Rent a Car in Montenegro for a Great Adventure

Like its neighbors Croatia and Albania, Montenegro lies on the Adriatic Sea, and its coastline is popular with sun-seekers. But the country has much more to offer than just sun, sea, and sand—and you’ll only discover that if you rent a car in Montenegro.

Rent a car in Montenegro to explore this small but spectacular Balkan country! Montenegro is located on the Adriatic Sea and is known for its sun-drenched beaches, but if you look beyond the coast, you’ll discover a landscape of rugged mountains, deep gorges, national parks, and medieval towns. And—which is fantastic for driving when you rent a car in Montenegro—some of the most beautiful mountain roads in Europe. A road trip with a rental car is the ideal way to make the most of your trip.

The road trip we describe below starts at the airport in Tivat but also passes through Podgorica Airport, so you can also start in the country’s capital.

Bay of Kotor – perfect for a road trip with a rental car

The Bay of Kotor alone makes it a good idea to rent a car in Montenegro. A well-maintained road runs along this irregularly shaped bay, mostly right next to the water. Because of its unique shape, it’s also known as Europe’s southernmost fjord. Fantastic views are guaranteed, and there are also charming old towns right on the water!

From Tivat Airport, it takes less than a quarter of an hour to drive your rental car to Kotor, the town after which the bay is named. The old town— Stari Grad —is surrounded by ancient city walls and is a maze of narrow alleys, stone stairways, and hidden squares. The rich architecture clearly reflects Venice’s long-standing influence. From the fortress high above the town, you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of the bay.

If you drive north from Kotor in your rental car, you’ll pass several villages with cozy cafes and restaurants right on the water. At the start, you can choose between two routes: the main road above, where you can drive along smoothly, or the narrow road right along the water.

After fifteen kilometers, you’ll arrive in Perast, a very well-preserved fortified town. You can’t park in the town itself, but you can park your rental car just before you enter Perast. There’s also a parking garage on the other side of town, where boats depart for the two small islands in the bay: the artificial church island of Gospa od Škrpjela and the monastery island of Sveti Đorđe.

The ancient fortified town of Herzeg Novi is strategically located at the mouth of the bay. Above the town stands a massive fortress, and on the coast stands the equally imposing Forte Mare castle. The old town is built into the steep slope between the two fortresses and is well protected by thick walls.

Lovćen National Park – spectacular mountain road by rental car

If you rent a car in Montenegro, don’t be afraid of some serious driving. For example, when you’re driving to Lovćen National Park. The biggest danger here: getting distracted by the incredible views. As a driver, keep your eyes on the road, because there are no fewer than 25 hairpin turns and many narrow sections. Fortunately, there are also a few pull-offs where you can park your rental car and take in the breathtaking views. Or even easier: drive to the cable car’s base station and let it take you up.

The park offers a variety of hiking trails for every skill level. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water and food. One of the most popular hikes leads to the mausoleum of the former ruler Petar II. After a challenging climb of 461 steps, you’ll be rewarded with what is perhaps Montenegro’s most beautiful overlook.

Piva Gorge

As we mentioned in the introduction, Montenegro has some of the most beautiful mountain roads in Europe. If you drive north on the M3 in a rental car, spectacular surprises await you. From the town of Plužine, the road runs along the eastern side of a reservoir in the Piva Gorge, with rock faces reaching up to 800 meters high. Once you’ve passed the dam, it’s another three kilometers to a bridge over the Piva River, a remarkable feat of engineering. The road is fairly narrow but in good condition.

The area is a popular tourist destination, known for its picturesque views and natural beauty. But you can also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities here: mountain climbing, bungee jumping, and rafting.

Durmitor National Park – Driving Through Rugged Montenegro

Drive your rental car from Plužine to Žabljak and you’ll pass several fantastic viewpoints. The P14 road runs right through Durmitor National Park. The scenic route is fully paved but challenging. With narrow, winding sections, unlit tunnels, and steep cliffs, the route requires careful driving—you’ll often need to pull your rental car over to the side to let oncoming traffic pass. The entire drive is only fifty kilometers, but it easily takes an hour and a half—and that’s without any stops. And of course you’ll make stops, because the scenery is truly breathtaking.

You’ll drive over the Sedlo Pass (1,907 m), Montenegro’s highest paved mountain pass. From there, a hiking trail leads up to the country’s highest peak, the iconic Bobotov Kuk (2,523 m). Note that this trail is only suitable for experienced hikers in good physical condition.

Đurđevića Tara Bridge

Near Žabljak, the Tara River has carved out the deepest gorge in Europe. The vertical limestone cliffs rise to a height of 1,300 meters. The river’s mineral-rich water has a distinctive turquoise hue, which changes depending on the season and weather conditions. Even in summer, the water temperature rarely exceeds 12 degrees Celsius. These are ideal conditions for countless species of fish, including trout and grayling. One of the gorge’s main attractions is the Đurđevića Bridge, which spans the river at a height of 172 meters. Near the bridge is a swimming spot that can only be reached by rental car.

Numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the gorge. The most popular routes lead to viewing platforms with impressive views. You can also enjoy all kinds of activities there, from mountain climbing to rafting and from bungee jumping to zip-lining across the gorge.

Čehotine River

Would you like to visit a viewpoint that’s not very well known and where there are few or no other people? Then drive your rental car to the meandering Ćehotine River. We recommend taking the M6 to Pljevlja and then the R11 to the viewpoint. Unless you’ve rented an off-road vehicle, it’s best to avoid the shorter—but narrow and very challenging—road that connects the M6 and R11 from Zekavice.

From the R11, a dirt road leads to the parking lot, but you can also park your rental car at the start of that road and walk to the viewpoint. The distance is about one kilometer. You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the winding blue river and the surrounding green forest.

Plav Lake / Prokletije National Park

Drive your rental car through the lovely Vraneš Valley further south. From Bijelo Polje, the M5 runs along the Lim River to its source at Lake Plav. The Lim Valley is very fertile and known for the fruit grown there. Don’t miss the chance to taste homemade juices, jams, and slivovitz, all prepared using traditional methods.

As you approach the village of Plav, you’ll see the mountains of Prokletije National Park behind the lake. It’s a fantastic area for adventurous travelers. The terrain is rugged, with countless peaks, gorges, and steep slopes. These mountains are crisscrossed by streams and rivers, and you’ll also find glacial lakes and mineral springs there.

Depending on the route you choose, it takes 15 to 25 minutes to drive from Plav to Gusinje in a rental car. There you’ll find the visitor center, where you can get more information about what there is to see and do in the national park. From Gusinje, there are two natural attractions you definitely shouldn’t miss: the Ali-Pasha Springs and the Grebaje Valley.

Mrtvica Gorge

It’s about a two-hour drive by rental car from Andrijevica to the village of Međurječje, over the Trešnjevik mountain pass. This was once the main route connecting this region to the capital, Podgorica, but since the highway was built, this route has become very quiet. Be careful, though, as the road is narrow and winding. Be sure to take it slow so you can fully enjoy the beautiful views.

Just outside Međurječje, you can take a walk through the gorge carved out by the Mrtvica River. From the starting point, it’s about a kilometer’s walk to an old little bridge over the river. There’s also a very narrow road leading from the Vesko campground, allowing you to get closer to this spot in your rental car. If the water isn’t flowing too fast, you can swim at this bridge, but further along in the gorge there are many more idyllic swimming spots.

Maganik Mountain Range

Međurječje also serves as a base for visiting one of Montenegro’s most remote and unspoiled areas: the Maganik Mountains. It is a rugged limestone mountain range with jagged peaks, impressive pillars, and virtually no people. For a trip here, you’ll need to leave your rental car behind for a day. Unless you’ve rented a 4×4 and know how to handle it in rough terrain, we recommend exploring this area with a guide. This hike off the beaten path and far from the tourist routes is definitely worth it!

Lake Skadar

Want to visit the spot immortalized in the photo above? Then take your rental car on the M10 from Podgorica toward Cetinje and turn off halfway toward Rijeka Crnojevića. Please note: the beginning of this road is still relatively wide, but the further you drive, the narrower the road becomes. You’ll drive past small vineyards, and the produce is sold at roadside stalls. Eventually, you’ll arrive at a stunningly beautiful view of the horseshoe bend of the Crnojevića River, which flows into Lake Skadar. Further along the main road, there’s also a turnoff to the village, but that route takes you down an even narrower and more winding road.

Lake Skadar and the surrounding marshes are a paradise for waterfowl, which either make their permanent home there or use it as a resting place during migration. In various villages, you can rent boats for trips across the lake. There are also several vineyards around the lake that organize tastings, featuring not only wine but also homemade bread, local cheeses, and fine cold cuts.

Ulcinj

If you haven’t had your fill of old towns yet, you should definitely take a detour to Ulcinj, in the far south of Montenegro. The easiest way to reach this town by rental car is through the Sozina toll tunnel, which is just over four kilometers long. Ulcinj was founded about 2,500 years ago, making it one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast. In the Middle Ages, the town was a notorious pirate stronghold, but the Ottomans put an end to that. You can still clearly see that it was a Turkish city for centuries in the Oriental-style patrician mansions and mosques within the old fortress walls.

Right next to the town lies the longest beach on the Adriatic coast, the twelve-kilometer-long Velika Plaža. This is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to the strong offshore winds that blow in the afternoon.

Međureč Waterfalls

One of Montenegro’s most beautiful gorges is located between Ulcinj and Bar, and the best way to explore it is by rappelling down the waterfalls. You can only do this with a guide, and you can book such an excursion in the town of Bar. Drive your own rental car to the parking lot and then walk about four hundred meters to the starting point of the hike through the gorge. Please note that this abseiling tour is not for beginners!

Beaches along the coast

We’ve already mentioned the long beach near Ulcinj, but the entire coast of Montenegro is dotted with beautiful beaches, bays, and rocky cliffs. Here are some of the most beautiful ones, from south to north. Please note: parking your rental car at the beaches is often a challenge. Always choose a paid parking lot, because parking along the road is prohibited, and there’s a high chance your rental car will be towed.

Not far from Ulcinj, the drive to Valdanos Beach alone is worth the trip. You’ll drive your rental car through vast olive groves, where some of the trees are centuries old. The crescent-shaped bay has a few lounge chairs and a restaurant.

Halfway between Ulcinj and Bar is a small pebble beach called Crystal Beach. From the parking lot, you’ll descend a fairly steep path through dense forest to reach this little beach.

Beach Luchice is a beach in the bay near Petrovac. The beach is sheltered on both sides by densely forested cliffs, where you can take beautiful walks.

Sveti Stefan Beach is best known for its view of the islet of the same name. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway. The islet itself is not accessible, however, as it is entirely owned by a luxury hotel.

A little further north, you’ll find two quiet coves with beaches surrounded by green hills: Milocer Beach and Queens Beach.

Close to Budva is Becici Beach, a two-kilometer-long sandy beach that offers everything you need for a relaxing day at the beach. Along the promenade, you’ll find various restaurants and cafés.

On the other side of Budva is Jaz Beach, a long sandy beach with a lively atmosphere. Here, too, you’ll find various spots along the beach for a bite to eat or a drink.

Budva

As you drive toward Budva in your rental car, you might initially think that the city has little to offer beyond tall tourist hotels and apartment complexes. It’s true that Budva is the premier seaside resort on Montenegro’s coast. But there’s another side you absolutely shouldn’t miss: the Old Town!

The historic, walled part of Budva is situated on a small peninsula between the city beach, Plaža Ričardova Glava, and the marina. The citadel occupies the southernmost tip. The fortress was continuously rebuilt and expanded during the Middle Ages. Stroll through the narrow streets and discover hidden squares, cozy bars, and restaurants.

Driving a Rental Car in Montenegro

Montenegro has a fairly dense road network, but don’t underestimate the time it takes to cover a certain distance. Due to the mountainous landscape and the mostly winding two-lane roads, you can’t drive as fast as you can on flat, multi-lane roads. Only around the capital, Podgorica, will you find wider roads, including Montenegro’s first stretch of highway, the A1. You’ll need to pay a toll to use this highway, just as you do for the Sozina Tunnel between Podgorica and the coast.

Because the country is so mountainous and the roads are therefore winding, driving in Montenegro can be tiring. It’s definitely more pleasant if you can take turns driving the rental car. That’s why you should book a rental car in Montenegro with a second driver.

When is the best time to explore Montenegro by rental car?

Montenegro’s coastal region has a Mediterranean climate with sunny, warm summers and mild winters. In the rest of the country, winters are quite cold, and there is also a lot of precipitation during that season in the form of rain or snow. The best time to drive through Montenegro in a rental car is therefore between late April and early October. During the high season (from late June to early September), it can get very crowded, especially along the coast, but the rest of the country is noticeably quieter. All the more reason to explore the interior in a rental car!

If you choose to travel through Montenegro in early spring, some remote roads may still be covered with snow. Keep in mind that in Montenegro, winter tires are mandatory on certain roads from November 15 to April 1. This requirement does not apply everywhere, but only on roads where it is indicated by signs. Not all car rental companies in Montenegro automatically equip vehicles with winter tires during this period. If they aren’t included, you can order winter tires as an option when booking your rental car.

Book your rental car in Montenegro today

Montenegro is perfect for exploring by car. From winding mountain roads and national parks to hidden beaches and historic towns: with a rental car in Montenegro, you’ll get the most out of your trip. Public transportation will only take you so far, whereas a rental car gives you complete freedom to plan your own road trip.

Why rent a car with us in Montenegro?

• Compare all car rental companies in one place

• Worry-Free rental: your deductible is covered

• Transparent prices with no hidden fees

• Rental cars available at Podgorica Airport and Tivat Airport

• Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure

This way, you can be sure you’ll hit the road worry-free—whether you’re driving along the Adriatic coast, heading into the mountains, or visiting national parks.

Compare rental cars in Montenegro and book instantly

Start your vacation relaxed and book your rental car in Montenegro in advance. That way, you’ll have the best selection, the lowest price, and the assurance that your road trip can begin the moment you arrive.

The fun starts as soon as you pick out your car, so what are you waiting for? Book a rental car in Montenegro today!