A Few Facts and Tips for Successful Car Rental in Montenegro

Montenegro is the pearl of the Balkans – a relatively small country that enjoys mountainous landscapes and the beautiful Adriatic Sea coastline. It shares borders with Bosnia, Serbia, and Kosovo, placing it right in the heart of Southeast Europe. The best way to explore this stunning region is on four wheels, which is why car rental in Montenegro is so popular right now.

Hiring a Car in Montenegro with Us

If you need car hire in Montenegro, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Travel Montenegro, we have partnerships with many of the most respected and popular Montenegro rental car firms, so we often have great deals on some of the best-known car brands.

Think of Travel Montenegro as the ‘window’ into a world of fantastic discounts and favorable terms. We enjoy relationships with 90% of the car rental companies in Montenegro, so think of us as your one-stop-shop for vehicle hire!

Every car hire firm has its own rules, but when you book a car through us, you’ll be protected against the contract's small print that can often leave you paying more than you’d anticipated!

Go ahead and rent a car in Montenegro right now with just a 20% deposit—and focus on planning what you’re going to do during your visit!

Renting a Car in Montenegro Has Never Been Easier

Planning a great holiday in Montenegro should be fun, but it can involve a lot of hard work—particularly if you don’t have the right tools and resources.

Take hiring a car, for example. There are many rental companies in Montenegro, so researching them is a mammoth task. First, you have to check that they have cars available for your dates, which is often not the case during peak season.

Even when you’ve compared all the main car rental companies, you still have to contact them to ask about their terms and conditions such as the cost of delivery to an airport, the deposit required, permission to make border crossings, etc. The list goes on! So while you should be planning all the exciting things you’re going to do in Montenegro, you’re spending hours looking for the right car rental deal.

The good news is that you don’t have to waste precious time and energy searching for car hire. When you use our comprehensive service, you’ll see multiple offers from all our car hire partners – along with a final, all-inclusive price.

All you need to do to find the perfect hire car in Montenegro is enter the pick-up and drop-off dates, select a pick-up location, and choose your preferred vehicle type. We’ll share the best deals that match your requirements, along with the costs involved.

There simply isn’t an easier, faster, or more affordable way to hire a car in Montenegro!

How to Rent a Car in Montenegro

You’ll be pleased to know that car hire in Montenegro is a quick and easy process.

1. Choose your preferred provider
2. Select the car that most closely matches your requirements
3. Select a pick-up and drop-off location
4. Decide how long you’d like to keep your rental car
5. Choose optional extras such as a child’s car seat or satnav
6. Provide your payment details
7. Pick up your vehicle and start exploring the wonders of Montenegro!

You don’t have to waste hours trawling the internet for affordable car rental in Montenegro when you have Travel Montenegro in your corner. We have great relationships with many of the rental companies in this stunning country, so you don’t need to look anywhere else for great deals!

Great Places for Car Hire in Montenegro

You’ll be delighted to know that there are trustworthy and affordable car rental companies across Montenegro. As well as a large selection in the capital Podgorica, you’ll also find options in the following cities:

Becici

Renowned for its stunning beach and charming old town, Becici is a great place for a sun-kissed vacation. As well as being home to a bustling nightlife scene, Becici is also home to some of the best options for car rental in Montenegro.

Kotor

If you’re searching for Kotor Montenegro car rental, you’re in luck. Known historically as Cattaro, this coastal town enjoys an idyllic location on the Adriatic coast. Famous for its Old Town district – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kotor also offers plenty of car rental options.

Budva

This charming and picturesque town is a tourist hotspot that’s home to the famous Mogren Beach. Characterized by its red-roof architecture and sweeping coastal landscapes, Budva can be reached by car with relative ease.

Tivat

You’ll be pleased to know that car rental in Tivat, Montenegro is easy to access. And with our help, it’s affordable and convenient, too. Located in the bay of Kotor, Tivat is another charming coastal town in Montenegro that boasts some of the most stunning coastal vistas in Europe. Famous for its luxury yachting marina, this is the perfect place for anyone who wants to sample the authentic Montenegrin way of life.

Car Hire in Podgorica

Car rental in Podgorica, Montenegro is easy to come by, as this is the heart of the country and the nation’s capital. Lying just to the north of Lake Skadar, this former Roman settlement is now a thriving modern metropolis that has managed to retain its historic and cultural charm. Having a car allows you to explore the city’s landmarks with ease, which include the Millennium Bridge and the famous old Clock Tower.

Need to Rent a Car in Podgorica, Montenegro? Check out the latest offers from our partners in the country, or contact us for more information about how to rent a car in Podgorica, Montenegro.

How Much Does Car Rental in Montenegro Cost?

When you rent a car in Montenegro, you can expect to pay a modest daily rate – even for larger, premium cars. However, the exact price you pay depends on the time of year. For example, care hire prices in July are around two-thirds higher than they are during January when tourism and demand are at their lowest.

If you’re prepared to take a longer deal or pay upfront for your vehicle, however, you can find some great discounts. We also offer preferential rates to our readers. Check them out now or contact us to find out more.

Documents Required for Car Hire Montenegro

Let’s begin with the good news: If you have your passport and foreign driving license (from most countries), you’re eligible for car hire in Podgorica and throughout Montenegro.

However, as a foreign national, you might be expected to pay an additional deposit. You’ll have to present your passport and license when you pick up your car, and you can’ submit copies, so don’t forget the originals!

In most cases, the price you pay to rent a car in Montenegro includes third-party liability insurance (TPL). If your car hire company doesn’t offer a more comprehensive policy when you pick up your car, you can request an upgrade and pay on the day. This will ensure you’re covered for every imaginable scenario and expense.

Before you set off, check that your car includes a mandatory equipment kit, which should include a first aid kit, a high-vis vest, and an emergency sign for placing on the road in the case of a breakdown.

Toll Roads in Montenegro

You’ll only ever have to pay a toll fee on three roads in Montenegro. The first is the Sozina Tunnel, which offers fast and convenient access to Sutomore and the village of Virpazar – via the Sozina Mountain. A part of the M-1.1 road, this underground route can be accessed by standard cars for just €2.50.

The second toll route in Montenegro is the road that stretches from Herceg Novi to Trebinje in Bosnia and Herzegovina. To travel the entire distance, you’ll need to part with €2.80.

The third and final toll road in Montenegro is the road between Podgorica and Kolašin (Mataševo). If you’re travelling the full distance, you’ll be charged €3.50 for a standard car. If you’re towing a trailer, however, the charge increases to €6. This highway is a new, straight beautiful road through the mountains with tunnels 45 km long and with a speed limit of 130 km/hour.

Fueling Your Montenegro Car Rental

Filling up couldn’t be easier in Montenegro. That’s because you’ll find a filling station every few kilometers. As well as diesel, you’ll find two grades of unleaded petrol.

Be sure to check the terms of your agreement when you rent a car in Podgorica, Montenegro – or anywhere else in the country, for that matter. In many cases, you’ll be expected to return the car with the same amount of fuel in it. You may be able to deliver the car back to the rental center empty, but you’ll be charged for the privilege.

Understanding the Rules of the Road

There’s nothing surprising about the rules of the road in Montenegro. If you drive in any major European country, including France, Germany, Italy, or Spain, you won’t run into too many issues while you’re driving. However, just be aware of the following points:

• Your car’s low beam lights must be on day and night
• Under-5s must travel in the back of the vehicle in a car seat (one can be provided by your car rental company in Montenegro)
• Only people aged 13 and over can sit in the front of the car
• Seatbelts must be worn by everyone at all times
• The driver may only use a mobile device when it’s in hands-free mode
• The speed limit in most built-up areas is 30mph
• Give way to buses – particularly school buses
• Always give way to traffic already on a roundabout

Please note: If you’re traveling from the UK or Ireland, please don’t forget that cars drive on the RIGHT side of the road in Montenegro!

Additional Driving Tips for Montenegro

Trust us, you’ll struggle to find a more stunning country in Europe for driving. Mountainous landscapes and breathtaking coastlines are world-class visitor attractions in their own right, and in our opinion, there’s no better way to explore them than on four wheels.

We want your driving experience to be calm, safe, legal, and hassle-free. That’s why we’ve got a few additional driving tips to share with you before you get behind the wheel and start exploring!

Speed Signs

While the speed limits tend to be 80km/hr and 40/50km/hr, that’s not always the case. Always pay attention to speed signs, which will have the maximum speed on that road clearly displayed.

Speeding

Law enforcement authorities in Montenegro are very strict. After all, this is one of Europe’s safest countries for drivers! If you exceed the speed limit by just 1km/hr, there’s a good chance you’ll receive a fine. The best thing to do is to avoid treating speed limits as ‘targets’. We recommend setting your personal speed limit to 5km/hr less than the statutory limit.

Road Markings

Montenegro roads often contain a lot of directional and instructional information for drivers. Pay close attention to the markings painted onto the asphalt—they’ll often tell you what to do or where to go.

Pay Any Fines Quickly!

If you pay a driving fine within a week, you can save yourself 30%, so don’t wait around. This is something most Montenegrins, forget to do, so don’t make the same mistake—and save a big chunk of your spending money.

Keep Your Distance

Tailgating is a big no-no is Montenegro. The police are very strict about making drivers keep a safe distance between themselves and the car in front. And to catch you out, they’ll often use state-of-the-art lasers to gather evidence before pulling you over and issuing a fine. At just 30km/hr, you’ll need to leave around three car lengths of stopping distance. But if you’re travelling at 70km/hr, aim for 20 car lengths.

Low Beam Forever!

Whether you’re driving in the midday sunshine or during the dead of night, keep those low-beam headlights on at all times. It’s the law! And if you’re caught without them on, you can expect a hefty fine.

Fines You Might Receive with Car Rental in Montenegro

Car rental in Montenegro, and particularly Podgorica, will very rarely present you with any worries or issues. However, if you break the rules, you might receive a fine from a police officer or a traffic warden. You’ll never be expected to pay in cash at the scene. However, if you’re from abroad, you may have your driver’s license and passport confiscated until you pay.

Driving fines in Montenegro range from €40 to €2,000. Please be aware that you may not know you’ve been fined until after you’ve returned the car. In this case, your rental company will charge the credit card you supplied at the time of rental.

Parking Your Montenegro Rent Car

Just like anywhere else in Europe, parking your car in Montenegro is a fairly easy and affordable process. The rates can differ depending on how popular the area is, but you can expect to pay between €1 and €4 per hour. If you’re parking near popular coastal tourist spots, expect to pay a little extra.

Top tip: If you’re prepared to walk, you’ll find free parking spots roadsides and commercial developments. Just make sure you scour the immediate area for parking charge signs!

What to Look for from Car Rental Companies in Montenegro and Podgorica

When it comes to car hire in Podgorica and other locations in Montenegro, you’re spoilt for choice. There are international car rental brands and local businesses strewn right across the country.

But it always pays to research what’s available and compare both prices and service levels. As a minimum, we recommend looking for the following when you want to rent a car in Podgorica, Montenegro:

• Check if the company offers airport pick-up services
• If it’s easier, look for car rental in Podgorica and throughout Montenegro that includes delivery and pick-up services at your door
• The cheapest deals aren’t always the best, so check the small print
• Choose deals that include unlimited mileage in Montenegro and Serbia
• Don’t forget to compare prices for extras such as car seats and GPS systems – as they can make certain deals a lot more expensive than they first appear!

Rent a Car in Montenegro Today

Searching for ‘car rental Podgorica Montenegro’ online should give you some good options to choose from, but you may not be getting the latest deals and discounts!

Whether you want to rent a car in Podgorica, Tivat, or Kotor, you’ll find some great deals from some of the country’s most respected and trusted car hire companies right here. Happy driving!

Montenegro Car Rental FAQs

I’m 20 years old. Can I rent a car in Podgorica when I arrive on my vacation?

Unfortunately, you have to be at least 21 years old to hire a car in Montenegro. But don’t worry, as the country is home to a highly effective public transport system, and flagging down taxis is never a problem in the country’s tourist hotspots.

Do I need a green car to rent a car in Podgorica or elsewhere in Montenegro?

Montenegro is a full member of Europe’s Green Card System, which means your personal vehicle insurance will be recognized when you’re driving your car abroad. However, as your rental car company will provide you with the insurance you need, you don’t need to worry about a Green Card.

Over and above the insurance that’s included with my hire car in Montenegro, what other cover options are there?

You will automatically receive TPL (Third-Party Liability) insurance with car rental in Montenegro. However, this doesn’t cover you for all eventualities. If you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing you won’t be out of pocket if an accident occurs, take a look at the other insurance options available:

1. CDW – Collision Damage Waiver

If you damage the car, you’ll lose your deposit. However, all the other costs you might incur will be covered by the policy. However, please be aware that basic policies only cover body damage. If you damage, for example, the wheels or fuel tank, you may have to pay. This also applies to broken lights, smashed windows, and damaged mirrors.

2. SCDW – Super Collision Damage Waiver

While this insurance option will likely cost you a significant additional charge, it’s well worth it when you consider what it covers. If you simply want to focus on enjoying your time in Montenegro without worrying about costly damages to your car rental in Kotor, Tivat, Podgorica, or elsewhere in Montenegro, it’s well worth paying the extra for peace of mind.

Put simply, SCDW covers damage to every possible area of your rental car. You can also add theft protection to your policy, although the chances of a theft in Montenegro are very small.

Montenegro is a safe place to drive a car. The roads are in fantastic condition, most road users are careful and conscientious, and the rules related to driving ensure reckless drivers are few and far between. That said, it’s important to remember that you’re driving in an unfamiliar environment, so the risk of bumps and scrapes is greater than it is at home. That’s why we recommend taking out SCDW with your hire car in Montenegro.

Is driving in Montenegro safe?

Yes, it’s one of the safest places in Europe for driving – even for foreigners. However, it’s always a good idea to take a few precautions when you’re driving in unfamiliar territory:

• Highways/motorways usually have a speed limit of 80km/h unless otherwise stated, so remain vigilant when it comes to your speed
• Speed limits in villages, towns, and cities are usually 40 or 50 km/h.
• Make sure your car rental has winter tires between November and April

Is renting a car in Montenegro expensive?

It can be during the summer months – when demand is at its highest. It’s not unusual to pay in excess of $40 per day for a standard car. That’s why it’s important to look for car hire discounts in Montenegro, which is where we come in! Keep checking our website for the latest deals on car rentals.