Is Montenegro Easy to Drive?

If you’re planning to explore Montenegro, hiring a car is one of the best decisions you can make.

Despite its small size, Montenegro packs an incredible variety of landscapes into a relatively compact area. One moment you’ll be winding your way around the spectacular Bay of Kotor, the next you’ll be driving through dramatic mountain scenery in Durmitor National Park or cruising alongside the peaceful shores of Lake Skadar.

While the roads can be narrow and occasionally winding, particularly in the mountains, driving in Montenegro is generally straightforward for confident drivers. With a little preparation, you’ll have the freedom to explore some of the country’s most beautiful places at your own pace.

Do You Need a Car?

If you’re staying only in Kotor or Budva, public transport and organised excursions are possible. However, if you want to experience Durmitor National Park, Lake Skadar and Montenegro’s scenic mountain roads, hiring a car is highly recommended.

Journeys by Design Verdict

If you’re following our 7-Day Montenegro Road Trip Itinerary, a hire car isn’t just convenient—it’s essential and truly the best way to explore.

Which Side of the Road?

Like most of mainland Europe, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road.

If you’re travelling from the UK, this may feel unfamiliar at first, but most visitors adapt surprisingly quickly.

Automatic hire cars are available but tend to book up well in advance during the summer months, so reserve early if you don’t drive a manual.

Road Conditions

The quality of Montenegro’s roads varies depending on where you’re travelling.

Coastal Roads

Roads around the Bay of Kotor, Budva and Tivat are generally in good condition but can become busy during the summer, particularly when cruise ships are in port.

Expect slower progress rather than difficult driving.

Mountain Roads

Routes through Durmitor National Park and Lovćen National Park are narrower, with plenty of twists, turns and hairpin bends.

They’re perfectly manageable, but take your time and enjoy the journey—these are some of the most scenic drives in the Balkans.

Is Driving Safe?

Overall, yes.

Montenegro is considered a safe country to drive in, but it’s worth remembering that local driving styles can be more assertive than many UK visitors are used to.

A few tips:

✔ Allow local drivers to overtake if they’re travelling faster.

✔ Keep your speed down on mountain roads.

✔ Watch for cyclists and livestock in rural areas.

✔ Avoid driving after dark in unfamiliar mountain regions where roads are less well lit.

The key is simply to drive defensively and enjoy the scenery.

Typical Driving Times

• Tivat → Kotor: 15 minutes
• Kotor → Perast: 20 minutes
• Kotor → Budva: 35–45 minutes
• Budva → Sveti Stefan: 15 minutes
• Kotor → Žabljak: 3½–4 hours
• Žabljak → Lake Skadar: 3 hours
• Lake Skadar → Tivat: 1½ hours

One of Montenegro’s biggest advantages is its size. Although distances are relatively short, mountain roads naturally slow journey times.

Parking

Parking is generally straightforward, although it can become busy during July and August.

Kotor

The Old Town is pedestrianised, so you’ll need to park outside the city walls in one of the public car parks.

Budva

Several public car parks are available close to the Old Town, but they fill quickly during peak season.

National Parks

Most popular walking trails have designated parking areas, although arriving early is always recommended during summer.

Fuel

Petrol stations are widely available throughout Montenegro, particularly along major routes and around larger towns.

If you’re heading into the mountains, it’s sensible to fill up before leaving larger settlements such as Nikšić or Žabljak.

Should You Download Offline Maps?

Absolutely.

Mobile signal is generally good, but there are occasional areas with limited coverage in the mountains.

Downloading offline maps before your trip provides valuable peace of mind.

We recommend:

• Google Maps Offline
• Maps.me
• Komoot (particularly for hiking)

Border Crossings

Many visitors combine Montenegro with Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Albania.

Most major hire companies allow cross-border travel, but you must check your rental agreement before travelling, as additional documentation or insurance may be required.

If you’re planning to cross borders, let your hire company know when collecting the vehicle.

Driving Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pull over safely whenever you see a viewpoint—Montenegro has plenty worth stopping for.Top Tips

• Take your time—this isn’t a country to rush through.
• Start scenic drives early to avoid traffic and enjoy quieter viewpoints.
• Keep some cash handy for parking and smaller cafés.
• Carry water and snacks when exploring the mountains.
• Allow extra travel time during the summer holidays.
• Stop safely at viewpoints.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Montenegro suitable for a road trip?

Absolutely. In our opinion, it’s one of Europe’s most rewarding road trip destinations thanks to its compact size, varied landscapes and spectacular scenery.

Is it difficult to drive around the Bay of Kotor?

Not particularly. The roads are well maintained, although traffic can build up during the summer months.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

UK visitors can usually drive with a full UK driving licence, but it’s always worth checking the latest government travel advice before departure.

Is parking expensive?

Parking is generally affordable compared with many other European destinations, although prices vary by location.

Journeys by Design Verdict

Driving is the best way to experience Montenegro. A hire car allows you to discover spectacular mountain scenery, hidden villages and coastal viewpoints that many visitors never see.

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