Driving in Montenegro — Routes, Tips, Parking
A car is the best way to explore Montenegro — the country is small, the roads are scenic, and public transport is limited outside major towns. Here is everything you need to know about driving, from road conditions to the best scenic routes.
Road Conditions
Main coastal roads (Budva–Kotor, Budva–Petrovac) are well-maintained two-lane roads. They are narrow by Western European standards, with tight corners and occasional tunnels. Mountain roads (to Lovćen, Cetinje, Durmitor) are more challenging — steep, winding, and sometimes without guardrails. All roads are paved. The only highway-standard road is the Bar–Boljare motorway section near Podgorica. In summer, the coastal road between Budva and Kotor can be slow due to traffic, especially when cruise ships are in Kotor. The drive from Krimovica to Kotor takes 15 minutes normally, up to 25 in peak traffic.
Speed Limits and Rules
Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns (strictly enforced), 80 km/h outside towns, 100 km/h on highway sections. Drive on the right. Headlights must be on at all times (day and night). Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers. Blood alcohol limit is 0.03% — effectively zero tolerance. Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited. Speed cameras exist on main roads, and police checkpoints are common in summer. Fines are payable on the spot in cash.
Parking
Parking is the biggest driving challenge in Montenegro. Budva Old Town: €2–3/hour, lots fill by 10am in summer. Kotor: €2–4/hour, worse on cruise ship days. Tivat/Porto Montenegro: €1–2/hour, usually available. Beach parking: €3–5/day at Jaz, free at Trsteno. The single best advantage of staying in Krimovica is free private parking at Mata Apartments. You can drive to any destination, return to free parking, and avoid the stress and cost of coastal parking entirely.
Car Rental
Rental cars are available at Tivat Airport, Podgorica Airport, and in Budva town. Book in advance for July–August when demand is high. Expect to pay €25–50/day for a small car in summer. An automatic transmission costs more and has limited availability — book early if you need one. Most rental companies require a credit card for the deposit. International driving licences are accepted. Insurance is included in the rental price but check the excess amount. A small car is ideal for Montenegro — easier to park and navigate narrow streets.
Scenic Routes
The Kotor–Krimovica–Budva road along the bay is beautiful but familiar after a few drives. For something special: the Kotor serpentine (25 hairpin turns climbing from Kotor to Lovćen — stop at each viewpoint), the Budva–Petrovac coastal road (passing Sveti Stefan, Przno, and Miločer), and the road around the entire Bay of Kotor (Kotor–Perast–Risan–Herceg Novi, about 1.5 hours without stops). For a full-day adventure, drive the Durmitor Ring from Podgorica through Tara Canyon — Europe's deepest canyon — to Žabljak and back.
Fuel
Petrol stations are plentiful along the coast and main roads. Fuel costs approximately €1.45–1.55 per litre. Most stations accept cards. There is a petrol station on the main road near Krimovica. In rural and mountain areas, fill up before leaving the coast as stations can be far apart. LPG is available at some stations but not widespread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an international driving licence in Montenegro?
An international driving permit is officially required but EU and most other licences are accepted in practice. Carry your home licence plus IDP to be safe.
Is driving in Montenegro difficult?
Coastal roads are fine for confident drivers. Mountain roads require more care — steep, winding, sometimes without guardrails. Take it slow and enjoy the views.
Where can I park for free near Budva?
Free parking near Budva is very limited in summer. Staying at Mata Apartments in Krimovica (10 min from Budva) gives you free private parking.
Stay at Mata Apartments
3 apartments in Krimovica from €35/night. Free parking, WiFi, sea views.
