Montenegro travel guide
About Montenegro
If you were designing a country with sheer cinematic appeal, you'd likely end up with something resembling Montenegro. This tiny, Adriatic gem may lack in size, but it makes up for its sheer, breathtaking beauty. Picture medieval towns draped against limestone cliffs, sapphire-blue waters lapping at rugged shorelines, and an air of unhurried charm that makes you wonder if time moves differently here.
Most visitors begin their journey in Podgorica, Montenegro's capital. This city is often overlooked but reveals its charm to those who take the time. Podgorica offers a glimpse into everyday Montenegrin life, with leafy parks, Ottoman-era remnants, and a burgeoning café culture.
But for many, Kotor is a must-visit. This is an enchanting town of Venetian walls, stone alleys, and hidden squares where espresso flows as freely as the conversations. Climb the fortress at dawn for views of terracotta rooftops, tranquil waters, and towering mountains standing watch over it all. It's a place where the past lingers in every cobblestone and every turn offers another postcard-perfect scene.
Then there's Budva, Montenegro's answer to a coastal playground. By day, it flaunts golden beaches and a postcard-perfect old town. By night, it transforms into a buzzing hotspot of lively bars and moonlit revelry. A short drive away, the famed islet of Sveti Stefan—a vision of red-tiled roofs floating on a turquoise sea—offers an altogether different kind of allure: one of exclusivity, indulgence, and the promise of a stay where every moment is as picturesque as the last.
For those seeking adventure, Durmitor National Park is a wild frontier of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and deep canyons. Here, the Tara River Canyon slices through the landscape, daring thrill-seekers to raft its rapids, while trails wind through ancient forests whispering the secrets of centuries past. Montenegro is a country that encourages you to lace up your boots and get lost in the best possible way.
And just when you think you've seen it all, there's Lake Skadar—a serene expanse of shimmering waters, dotted with monasteries, water lilies, and an impressive cast of birdlife. You can drift lazily in a boat, watching the sun melt into the horizon, or pause in a lakeside village. Montenegro is a master of contrast—wild yet welcoming, sophisticated yet unpretentious, a place where every moment feels like an invitation to linger just a little longer.
Key facts
13,812 sq km (5,333 sq miles).
616,177 (2023).
47.8 per sq km.
Podgorica.
Republic.
President Jakov Milatović since 2023.
Prime Minister Milojko Spajic since 2023.
Travel Advice
Before you travel
No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
- see general advice for women travellers
- read our guide on disability and travel abroad
- see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
- read about safety for solo and independent travel
- see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
Travel insurance
If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
About FCDO travel advice
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.
The authorities in Montenegro set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Montenegrin Embassy in the UK.
The authorities may close land border crossings at short notice.
Passport validity requirements
To enter Montenegro, your passport must:
-
have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter Montenegro – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
-
have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave
Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.
Visa requirements
You can visit Montenegro without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:
- as a tourist
- to visit family or friends
- to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
- for short-term studies or training
If you are travelling to Montenegro without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Montenegro within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
Montenegro is not part of the Schengen area, so:
- visits to Montenegro do not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit in the Schengen area
- visits to other EU or Schengen countries do not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit in Montenegro
Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry and exit.
The dated entry stamp helps avoid any problems about the length of your stay in the country.
Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period
To stay longer than 90 days, you must meet the Montenegrin government’s entry requirements. Check which type of visa or work permit you may need with the Montenegrin Embassy in the UK in advance of your arrival to Montenegro.
Vaccine requirements
For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Montenegro guide.
Registering with the authorities
All visitors to Montenegro must register with the local tourism office or police within 24 hours of arrival.
If you’re staying in a hotel or in some holiday lets, the staff or the owner is obliged to register you.
If staying in private accommodation, make sure you complete the registration yourself.
If you do not register you may be fined, detained or face a court appearance.
Entry by sea
If you are sailing to Montenegro, enter only at a designated port or harbour. If this is not possible, contact the local harbour master (in Montenegrin) or the police before entering.
Customs rules
There are strict rules about goods you can take into and out of Montenegro.
Declare valuable items like expensive jewellery, photographic and computer equipment or anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.
Taking pets into Montenegro
Montenegro accepts pet passports. You can bring up to 5 pets, as long as they meet medical and other requirements.
Taking food into Montenegro
You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into Montenegro. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.
Taking money into Montenegro
Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave.
Taking medicines into Montenegro
When travelling to Montenegro, you may carry a reasonable amount of medication needed for personal use for a maximum of 6 months. You must declare any prescription medication containing narcotics to customs on arrival and may only bring up to 30 days’ worth of such medication, accompanied by a prescription or certificate from a doctor. The certificate must be less than 90 days old.
Possession of a medications without proper medical documentation, or failure to declare such medication, may lead to confiscation and legal action.
Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.
UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
Terrorism in Montenegro
Terrorist attacks in Montenegro cannot be ruled out.
Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals. Terrorists may target religious sites, including churches. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
Political demonstrations
Protests and demonstrations sometimes take place in Montenegro, often in front of government or religious buildings. They are mostly peaceful but can lead to traffic disruption, clashes with police and the potential for violent incidents.
Crime
Protecting yourself and your belongings
Take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings from street crime. Do not leave bags unattended and be wary of pickpockets in tourist hot spots, beaches, airports and on public transport.
Use a hotel safe for your valuables and money if possible. Do not leave your luggage in a parked vehicle.
You can reduce the risk of bag-snatching and mugging by:
- avoiding isolated areas at night, especially if walking alone
- using licensed taxis ordered in advance or using a taxi app
Lost or stolen passports
If your passport is lost or stolen, you must renew your passport or apply for an emergency travel document. You cannot use a police report to leave Montenegro.
Violent crime
Incidents of violent crime between organised criminal groups can affect others close by. Be cautious, remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Stay away from confrontations and leave the area if you feel unsafe. In the event of any incidents, follow all advice given by the local authorities.
Bank card fraud
Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Use ATMs inside banks if possible, and check ATMs on the street for signs of tampering. Keep cards in sight when paying in shops and restaurants. Read more about how to avoid bank card fraud.
Laws and cultural differences
Personal ID
You must always carry a form of ID such as a photocard driving licence or passport. If you do not have it with you, the police can give you a fine. Keep a copy of your passport’s photo page in a safe place.
Illegal drugs
Illegal drugs, including cannabis, carry severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.
Airports in Montenegro have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
Using cameras in secure areas
Taking photographs of police or military installations, personnel or vehicles is illegal and could lead to arrest and prosecution by the authorities.
LGBT+ travellers
While there is a general tolerance of same-sex couples in Montenegro, LGBT+ travellers should be aware that showing affection in public could receive negative attention. Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
Outdoor activities and adventure tourism
Swimming safety
Take note of warning signs on beaches, follow instructions from lifeguards and observe the flag indicators. Take local advice if jellyfish or sea urchins are present.
See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society.
Paragliding, jet-skis and quad bikes
For all extreme sports and water sports, take precautions to prevent injuries and use protective equipment.
Before signing up with paragliding instructors, ask to see their training licence for tandem flights.
When renting a jet-ski, you should always get a safety briefing and clear instructions about where you can and cannot ride. See watersports safety abroad from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
Make sure you have the appropriate licence and insurance when renting outdoor activity vehicles, such as jet-skis and quad bikes. Take precautions to prevent injuries and use protective equipment. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
Hiking and mountaineering
Hikers have got lost in the mountains when they have left marked paths. If you get into trouble, call the emergency number 112.
If you’re hiking in the mountains:
- get expert advice from local guides
- do not underestimate the hike, or factors like weather, landscape, distance and elevation
- take a fully charged mobile phone and enough supplies
- inform someone of your route and expected return time
Transport risks
Road travel
If you are planning to drive in Montenegro, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC’s Montenegro guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.
Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK.
Road conditions
The standard of roads is fair. Conditions are worse in rural areas, especially in the winter and after bad weather. The 2-lane Moraca Canyon can be dangerous when conditions are poor and there is congestion.
Roads leading to Montenegro’s coastal areas are in better condition, but high traffic volumes can lead to delays during the summer season.
Occasionally peaceful protests may occur, blocking main roads for several hours.
Contact the Auto-Moto Association of Montenegro for roadside assistance and information about road closures. Assistance is available in English.
Telephone: +38219807
Taxis
Only use officially licensed taxis, which have a taxi sign on the roof and a company name and number written on the side.
When using local taxis, always check the price per kilometre or agree on the full fare in advance, to avoid surprises. While many taxi drivers are honest, some may take advantage of tourists by overcharging, as in many other tourist destinations.
If you are arriving at Podgorica airport, be aware that not all taxi companies are authorised to pick up passengers directly from the airport. To avoid issues, either take one of the licenced taxis available in front of the terminal or, if you are booking a ride in advance, confirm that the driver is permitted to collect passengers at the airport. Whilst there is no fine for passengers of unauthorised taxi pickups, it can cause delays if the driver is pulled aside by the authorities.
Traffic penalties
If you break the speed limit by 10kph, police can fine you. Excessive speeding and overtaking under dangerous conditions are both punishable by automatic confiscation of your driving licence.
The drink-driving limit is less than half the limit in England and Wales.
Penalties for traffic offences range from fines of 20 to 6,000 euros to prison sentences.
If you get a fine, you may have to pay at a bank or post office within 8 days or before leaving the country. Unpaid fines for foreign nationals are recorded.
If you are involved in a small traffic accident, you can request a police investigation at a cost of 50 euros. If the other driver is found guilty, they must reimburse you. If you want to appeal the penalty, you have the right to appear in court.
If the drivers agree, they can both complete a European accident report and submit it to their insurance companies without a police investigation.
Sea travel
If you’re sailing and want to enter Montenegro, see Entry requirements.
If you have had an accident at sea, call 129, the emergency number of the rescue unit within the Maritime Safety Department (in Montenegrin).
Pedestrian safety
Traffic can be busy, fast and chaotic. Take care when crossing roads. Pedestrians should use designated road crossings. You can be fined for crossing the road if you are within 100 metres of a pedestrian crossing but do not use it. Drivers do not always stop, even though they are required to. The green pedestrian crossing signal also allows cars to turn right on to the crossing, so cross with caution.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
Wildfires
Wildfires are common in Montenegro from April to October due to the dry and hot weather. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. You should:
- take care when visiting or driving through the countryside
- make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished
- not light fires or barbecues except in designated and marked areas
- not leave any rubbish
If you see a wildfire, call the emergency services on 112. Follow any advice from the police or local authorities.
Flooding
Flooding can be a problem when there is heavy rain and snow melts, causing rivers to flood in winter and spring.
Monitor media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities if flooding occurs in your area.
Earthquakes
Montenegro lies in a seismically active zone and small tremors are recorded throughout the year. Serious earthquakes are less frequent but do happen. The last serious earthquake was in 1979. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency’s website tells you about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.
Before you travel check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Dial 112 for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Montenegro
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Montenegro, including:
- biting insects and ticks
- tick-borne encephalitis
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Montenegro. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Medication
For details of customs rules relating to bringing medication into Montenegro, please see the Entry Requirements page.
Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
Healthcare in Montenegro
FCDO has a list of medical providers in Montenegro where some staff will speak English.
Health insurance cards
Montenegro recognises the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC).
The NHS’s getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:
- how to apply for a GHIC
- how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
- what special conditions apply in Montenegro
A GHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC does not cover.
There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Montenegro.
Accessing emergency medical treatment
The UK has a reciprocal healthcare agreement with Montenegro, enabling British nationals to receive free emergency treatment in Montenegro. You must have a valid British passport and the GHIC to apply for a certificate of entitlement from the Montenegrin Health Insurance Fund, to access free or subsidised medical care at state run medical facilities. You must apply for a certificate in advance or as soon as possible after an urgent admission to hospital. Further details on applying for a Montenegrin Health Insurance Fund can be found in the Living in Montenegro guide.
If you do not have a certificate, you will have to pay for the treatment and paid bills cannot be reimbursed.
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
Emergency services in Montenegro
Telephone: 112
Contact your travel provider and insurer
Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you’re involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
Refunds and changes to travel
For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
- where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
- how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim
Support from FCDO
FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
- finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Montenegro
- dealing with a death in Montenegro
- being arrested in Montenegro
- getting help if you’re a victim of crime
- what to do if you’re in hospital
- if you’re affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack
Contacting FCDO
Help abroad
See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
Help in the UK
You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
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