How to plan a 7-day road trip through Montenegro
Focus your 7 days on a loop starting in Kotor, moving through the Durmitor mountains, and ending in Budva. You will need to rent a small car to navigate the narrow mountain passes and coastal traffic efficiently.
- Rent a car at Tivat or Podgorica Airport. Do not rely on public buses for a 7-day trip. Rent a compact car—mountain roads are narrow and parking in Kotor or Budva is tight. Book at least 4 weeks in advance during summer months.
- Map your mountain-to-coast route. Divide your time between the northern mountains (Durmitor National Park) and the southern coast (Kotor Bay). Do not try to fit in every single town; pick two main hubs to sleep in.
- Secure your accommodation. Book locally-owned guesthouses (sobes). In the mountains, look for chalets in Žabljak. On the coast, look for apartments in Kotor or Prčanj.
- Account for border crossings. If you plan to drive into neighboring Croatia or Bosnia, ensure your rental agency provides a 'Green Card' for international crossing, or you will be turned away at the border.
- Is Montenegro safe to drive in?
- Yes, but the roads are narrow and winding. Avoid driving at night in the mountains if you are not an experienced driver.
- Do I need local currency?
- Yes, Montenegro uses the Euro, but it is not part of the Eurozone. Cash is king in small mountain villages.