blueline bus stop called ‘Riva’, which is located here.
🛥️ Some companies, such as this one, offer 2-hours boat tours from Kotor to explore Perast (between 20-30€ per person). Some even propose a 3-hours boat tour which combines a visit to Perast, Mamula island, and Kotor Blue Cave, which sounds fantastic!
Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi, a charming coastal town at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor, is known for its rich history, stunning sea views, and laid-back vibe. With its blend of historic fortresses and a lively promenade, it makes a perfect excursion from Kotor.
- Herceg Novi Old Town: Stroll through cobblestone streets filled with charming squares, ancient churches, and local shops. Don’t miss the Church of St. Michael the Archangel and the picturesque Nikola Djurkovic Square with its 17th-century Clock Tower.
- Šetalište Pet Danica Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along this 7-kilometer waterfront path lined with cafes, restaurants, and beaches. Perfect for enjoying the lively atmosphere and gorgeous coastal scenery.
- Forte Mare (Sea Fortress): Explore this historic Venetian-built fortress, perched above the Adriatic Sea, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor.
- Kanli Kula Fortress: Visit this 16th-century Turkish fortress, now an open-air amphitheater, for breathtaking views and a chance to catch a summer cultural event or concert.
- Savina Monastery: Located on the outskirts of town, this peaceful monastery features beautiful frescoes, coastal views, and a rich history. The 18th-century Church of the Dormition and the older adjoining chapel are highlights.
🚌 One single-journey from Kotor to Herceg Novi usually lasts around 1 hour and should cost between 4€ and 6€, depending on the provider. Check Kotor-Herceg Novi buses timetable and prices here.
Budva
The Montenegrin Riviera dazzles with its sun-soaked beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant energy. Budva, its most famous city, blends modern nightlife with centuries-old charm.
- Explore Budva’s Old Town: Wander through the narrow cobbled streets and admire medieval landmarks like the Church of St. John (Sveti Ivan)
- Walk the City Walls: For just 3 EUR, enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the charming Old Town from the historic walls.
- Relax on the Beaches: Choose from lively spots like Slovenska Plaža and Mogren Beach or opt for the tranquil Pizana Beach nestled by the Old Town walls.
- Visit the Budva Citadel: Explore the preserved fortress and soak in incredible coastal views.
🚌 One single-journey from Kotor to Budva usually lasts around 45 minutes and should cost between 3.50€ and 5€, depending on the provider. Check Kotor-Budva buses timetable and prices here.
Optional Extra #1: One more day around Kotor
An additional day around Kotor lets you enjoy both Perast and the Montenegrin Riviera without having to choose:
- If you visited Perast on Day 2 of your Montenegro itinerary, explore Budva’s lively Old Town and nearby beaches, or head to Herceg Novi for its historic fortresses and picturesque promenade.
- Alternatively, if you visited Budva or Herceg Novi on Day 2, use this day to go to Perast. Take your time visiting its elegant stone palaces, quaint churches, and the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks.
If you still have time to spare, I suggest visiting hidden gems like Prčanj or Dobrota villages, ideal for soaking up the charm of the Bay of Kotor, and only a 50 min walk away from Kotor.
Day 3: Lovćen, Cetinje, and Skadar Lake Day Trip (Guided tour)
On Day 3 of this Montenegro itinerary, I recommend joining a guided tour to experience some of the country’s most iconic spots without the hassle of planning. From breathtaking views over the Bay of Kotor and the fascinating Lovćen Mausoleum to the historic charm of Cetinje and a peaceful boat ride on the Crnojević River, this day truly has it all. It is also possible to follow this tour itinerary independently if you rent a car.
Lovćen National Park
The first stop will make you experience the majesty of Lovćen National Park, a mountainous haven offering breathtaking views of Montenegro’s rugged landscapes. At its heart lies the Mausoleum of Njegoš, a stunning tribute to the country’s national poet and philosopher. The climb to the mausoleum’s peak is challenging – with no less than 461 steps to the top – but rewards visitors with incredible 360° panoramic views.
🎟️ The entrance fee for Lovćen National Park is 3€. For the Njegoš Mausoleum, it is 8€ for adults, and 4€ for pupils and students.
🕒 The Njegoš Mausoleum is open everyday from mid-April to mid-November, from 9AM to 5PM.
🌐 Find more information on Njegoš Mausoleum’ website to plan your visit.
Cetinje
Your next stop will be in Cetinje, Montenegro’s former capital. Known as the “Museum Town,” Cetinje is home to historic palaces, churches, and museums that narrate the nation’s rich heritage. This will be the occasion to take a 1-hour walking tour of Cetinje to explore the city’s key landmarks, including the historic Cetinje Monastery. Here, you can view significant relics such as the remains of St. Peter of Cetinje, fragments of the True Cross, the Icon of the Philermos Mother of God, and more.
Skadar Lake
The next stop is Rijeka Crnojevića, a charming historical town in central Montenegro located along an ancient trade route, right next to Skadar Lake. This picturesque destination is known for its scenic lake and well-preserved architecture from its trading days. Enjoy a lunch break here, then take a relaxing 1-hour boat ride along the river. You will discover the serene beauty of Skadar Lake, the largest lake in the Balkans, renowned for its rich biodiversity. This paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers is home to hundreds of bird species, including the rare Dalmatian pelican.
🎟️ The entrance fee for Skadar Lake National Park is 5€.
Sunset in Sveti stefan
Before returning to Kotor, you will have the chance to watch the sunset at Sveti Stefan, which is one of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. This tiny islet connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, once a quiet fishing village, has been transformed into a luxurious resort, attracting celebrities and travelers seeking privacy and exclusivity. While the island itself is not open to the public unless you’re staying at the resort, the view alone is worth the visit. It’s a truly magical time to visit during sunset, offering a peaceful atmosphere and stunning photo opportunities.
Optional Extra #2: One full day at Skadar Lake
For those with a bit more time to spare, a full day at Skadar Lake offers the perfect chance to immerse yourself in Montenegro’s natural beauty. To make the most of this optional extra time, you’ll first need to visit Lovćen National Park and Cetinje on the day before, either by car, taxi, or public transport. Another possibility, if you joined the tour on Day 3 of the core Montenegro itinerary, would be to ask the guide to drop you at Skadar Lake instead of Kotor.
Visiting Cetinje and Lovćen independently
Cetinje is very well-connected to Kotor by public transport, with numerous providers proposing buses between the two cities. However, there is no public transport to Lovćen National Park. If you travel independtly, your best bet would be to first take a bus from Kotor to Cetinje, then take a taxi (approximately 35 minutes) from Cetinje to Njegos Mausoleum in Lovćen National Park.
Visiting Skadar Lake independently
There are no direct public transport from Kotor to Skadar Lake, neither from Cetinje. That being said, it is still feasible:
- If you travel from Kotor: take a bus to Sutomore (approximately 1h30, between 6.50 and 8.50€), then a bus to Virpazar (approximately 20 minutes, 2.50€)
- If you travel from Cetinje: take a bus to Podgorica (approximately 45 minutes, between 3 and 4.50€), then a bus to Virpazar (approximately 30 minutes, 3€)
On this extra day of your Montenegro itinerary, set aside the entire day to explore Skadar Lake. Start early with a boat tour from Virpazar, a small town on the lake’s southern shore. You’ll be able to see the magnificent views of the surrounding hills while spotting some of the 270 bird species that call the lake home. Afterward, take a stroll around the lakeside village of Virpazar, where you can enjoy local cuisine and sample wine from the surrounding vineyards. Finish the day with a visit to the Pavlova Strana viewpoint for one last sweeping view of the lake at sunset.
Day 4: Excursion to Durmitor National Park and Ostrog Monastery (Guided tour)
On Day 4, join a guided tour to discover Montenegro’s stunning landscapes. If you sticked to the core 4-day Montenegro itinerary and stayed in Kotor, you will have the possibility to join a day-tour to visit the breathtaking Durmitor mountains, the Đurđevića Tara Bridge and the beautiful Crno Jezero (Black Lake). The tour also includes a visit to Žabljak, the highest town in the Balkans, and finishes with a visit to the iconic Ostrog Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff. This day combines natural beauty, historic landmarks, and unforgettable views, making it the perfect way to explore Montenegro’s diverse offerings, without the hassle of planning everything.
Durmitor National Park: Đurđevića Tara Bridge and Black Lake
After a couple stops for photos and a breakfast at Nikšić, the tour will lead you to the impressive Đurđevića Tara Bridge. Located in Durmitor National Park, it is one of Montenegro’s most iconic landmarks, spanning the breathtaking Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe. The bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lush greenery and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Tara River below. It’s a popular spot for visitors, whether for photography, enjoying the scenery, or experiencing the thrill of ziplining across the canyon.
Your next stop will be the stunning Black Lake (Crno Jezero), a glacial lake also located within Montenegro’s Durmitor National Park, near the town of Žabljak. Surrounded by dense pine forests and the dramatic peaks of the Durmitor Mountains, the lake is composed of two interconnected bodies of water, the Big and Small Lakes, which merge during the spring and summer. A 3.5-kilometer (2.2-mile) trail encircles the lake, offering an easy and scenic walk suitable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll find benches and picnic spots to pause and take in the scenery. The bravest ones can also take a swim or a dip into the lake!
🎟️ The entrance fee for Durmitor National Park is 5€.
🕒 Durmitor National Park is open year-round, though accessibility can vary based on weather conditions, particularly during the winter months.
🌐 Find more information on Durmitor National Park website to plan your visit.
Ostrog monastery
Your last stop of the day will be Ostrog Monastery, a Serbian Orthodox site and architectural marvel carved into a vertical cliff face. This pilgrimage site, dedicated to Saint Basil of Ostrog, is visited by thousands each year, which makes it the most visited spiritual place in Montenegro. The Ostrog Monastery, large and painted in bright white, stands out vividly against the gray and orange hues of the surrounding natural rock, making it visible from kilometers away. Inside, discover intricate frescoes dating from the 17th century, and the relics of the monk Vasilije Ostroški, who founded the place in 1640.
🎟️ Admission to the Ostrog Monastery is free.
🕒 The Ostrog Monastery is open everyday from 6AM until sunset.
👚 As an active monastery, propper attire is expected. Both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered, and women should avoid wearing clothing that reveals excessive cleavage. While many women choose to cover their heads, this is not mandatory.
After enjoying a sights-packed day through North Montenegro, the tour crew will drive you back to Kotor, which will wrap up your core Montenegro itinerary (if you had to stick to 4 days)!
Optional Extra #3: Two full days at Durmitor National Park
If you have enough time, I recommend spending at least one full day to visit Durmitor National Park. The easiest way to do it is staying in Žabljak, a lovely town located at 1 450 meters above sea level and the main starting point for activities around.
If you choose this option, I recommend skipping the guided tour of the Day 4 of the core Montenegro itinerary, visit Ostrog Monastery by your own means instead, and travel the day after to Durmitor National Park in order to spend 1-2 days there. My favourite activities here are the walk around the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), the hike to Bobotov Kuk summit. Another popular activity – which I didn’t have the chance to try personnally – is rafting on Tara Canyon river.
Visiting Ostrog Monastery independently
Visiting Ostrog Monastery from Kotor via public transport requires some planning due to its location. Situated just off the main highway between Podgorica and Nikšić, the monastery is about 120 kilometers from Kotor. There are no buses or trains right next to the site. To reach it without a car, you’ll first need to travel to Podgorica, which can be done by bus. Then, from Podgorica, you can take a train to Ostrog train station, which is nearly a 5 km climbing hike away to the stunning pilgrimage site. To allow for more flexibility and convenience, the best option is obviously to rent a car or book a taxi, although it comes with a bigger price tag.
🚌 A one-way bus journey from Kotor to Podgorica usually lasts around 2 hours and 30 minutes and should cost between 7€ and 8.5€, depending on the provider. Check Kotor-Podgorica buses timetable and prices here.
🚆 A one-way train journey from Podgorica to Ostrog usually lasts 50 minutes and costs 1.80€. Check Podgorica-Ostrog trains timetable and prices here. There are only 5 departures a day, the earliest (which I recommend) being at 8AM.
Getting to Žabljak
- During high season (mid-June to mid-September): some providers propose direct buses from Kotor to Žabljak. The journey usually lasts around 4 hours and costs 20€.
- During low season: take a first bus from Kotor to Podgorica (around 2 hours and 30 minutes, between 7€ and 8.5€), then a second bus from Podgorica to Žabljak (around 2 hours and 30 minutes, between 10€ and 11.5€).
Crno Jezero (Black Lake)
Crno Jezero is a true gem, rivaling the beauty of the famous lakes in the Italian Dolomites. Perched at an altitude of 1 416 meters, this glacial lake consists of two interconnected bodies of water, Veliko and Malo, linked by a narrow passage. Surrounded by pine forests and framed by the majestic peaks of Durmitor, the lake is an extremely photogenic destination. Conveniently located less than 2 kilometers from Žabljak, it is easily accessible via a flat trail. A scenic loop trail – accessible to all levels of fitness – encircles the lake, offering stunning views of its vibrant turquoise and emerald waters. Note that access requires a 5€ Durmitor National Park entry fee.
Bobotov Kuk summit
Hiking to Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak in Durmitor at 2 523 meters, is a thrilling day-adventure. The trail to the summit offers breathtaking views of rugged mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and the surrounding valleys. The hike is challenging, taking around 6-8 hours for the round trip, depending on your starting point – most commonly Sedlo Pass (shorter and easier) or Žabljak. The trail involves steep ascents, rocky terrain, and some sections requiring light scrambling, so proper footwear and a good level of fitness are essential. Always check weather conditions before starting, as they can change quickly at high altitudes.
The best places to stay at during your Montenegro itinerary
Although small, Kotor boasts an extensive offer of accommodation, from hostels to boutique hotels. Find some recommendations with great quality/price ratios below. Accommodations in Kotor are booked fast, especially between May and September, so reserve your room as early as you can!
🛏️ Check more available accommodation in Kotor.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are indicated per night and based on the prices indicated in January 2025 for a stay during the summer. Prices tend to be lower from October to April, and much higher from May to August. They are subject to fluctuation according to supply and demand, time of the year, and the will of the owners.
Budget for this Montenegro itinerary
Montenegro is rather a budget-friendly destination, more and more popular amongst backpackers, families and vacationers alike. If you follow the 4-day core Montenegro itinerary, here is a sum-up of your main expenses:
- Transportation: ~12€ return trip to another town (Perast, Budva or Herceg Novi)
- Accommodation: 40€ per night in a hostel during high season (20€ during low season); 70€ and onwards per night in a hotel or a private apartment
- Attractions: 200€ (Kotor Fortress entrance + 2 guided tours + National Parks entrance fees)
Getting to Montenegro and getting around
Arrival in Montenegro
Most travelers arrive in Montenegro either via Dubrovnik in Croatia or Podgorica, the capital. Depending on your Montenegro itinerary, both cities offer convenient entry points for exploring the country’s highlights.
From Podgorica: Montenegro’s capital city serves as the primary gateway for the central and northern regions. Podgorica Airport connects well to the rest of the country via public buses or rental car services. For those heading to Durmitor National Park, Žabljak, or Skadar Lake, Podgorica is an ideal starting point. Trains from Belgrade, Serbia, also arrive here, providing a scenic route through Montenegro’s rugged interior.
From Dubrovnik (Croatia): With an airport located just 30 kilometers from the Montenegro border (Debeli Brijeg checkpoint), Dubrovnik is a popular starting point, especially for travelers starting their Montenegro itinerary with the Bay of Kotor. Taxis to Herceg Novi cost around €40, while buses from Dubrovnik to Herceg Novi, Kotor, or Budva are a more affordable option, ranging from €12 to €20.
Using public transport in Montenegro
You don’t necessarily need a car to explore Montenegro’s main attractions. Indeed, the country has an extensive public transport network comprising buses and trains.
- 🚌 Buses in Montenegro: Buses are the primary mode of transport in Montenegro, operated by a network of private companies. They connect major destinations like Kotor, Podgorica, Budva, and Herceg Novi, with services also extending along the coast. Inland routes, particularly to mountainous regions like Durmitor National Park, are less frequent, especially during off-peak seasons. Tickets are affordable, with fares ranging from €5–€8 for journeys like Podgorica to Budva or Žabljak. While bus services are generally clean and reliable, air conditioning may be lacking on some routes, and timetables can be loosely followed. Tickets can be purchased at stations or directly from the driver.
- 🚆 Trains in Montenegro: The Montenegrin railway network is smaller, covering just 294 km. It is operated by the company Željeznički prevoz Crne Gore (ŽPCG). The main route runs from the Serbian border near Bijelo Polje through Podgorica and Virpazar to Bar on the coast. This line is renowned for its spectacular scenery, making it one of Europe’s most scenic train journeys. However, the system is dated, with occasional delays and less frequent service. Train fares are exceptionally low, starting at around €2.40 for a second-class ticket from Podgorica to Bar and €5 to Bijelo Polje. While trains are a budget-friendly and scenic option, they are not as practical for reaching remote attractions. Check times and fares on https://zpcg.me/en/ website.
While public transport is economical and scenic, it may not offer the flexibility needed to fully explore off-the-beaten-path destinations or adhere strictly to a busy Montenegro itinerary. If convenience and time efficiency are priorities, renting a car or joining guided tours may be better options.
Renting a car in Montenegro
Renting a car in Montenegro is an excellent choice for travelers seeking freedom and flexibility to follow their Montenegro itinerary at their own pace. A car allows you to set your schedule, explore national parks, and take in breathtaking routes like the Bay of Kotor.
However, Montenegro’s road conditions can be highly variable. While the main roads are generally in good condition, minor roads—especially in the mountainous north—can be poorly surfaced, narrow, and riddled with potholes. Notorious routes such as the Morača Valley road from Podgorica to Kolašin, and the road beyond to Žabljak, require extra caution. These areas, particularly in winter, can be challenging to navigate, so tourists should exercise patience and care when driving less familiar terrain. Montenegrin driving habits also leave much to be desired, with risky overtaking and a high accident rate.
Despite these challenges, car rentals are relatively affordable and widely available in larger cities and airports. A car is especially recommended for visiting destinations like Durmitor National Park or Ostrog Monastery, where public transport options are limited. By renting a car, you’ll have the flexibility to reach remote areas and stick to a well-rounded Montenegro itinerary while enjoying the country’s spectacular landscapes.
I hope this 4 to 8 days Montenegro itinerary has been helpful and informative!
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