What to expect from this guide? Romantic 4-Day Itinerary + Travel Tips + Driving in Montenegro + Money-Saving Hacks + Crucial Info

Montenegro is still considered an underrated country by many, especially on Instagram reels, though it is not.

My husband and I visited Montenegro last week (October being an off-shoulder season), and still on the day of our return, the airport was jam-packed.

Recently, it was my birthday, and my husband wanted to go somewhere outside the UK for the celebration. His search began on Jersey Island and other nearby Channel Islands, but we ended up finalising Montenegro —and you know what? There is a story behind it.

A week before choosing Montenegro as our go-to destination, I received an email from an influencer marketing company, in collaboration with Wizz Air, regarding a trip to Albania, another Balkan country in Europe, where UK residents don’t need a Schengen Visa to visit. They wanted me to go to Albania for three days with other creators and create content about the trip.

Due to some unfortunate reasons, this collaboration invitation didn’t materialise. Nevertheless, it gave me the idea of finding countries in Europe where, as a BRP holder in the UK, I don’t need to apply for a Schengen Visa, which led me to Montenegro, a country with a perfect balance of mountains, beaches, and forests.

Earlier, during our discussion, my husband wasn’t convinced about visiting Montenegro because we had only three days of holiday and public transport isn’t easily accessible there. However, I researched and prepared the budget and entire itinerary, which convinced him.

I initially planned to book a flight with Wizz Air from London to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, and then take a taxi from there to Perast and stay there, as I had liked the village from the photos. However, we later changed our plans due to logistics issues and food restrictions, and I am glad that it happened. You will learn the reasons after reading my entire itinerary.

Quick links:

• 4-Day Itinerary for Couples in Montenegro
  1. Here is Everything That You Need to Know When Visiting Montenegro
     • Connectivity through e-SIM and O-Roaming
     • Safety and Travel Essentials for Montenegro
  2. Montenegro Map
  3. Travel Tips: Understanding the Montenegrin Culture, Etiquette, Influences, and more
  4. What is the Best Time to Visit Montenegro?
  5. What to Wear in Montenegro?
  6. Best Souvenirs to Buy in Montenegro
  7. How to Rent a Car in Montenegro
  8. Driving Tips for Montenegro
  9. Supermarket Stores in Montenegro
     • Shopping Centres and Branded Fashion Stores in Montenegro
     • Emergency Numbers That You Must Keep Handy in Montenegro
  10. Montenegro Crucial Info
  11. Money-Saving Hacks for Montenegro
  12. Frequently Asked Questions about Montenegro

4-Day Itinerary for Couples in Montenegro

Following is my perfect 4-day affordable + luxury Montenegro itinerary for couples:

Day 1: London to Tivat and Porto Montenegro Village

Day 2: Perast, Old Kotor Town and Kotor Cable Car

Day 3: Lake Skadar, Sveti Stefan and Budva

Day 4: Island of Flowers and Back to London

Plus, vegetarian-friendly restaurants and food options in Montenegro.

Here is Everything That You Need to Know When Visiting Montenegro

Before you set off to explore Montenegro’s dazzling mix of mountains, beaches, and old-world charm, here are some fascinating facts and essential insights that will help you understand this offbeat gem of the Balkans.

Connectivity through e-SIM and O-Roaming

In Montenegro, our Three network SIMs from the UK were not working. Earlier, we were unaware of the O-Roaming data hack, so we purchased an e-SIM for €15 with 500 GB for 15 days from One network.

Local SIM card providers include T-Com, One, and Mtel.

• Money-saving hack: Buy O-Roaming data through your provider for the required days to save €7-8.

Safety and Travel Essentials for Montenegro

• Montenegro is one of the secure countries in Europe, with welcoming locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Petty crime is rare; however, be vigilant about protecting your belongings in crowded tourist areas. Use a sling or cross-body bag for safety and comfort.
• Tap water is safe to drink throughout Montenegro.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s also a good idea to keep some cash handy for small towns and local markets.
• Essentials to pack: sunscreen, a first-aid kit, comfy shoes, a hat, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and a reusable water bottle.

Quirky and Lesser-Known Facts about Montenegro

• Near Bar stands an olive tree said to be over 2,000 years old — and it still bears fruit!
• Built dramatically into a cliffside, the Monastery of Ostrog is a pilgrimage site that attracts people of all faiths.
• The Blue Cave is a magical sea cave located near the Lustica Peninsula, where sunlight transforms the water into an ethereal shade of blue.
• Montenegro was the world’s first officially declared “ecological state” in 1991 — a title it continues to uphold through its protected parks and sustainable tourism efforts.
• Coastal towns like Budva and Perast showcase the influence of Venetian architecture, characterised by stone alleys, bell towers, and terracotta rooftops.
• The James Bond film Casino Royale was set in Montenegro — although it was filmed elsewhere, which helped boost the country’s allure.
• Sveti Stefan Island was once a tiny fishing village, but it is now one of the most exclusive and photographed resorts in the Adriatic. It was also a favourite destination for many celebrities during the 1960s and 1970s, including Princess Margaret, Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and others.
• Cats are everywhere in Kotor — they roam freely, are cared for by locals, and even have their own Cat Museum.
• Montenegro is home to Orthodox, Catholic, and Muslim communities, which have coexisted in religious harmony for centuries.
• People often prefer to take a leisurely hike along roads, but not all roads are pedestrian-friendly.
• Cafés and shopping centres are closed on Sunday.

Geographical Facts about Montenegro

• Montenegro may look compact on the map, but it offers incredible contrasts — from Adriatic beaches to alpine peaks and serene lakes, all within a few hours’ reach.
• Montenegro translates to “Black Mountain” from the Venetian monte negro, inspired by the dark pine forests that blanket its rugged terrain.
• Montenegro gained independence from Serbia in 2006 and became one of the world’s youngest countries.
• Despite not being part of the European Union, Montenegro uses the Euro (€).
• Montenegro is home to just about 620,000 people, giving travellers a sense of space, tranquillity, and authentic local life.
• The Bay of Kotor (Boka Bay) is a UNESCO World Heritage site often mistaken for a fjord — it’s actually a submerged river canyon, lined with medieval towns like Kotor and Perast.

Prevalent Languages in Montenegro  

The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin, a South Slavic language very similar to Serbian, Bosnian, and Croatian. In fact, speakers of these languages can easily understand one another.

You will often hear locals use Serbian interchangeably, especially in everyday conversation, but both are accepted and widely understood.

In coastal and tourist areas such as Kotor, Budva, and Herceg Novi, English is widely spoken, particularly among younger generations and those working in the tourism sector.

Many people in these regions also know some Italian, due to Montenegro’s historical ties with Venice and its proximity across the Adriatic.

For travellers, a few local words go a long way — greetings like ‘Zdravo’ (Hello), ‘Hvala’ (Thank you), ‘Molim’ (Please), ‘Ciao’ (See you later) are always appreciated by Montenegrins.

Most of the places and restaurants we visited were tourist-friendly, so we could converse in English without difficulty. However, on a few occasions, we used Google Translate to communicate.

Google Translate doesn’t have Montenegrin, but we translated English to Croatian, which is also widely spoken.

Tip: Keep Google Translate or another translation app handy, especially when travelling to tiny villages.

Montenegro Map

Travel Tips: Understanding the Montenegrin Culture, Etiquette, Influences, and more

The lady whose boutique apartment we rented told us the following:

Culture and Family Values

• Montenegrins are known for their warmth, pride, and hospitality. Greetings are genuine — a handshake or cheek kiss among friends is standard.
• Elders are deeply respected, and traditions are passed down with pride through generations.
• Locals cherish family, respect, and honour, often gathering for long meals and conversation.
• Travellers with children will find Montenegrins exceptionally family-friendly — kids get adoration everywhere. Even parents with children get priority at the airport.
• Life runs on “Balkan time” — relaxed, unhurried, and full of charm.

Tipping Etiquette in Montenegro

• Tipping isn’t mandatory if a service charge is included. However, it is always welcomed at restaurants.
• Round up the bill, or you can leave a 5–10% tip at cafés and casual dining restaurants.
• Fine dining: A 10–15% tip shows appreciation for excellent service.
• Locals often leave small change with a friendly “Hvala!” (Thank you).

Italian and Turkish Influences in Montenegro

Montenegro’s culture and architecture reflect its complex history, situated between East and West.

• The Adriatic coast is shaped by centuries of Venetian influence, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and art.
• Inland regions carry traces of Ottoman (Turkish) heritage, seen in traditional homes, courtyards, and hospitality customs.
• This blend gives Montenegro its unique identity — a Mediterranean flair with a Balkan soul.

What is the Best Time to Visit Montenegro?

Montenegro enjoys four distinct seasons, each with its own charm.

• May to June: The best time for sightseeing, hiking, and swimming — the landscapes are lush, and temperatures are pleasant.
• July to August: Hot, lively, and perfect for beach days, yacht trips, and nightlife along Budva and Kotor.
• September to October: It’s locals’ favourite — warm seas, mild weather, and quieter coastal towns.
• December to March: Ideal for winter lovers, with skiing and cosy stays in the mountains of Kolašin or Žabljak.

What to Wear in Montenegro?

Montenegrins appreciate neat, well-dressed appearances — stylish yet relaxed — such as jeans, a top or T-shirt, a sweater/jacket, and trainers for the autumn season in October.

• Coastal areas: Lightweight fabrics, such as flowy dresses and linen shirts, are perfect. Keep beachwear to the beaches — not in old towns or cafés.
• Religious sites: Please dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees while visiting churches or monasteries.
• Mountains: Pack layers, as evenings can turn cool even in summer.
• A good rule: Casual elegance by day, slightly dressier at dinner — just like the locals.

Best Souvenirs to Buy in Montenegro

Bring home a piece of Montenegro with these authentic finds:

• Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) or artisanal cheeses.
• Vranac wine or rakija (local fruit brandy).
• Olive oil from Virpazar, Bar or Ulcinj — rich, fragrant, and beautifully packaged.
• Handcrafted jewellery, wool items, and local ceramics.
• Art prints or small paintings of the Bay of Kotor or Lovćen landscapes.

How to Rent a Car in Montenegro

Exploring Montenegro by vehicle gives you the freedom to uncover hidden beaches, charming old towns, and scenic mountains at your own pace, such as Lovćen National Park, Lake Skadar, Njeguši Village, and Durmitor National Park.

You can hire a car from the main Montenegro airports, such as Podgorica or Tivat, or from local rental agencies like Meridian, Tara Car in Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi.

All you will need is an international driver’s license and a valid passport, and your age must be 21 or older. For the security deposit, you will have to provide credit card details. Additionally, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be required if your licence is not in Latin script.

Trivia about our experience:

We rented from the Tivat Airport. As we picked up our baggage from the belt and exit, we noticed the car rental desks of Avis, Hertz and other brands at the airport.

Renting a car from Avis was affordable: it cost €35 (€50–€80 in summer) for an automatic SUV; however, opting for on-road assistance added €45.

We also requested that Avis fill the fuel tank, which was a mistake and cost us an additional €100. Additionally, the next day, the fuel gauge started showing low fuel, indicating that the person who handed over the car hadn’t filled the tank, for which we later complained, and they haven’t resolved it yet. We refilled it for €30 and it worked well for the next three days.

Crucial tips while renting a car in Montenegro:

• Take photos/videos of the vehicle before leaving the lot — scratches or dents that remain undocumented may be charged.
• Check that tyres and lights are in working condition before you drive off.
• Always check whether your card supports pre-authorisation holds, as many agencies don’t accept debit cards.
• Most fuel stations accept both cash and cards, but smaller-town ones may prefer to operate on a cash-only basis.
• Some rental companies may ask you to return the car with a full tank — keep your last receipt as proof.

Money-saving hack: Don’t pay to have the fuel tank filled; buy your own fuel— it’s cheaper.

Use public car parks located outside old towns to save money and avoid fines, but note that walking may range from a few minutes to half an hour.

Fuel is slightly cheaper inland than on the coast — refuel before heading into mountain regions.

Driving Tips for Montenegro

Driving offers the freedom to discover Montenegro’s most scenic corners — but it requires attention.

• Roads are generally in satisfactory condition, but mountain routes can be narrow and winding — drive carefully, especially at night. At some places, road markings are not very clear.
• Local drivers can be assertive, so stay patient and alert. Let them overtake from your left.
• Parking can be tight in towns like Kotor or Budva, but you will find a spot.  
• Most roads have streetlights, but driving to national parks after sunset can be risky because many roads in the top mountainous region lack streetlights.
• Visit early to get free parking spaces in Perast and other villages. Locals also combine boat tours with parking fees at some locations, such as Perast and Lake Skadar.
• Many routes are not yet updated on Google Maps, so be sure to keep an eye on the road signs, even when your GPS is on.
• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Headlights must be on during the day (year-round).
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
• The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%, so avoid drinking while driving.
• Expect toll roads only on specific routes, such as the Sozina Tunnel (€2.50) on the way to Lake Skadar.
• Use your horn lightly on tight bends in mountain areas — it’s customary to alert oncoming cars.

Supermarket Stores in Montenegro

iDea and Voli are the leading superstores located in various cities of Montenegro, including Budva, Tivat, and Kotor. HDL Laković is a discount supermarket chain that offers low-cost grocery items. You will find HDL stores in Podgorica, Bar, Berane, Nikšić, Kotor, and other locations.

Shopping Centres and Branded Fashion Stores in Montenegro

TQ Plaza is in the Budva area. This plaza is one of the larger shopping centres.

BIG Fashion Podgorica — one of the biggest shopping malls, with many international brand stores, cafés, and supermarkets.

Porto Montenegro in Tivat is a high-end marina and nautical village featuring all the luxury and premium brands.

Emergency Numbers That You Must Keep Handy in Montenegro

Police 112

Ambulance 124

Fire 123

Montenegro Crucial Info

If you are a British citizen and face an issue outside of your control, contact the British Embassy in Podgorica.	If you are an Indian citizen, you can contact the
British Embassy Podgorica	Indian Consulate in Podgorica
Ulcinjska 8, Gorica C	Ilino bb, Lamela B, Uloz-II,
Podgorica	Stan 26, 85000 Bar,
81000	Podgorica
+382 (0) 20 420 100	+382-85-350303 +382-85-2275465
	http://www.embassyofindiabelgrade.org

Money-Saving Hacks for Montenegro

• Items such as olive oil, honey, wine, and handmade crafts are often cheaper and more authentic outside the main tourist hubs, such as in Virpazar village near Lake Skadar, where a one-litre bottle of olive oil cost us €10.
• If you love wine, consider buying Vranac or Krstač directly from the vineyards — prices are 30–50% lower than in Marina shops.
• Wi-Fi is widely available in airports, cafés, and accommodations, so you can easily stay connected without incurring roaming charges.
• Visit during the shoulder season (May–June or September–October) when prices drop by up to 40% and crowds thin out (at least at some places). When renting a car, compare local agencies — rates may be 20–30% cheaper than those of international brands.
• Instead of luxury yacht tours, try a full-day group boat trip from Kotor, Tivat, or Perast (€25-50 per person).
• Instead of big resorts, opt for family-run guesthouses or boutique apartments — they’re often in the best locations and include homemade breakfast.
• Platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb list affordable stays, especially in the outskirts of Tivat, Perast, and Kotor.

Note: The prices mentioned in the guide may change when you visit.

Did you find this guide useful? Please let me know in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Montenegro

Q: Is Montenegro visa-free for UK BRP Holders and Permanent Residents?

A: Yes, Montenegro offers visa-free entry to all UK BRP holders and permanent residents for 90 days. However, you must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Montenegro.

Please note that all travellers must register with the local tourism office or police within 24 hours of arrival. If you are staying in a hotel or a boutique apartment, the staff or host may handle this for you; otherwise, you must register yourself. 

Foreign travel advice for entry requirements from the UK government

Q: What to do in Kotor?

• Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, offers a perfect combination of history, charm, and natural beauty. Wander through its medieval Old Town with narrow cobbled lanes, quaint cafés, and landmarks like St. Tryphon Cathedral.
• Climb the San Giovanni Fortress for breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, or enjoy a relaxing stroll along the scenic seafront promenade.
• Take a boat trip to the nearby Perast village.
• Enjoy local wines and Mediterranean dishes at waterfront restaurants.

Q: What do I need to know before going to Montenegro?

Before visiting Montenegro, it’s helpful to know a few key things to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

• The Euro (€) is its official currency, and most places accept cards, though smaller shops prefer cash.
• English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but locals also speak Montenegrin, and you’ll notice Italian and Serbian influences in daily life.
• The best time to visit is May to June or September to October, when the weather is pleasant, and prices are lower.
• Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural areas; however, casual attire is acceptable elsewhere.
• Tipping around 10% is appreciated in restaurants.
• Tap water is safe to drink, and Montenegrins are known for their warm hospitality and strong family values.
• Lastly, pack comfortable shoes for exploring old towns, a reusable bottle, and swimwear—because you’ll want to enjoy both the beaches and the lakes, especially in summer.
• The risk for mosquito activity is exceptionally high. Cover yourself when spending time outdoors to protect against insect bites, especially in the evening and at night.
• Keep the doors and windows closed at night to prevent mosquito bites.

Q: What are the five best places to visit in Montenegro?

• Kotor: A UNESCO World Heritage town nestled between steep mountains and a stunning bay. Wander its medieval Old Town, climb the San Giovanni Fortress for panoramic views, and enjoy a sunset dinner by the waterfront.
• Budva: Montenegro’s liveliest coastal town, known for its golden beaches, nightlife, and walled Old Town filled with cafés, boutiques, and sea-view restaurants. It’s perfect for combining history with a beach holiday.
• Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks: A romantic baroque village just minutes from Kotor, famous for its elegant stone palaces and the tiny artificial island church Our Lady of the Rocks, accessible by a short boat ride.
• Durmitor National Park: A paradise for nature lovers and hikers, home to glacial Black Lake, deep canyons, and the Tara River Bridge. It’s ideal for scenic drives, zip-lining, or simply escaping into Montenegro’s wild mountain beauty. Durmitor National Park features Tara Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world after the Grand Canyon.
• Lake Skadar: This lake is rich in wildlife, monasteries, and vineyards. Take a boat tour through its lily-covered waters, visit local wineries, or cycle along the peaceful countryside paths. Lake Skadar is situated on the border between Albania and Montenegro. It is the largest lake in the Balkans and is renowned for its birdwatching, tranquil boat rides, and historic fishing villages.