Rent-a-Car in Kamenari and Lepetane: A Tourist's Guide
Why Rent a Car in Kamenari or Lepetane
Kamenari and Lepetane, situated on opposite sides of the narrow Verige Strait in Montenegro's magnificent Bay of Kotor, serve as crucial ferry connection points linking the two sides of the bay. While these small settlements themselves are modest in size, renting a car here provides exceptional strategic advantages for tourists. With your own vehicle, you can efficiently explore both sides of the Bay of Kotor, visit UNESCO-protected towns, discover hidden beaches, and venture into the mountainous interior—all while enjoying the flexibility to skip ferry waiting times by planning your routes strategically.
Rental Options and Availability
Due to their small size, Kamenari and Lepetane have limited dedicated car rental offices compared to larger tourist centers. However, several local operators provide delivery services to these locations, and some accommodations can arrange rentals for their guests. For more extensive options, nearby Herceg Novi (15 minutes from Kamenari) or Tivat (10 minutes from Lepetane) offer numerous international and local rental agencies. Many companies will deliver vehicles directly to your location in Kamenari or Lepetane, often at no additional cost if you're staying in the area. Read more about rules if you want to rent-a-car in Montenegro.
Strategic Location Advantages
The unique positioning of Kamenari and Lepetane at the ferry crossing creates distinct benefits for rented car use. Staying in either location with a rental car allows you to easily explore both peninsulas of the bay without always relying on the ferry, which can have long queues during peak season (sometimes exceeding one hour). From Kamenari, you can drive the longer but scenic northern route through Risan and Perast to reach Kotor, while from Lepetane, the southern side offers direct access to Tivat and its airport, along with easier routes to Budva and the southern coast.
Exploring from Kamenari and Lepetane
With a rental car based in either location, numerous attractions become easily accessible. From Kamenari, the historic towns of Herceg Novi, Risan, and Perast are within 20 minutes' drive, while the spectacular road to Orjen Mountain offers breathtaking views. From Lepetane, Tivat and its luxurious Porto Montenegro marina are just 10 minutes away, with the panoramic Vrmac Ridge hiking trails starting nearby. Both locations provide convenient starting points for the Luštica Peninsula with its pristine beaches and olive groves, as well as the UNESCO-protected town of Kotor with its imposing medieval walls.
Ferry Considerations and Driving Tips
The car ferry connecting Kamenari and Lepetane operates 24/7 with departures every 15-30 minutes (more frequent during daytime), costing approximately €4.50 for a car with passengers in 2025. During summer months (June-September), ferry lines can be extensive, particularly on weekends and between 10 AM and 6 PM. Strategically planning your driving routes—sometimes opting for the longer road journey around the bay instead of waiting for the ferry—can save considerable time. Parking in both Kamenari and Lepetane is relatively straightforward compared to more crowded tourist centers, though spaces nearest to the ferry terminals fill quickly.
Local Road Conditions and Practical Information
Roads in the immediate vicinity of Kamenari and Lepetane follow the coastline and are generally well-maintained, though narrow in sections with occasional sharp curves. The main road (E65/E80) connecting to larger towns offers good driving conditions. Gas stations are limited in these small settlements themselves, with the nearest reliable options in Bijela (near Kamenari) and Tivat (near Lepetane). When planning day trips to more remote areas like Mount Lovćen or inland villages, filling your tank beforehand is advisable. Traffic police presence increases during tourist season, enforcing speed limits and occasionally conducting document checks, so always carry your rental agreement and identification.