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Montenegro Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, montenegro - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Montenegro.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Montenegro.

If you decide to travel to Montenegro:  

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Montenegro.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Is Montenegro Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

• Montenegro : Safety by City

Montenegro is a small country located in the Balkans, bordering Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the north, Serbia to the northeast, and Albania to the south.

It also has a gorgeous coastline along the Adriatic Sea, which, even though it is rather small, attracts tourists from the Balkans and from other parts of the world, mostly during the summer months.

Apart from its developed tourism along the coastline and in cities located on the Montenegrin Riviera, this country also boasts remarkable natural landscapes with breathtaking mountains that include some of the most rugged terrains in Europe.

They average more than 2,100m in elevation.

Mostly due to its developed tourism, Montenegro is generally a safe country to visit.

Of course, there is a number of criminal activities, but the crime rate in this country isn’t something to worry about.

• Warnings & Dangers in Montenegro

OVERALL RISK: LOW

Overall, Montenegro is a safe country to visit. Its crime rate is fairly low and as a tourist, you should only be worried about petty theft in destinations frequented by tourists. Otherwise, Montenegrin people are very warm and friendly.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Public transportation in Montenegro isn't as reliable as you'd expect it to be in a European country, so you might find yourself waiting for a bus that has been scheduled to arrive half an hour ago. You can use taxis, though they might try to overcharge you for a ride.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

There is a risk of pickpockets, especially in the cities of Budva, Kotor, Sveti Stefan, and Herceg Novi. These are the cities located along the coastline and during summer they are crowded with tourists, so keep your valuables locked in a safe place and never bring all your money with you (or to the beach!) If you see a child running towards you, move out of the way and keep your purse tight in your hands.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Montenegro is exposed to natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes (with floods being the bigger risk), but they aren't very common and their consequences haven't been devastating in recent history.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Cases of muggings and kidnapping are rarely if ever reported. If kidnapping does happen, it is usually a part of a conflict between several crime organizations. Violent crime doesn't affect tourists in this country.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

There haven't been any terrorist attacks in Montenegro in its recent history, but attacks shouldn't be ruled out. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

Scams exist in Montenegro, as in every tourist destination. Mostly, you should double-check every chance you get because they might try to trick you and give you the wrong change. Negotiate everything in advance to prevent taxis from overcharging you, and that applies to all other types of services, especially along the coastline.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Montenegro is very safe to travel to if you are a solo female. Montenegrin people are very friendly and warm. You might attract some unwanted attention at night near clubs and bars with local men, so avoid walking alone near those areas. Use common sense and your trip should go smoothly.

• So... How Safe Is Montenegro Really?

Overall, Montenegro is a safe country to visit.

It is actually known for being filled with friendly people, ready to help, much like its neighboring country, Serbia.

Organized crime exists, but hardly affects tourists.

The only type of crime you should be concerned about is petty theft, which can also easily be avoided if you just apply rules of common sense, such as not leaving your valuables in plain sight and keeping your money in a safe at your hotel.

Places known for petty theft and incidents of pickpocketing are tourist destinations Kotor, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and Herceg Novi, where beggars work as part of organized crime groups and pickpockets wander around looking for unsuspecting tourists.

If you’re driving be wary since luxury vehicles attract the attention of criminals and are popular targets for smash-n-grab theft or occasionally car-jacking.

When travelling around the areas near Montenegro’s border with Kosovo, it is recommended that you stick to the main roads since there might be unexploded landmines along the Kosovo border.

You should also avoid areas where there is military activity.

• How Does Montenegro Compare?
• Useful Information

For most nationals, a visa is not required in order to enter Montenegro. EU nationals may enter with a national ID card and stay for up to 30 days. Your passport needs to be valid during the duration of your stay. No additional validation is required. However, if you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need a visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

Currency in Montenegro is euro. ATMs are widely available, so you can collect your money there, and it is recommended that you exchange your money at the national banks. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants and usually accepted elsewhere too. Tipping isn't expected although it's common to round up to the nearest euro.

Areas in Montenegro along the coastline are basking in a mild Mediterranean climate, with very warm summers (from May to October) and mild, rainy winters. Central and northern regions have a continental climate where temperatures can drop to -3°C during winter. In the northern mountains, snow is often present even during spring.

Podgorica Airport is an international airport located in the Montenegrin capital of Podgorica. It is one of two international airports in Montenegro, the other being Tivat Airport, located in Tivat, a city in the coastline region of Montenegro.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Montenegro, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Montenegro Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Montenegro - Safety by City

Explore montenegro.

• 8 Best Beaches in Montenegro
• Where to Next?

29 Reviews on Montenegro

I would never recommend this place for vacation, beaches are covered with feces and gross garbage so many travelers get sick never never go there

I suppose you were visiting overcrowded and wrong places, you should’ve asked any local or other near, cleaner and less crowded beaches, accommodations, etc.

It is very clean place.The beaches is very clean and gorgeous.I highly recommend to visit the coastline in some places remind me of Maui.Montenegro coastline it is very similar to coastline from Kihei to Lahaina.

Serbs from Montenegro

I loved Budva & Igalo! These coastal towns are very historic & they are filled with beautiful Serbian people from Montenegro. They are honest, hard working and proud. They keep their cities clean and they treat their guests/tourists with respect. You won’t be sorry and you don’t have to worry about feces and poisoning. Croatia is also very beautiful don’t miss Dubrovnik and Split!

All this thing’s you mention,does not fall from the sky on the beach,just like that…there is many people with different “culture’s” especially from neighbors state’s and they make wrong picture about Montenegro.

Amazing country

Thats lie, Montenegro is amazing county to visit and also for vacation.. Been there last year, its beautiful, so many thing to see, visit and learn

It would help if you would state which beaches, Mila. I’m on my 3rd visit to the country and have found the coastline and beaches no more dirty than countries around Europe each time. I doubt that “beaches were covered in faeces” as you state. Maybe you found a beach with an isolated problem caused by an unfortunate combination of tide and weather that brought sewage ashore? And where can I find the evidence / reports to support your claim that “so many travellers get sick”?

Very safe, full of Chinese citizens, and I do not expect any kind of problems.

Full of na*** black people

What has the colour of a person’s skin got to do with the quality of their character? Suprised your racist comment is permitted to remain here.

Sama Sloga Serbina Spasava 🙁

So I guess Mila is a Serb from Serbia. They hate their fellow Serbs from Montenegro. They rather visit Turkey, Greece or anywhere their fellow Montenegrin’s are not. It’s too bad that Sama Sloga Serbina Spasava isn’t true with the above Serbs from Serbia. I’m glad I’m an American born & raised. Oh by the way they have some of the most beautiful woman and men. I should know my Mother & Father are Serbs from Montenegro! Please go and enjoy a wonderful vacation in Montenegro but don’t go to Serbia especially Belgrade because it is full of Montenegrin’s that came to study and never went home. Now I understand why Milo keeps winning the elections!

What a stupid comment…

I think that too.. Mila is probably Serbia and hate everything from Montenegro..

I think you should also preview if it’s safe for racism too. Some of my trips to Europe have been really uncomfortable.

Agree. Recently my family and I went to Austria. The treatment we received as Kiwis was terrible.

People in Austria were not nice to us and we are from Poland. They would stare at you in pubs and restaurants. We travelled across the Alps and to be honest we not felt welcomed there at all.

They're just jealous

Polish people are much more fun than the stuffy Austrians and Germans. Their sense of humor is non existent. Their food is greasy and unappetizing. My family is from there, and I’d choose Poland over Austria any day. Hopefully ukraine will be open soon and rebuild as another option. Not missing out on much, although I’m a sucker for mozartkugen.

Waste of time and money

I’ve read a few reviews by people praising it, who were, if you have been there, obviously threatened by one of the local racketeers into submitting a positive review of what is essentially a mix of fundamentalist Islam meeting North Korea and the leftover communist takeover of Europe ambitions you can still find alive and kicking (and running the show too) over there.

Security wise they may let you walk around free/without too much police hassling or bribes, but the appealing food and palpable anger at your as a foreigner wherever you go – I’d rather spend all of my money in a local pub anywhere in the EU than EVER see that nasty place again.

Well, at least until they get treated like the Vietnam of the 60s they aim to be.

Not that bad

I’ve been in Montenegro and it didn’t look to me anything close to fundamental Islam country or North Korea. Honestly, I never been in North Korea, but I can bet that it doesn’t look nothing similar to Montenegro. In fact, I saw some wild party hotspots there, although I’m not party person. Can’t say that I would come back, but nothing uncomfortable there. I don’t have any reason to defend Montenegro, but I hate when people write false kind of comments about anything or anybody.

Waste of money

Very dirty beaches and hostile locals. Sure, you can see some good things, but don’t plan more than a single day or two in Montenegro. Not worth your money.

Visit to gorgeous Montenegro 1

I just read all the comments , the good and the bad ! I certainly don’t minimize anyone’s experience but would like to add a few of my own ! I am a 65 year old Albanian/Montenegrian who has lived away from Montenegro since 1974 ! I have traveled the world and been back to Montenegro several times especially while living in London ( short flight to Dubrovnik). My experience has always been wonderful although I must admit that I avoid hot summer months. The places are crowded , hot and some dirty but there are beautiful almost private idyllic places everywhere, Food is excellent , taxis are cheap and where the heck are the Islamic Fundamentalists ??? People , use your common sense and you should keep you comments sincere and unbiased ! Some of you are obviously NOT seasoned travelers ! What a pity ! I am planning to go back as soon as this coronavirus is over ! Do vidjenja and Revoir beautiful Montenegro !

Risque travel.

what about if you need medical attention? Will you be able to get a speaking English doctor?

English Doctor

My wife and I travelled independently, so had no reps to depend on. When my wife needed medical help, we found an English speaking doctor easily. Enjoy this wonderful country and its people.

Not going back, ever again

The locals are hostile people who only care about their rich Russian tourists. I spent most of my vacation in Budva, where everything is overpriced and of poor quality. Fast food takes up to 40 minutes to make, and neither employees nor owners care if you get a good service, since they’re probably aware of the country’s shit reputation. I liked Kotor, but had the same experience there as well. The stay is very expensive as well, we paid 40€ per night for a tiny room with a toilet. At least the host was nice and gave us a ride to the bus station on our final day. I would rather not talk about the beaches, as that was the worst prt of the entire trip. They are all so small, and Balkan people have absolutely no common sense in regards to private space, so the beaches are extremely crowded and dirty due to the shit ton of people who visit. As mentioned previously in the title, I do not plan on visiting Montenegro’s coastline ever again in my life, and would much rather go to Croatia which is not so far away from this overpriced and shitty country.

I had a similar experience.. most people were rude and always in a bad mood…not helpful at all! and i did not enjoy the food either. Serbia is so so much better..nicest warmest people, good food.. i thought Montenegro people would be the same…but they are not🤔

I never step a foot to Montenegro again

When I was flaying to Montenegro and seeing those beautiful mountains I felt exited and happy. Not so on my way back. Due to the fact that the booking I paid for failed, I had to pay 1637 euros directly at Square hotel in Budva. The room they sold me has faulty electricity and I requested and promised refund. After 15 days of not receiving that refund and hotel ignoring my requests I wrote google review describing what happened to me. When I called the hotel again the manager told me ‘No refund for you because of your bad google review’. He demanded that I remove the review. I did , but it didn’t change anything. I tried to find the administrative body in charge of tourism in Montenegro to file a complaint. It wasn’t easy, but after another month of research I did. The government organizations in Montenegro are not more cooperative and responsive than hotels administrations are. I am still waiting. Why is the Square manager so brazen and confident while taking tourist’s money with no intention of returning it in case of failing to provide the service? Because there is wild, wild west there in Montenegro despite the legislative alignment with the EU. The best law is useless if it is not enforced.

Come to Montenegro and stay

I visited this amazing country and am now the owner of a beautiful home near the seaside. The neighbors are amazing and friendly. I will never move back to the USA. Best thing we ever did was to move to this amazing and loving country. My advice. Don’t listen to a single negative comment. Come see Montenegro for yourself.

Montanegro Is Beautifull

my aunts parents went there on a cruise and the country was beautiful. i dont get why you are downfalling on it. I’ve been there and it was great, beautiful beaches and great mountains. If you are scared about terrorism then dont be it is probably as far away as it can get from ukraine and russia Budva is the place to go if you want pools and waterparks. If you travel to Montanegro. i highly recommend travaling to croatia dubrovnik city. then driving/taking a bus to Budva. where the resorts are beautifull, also travel in october when its at its best temprature

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Montenegro Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Montenegro is a tiny Balkan country home to rugged mountains, medieval towns, and miles of picturesque beaches. With just over half a million people, Montenegro has become a recent hotspot for backpackers, though it’s still overlooked by most budget travelers.

Offering idyllic gems like Kotor, with its stunning medieval architecture and fjord-like bay, as well as world-class pristine beaches stretching down the Adriatic coast, as the Balkans become one of the most up-and-coming tourist regions in Europe , Montenegro has soared in popularity, especially since it is relatively safe, small, and cheap.

I loved my visit to the country. It’s a beautiful and charming place.

This Montenegro travel guide has everything you need to know to plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this overlooked and underappreciated destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Montenegro

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Montenegro

1. Explore Ulcinj

Ulcinj sits on the Adriatic coast and is best known for its long, sandy beaches. In fact, one of the longest beaches in Europe can be found here (Velika plaža). Ulcinj also has a picturesque Old Town (Stari Grad) with gorgeous narrow cobblestone streets, incredible sunset views, and tasty seafood near the city walls. A popular activity is to rent a bike and cycle to Long Beach and spend the day lounging. This beautiful coastal town is the perfect place to spend a few days relaxing and enjoying the water.

2. Hit the beach in Budva

Budva has several beaches as well as coves, cliffs, and islands you can explore. I don’t love the main town itself but the area is incredible. The city is 2,500 years old and a bit of a labyrinth of old narrow streets but it’s definitely a cool place to wander around. Don’t miss the Citadela Fortress, constructed to protect Budva from invaders. Today, the fortress is also a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the scenic views. The Budva Riviera highlights include Jaz Beach, Becici Beach, and Kamenovo Beach. If you want to get away from the main beach crowds, take a boat out to Sveti Nikola, a nearby island, to find incredible turquoise pebble beaches on the shores of a towering cliff. Bring your beach shoes!

3. Visit Kotor

Montenegro is full of beautiful coastal towns, but none are quite as dramatic as Kotor. Home to exquisite sea and mountain scenery as well as historic architecture, the entire town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the most popular places in the country. This 2000-year-old town has several main attractions including its Old City Wall, fortress San Giovanni, the beautiful Cathedral of St. Tryphon, and the Maritime Museum. Kotor has incredible cuisine due to centuries of influence from the Greeks, Ottomans, the Austro-Hungary empire, and many others. Try local dishes such as rice-stuffed calamari, lamb with peas, and grilled fish. Don’t forget to try the local wines like Krstac, Kratošija, Žižak, and Vranac, as Montenegro is well known for its 50 types of wine and this is a great place to try some.

4. Go hiking in Durmitor National Park

With its sweeping views of forests, lakes, and waterfalls, and the largest canyon in Europe, Durmitor is a nature lover’s dream. The national park makes the perfect outdoor adventure spot for hikers as there are glacial lakes, 50 different peaks, and plenty of beautiful trails to choose from. Some of the most famous hikes include the easy Black Lake and Zminje Lake hike, the moderate Prutaš peak (2,393 meters/7,851 feet), and the hardest, highest peak of Bobotov Kuk (2,523 meters/8,277 feet). Funky Tours offers day trips starting at around 70 EUR including transportation and lunch. Tara Canyon is absolutely stunning, with crystal blue waters surrounded by both rocky shores and tree-lined slopes. And if hiking isn’t your thing, Durmitor is also one of the world’s best locations for climbing and rafting. They also have an adrenaline park in case you want to check out the spectacular scenery from the comfort of a zip line, dirt bike, or ATV. Admission to the nature park is just 3 EUR.

5. Take a wine tour

Other things to see and do in montenegro, 1. go rafting.

Rafting on the Tara River is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Montenegro. Known as the “Tear of Europe,” the river is the fastest in Europe and forms the second deepest canyon in the world (the first being the Grand Canyon) and you can go rafting in easy and moderate conditions while taking in the incredible beauty of the canyon. Prices start at 40-50 EUR for one day of rafting, 70 EUR for two days, and 100 EUR for canyoning. There are multi-day rafting and canyoning combo trips available too.

2. Hike Lovcen Mountain

Lovcen is more than just a mountain to the people of Montenegro, it’s a sacred place and national treasure. Located in the southwest one hour from Kotor, the mountains contain the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegoš, a beloved Montenegrin ruler. There is also a national park here with hiking trails, including a day-long hike to Kotor. Admission is 2 EUR. If you have time, head to the nearby village of Njeguši to enjoy some local cheese and smoked ham.

3. Relax at Lake Skadar

Lake Skadar, also known as Lake Shkodër in Albanian, is located in the south along the border with Albania and is the largest lake in southern Europe. There is plenty to see and do here, such as visiting the ancient island prisons and monasteries, exploring the National Park and bird reserves, relaxing on one of the private beaches, and taking a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake. Expect to pay around 25 EUR for a one-hour boat rental or 5 EUR per hour for a kayak. Lake cruises start at around 15 EUR.

4. Visit the National Museum of Montenegro

The National Museum of Montenegro is located in Cetinje, the country’s historic capital (the current capital is Podgorica). Established in 1896, it’s composed of several different museums and galleries in one complex. Two of the most popular museums are the Museum of History and the Art Museum. You can easily spend a full day here taking in the exhibitions and learning about the country’s history. Collective tickets cost 8-15 EUR while individual museum tickets are 3 EUR. Cetinje itself, a 15th-century town and also a great place to spend a morning or an afternoon. You can visit the Cetinje Monastery, with its collection of Early-Christian-era relics, and the 15th-century Vlah Church. Also, near Cetinje is Lipa Cave, one of the largest caves in Montenegro.

5. Enjoy the history of Stari Bar

Located in the southwest, this town was once ruled by the Byzantines. Its ruined fortress offers one of the most beautiful views in Montenegro thanks to the stunning backdrop of Mount Rumija. The town itself has been the site of many battles (chiefly against the Ottomans) so it’s been destroyed and rebuilt many times over. There are also the ruins of a 13th-century Franciscan monastery, an 18th-century Turkish bathhouse, and the oldest olive tree in the world (it’s over 2,000 years old). It is just an hour south of Kotor by car.

6. Watch the sunset in Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan is a 15th-century village just south of Kotor. Located on the coast, it has a postcard-perfect pink pebbled beach and beautiful clear blue water. While you can’t access the nearby island without staying at the five-star resort that occupies it, the beaches here are perfect for a late afternoon swim and for watching the sunset over the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss the 600-year-old Praskvica Monastery that overlooks the village.

7. Hit the slopes

Thanks to an average of 120 days of snow each year, Montenegro is the perfect winter sports destination. The ski resorts in Montenegro sit at altitudes of up to 2,181 meters (7,155 feet) and there are over 20 kilometers (12 miles) of slopes to enjoy. The most popular resorts are Savin Kuk on Durmitor mountain or Kolasin 1450 on Bjelasica mountain. Lift passes are some of the cheapest in Europe, ranging from 10-25 EUR per day.

8. Visit the Cat Museum

For a more unconventional museum experience, visit Kotor’s Cat Museum (Museo del Gatto di Cattaro). Located in the Old Town, this small museum is dedicated to cats. It explores the history of Montenegro’s feline friends as Kotor has a noticeably high cat population thanks to its history as a trading port. Cats from all around the world traveled here on ships and were subsequently abandoned. They became an important part of the culture of the city. Admission is 1 EUR and helps support local stray cats.

9. See the Castle of San Giovanni

San Giovanni Fortress in Kotor is one of the city’s historic fortifications. Perched almost 300 meters (984 feet) above sea level, the castle has a taxing 1,355 steps you have to climb to get to it (which takes about an hour). The fortress, also known as St. John’s Fortress, is a UNESCO Heritage Site and dates to the 9th century. It’s one of the best historic remnants in the city. It’s mostly crumbled now, but there are several stone walls, fortifications, and foundations still in place. There are also over 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) of defensive walls, some of which are 20 meters (65 feet) tall. There are several viewpoints on the hike too. The admission price through the gate is about 9.50 EUR.

10. Explore the Blue Cave

Located on the Luštica Peninsula just 22 kilometers (13 miles) from Kotor, the famous Blue Cave of Montenegro is only accessible by boat on an organized tour from either Herceg Novi or Kotor. It’s named after the iridescent blue light that shines brightly within the cave. For a 1-2 hour tour of the blue cave (plus other nearby caves) expect to pay around 40-60 EUR per person.

11. Day trip to Perast

Just 20 minutes from Kotor, this stunning village is worth more than the half-day that most people give it (although if that’s all the time you have, it’s better than nothing!). There are 20 Baroque palazzi and 18 churches to see here, including the Church of St. Nicholas and its 55-meter (180-foot) Perast Bell Tower which you can climb to get an excellent view of the town. There’s also a Maritime History Museum here, and if you’re in the mood to relax, there’s a beautiful beach as well as boat tours around the Bay of Kotor.

Montenegro Travel Costs

Accommodation – There aren’t tons of hostels in Montenegro since it’s an up-and-coming backpacker spot. Dorm beds start at 12 EUR per night regardless of size or season. Free Wi-Fi is standard as are self-catering facilities. Most hostels do not include free breakfast. For a private room, expect to pay 40 EUR per night.

Budget hotels start at 25 EUR per night in the off-season for a double or twin. In peak season they start at 30-60 EUR per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many budget hotels also include free breakfast.

Airbnb is available in the main cities and towns around the country with private rooms starting at 20-25 EUR per night. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 40-65 EUR per night.

For anyone traveling with a tent, there are a fair number of campsites around Montenegro. A basic plot without electricity costs around 14-20 EUR per night for two people. Wild camping is illegal.

Food – Food in Montenegro is different from its Balkan neighbors, owing to heavier Mediterranean and Italian influences. Expect to see a lot of pizza and pasta restaurants when you’re in the cities. Also, look out for popular favorites like cevapcici (grilled kebabs), sarma (cabbage leaves stuffed with meat), and goulash. On the coast, seafood is readily available.

For a quick on-the-go snack, try burek a Turkish pastry filled with meat or cheese (they typically cost a couple of euros). For inexpensive traditional cuisine, expect to pay 6 EUR for a main dish. For fast food, expect to pay around 5-6 EUR for something like a burger and fries.

If you want to splash out, a three-course dinner at a mid-range restaurant costs around 15 EUR. For something extremely filling, try karadorde vasnicla , a breaded veal cutlet roll stuffed with cheese.

Beer costs 2 EUR while a latte or cappuccino costs 1.50 EUR. Bottled water is less than 1 EUR.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs 25-35 EUR for basic staples like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Montenegro Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 40 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and stick to mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach or hiking. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 95 EUR, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like rafting or canyoning.

On a “luxury” budget of 185 EUR per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Montenegro Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Montenegro is affordable so you won’t break the bank here unless you want to splash out. That said, it never hurts to save more money! Here are a few ways to save while you’re traveling Montenegro:

• Take a free walking tour – Kotor and Budva both offer free walking tours. They’re my favorite way to get familiar with a new city and culture while connecting with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Cook your own meals – Many hostels here have kitchen facilities so if you want to save money make sure you book accommodation with a kitchen. Buying groceries may not be glamorous but it definitely saves you money!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to save money and connect with a knowledgeable local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Walk everywhere – Most of the major towns and cities in Montenegro are walkable. Skip the public transportation if you want to save a few euros. And definitely skip the taxis!
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your money and enjoy the outdoors for free.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Montenegro

Even though Montenegro is small there are tons of hostels around the country. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Montenegro:

• Pupa Hostel (Kotor)
• Hostel Centrum (Kotor)
• Old Town Hostel (Kotor)
• Freedom Hostel (Budva)
• Hostel Center (Ulcinj)
• Hostel Anton (Tivat)

How to Get Around Montenegro

Public transportation – Public transportation prices vary by city, but expect to pay around 1 EUR for a standard adult bus ticket.

Bus – Montenegro has an extensive intercity bus network that is comfortable and reliable. You can often save money by buying your ticket directly from the driver as prices are sometimes cheaper when buying tickets right as you’re looking to leave. However, if you are traveling during the summer, it’s worth booking in advance to ensure you get a seat.

The bus from Kotor to Budva takes around an hour and costs as little as 5 EUR while the bus from Kotor to Ulcinj takes around 4.5 hours and costs around 10 EUR. Kotor to Dubrovnik, Croatia takes around 3-4 hours and costs 19-25 EUR.

Taxi – Taxis fares in Montenegro start at 1 EUR and go up by around 0.80 EUR per kilometer. Since they can add up fast, I’d skip the taxis if you can.

Train – The railway in Montenegro is old and not modernized at all. I would not advise train travel within Montenegro as the buses are nicer, faster, and far more reliable.

To enter and exit Montenegro, Montenegro Railways has a service that takes you north into Serbia all the way to Belgrade. It’s a 10-hour trip and costs around 29 EUR.

Flying – There are no domestic flights within Montenegro.

Car rental – Car rentals can be as low as 15-20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Just make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) as you need one to rent a vehicle. Also, be aware that the roads here are in rough shape and that drivers can be on the aggressive side.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Montenegro

The best time to visit Montenegro is between April and September. Peak season is July and August when the weather is warmest. Daily highs in the summer are usually around 31°C (89°F).

If you’re on a budget and want to beat the summer crowds, the best time to visit is either June or September. You still have the heat but there are fewer crowds and it’s not sweltering. For hiking and outdoor activities, consider September-October as the national parks look particularly pretty as the leaves change.

Winters are cold, especially if you go inland where there is more of a sub-alpine climate, offering heavy rainfall and snow. Unless you plan on skiing, I’d avoid visiting in the winter.

How to Stay Safe in Montenegro

Although Montenegro is a relatively safe country, scams and pickpocketing can occur, especially in Kotor, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and Herceg Novi. Be vigilant in tourist areas and while on crowded public transportation and always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

If you have a purse or shoulder bag, wear it across your body and not just over one shoulder so it can’t be easily torn off and stolen.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you’re renting a car, be aware that many of the roads are in rough condition. Drive slowly and cautiously — even if the locals aren’t. Additionally, don’t leave any valuables in your vehicle overnight. While break-ins are rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re checking a bag on a bus, don’t leave any valuables in it just in case it gets taken or misplaced.

If you’re doing any mountainous hikes, be sure to check the weather in advance and bring appropriate gear/clothing. It’s colder and windier at higher altitudes.

Unfortunately, organized crime has a strong foothold here. While the majority of their activities won’t impact you, some beggars have been known to take part in schemes wherein they provide information to thieves and pickpockets based on who gives them money. Don’t give money to beggars to avoid complications.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

There are a lot of unexploded land mines near the border with Kosovo. If you are exploring that area, be sure to stick to the main roads and don’t head off into the brush.

If you experience an emergency, dial 122 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Montenegro Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Montenegro Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

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Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

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After Your Trip

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Montenegro.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Montenegro.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Montenegro is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Montenegro, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Montenegro. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Montenegro include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Montenegro’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Montenegro may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Montenegro, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Montenegro for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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Montenegro Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Montenegro

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Montenegro entry details and exceptions

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Can I travel to Montenegro from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Montenegro.

Can I travel to Montenegro if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Montenegro without restrictions.

Can I travel to Montenegro without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Montenegro without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Montenegro?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Montenegro.

Can I travel to Montenegro without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Montenegro?

Mask usage in Montenegro is not required in enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Montenegro?

Restaurants in Montenegro are open. Bars in Montenegro are .

Wander-Lush

21 Useful Things to Know Before You Go Travelling in Montenegro

My top tips and hacks to save you money, time and stress. A must-read before you go travelling in Montenegro.

When I set off on my 6-month overland journey through the Balkans last spring, Montenegro was probably the country I knew the least about.

The only expectations I had were for stunning mountain landscapes and shimmering sunsets on the Bay of Kotor. I got both of those in spades. Everything else was a surprise – usually a pleasant surprise, but not always!

Montenegro shares some commonalities with its bordering countries so if you’ve travelled in Albania or Bosnia for instance, you already have a rough idea of what’s in store.

On the whole, Montenegro is incredibly convenient. The country is compact and straightforward to navigate, the Euro is the official currency (even though Montenegro isn’t yet a ratified EU member), and much like the rest of the region, people are exceedingly welcoming and friendly.

Still, I had many ‘Only in Montenegro’ moments during my road trip that inspired me to compile this list. Here are 21 practical Montenegro tips that I think every traveller should know before they go.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

What is travelling in Montenegro really like? 21 essential Montenegro tips

I hope these practical Montenegro travel tips will make your journey a little easier.

1. It rains – a lot

Montenegro’s remarkable topography is one of the things that makes it such a great place to visit. The rugged mountain interior backs almost directly onto the sea, so in the space of 15 minutes you can travel from the Mediterranean-like coast into the high hills.

As fast as the landscape changes, so can the weather.

Keep in mind that it rains an awful lot throughout much of the year. Montenegro’s wet season typically runs from April through to September and brings torrential downpours. Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, is the wettest city in Europe by a big margin, clocking up an average 1600mm of rainfall over 157 rainy calendar days.

Winter in Montenegro is bitterly cold in the mountains while on the coast, conditions remain mild (the mercury rarely drops below 12 degrees Celcius in Kotor, even in January). Because of the way the city is positioned in relation to the mountains, Kotor receives no direct sunlight for a big chunk of the year, which does make it feel a bit chillier. (Speaking to a local, this was her biggest complaint about living in Kotor.)

Summers on the coast are similarly mild, with temperatures averaging around 30 degrees during the day in cities including Budva and dipping to a pleasant 17 degrees in the evenings. The sea is warm enough to swim in from July onwards.

While rain on the coast is rare during summer, thunderstorms are common in the mountains. Dark clouds start to unfold in the late afternoon and can catch you off guard if you’re not careful. I had a couple of close calls and many disappointing afternoons where I couldn’t see 3 feet in front of me because of the thick fog.

It’s difficult to peg down a ‘best time to visit Montenegro’ , especially if you plan on splitting your time between the beaches and the mountains. Generally speaking, late spring or fall are both ideal times to visit the coast, while clear and dry summer conditions are better suited to hiking.

Try to avoid the Bay of Kotor in peak summer (more details in the next section below).

2. Check the cruise boat schedules before you go

Pre-2020, Montenegro’s ports were some of the busiest in the region for cruise ship arrivals. More than 650,000 cruise passengers disembarked in Kotor in 2019, almost a 30% increase on the previous year.

Because Kotor’s port is so close to the UNESCO Old Town, when a large ship is docked, it alters the entire landscape . You can see the hulking boats from every angle – and while impressive in scale, in my opinion they don’t exactly enhance the landscape nor the atmosphere.

Cruise ships bring an influx of foot traffic into Kotor Old Town , making the narrow streets feel cramped and claustrophobic. Budva also has a deep-water port and experiences a similar phenomenon on ‘cruise ship days’.

If you want to avoid the crowds and queues, then it’s wise to plan your time in Kotor and Budva especially around the cruise ship schedule. Alternatively, you can organise your days so that you’re clear of the busy Old Town area in the morning when most passengers disembark for their day tours.

Smaller towns along the bay such as Perast (more on that in a moment) do not have large ports and are much more subdued, especially in the late afternoon.

→ Read next: The best things to do in Kotor .

3. You’ll see a whole lot more if you hire a car

Montenegro is the one country in the Balkans where I chose to hire a car instead of relying on public transport. And I’m so, so glad that I did. If you’re looking for a perfect road trip destination in the region , Montenegro is it.

Yes, drivers are a bit more lackadaisical with road rules than in Western Europe, but Montenegro is actually fairly tame compared with some other neighbouring countries (I’m looking at you, Albania!). In fact, I’d go a step further and say that self-driving is safer than using the bus . Bus drivers are notoriously bad with overtaking and speeding, something I really don’t have the stomach for. You’ll need to be hyper-vigilant of other drivers, but at least you’re in control when you’re the one behind the wheel.

The roads are in good shape and apart from having to deal with a helluva lot of tunnels, driving is straightforward with only a few curly road rules. (One thing to keep in mind is the headlamps rule – see this guide for details .)

Some of my favourite spots in Montenegro are the remote lookout points and ‘in-between’ places that lie on the road from A to B. And often it’s the road itself that ends up being the highlight – certainly the case with the infamous Kotor Serpentine , with its 16 hairpin bends and 16 stunning lookouts.

My favourite drive is the backroad from Rijeka Crnojevića to Virpazar , which took me right along the edge of Skadar Lake. No sane bus or taxi driver would ever take such a rambling route – you simply need your own car if you want to do it.

Because Montenegro is so compact, you can expect to see a good chunk of the country in as little as 7-10 days with your own car .

→ Read next: My 10-day Montenegro road trip itinerary .

→ Don’t miss: My top tips for driving in Montenegro .

→ Search for a rental car: I recommend Local Rent .

If you plan on crossing borders in your rental car, be sure to obtain a Green Card and any other required documentation.

4. Be warned: Finding a place to park can be very tricky

While driving in Montenegro was a breeze, finding a place to leave the car was often a nightmare – especially on the Bay of Kotor. I travelled in spring (outside of peak season) and even then, it was very challenging to find a car park. I can only imagine how bad it gets in summer.

Parking spots were particularly scarce in Kotor, Budva and Herceg Novi. Perast and Rise did not pose a problem. If you’re hiring a car, you absolutely must choose accommodation with secure on-site parking . It’s a good idea to phone or message ahead the day before just to double check they have a spot for you – when I arrived in Herceg Novi, I discovered my guesthouse only had limited places and they were all full.

If you’re planning to drive into any of the bigger cities for the day, know that you might end up spending a good chunk of your morning driving in circles. It’s actually much better to stay overnight at the busier ports where you know you’ll have a guaranteed place to park.

5. Montenegro is safe for tourists

‘Is Montenegro safe?’ It’s a question that gets asked a lot, probably because of the region’s recent political history and the fact that the ex-Yugoslav countries are still relatively ‘unknown’ to many travellers .

Before my visit, I read some pretty crazy stories pertaining to crime (including the one about David Beckham’s Porsche) that made me feel a bit on edge. I needn’t have worried, though: Montenegro is much like any other country in the Balkans in terms of personal safety – that is to say, it’s very safe.

The joke ‘Welcome to Montenegro. Your car may already be here.’ refers to organised crime that isn’t likely to impact tourists. And it’s probably outdated anyway. Pickpocketing does occur but is localised to touristic places such as Kotor and Budva.

As a female traveller, I felt completely at ease in Montenegro . Apply the same common sense safety principles you would in any other country – and exercise a bit more caution with your belongings when visiting popular spots – and you will be absolutely fine. Remember to lock your car doors, too.

6. There’s a bit of a language barrier

English is not as widely spoken in Montenegro as in some neighbouring countries. This is especially true when you move away from the coast into the interior. Older generations of Montenegrins are more likely to speak Russian or German as their second language, while many younger people are proficient in English .

The official language in Montenegro is Montenegrin, a variation of the Serbo-Croat language that’s spoken around the former Yugoslav region. Though each country proudly proclaims to have its own national tongue, the languages are very similar. If you plan on travelling around for a long period, it really pays to learn some basic phrases that you can pull out across borders.

Google Translate doesn’t recognise Montenegrin , so you’ll need to search under Croatian (Latin alphabet) or Serbian (Cyrillic alphabet) when using the app.

7. Montenegro is more expensive than some other countries in the region

Dealing with Euros might be handy for calculating exchange rates, but the downside is that prices in Montenegro do err on the expensive side – especially when compared to neighbouring Albania or Bosnia. Montenegro is still an extremely affordable destination by any measure, but do be prepared to pay a little bit more for big-ticket items such as accommodation.

Unsurprisingly, prices in Budva, Kotor and Tivat are higher than in the national parks and mountain areas. Prices rise in the summer months, too – another reason to avoid peak season.

I kept a detailed daily budget for my Balkans trip, including for my 13 days in Montenegro. For two people, we spent a total of 280 Euros on food and drinks, 80 Euros on groceries, 115 Euros on ground transportation, and 90 Euros on activities and tickets. That’s almost double the amount we spent over two weeks in Kosovo .

Watch out for ‘sneaky’ extra costs such as the tourist tax in Kotor (1 Euro per person per night) and the extra fees associated with stowing luggage on the bus (common throughout the Balkans).

8. Apartment guesthouses are king

Montenegro has every type of accommodation under the sun, from budget hostels to luxe resorts. If you’re on a budget or you’re interested in a more ‘authentic’ accommodation experience than a chain hotel can offer, then I highly recommend you stay in family apartments or guesthouses.

Guesthouses can be found in every city, town and village. Usually the set up will have you sleeping in private quarters within a family home. Meals are typically included for an extra fee, and that all-important parking spot comes included. Above all else, staying at a guesthouse is an easy way to directly contribute to the small business economy and have a meaningful interaction with a local . Some of my best Montenegro tips came from the families I stayed with along the way.

My most memorable stay was in the town of Rijeka Crnojevića at a guest house called Apartments Konak Perjanik . The historic house is attached to an old arched stone bridge and steeped in local legend – owners Ljudmila and Ivan know everything about the area, including stories about the prince!

The other family apartments I stayed at and loved are:

• Sveti Stefan: Apartments Lazar
• Kotor: Apartments Nancy
• Perast: Apartments Jovanovic
• Herceg Novi: Hedera Residences – Kumbor
• Ulcinj: Apartments Bogojevic

Note that wild camping is illegal in Montenegro but tolerated outside of national parks and beaches. It’s best to stick to designated, paid campsites.

9. The heart of Montenegro lies beyond the Bokar

In local language, Montenegro’s name literally means ‘Black Mountain’ – a big hint that the heart of the country is not its ultra-popular coastline, but rather its interior.

Montenegro has five national parks that cover 10% of the country’s territory (not huge when you consider the capital city also covers 10%). Durmitor is by far the most popular and offers both day hikes and multi-day treks through a pristine landscape of craggy Dolomite-like peaks and charming alpine villages. Biogradska Gora in the north-east is one of only three remaining virgin rainforests in Europe , while Lovcen near Budva is home to the dark and mysterious peak that gave Montenegro its name.

Prokletije in the east is part of the Accursed Mountains or Albanian Alps where some of the Balkans’ finest hiking routes, including the Valbona to Theth trek , are located. The final protected area, Skadar Lake National Park , is one of the most underrated places in the country and shouldn’t be missed (more on Skadar later).

It might surprise you to learn that Montenegro has the highest number of species per area unit of any country in Europe . Montenegro takes biodiversity to the next level and is truly a treasure trove of flora and fauna.

Another huge plus: The deeper into Montenegro you go, the more affordable it gets . Prices halve and hospitality doubles as soon as you venture beyond the bay – so don’t skip Montenegro’s green heart.

10. There are scenic viewpoints everywhere

If you happen to see a marked viewpoint on your map, it’s almost always worth the detour. The sheer number of places where you can spontaneously pull over for a stellar photo is one of the major reasons why you need a car to visit Montenegro.

You’ll find that many of the country’s best viewpoints have circular concrete viewing platforms. My personal favourites are the ones at Lovcen National Park (for magic mountain vistas), Pavlova Strana (the famous spot where the Skadar river bends), and ‘Ostrog Monastery approach’ (for a far-away view of the monastery embedded in a cliff face). 

The best viewpoint of all is a round platform tucked behind the Church of Saint Sava , looking directly down on Sveti Stefan. It took me a long, steep, bumpy drive and a few wrong turns to find this spot – but it was so worth it!

→ Read next: The most beautiful places in Montenegro .

11. There’s a ‘secret’ way to visit St. John’s Fortress for free

Speaking of heading skywards for a view – it’s hard to top the panorama of Kotor that you get from St. John’s Fortress, a set of castle ruins and viewpoints directly above Kotor Old Town. From the top, you look directly down on the orange rooftops and out to the mountain-fringed bay beyond. It’s hard to describe how beautiful it is – my photos certainly don’t do it justice!

So coveted is this view, you have to pay a rather hefty entrance fee of 10 Euros for the privilege. That’s unless you take the ‘secret’ backway to the fortress that bypasses the ticket desk. Normally I’m not one to go for such sneaky tactics, but when my guesthouse host recommended it, I thought why not.

As well as saving you some coin, the alternative ‘Ladder of Kotor’ path is actually much more scenic and naturally a lot quieter. When I did it, the only other souls I encountered were grazing goats. The trail starts from behind the Hydroelectric Power Plant and culminates with a steep clamper and final squeeze through a hole to access the fortress. Note that it’s quite rocky and uneven so good shoes are a must.

Once you’re done taking photos, walk back down the regular path to reach the Old Town and use the money you saved to support a local business – or make a donation to Kotor Kitties , an NGO that cares for the city’s stray cats.

12. You must spend a night in Perast when Travelling in Montenegro

Perast is hands down my favourite place in Montenegro . An old Venetian port like Kotor, it’s sandwiched between a cove and a cliff. Every inch of the narrow town is occupied by beautiful Baroque palaces (there are 18 in total), public squares and churches with crumbling bell towers. Our Lady of the Rocks, one of two tiny islands just off the coast, is a must-see for the intriguing backstory and creative chapel.

The history, the culture, the legend – there’s something incredibly captivating about Perast . (I mean, they even have their own local sweet, Perast Cake!). Not to mention the seafront is beyond picturesque and everything Montenegro dreams are made of.

The best part? Perast’s harbour is too shallow for cruise ships to dock so once the day tour crowds have gone home, the town takes on a totally different ambiance. Perast at dusk, especially in shoulder season, is a special kind of magic.

My best advice is to spend a couple of nights at a guesthouse here and dedicate your evenings to strolling along the waterfront.

13. Montenegro has two capitals (and only one is worth visiting)

I’m the sort of traveller who can find beauty in the strangest of places. It’s very, very rare for me to tell my readers to avoid a place – but in the case of Montenegro’s capital city, I sadly have to make an exception.

I just couldn’t get on board with Podgorica – and I know I’m not the only person who feels this way. I’ve seen it named ‘ugliest capital in Europe’ more than once – I think that’s a bit harsh. Believe me when I tell you that I wanted to be the first travel blogger to fall in love with Podgorica and reveal its many hidden gems. I tried and tried, but I just couldn’t find anything that captured my imagination.

It’s almost as if Montenegro understands this too and so gave us a second capital as a backup. This is one of just two countries in Europe (16 in the world) with dual capital cities . While Podgorica is the official capital, Cetinje , the old capital, enjoys the status of Seat of the President of Montenegro.

The two couldn’t be more different. Cetinje was founded in the 15th century and served as the royal capital for centuries. The architecture – especially the foreign embassy buildings – is quite delightful and can be admired while walking down several cafe-lined pedestrian streets. The 18th-century Cetinje Monastery in the centre of the city has some beautiful frescoes, while National Restaurant Belveder just outside the city limits serves delicious food against a backdrop of mountains.

Podgorica is quite underwhelming – the only real ‘landmark’ for tourists to see is the clocktower. I would love for you to prove me wrong – if you think I missed the mark on Podgorica, let me know in the comments what I should have seen or done and maybe I’ll give it another try!

14. Don’t skip one of Europe’s prettiest (and most underrated) train rides

One thing Podgorica does have going for it is its railway station. Not the station itself – although the bakery inside does have one of the best Bureks in the Balkans – but rather the trains that run through it.

Belgrade to Bar is a legendary stretch of railroad that starts in the Serbian capital and culminates on Montenegro’s southern coast. The most scenic part of the journey happens to be the section between Podgorica and Bar, where the train passes over a long, narrow bridge that floats on top of marshy Lake Skadar .

If you don’t have time for the whole 12-hour journey, you can enjoy the 60-minute Podgorica to Bar stint . Tickets only cost a couple of dollars, and Bar itself is a wonderful place in its own right, especially Old Bar with its ancient olive groves and aqueduct .

15. Don’t miss a boat ride on the biggest lake in the Balkans

Skimming the surface of Lake Skadar on the train is one thing – taking a boat ride for an up-close look at the marshes and wildlife is another. Shared between Montenegro and Albania, this is the largest lake in the Balkans , one of the oldest lakes in Europe – and one of the most visually pleasing spots in the region. It’s one of the top places in Europe for bird watching – but even if you have no interest in birds or wetlands, it’s still a very enjoyable activity.

Virpazar is the easiest place to charter a boat for a 2-3 hour jaunt on the water. Find a captain who speaks your language and can narrate the journey. When I did this trip, our captain was a fountain of knowledge on local flora and fauna and brought the area to life with his vivid descriptions and tidbits of information. In spring nesting season, you can see herons, spoonbills, eagles and much more.

Boats also depart from Rijeka Crnojevića at the western end of the lake but are a touch more expensive because there’s less demand.

16. Sveti Stefan is worth it just for the views

Sveti Stefan is probably the most iconic place in Montenegro – you’ll often see the islet with its brick-coloured rooftops and narrow land bridge gracing the covers of travel magazines.

Before I arrived in Sveti Stefan, I had no idea that the island is off-limits to tourists . (Unless of course you’re staying at the Aman, the resort that bought out the entire island and blocked off access with a velvet rope.)

I have to be honest, I was more than a little disappointed when I realised I couldn’t explore the alleyways of Sveti Stefan. I guess it’s my own fault for not doing my research. But my despair was short lived when I realised that the island looks much better from afar anyway.

There are viewpoints all over the mainland where you can get different vantages. The best is the one I mentioned earlier at the Church of Saint Sava, high in the hills above town. I also really enjoyed walking through the coastal park north of the island at sunset.

Is Sveti Stefan still worth visiting even if you can’t set foot inside the main attraction? In my opinion it’s a definite ‘yes’. As well as the views, Sveti Stefan is a stone’s throw from the Bay of Kotor and other places on the southern coast (including Petrovac), making it a good base for exploring. There are some lovely guest houses and restaurants here, too.

17. The best Montenegro beaches are in the south

Montenegro has no fewer than 115 beaches scattered along its 290-kilometre coastline, most ranging from grey rocks to pink pebbles. For white-sand beaches , you’ll need to head to the southernmost part of the coast around Ulcinj .

Ulcinj has a strong Albanian influence and feels quite different to other places in Montenegro. It’s a total contrast to the Bay of Kotor and much more popular among regional tourists than the cruise ship crowd.

Though not a patch on the beaches further south on the Albanian Riviera, the coast here is quite pleasant. The best thing about swimming in Ulcinj is that you’re always in the shadow of Ulcinj Fortress , a majestic castle set over the sea.

18. Montenegrin cuisine is for meat lovers

From Cevapi and Burek to mountains of fish and seafood on the coast, meat is always on the menu. Like any Slavic country, Montenegro food is heavy on protein and more limited when it comes to fresh fruit and veg.

Having said that, it would be unusual for a restaurant/cafe in a city or larger town to not offer at least a few vegetarian-friendly options. Some traditional dishes such as Kacamak , a mountain dish made from cornmeal, potatoes and Kajmak cream cheese, are vegetarian by design. Almost every restaurant has a big selection of meat-free soups and salads, too.

Italian food is hugely popular in Montenegro so at a pinch, you can always find a Neapolitan pizza or a three-cheese pasta to fill your belly. If you have dietary requirements, consider eating meals at your guest house where you can put in special requests ahead of time.

19. Montenegrin wine is surprisingly good

Montenegro’s Mediterranean climate lends itself to cultivating grapes. Though not nearly as well-known on the world stage as Croatia or even North Macedonia , Montenegro’s wine culture is one of the oldest in the region, predating wine-making in Italy and France.

Montenegro is synonymous with deep, aged red wines made from Vranac grapes. All of the country’s vineyards are located in the eastern zone between Podgorica and Lake Skadar and can be visited on a trip along the Wine Route from the capital. Popular vineyards include Winery Masanovic, Savina and Cermeniza.

Even if you don’t partake in a vineyard tour or wine degustation, you can still taste Montenegrin wine (and brandy) at restaurants around the country.

20. Almost everybody smokes – but not indoors

One of the things I definitely did not enjoy about Montenegro was the prolific smoking. Montenegro has the highest tobacco-consumption rate in Europe, with the average adult lighting up 4,124 cigarettes in a year (four times more than the US average). Yikes.

Thankfully, things appear to be moving in the right direction. In August 2019, Montenegro banned smoking in indoor public places , including in restaurants and cafes. If you’re sitting outside, you should still be prepared for a side of second-hand nicotine with your salad nicoise.

Smoking is commonplace among taxi and bus drivers, too. Don’t be afraid to speak up if the driver lights up.

21. Most Shops in Montenegro are closed on Sundays

A small tip but a biggie for unsuspecting tourists – almost every shop in Montenegro is closed on Sundays . That includes grocery stores, mobile phone shops, corner stores, malls and some (but not all) pharmacies. Most banks are closed all weekend long.

This has been the norm since the country’s Internal Trade Act came into effect in October 2019. It also prohibits retail trade on public holidays (there are 14 national holidays in Montenegro, check the dates here ).

If you happen to be in Montenegro on a weekend or holiday, plan accordingly and stock up on snacks the night before!

Plan your trip to Montenegro

If you’re considering a trip to the Balkans, I hope this underrated nation is on your radar!

Here are a few resources to help you plan the perfect itinerary.

• 15 best places to visit in Montenegro
• My suggested Montenegro road trip itinerary
• 21 essential things to know before you visit Montenegro
• Essential tips for driving in Montenegro
• Best things to do in Kotor
• My complete guide to Perast
• Guide to the Podgorica Bar train
• More Balkans road trip ideas

Montenegro essentials

Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your visit to Montenegro.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Montenegro on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance.

CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent (prices start from 15€/day) or jump on the Discover Cars website to hire a car through an international company.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel and apartment deals on Booking.com , the most popular booking platform in Montenegro.

TOP-RATED MONTENEGRO DAY TRIP: Durmitor, Tara & Ostrog Monastery (from $60/person).

MORE TRAVEL TIPS: Check out this post – 21 things to know before you visit Montenegro .

Any more Montenegro travel tips you’d like to share? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

29 Comments

Hi Emily! Love your article! My fiance and I spontaneously bought flight tickets to Montenegro for our honeymoon trip during Easter weekend. Now we have to decide where to stay – what do you recommend? Our priorities are food, nice walking paths and coastline.

Hi Dominika, you could check out my Montenegro itinerary for ideas. My favourite place on the water was Perast, it is just lovely.

From your comments, I take it that you would choose to stay in Perast rather than Tivat if given the choice. We are in the process of putting together an Oct. 2024 journey there.

Hi Steve – one thousand percent, yes. Perast is one of the loveliest places in the region. Small of course, but overwhelmingly beautiful and charming.

Hi Emily, Any thoughts on a solo female traveling in Montenegro? You noted in general it was safe but it sounds like you weren’t traveling on your own. Is it common to see solo female travelers?

Hi Melissa, that’s right, I was travelling with my husband. I wouldn’t hesitate to go back alone, though!

In general I think the Balkans is perfectly suitable for solo females. My friend Kami often travels solo to the region – I can recommend checking out her blog (and specifically this post) for more insights and tips : https://www.mywanderlust.pl/solo-female-travel-in-the-balkans/

Thanks so much Emily for this wonderful, information filled post. You made my mouth water and my camera trigger finger ache. We leave in a week and plan to spend a month in “all” of Montenegro, from seaside towns to high in the mountains. Very good advice on the cruise ships, we thought we had thought of everything. Fortunately, our stay in Kotor gives us 2 days without a big cruise ship, a fateful planning without knowing about the cruise ships. Keep up the excellent writing. Will be reading more! Johnna…TwoTravelinChicas

Awesome Johna! I look forward to reading about your trip and hearing your tips, too. Enjoy!

Thanks Emily for your blog on Montenegro. Excellent stuff. I am a Brit living in Slovenia since 1998, I am doing a Balkan trip by car for 2 weeks at the beginning of August with the family. I found your article and info very good, to the point, pragmatic and useful. We are driving from Ljubljana, through BiH (Sarajevo), then Žabljak, Nikšič, Podgorica, Stari Bar and then into Albania via Lake Skadar. Back via Northern Macedonia and Serbia. Thanks again for the useful road tips and places to see. Cheers and lep pozdrav. Andy Hunt Vodopivec.

Wonderful Andy! Have an amazing trip!

Hi! Do you know a website where to check the cruise ship schedule to avoid them in Budva and Kotor?

Hi Mari – you can try the site CruiseDig.

Beautifully written and informative. Reading this as I’m drinking Rose looking over the Bay in Perast. Very accurate and informative. Greetings from a 60+ NZ couple who will be checking out your log for our next trip.

That’s amazing Maya! I am just a little bit jealous of you!! Enjoy the rest of your time in Montenegro!!

I will travel from Budapest (Hungary) to Montenegro at the beggining of September and plan to visit the North-eastern part of the country. I appreciate your help!

Hi Emily – I am using your guides for Montenegro and Albania to help with trip planning for this July-August. I will be in Albania first, ending in Shkoder. Do you know the best transportation from Shkoder to Montenegro and could you suggest a good starting point in Montenegro if coming from Shkoder? Thanks.

Hi Scott, thanks for your comment!

Ulcinj has a large Albanian population and in summer, many Albanians head to the beaches there for the holidays. We travelled from Ulcinj to Kosovo via Shkoder, as it was the most logical route with frequent bus connections. Ulcinj is quite interesting, too – definitely worth a look around!

Hi Emily! I love your travel guide. It’s very helpful for someone who is planning a trip. I am using your website to find info about the country, cities, weather, visa req. etc before I travel.

Dear Emily, thanks a lot for your thoroughgoing description and useful advises! We will travel from Budapest (Hungary) to Montenegro at the beggining of September and plan to visit the North-eastern part of the country. I appreciate your help! Best wishes! Andrea

Haven’t been there but planning to be there

My friend and I (two women) are planning a trip into Montenegro and are considering April 2022. We also love the idea of renting a car for our travels. Do you have any advise on what to expect in April? Having read about the rain, we are a bit concerned it is too early in the year for a driving trip. Will the tourist towns be too empty? Should we wait and try for June, instead? Thanks!

I drove from April 10-17 and was in the country for a couple more days either side of that. So reading my posts should give you an accurate impression of what it’s like in April. We did encounter closed restaurants in some of the smaller towns (e.g. Sveti Stefan) and some rainy weather – but in my opinion it was more than a worthy trade off because it was far less crowded than in summer. Not sure what next season will be like though!

Great article! Thanks! I’m planning to do my wedding there on the 3rd of October. I have no idea what are the best places with an ocean view to do it and I’m scared that the place I choose will be too cold. Any suggestions would be GREATLY appreciated.

Amazing, congratulations! I can’t make any promises about the weather, but Perast and Kotor were by far my favourites places on the water.

If you want to go further south, Petrovac beach is very pretty too (and much quieter) with its stunning castle and rock formations.

I hope this helps!

Thank you for all the information and tips for Montenegro. I am planning a trip there in July this year. Just wanted to know about the covid restrictions if you can help me with it.

Hi Charu, I’m not in Montenegro currently so I can’t speak to the situation on the ground. I suggest you have a look at the ministry website or travel advice issued by the US embassy.

Kindest, Emily

Well written and appreciate all the tips.

I have been to Montenegro 3 years ago, and I want to go back again to do some hikes. This country is one of a kind. So small and that means easy to explore it all in one week.

I’m the same, Ausra – I have to go back again to see more of the national parks! I was there in late spring so it was lovely on the coast but still a little chilly in the mountains.

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Visiting Montenegro: 25 Essential Tips for Travelling in Montenegro

If you are planning on visiting Montenegro here are essential tips you should know before you go travelling in this Balkan country. 

I have visited Montenegro ( Crna Gora -Black Mountain) twice so far. The first time I traveled for one week only. The second time I did two weeks Montenegro road trip covering the majority of the regions and a thousand kilometers of the country’s panoramic roads.

Before the first trip to Montenegro, my knowledge of the country was limited. I only saw a couple of images of the beautiful Kotor Bay which was enough to convince me to go travelling in Montenegro. Little did I expect that, although one of the smallest of Balkan countries, Montenegro is saturated with so much beauty at every turn.

Blessed with stunning landscapes, cute medieval coastal towns, mighty mountains, lakes, and canyons, Montenegro will make both nature and culture lovers fall head over heels for it. 

Yet, before enjoying the best of Montenegro , there is some travel planning that needs to be done. Having been to the country twice, I would like to help you get the best out of your trip. Keep on reading those 25 practical traveling in Montenegro tips that I believe you should know before you go.

Note:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase by clicking a link. This helps to keep my blog growing and filling up with detailed honest travel advice for you. 

25 Useful Montenegro Travel Tips: Everything You Need to Know about Travelling in Montenegro

Here you will find essential tips about traveling in Montenegro: from driving in Montenegro, accommodation advice places to see and skip, the best time for visiting, and some cultural and everyday life aspects of Montenegro.

Montenegro Travel Essentials- Quick Links

• My TOP TIP : The best way to explore Montenegro is self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates using Localrent search aggregator.
• Best flight deals: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Montenegro from your location.
• For a perfect stay: Use Booking to find your perfect accommodation in Montenegro.
• Must have : for traveling in Montenegro is Travel Insurance . Get a quote at World Nomads or SafetyWing .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls with TIM. 500 GB for 15 EUR!

Montenegro travel tips: getting around Montenegro

1. driving is the best way to see montenegro.

Being compact in size, Montenegro is an ideal road trip destination. Moreover, road-tripping Montenegro is just as much about the epic views and surprise stops as it is about the destinations. You will find yourself stopping every kilometer for endless photo opportunities!

That being said, renting a car is probably the most important tip I could give for traveling in Montenegro.

Self-driving will allow you to explore Montenegro in depth. Some of the best places in Montenegro can only be reached by car. This is simply because there is no public transport connection for remote places.

For example, even a quite well-known panoramic spot of Pavlova Strana is only accessible by car. There are no public buses passing it. 

Finally, public transport only takes you to the main touristy locations but there are so many smaller coastal towns and mountain villages which can be explored at ease only if you have your own wheels.

Last time I went to Montenegro I used DiscoverCars to rent my ride. Later on, I also discovered that Localrent is the other great car search website with equally competitive rates (if not more). With Localrent you will be renting from local suppliers, sometimes they do not even require a deposit!

• Distances in Montenegro are short but the roads are windy and narrow- always account for extra time

Most of the must-visit places in Montenegro are not far away from each other in terms of distances. However, you have to account for the lower speed limits due to narrow and windy roads. You might only have to drive for 15 KM, but it sometimes can take around 30min on a narrow mountain road.

My longest drive was from the Eastern part (Prokletje National Park) to Lake Skadar which took around 4.5 hours to finish 200 KM. This was due to narrow mountain roads, that consumed most of the time.

Nonetheless, everything is relatively very close. Usually, you will not have to cover that much of the distance. Therefore, you can expect around 1-2 Hours of driving per day, or even less, depending on where you are and how much you want to cover in one go.

• If you aren’t an experienced driver yet, road-tripping Montenegro might be challenging

Regardless of the convenience to move around with your own wheels, driving in Montenegro can be nerve-wracking. Most of the roads are narrow and windy, especially in mountainous areas.

If you are a new driver, scared of heights and hairpin turns, it might be a bit of a challenge. If you’re not sure about your abilities, you can order a transfer ride .

Some of the roads stretch along the cliffs and are wide enough only for one vehicle.  Therefore, extra caution is required- you must always be alert to the traffic coming from the opposite side.

Nonetheless, there is not much traffic on those remote roads, so take it slowly and you will be just fine. 

2. Book your car well in advance if you traveling to Montenegro in the summer

Talking about road tripping Montenegro brings to the other very important tip. Book your wheels well in advance!

During the summer months of July and August which are the high season in Montenegro, car rental prices shoot up to the skies. In general, car hire in Montenegro is more expensive than in Croatia. However, if you book your ride early enough, you can still get a really good deal for Montenegro car rentals. Especially, when booking a car for a week or longer.

From my experience, booking a car at least one month in advance for the summer months will guarantee you the best prices.

For the most competitive rates, check Discovercars or Myrentacar websites. The great thing with these two car search engines is that often there is no deposit required when booking your vehicle! 

Compare car rental prices in Montenegro

Rent a Car in Montenegro

Look for the best rates for your rental car at Localrent

3. Parking is a challenge along the Adriatic coast and Bay of Kotor

The convenience of having your own wheels comes at a cost when there is time to find a parking spot. It is not an exaggeration to say that parking can be a nightmare in Montenegro. Narrow streets and scarce parking spots are the reality of Kotor Bay and Adriatic coast towns. 

The most popular locations such as Kotor Old town, Budva, Sveti Stefan, or Herceg Novi are an extreme challenge when it comes to finding an empty parking spot (either paid or free). Even parking at smaller coastal towns like Perast, or Risan can be tricky during the peak season.

Expect to have to park a bit further away from the central parts of the above-mentioned locations, and have to walk a little bit.

4. Be aware of traffic from Kotor to Tivat airport during the peak times

If you are flying in and out from Tivat airport, it is conveniently located just around 15 minutes away from Kotor Old town. However, during peak hours, which in summer can start as early as midday, the commute time can reach up to one hour! And there is no shortcut to get to or from Tivat to Kotor. Have this in mind when planning your airport transfers.

RELATED READS: Make sure to also read 33 things to know about renting a car and driving in Montenegro – all the questions answered along with other useful tips. Click HERE to read this post.

Accommodation tips for staying in Montenegro

5. stay at guesthouses or homestays for the best local experience, or rent a studio/one-bed apartment in montenegro.

You can find any type of accommodation in Montenegro- from budget backpackers’ hostels to lux resorts- the choice is yours!

However, I would strongly recommend either going for a family-run guesthouse or renting out a studio or one-bedroom apartment .

Each of those options has great advantages to staying in a regular hotel.

If you are looking for a more local experience, homestays are ideal. There you will receive amazing treatment from the host. Also, they will be very helpful in case you have questions about the area you are visiting. Finally, this way you will contribute to the small business economy (as opposed to leaving your bucks at large monster hotel conglomerates).

Meanwhile, if you rent your own apartment, which is also very affordable in Montenegro, you will enjoy complete privacy and convenience as if you have your own home. Apartments are usually family-owned as well.

Often the hosts live next door and you get both- complete privacy and required assistance.

Moreover, in remote areas, such as Prokletije, Komovi mountains, or Lake Skadar, having a homemade breakfast, lunch, and dinner might be your only and the best option.

6. Book your accommodation for popular locations well ahead if you are travelling in Montenegro in summer

I cannot stress enough that booking your stay in advance during the summer months in Montenegro is a must! The most popular summer destinations are Kotor Bay and Adriatic Coast (Budva, Sveti Stefan especially). The best accommodation is booked out fast, and there might literally be nothing available at all.

Please do not make the same mistake as I did when I was traveling to Kotor Bay. On my two weeks road trip, I was doing some of my bookings on the go. While it worked out for mountain villages, I was in trouble with my last night at Kotor Bay. The studio apartment I was renting was not available for all the days I needed, but I thought it will not be a big deal to book something the night before.

Guess what- there was literally nothing available except some crazy expensive hotels or dorms. I ended up staying in some horrible hostel room in Dobrota (a small town next to Kotor), which by the way, cost just as much as a good studio flat in the same area during the peak season. Lesson learned.

7. Choose accommodation with parking when staying at the Adriatic coast and Kotor Bay

The earlier mentioned parking challenge leads to a very important tip: when choosing your accommodation in Montenegro, make sure it offers private parking.

Choose a place with a guaranteed parking spot, especially in places like Kotor Bay, Budva, Sveti Stefan, and other more popular coastal towns like Herceg Novi, Petrovac na Moru, Bar, and even Ulcinj.

Since streets are really narrow, and all the waterfront towns are squeezed into a small piece of land, it is expected that there will not be enough parking spots.

Therefore, if your selected accommodation says street parking is available- forget it! During the summer you will have a headache looking for a parking spot.

This does not apply to mountainous areas though- I have not encountered any problems in finding where to park when traveling around mountains.

Book Accommodation in Montenegro

Look for the best rates and perfect places to stay on Booking.com

How many days in Montenegro do you need?

8. you can see all highlights of montenegro in just one week.

As I have just mentioned above, Montenegro is one of the smallest countries not only in Europe but also in the World. Therefore, you don’t have to drive miles from one place to another to see it all. That makes visiting most of the best spots in Montenegro possible within just one week. 

From Kotor Bay, to Lovcen mountains, to Unesco protected Durmitor, National Park, to Piva and Tara canyons, and Lake Skadar, all the way through Adriatic coast with a stop to Sveti Stefan and even reaching Herceg Novi next to Croatian border-I cover it all on my first trip to Montenegro back in 2017.

However, if you want to tackle more off-the-beaten path places in Crna Gora, or take it slow, an ideal time to spend in Montenegro is about two weeks.

RELATED REEDS: Check my 2 WEEKS IN MONTENEGRO ROAD TRIP ITINERARY to help you plan a perfect trip to Montenegro. 

What to see in Montenegro (and what to skip)?

9. skip budva and capital podgorica. .

Talking about destinations to skip in Montenegro, Budva and Podgorica are two of them if you have limited time at hand. 

While some may argue that Budva is amazing, those would be the people who love partying and don’t mind overcrowded beaches.

Although Budva may be enjoyable during the low season, I would advise staying away from it during the summer. It is the most touristic place in the whole of Montenegro. Ideal for parties and nightlife, it would be a nightmare for somebody like myself, who loves peace and quiet, and the sounds of nature as opposed to loud music blowing out at every corner of the town.

Since I had more time during my two-week trip, I decided to stop in Budva early in the morning to check out its old town and a cave on a popular Mogren beach.

Since I was travelling during the peak season in July, I made sure to arrive as early as 7 am. Guess what, Mogren beach was already getting packed at that early time, while the old town of Budva was nothing close to quiet either. 

Podgorica is another place that travelers tend to hate. Before joining the club, I did a little bit of research and decided not to bother with the boring-looking capital as Montenegro has so many more interesting places to see.

10. Montenegro is not only Kotor Bay- visit the mountains, lakes, and canyons!

Although Kotor Bay is a spectacular absolute must-visit place, Montenegrin mountains and canyons will leave you speechless.

Montenegro means Black Mountain. As its name suggests, it is not hard to guess that the mountains are the heart of Montenegro.

When I first visited, little did I know about the beauty of the rural mountainous side of Montenegro. Endless rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, glacier lakes, and deepest Europe canyons took my breath away.

There are not enough words to describe the beauty of Sedlo Pass at Durmitor National Park. You must drive the P14 panoramic route to see it yourself.

Also, Piva canyon with its dozens of rock-carved tunnels and the turquoise color river is not to be missed. Followed by the deepest in Europe Tara river canyon which is also a must-see when visiting Durmitor national park.

For those of you who are travelling longer than a week- less explored remote Komovi and Prokletije mountains are places to go to.

• If you are into hiking- Montenegro is a perfect place to conquer the mountains

Continuing on mountain-related tips- Montenegro is a hikers’ haven. Here you can find every type of trail -easy strolls around picturesque Black Lake in Zabljak, mighty Bobotov Kuk summit in Durmitor , glorious Karanfili peaks in Prokletije, mysterious Lovcen mountain range, as well technical rock climbing opportunities.

Moreover, you can even hike in Kotor Bay (stairway to St Giovani fortress and Kotor ladder being two of the most popular city trails).

In short, your options are endless when it comes to hiking in Montenegro.

RELATED READS: Read my full guide to Bobotov Kuk hike in Montenegro .

11. Montenegro has 5 national parks – all of them are very different!

Montenegro is home to 5 national parks, each of which is unique in its own way: Durmitor, Lovcen, Lake Skadar, Biogradska Gora, and Prokletije National Park.

Unesco protected scenic Durmitor National Park is probably the most well-known. It is a great destination for hiking, water sports and skiing.

Lake Skadar National Park , home to hundreds of birds’ speeches, is a surprisingly underrated destination in Montenegro. Its extraordinary beauty has not yet been discovered by many, which makes Lake Skadar one of the best-kept secrets not to be missed when traveling to Montenegro.

Biogradska Gora is known for its virgin rainforests (one out of three remaining in Europe!). It offers a fantastic nature escape along with water activities and many hiking options.

Out of the beaten path on the east side of the country is a less-visited Prokletije National Park . It is part of the Accursed mountains or the Albanian Alps. Here you can find some of the most impressive Balkan hiking routes, even cross to Albanian side and merge into its legendary Valbona-Theth trail if you will.

Finally, Lovcen National Park , just 45 minutes away from Kotor Bay, is where Montenegro’s name originated from.

The landscapes of each of the above-mentioned national parks are completely different from each other. Therefore, if you decide to visit all of them, you will be enjoying unique sceneries and experiences.

• Montenegro is a perfect ecotourism destination- stay in a traditional mountain hut- katun

Montenegro ecotourism is increasing rapidly offering more unconventional stays in so-called “katuns”. Katuns are mountain huts where shepherds and their families live during the summer months.

Recently those cute little bungalows became a popular form of accommodation for tourism purposes. Some of the katuns are very basic, with just beds, while some of them may include a bathroom.

The best locations to experience how locals live are Durmitor and Prokletije National parks and the Komovi mountains.

12. Don’t miss a boat ride in Lake Skadar- the biggest lake in the Balkans

Talking about experiences, one of the must-do’s is a traditional boat ride in Lake Skadar.

Shared between Albania and Montenegro, Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. The larger and the prettier side of the lake belongs to Montenegro.

Although the lush green rolling hills dominated landscapes of the lake are gorgeous to admire from above, but gliding through the waters filled with meadows of lilies at a reach of your arm is a completely different experience. Even more, taking a dip in Lake Skadar’s clear waters on a hot day is a blissful experience.

Also, Lake Skadar is a dream come true for ornithologists. Here they can find a few hundreds of bird species to watch!

The easiest way to rent a boat is at Virpazar, which is the main town in the Lake Skadar area. You can either join a group tour or hire a private boat.

13. Visit Sveti Stefan for its views at a distance

Probably the most iconic place in Montenegro is Sveti Stefan islet. Postcard-perfect miniature island town turned to 5-star resort is only accessible if you are a guest. As much as it would be lovely to explore the alleyways in the little old town, distant views of Sveti Stefan are equally magnificent.

You can either see it from a high vantage point of Saint Sava Church, or/and walk the beautiful coastal park north of the island. Both options are great and enjoyable.

14. Go to Ulcinj for sandy beaches and off the beaten path experience. 

Out of almost 300 km of Adriatic coast, Ulcinj, the southern-most seaside town next to Albanian border, offers the best and the longest sandy beaches in the country.

Ulcinj is locally known for its longest 13 km sandy beach (Velika pliaza) with an honorary “blue flag” award. Thus, even during the busy summer months you can find a peaceful place to suntan and enjoy the sounds of the sea.

The Best Time to Go to Montenegro

15. the best time to go to montenegro depends on your preferred activity.

It is hard to pinpoint the ideal month to visit Montenegro. If you are into sunbathing and coastal life- summer is the time to go to Montenegro. The same goes for hiking- to avoid extreme cold, or heavy rains, the best time to trek is during the summer.

However, if you don’t mind taking some risk of encountering heavy rains, you might get lucky during the shoulder season which brings the benefit of fewer tourists and milder temperatures at the Adriatic Coast and Kotor Bay. Also, for the more adventurous of you, white water rafting in Tara canyon is more fun when the waters are wilder after the rain.

For winter sports, like skiing, winter is an ideal time to head to the Montenegrin mountains. Zabljak and Kolasin towns are the basis skiing locations.

• Be aware of heavy rains and floods when travelling off-season in Montenegro

Rain is very common in Montenegro, and it can totally change your travel plans. Even during the summer, you can expect heavy rainfall. On my first visit, we nearly had to cancel our white water rafting tour since the skies just went wild. When it rains it pours in Montenegro. Roads can even be too dangerous to drive on.

Also, since Montenegro is all covered in mountains, weather can be rather unpredictable. It can start as a sunny day, and end up with thunder and storms, or vice versa.

The same goes for the winter months, due to snowfall, some mountain roads become inaccessible. Like the scenic Durmitor ring- I have seen pictures online of it being completely covered in snow.

• Weather in the mountains is significantly cooler than at the Adriatic coast

It can be boiling hot by the beach, but as soon as you go higher to the mountains, it can get quite chilly, especially early morning and evening/night time. Pack some warm clothes if you are planning to visit Montenegro mountains.

How expensive is Montenegro? Cash or bank card?

Montenegro, although more expensive than its neighboring Albania, or Bosnia and Hercegovina, is still a very affordable travel destination. It is also still much cheaper than more popular Croatia.

16. The more inland in Montenegro you go the cheaper it gets. 

Talking about prices, as a rule of thumb, the coastal parts of Montenegro are significantly more expensive. Drive 30-45 min inland and you will find amazingly cheap and beautiful guesthouses and much lower food prices in restaurants.

Even such places as Lake Skadar which is just as beautiful in its own way as Kotor Bay, has accommodation and meals at a fraction of the cost you would pay at any of the coastal towns.

    17. Bank cards are accepted but cash is still the king

Although bank cards are accepted in bigger hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and petrol stations, you must always have the cash to pay for your stays at guesthouses and family-run cafes and restaurants.

More often than not I needed to use cash during my trip to Montenegro. Even for the remaining amount of my rental car (apart from the online reservation fee), I had to pay in cash.

FUN FACT: Montenegro, although not yet in European Euro, uses Euro as its currency.

18. Data is ridiculously cheap and plentiful on a tourist package . 

Can you guess how much data you will get for the 10 EUR 15 days data-only package? I bet you will say like emm…maybe 50Gb. Even more than that! 500 GB for only 10 EUR- good luck finishing it all!

  19. Tourism in Montenegro is growing rapidly, and so are the prices-visit soon!

I have visited Montenegro twice in 4 years span- and I could see that accommodation and meal prices almost doubled during this relatively short time. This doesn’t come as a surprise, as word about Montenegro as a dream vacation destination is spreading around really fast.

Nonetheless, Montenegro is still a very affordable country to travel around. It is still much cheaper than its neighbor Croatia. But growing rapidly in popularity, it is just a matter of time before Montenegro matches the prices of more expensive European destinations. 

Therefore, visit Montenegro soon!

Safety in Montenegro

20. montenegro is safe to travel.

Montenegro is in general a very safe country for travelers. It heavily depends on tourism, and local people are friendly towards visitors.

Of course, general precautions must be applied just like in any other country. Don’t leave your valuables unattended and be mindful of your belongings in very busy places such as Budva, as pickpocketing occasionally does occur in very crowded touristic spots.

Nonetheless, on not a single occasion did I feel unsafe in Montenegro. As a female traveler, I was totally fine to go to different places on my own, even hikes.

Always lock your car!

Theft from cars and pickpocketing at touristy places are the only things I found reported as a medium risk for theft. 

Food, Restaurants and Groceries in Montenegro

21. vegetarians will struggle in montenegro- a meat-loving country.

Montenegrin, just as any other Balkan country’s, cuisine is heavily loaded with meat dishes. Therefore, if you are a vegetarian, your choices will be limited. Pescatarians, on another hand, will enjoy sea and lake fish.

I eat fish occasionally, but most of the time I am vegetarian. That is why I was having a hard time finding exciting dishes on the menu in Montenegro. I managed to find a few vegetarian eateries in Kotor, and enjoyed homemade fish dishes at lake Skadar, but I was having a hard time in the mountainous areas where meat is mostly the only thing on the menu.

• However, there are options to book a dinner or breakfast with Eatwith . If you plan on visiting Budva, check out this vegetarian dinner option .

22. Don’t be surprised when you get the cheque at a restaurant before you finish eating. 

When it comes to cheques, restaurant etiquette in Montenegro is a bit different from what we are used to in many countries around the world. You will get your bill along with the meals served. If you want to order more food, you will get either an updated bill or an extra one for each of your orders. In this case, do the math yourself.

23. Smoking indoors is forbidden in restaurants and bars in Montenegro

Luckily, Montenegro joined the rest of the European countries and applied healthier lifestyle regulations by banning smoking indoors at cafes, bars, and restaurants.

Before this regulation took place, Montenegro was one of the highest tobacco-consuming nations. Which meant, that non-smokers had to suffer in public places. Not anymore!

24. Do your groceries before the weekend

One hot Sunday midday I was rushing to the nearby supermarket to get some cold juice and a few snacks for my road trip. I found the small local grocery store closed. I thought it was only closed as it is very small and for sure I will get what I need at a bigger supermarket. Wrong! Every single supermarket- bigger and smaller was closed along the way.

Apparently, even shopping malls do not work on Sundays and public holidays (I know we get a bit spoiled here in the UAE to have everything readily available 24/7).

What is the language in Montenegro?

25. language can be a barrier in montenegro.

Montenegrin is an official Balkans state language that belongs to the Slavic group. Other widely used languages in Montenegro are Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian and Albanian.

If you speak Russian, chances are you may understand some words in Montenegrin.

English, however. Is not as commonly spoken language, especially in remote areas. Tourists’ hubs like Budva, Kotor and Tivat will certainly have a higher number of locals that can communicate in English.

PRO TIP: you can utilize Google translate if you need to communicate non-English speaking locals, or get a menu translation (usually there is an English version everywhere). But have in mind that Goole still doesn’t support Montenegrin, so search in Serbian or Croatian- it will usually do the job for basic convos.

I hope you found these Montenegro travel tips useful! Do you have more questions about traveling in Montenegro? Feel free to comment or drop me an email!

Essential Montenegro Travel Resources for Your Perfect Trip

• Go on a tour: Look for the best guided tours in Montenegro at GetYourGuide or Viator.

To plan your trip to Montenegro with these useful travel guides:

• Read these 33 Great Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Montenegro .
• Get inspired and pick  The best places to visit in Montenegro .
• Plan your  road trip in Montenegro with my suggested 2-week itinerary  (can be trimmed to one week if you have less time, suggested route included).
• Check my post about Hiking the highest peak in Montenegro- Bobotov Kuk  if you love trekking and mountains.

MY TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR

• Photo and video camera: Mirrorless Nikon Z6
• Main lens: Nikkor Z 24-70 mm f/4
• Wide-angle lens: Nikkor Z 14-30 mm f/4
• Drone: DJI Air 2s
• Pocket-sized camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 2
• Small Tripod: Gorilla Pod
• Travel tripod: Manfrotto Element Traveller Tripod (Ball Head)
• Photo and Video Editing software: Adobe Photoshop , Adobe Lightroom and Adobe Premier Pro

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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Is Montenegro Safe?

Montenegro is a beautiful country on the Balkan Peninsula, but is it safe to visit ? Montenegro is generally regarded as a secure tourist destination, with low crime rates and no significant security issues. However, like with any site, travelers should be aware of certain risks and measures.

Also Read: Is Podgorica safe?

Crime in Montenegro

Crime in Montenegro is generally low , and violent crime is rare . Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded tourist areas, so visitors should take normal precautions to protect their belongings. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in vehicles, and keep an eye on your belongings when in busy tourist areas or on public transportation.

In terms of specific crime rates, official statistics indicate that crime rates in Montenegro are relatively low . The crime rate in Montenegro is below the European Union average , and the homicide rate is one of the lowest in the region.

Compared to Croatia, the crime rate in Montenegro is generally lower than in Croatia. According to Numbeo, a crowd-sourced database of user-contributed data, the crime rate in Montenegro is lower than in Croatia. However, it is worth noting that crime rates can vary depending on the location and specific circumstances, so it’s important to exercise caution and take appropriate precautions regardless of where you travel.

Drugs in Montenegro

Montenegro appears to be mostly a transit country for heroin bound for Serbia, Croatia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Drug consumption in the country remains low – See article Is Marijuana legal in the Montenegro?

Furthermore, various organized crime groups operate in the market, bringing with them some violence. Cocaine trafficking in Montenegro is a persistent issue, as the country is the primary entrance route for cocaine transported from Latin America through the Balkans into the EU. Small amounts of cocaine persist in Montenegro to meet the demands of the increasing market.

Montenegro Essentials

⛰️ Montenegrin Essentials 🏖- Planning a trip to Montenegro? 🇲🇪 These travel essentials will help you plan your journey ⛰️

Get Mega Savings and Unlock Hidden Fares on your flight ✈️ to Montenegro with Kiwi

Stay Connected in Montenegro : Pre-order a Montenegrin SIM card 📞 through Airolo . Use Promocode NEWMAY15 for a 15% discount.

Montenegro Tours

Our Top Choice for Montenegrin Tour Operators: Viator and Get Your Guid e offer discounted tickets 🎫 for major attractions and have the best variety by far.

Getting Around Montenegro: To fully explore the stunning mountains and beautiful beaches, a car is essential 🚗⛰️🏖️. We highly recommend using LocalRent for the most affordable rental rates.

How to Stay Safe in Montenegro

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Montenegro, visitors should keep the following tips in mind:

• Keep the phone number of your local embassy or consulate on hand, in case you need assistance or advice.
• Be aware of your surroundings and exercise caution when out at night or in crowded tourist areas.
• Avoid leaving valuables unattended, and keep important documents and cash in a secure place.
• Take extra care when driving or crossing the road, as road accidents are a potential risk in Montenegro.
• Be aware of the potential for natural disasters such as earthquakes, and follow local news and advice in the event of an emergency.

How to Call the Police

In case of an emergency, visitors to Montenegro should know how to contact the local police, ambulance, or fire department. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 , which is the standard emergency number throughout the European Union.

When calling emergency services, it is important to provide clear and concise information about the situation and your location. English is widely spoken among emergency services personnel in Montenegro, but it can be helpful to have a basic understanding of the local language or to carry a phrasebook or translation app in case of communication difficulties.

It is also important to note that the police in Montenegro are generally friendly and helpful, and visitors should not hesitate to contact them if they encounter a problem or feel unsafe. If you are the victim of a crime, such as theft or assault, you should contact the police as soon as possible to report the incident and seek assistance.

In conclusion, Montenegro is generally a safe destination for tourists, with a low level of crime and no serious security threats. By following the tips outlined above and exercising caution, visitors to Montenegro can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Gareth Popovic

Hi there, my name is Gareth Popovic. I was born and raised in the suburbs of Brisbane, Australia, but my passion for the great outdoors led me to Montenegro. Now, I call the charming town of Niksic my home. I spend my days exploring the rugged mountains and crystal-clear waters of this stunning region. From hiking and rock climbing to swimming and kayaking, there's always an adventure to be had.

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