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Car hire in Montenegro is the easiest way to make the country open up. Locals like to say that without a car you turn into furniture — buses do run along the coast, but reaching Lovćen, Durmitor, Lake Skadar or the hidden coves of the Luštica peninsula needs your own wheels.
The country is compact: in a single day you can drive from Herceg Novi to Ulcinj, swim in the Adriatic in the morning and watch the sun set over the mountains around Žabljak by evening. Five neighbouring countries — Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia, Albania and Kosovo — sit within a few hours' drive, which turns even a short holiday into a proper Balkan road trip.
Many of our guests book a car for five days and end up extending to ten. After the first drive north, it becomes obvious that a week on the coast covers only half of the country.
Prices remain among the lowest on the Adriatic. In the low season, from November to April, an economy class car starts at €17–25 per day. In the peak summer months of July and August the same class runs €30–50. For monthly hires the rate typically drops by 30–50%.
Compared with Croatia or Italy, the same car in Montenegro can be roughly half the price — and the sea, the food and the mountains lose nothing in comparison.
Montenegro uses the euro, so for most European visitors there's no exchange-rate maths to do at the pump or the toll booth.
Prices and what's included
Daily rates depend on the class, the season and the length of the booking. Economy (Polo, Fabia, Yaris, Hyundai i20) runs €17–35 depending on the month. Mid-size and compact crossovers — €30–55. Larger SUVs and automatics — from €45 per day. Two-week bookings usually drop 20–30%, monthly rates almost halve.
A standard tariff with local suppliers nearly always includes Third Party Liability, basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) with an excess of €800–2,000, theft protection, unlimited mileage and free delivery to Tivat and Podgorica airports. The headline daily rate from a local company is what you actually pay — not a stripped-back base price.
We include basic CDW by default — that alone removes 80% of the scenarios where a guest could end up paying for repairs out of their own pocket.
Hidden fees catch out first-timers most often. Before you book, check whether there are separate charges for cross-border travel, for drivers under 25, for an additional driver, for refuelling and for cleaning. With TakeCars, the price you see in the listing is the final price.
The worst moment is hearing about a local tax or an airport fee that wasn't in the booking. We try to put everything on the listing so that there's nothing new to discuss on collection.
May and September are widely seen as the sweet spot — the weather is still beach-friendly, prices sit 30–40% below August and the choice of available cars is far wider.
Most tourists in Montenegro start their trip here
Documents, deposit and payment
To hire a car you'll need a passport (or EU/EEA national ID), a valid driving licence with at least one or two years' experience, and a payment card. Minimum age is 21 for economy and mid-size, 23–25 for premium. Drivers aged 21–24 pay a young-driver surcharge of €8–15 per day or €80 flat.
EU, UK, EEA and Swiss licences are accepted as is — no IDP required. Licences from other countries work if they're in the Latin alphabet; Cyrillic, Arabic and non-Latin scripts need an accompanying IDP.
Most worries about whether a licence will be accepted can be resolved before booking. We confirm the document type in advance, so there are no surprises on the day.
The deposit is the main difference between local suppliers and international chains. Local companies take €100–300 in cash, returned in full at drop-off. International brands block €500–1,500 on a credit card, with release taking 10–30 working days.
On TakeCars the deposit and the way it's collected are visible in the listing before you book. We also offer no-deposit options where Full Cover with zero excess is built into the price.
Most local suppliers accept a debit or credit card for the 15–20% online prepayment, with the balance settled in cash euros at pick-up. International chains insist on a classic embossed credit card.
Showing the deposit upfront, on its own, removes most of the awkward moments at handover — the guest already knows what to expect when they arrive.
For high-season pickups in Tivat and Budva, we recommend confirming the document type a day or two before arrival — it saves a phone call at the rank.
Skoda Fabia in Montenegro
The service was very professional. Your agent, Elena met us in arranged time both on receiving and passing the car. While taking she explained everything we needed. We were pleased to deal with you and recoment to our friends on your service. Thanks.
Peugeot 3008 in Montenegro
The process of communication and rental went well, liked the owner) it was noticeable that the car had already gone through a lot in its life and was not in the best technical condition, but the value for money was appropriate) in general I am satisfied).
Volkswagen Touran in Montenegro
In fact, there were two stressful situations that occurred during the rental car. 1) When we were still at the airport in Poland, the rental company wrote to us on WhatsApp that due to traffic jams they would not be able to arrive at Podgorica airport, but after about 15 minutes they replied that it was a mistake and the car would be there. 2) Upon arrival in Podgorica, a staff member came to pick us up and escorted us to a five-seater Opel Insignia sedan (there were six of us, each with a suitcase and backpack). We lost almost 30 minutes because the employee tried to convince us that we could ride in the car with six of us and that if we did, his supervisor would fine us even if we wanted to, because we wouldn't fit with our luggage. Finally, when I offered to cancel the contract and demand a refund of the deposit of about 30 euros, he offered an idea and gave us a second car, so we ended up with an Opel Insignia and a Citroen C3. The next day we spent several hours waiting for both cars to be exchanged for the agreed VW Touran. The car was generally in good condition, except for a warning to shut off the engine due to low oil pressure that came on about every 15 minutes. But overall, considering the price and the fact that after numerous requests the owner finally offered an alternative solution in the form of a second car to get to the hotel, it was fine.
Volkswagen Passat Variant in Montenegro
We had a fantastic experience with Luka. The car was delivered to us on time, right as we exited the airport, and the process was seamless. The car was the perfect size for our family of four with luggage. Later on, our flight was delayed at the last minute, and Luca kindly allowed us to continue using the car, which was very considerate and much appreciated. Highly recommended – 10/10!
Citroen C4 in Montenegro
It was very good
Volkswagen Tiguan in Montenegro
Impeccable service as always! To Milan and his team thank you very much!!! *** Excellent service, as always! Many thanks to Milan and his team!!!!
Hyundai Accent in Montenegro
Everything went great, the owner of the car contacted me, delivered the car, everything as agreed. The car is in good working order, clean and your service is excellent, thank you
Hyundai i20 in Montenegro
Everything went perfectly in most parts of the car rental. The car was in good condition, and the person from whom we got the car was friendly and useful. The main problem was that we noted on the site, that we were going to cross the border in Albania and asked from the person who gave the car if everything is fine with paper work (insurance, etc.) for borders. And he assured that yes, everything took care of everything, and we can just go to the border. Then, on the border, the officers told us that we actually did not have insurance paper for the car, and, as we checked the owner of the car (?), He advised us to pay several “coffee money” for border officers under the table. It was inconvenient for us to do this ... We managed to buy a new insurance on the border for 50 euros, and we managed to cross the border. The cost of 50 € Exirta on border issues about the car insurance was unpleasant, as we paid and confirmed that the documents will be completed for us when we rented a car. Maybe the car could be removed better from the inside, since there was a little dirt on the windshield, and when the sun shone, you do not see anything during driving. But it was nothing that fast wiping could not decide. But in general, we had a pleasant experiment. Sincerely Anricka Castala
BMW Z4 in Montenegro
I didn't use BMW. the problem was with the gearbox. He exchange for a mini cooper
Skoda Fabia Combi in Montenegro
everything was goood!
Opel Corsa in Montenegro
Everything went perfectly. Super car, clean and well maintained. There were no problems at all. This is not the first time we have contacted and will continue to do so. The manager is friendly and all agreements are fulfilled. Thanks a lot.
Citroen C4 Grand Picasso in Montenegro
Everything went fine, the car was upgraded, a minimum of questions, the car as in the photo.
Volkswagen Touareg in Montenegro
I liked the simplicity and convenience of the service. It is a pity that there were few suitable cars available. But our car was what we needed. Conveniently, they were met right at the airport, and everything was quickly signed and issued. Great guys, good support. In general, I am very satisfied - I will recommend the service to my friends. Thanks.
Take Cars in Montenegro
Transparent terms aren't a marketing line — they save you three hours at handover. If the listing says €150 deposit in cash, that's exactly what you'll leave and exactly what you'll get back when you return the keys. Every supplier listed below is on the same terms, so the only thing that changes between cars is the car itself.
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Real reviews on every specific car
Not just an overall supplier rating, but feedback from guests who hired the very same Octavia or Duster.
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Deposit and terms shown before you book
The amount, payment method and excess sit in the car listing, so the handover holds no surprises.
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Free cancellation up to 7 days before pick-up
Plans change — booking should feel risk-free, not a commitment carved in stone.
Routes worth the petrol
Coastal road and Kamenari–Lepetane ferry
The main coastal road links Herceg Novi to Ulcinj. In summer it crawls, and car hire in Kotor pays off with the Kamenari–Lepetane ferry: crossing the Bay of Kotor saves 30 km and an hour. A car with passengers — €4.50, ferry runs 24/7, every 15–30 minutes in season.
Kamenari–Lepetane is the standard tip we give guests. Driving from Budva to Herceg Novi at midday in August, you'll lose an hour without it and ten minutes with it.
Old Bar, Ulcinj and Lake Skadar
South, the coast quietens. Day loop: car hire in Bar or Sutomore → Old Bar → Ulcinj's sandy beaches → Lake Skadar on the way back.
For families with younger children we usually suggest Bečići or Petrovac — gentle entry into the sea, no mountain roads and easy parking.
The north: Lovćen, Durmitor, Kolašin
If you have two or three days beyond the coast, the north is worth it. The climb from Kotor to Lovćen on the road of 25 hairpins is a route in its own right. Beyond it lie Kolašin, the Tara canyon and Durmitor.
The north is unforgiving on tired cars and worn tyres. For winter trips to Žabljak or Kolašin we fit a winter set in advance — without it there's no point heading up there.
Most travellers skip Podgorica, yet car hire in Podgorica is usually 10–20% cheaper than Tivat.
Flying into Podgorica? Take the car straight from arrivals — the bus to the coast is slow, and a taxi costs more than a day's hire.
The drive from TGD down to Budva or Kotor takes around 90 minutes through the Sozina tunnel — straightforward in any season.
Driving to Croatia, Bosnia, Albania and beyond
Montenegro's biggest advantage as a base is its five neighbours within a few hours by car. From here you can reach Dubrovnik, Mostar, Shkodër, Belgrade or Prizren in a single day.
Croatia (Dubrovnik)
Cross-border fee €30–85. The contract must explicitly allow exit from Montenegro, and a Green Card has to be issued. Debeli Brijeg crossing queues 1–2 hours during midday in summer — leave early or after eight in the evening.
Dubrovnik in a day is realistic. From Budva it's roughly 2.5 hours each way along a steady road, with no serious mountain passes.
Albania (Shkodër, Tirana, Berat)
€30–50 surcharge, and most local suppliers allow it without fuss. The Božaj crossing near Lake Skadar is normally quieter than Sukobin or Murićani. Food and accommodation are below Montenegrin prices.
Before driving into Albania we'd top the tank up at home — Montenegrin 95 petrol is generally more reliable and a touch cheaper.
Bosnia (Mostar, Sarajevo, Trebinje)
€30–50 surcharge applies. Since 2021 the Green Card isn't technically required for Montenegrin-plated cars entering Bosnia, but suppliers still issue it. Neat day trip: Tivat → Trebinje → Mostar via the pass, back through Nikšić.
Multi-country trips are often the reason guests hire a car in the first place. Croatia and Bosnia in one five-day loop is a typical August itinerary.
Serbia and Kosovo open under the same terms; North Macedonia is slightly higher at €40–60.
Road rules, fines, parking and winter
Speed, alcohol, headlights
50 km/h in towns, 80 outside, 100 on the motorway and in the Sozina tunnel. No "+20" tolerance. Blood-alcohol limit 0.3‰, effectively zero for under-24s. Dipped headlights mandatory year-round.
The alcohol limit is stricter than in most of the EU. The simplest rule is not to drink at all if you'll be driving — random checks are common after dark, especially in Budva.
Fines — police don't take cash
Officers don't take cash. They issue a slip you settle at any bank or post office. Ignore it and the supplier is later notified, charging your card plus €10–25 admin fee.
Parking in Kotor and Budva
Parking is forbidden inside the Kotor Old Town — use the paid lots near the Sea Gate, the Jadran centre, or park in Dobrota and walk in. Budva and Sveti Stefan are similar: free spaces fill by breakfast, paid bays €1–2.40 per hour.
The catch with parking is that pay-by-SMS only works with a Montenegrin SIM (+382 67/68/69). A foreign number won't register — use the meter or a paper ticket from a duvan kiosk.
Winter tyres and chains
From 15 November to 1 April, M+S winter tyres are compulsory on most regional and mountain roads. Suppliers fit them free of charge, chains must sit in the boot. Fine from €60; without the winter kit your insurance can be voided after an accident.
In Kolašin, Žabljak and along the Durmitor passes, winter tyres and chains aren't a formality — they're basic safety on snow-covered hairpins.
If your route stays on the coast between Herceg Novi and Bar, summer tyres are fine right through the winter — the snow rarely reaches sea level.
Rates in Montenegro vary throughout the year depending on the season and the rental length in days.
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How expensive is renting a car in Montenegro: average daily rates for a one-week car rental, across all car classes. Delivery across Montenegro not included.
Frequently asked questions about car hire in Montenegro
Economy starts at €17–25 in the low season (November–April) and €30–50 in July and August. Mid-size sits at €30–55, automatics and SUVs from €45. Two-week bookings drop 20–30% and monthly hires almost halve. May and September are 30–40% below August with the same weather and a far wider choice of available cars.
Local suppliers take €100–300 in cash euros, returned in full at drop-off. International chains block €500–1,500 on a credit card, with release taking 10–30 working days. Premium classes can reach €3,000. On TakeCars the amount and the way it's collected appear in the listing before you book.
Yes. Some cars on TakeCars are listed with a no-deposit tariff that already includes Full Cover with zero excess on the body. Tyres, rims, glass and underbody are usually covered too, or available as add-ons. It's the most relaxed option for travellers who don't want money frozen on a card.
With most local suppliers, no. A debit card is enough for the 15–20% online prepayment, and the balance and deposit are typically settled in cash euros at pick-up. International chains are stricter — they require an embossed credit card in the main driver's name.
EU, UK, EEA and Swiss licences are accepted as is — no IDP required. Licences from other countries work as long as they're in the Latin alphabet. Cyrillic, Arabic or other non-Latin scripts need an accompanying IDP. A passport (or EU national ID) is also required at pick-up.
21 with one to two years' driving experience for economy and mid-size cars, 23–25 for premium. Drivers aged 21–24 normally pay a young-driver surcharge of €8–15 per day or a flat €80 per booking. Most local suppliers don't apply an upper age limit.
Standard cover includes Third Party Liability, Collision Damage Waiver with an excess of €800–2,000, and theft protection. Tyres, rims, glass, underbody and interior are not covered. Super CDW at €4–10 a day cuts or removes the excess — sensible for first-timers, mountain roads and winter trips. A police report is required for any claim.
Yes, with a Green Card and the supplier's written permission. The cross-border fee is €30–85 and the contract must explicitly allow exit from Montenegro. The Debeli Brijeg crossing queues 1–2 hours during midday in summer — leave early or after eight in the evening. Dubrovnik is around 2.5 hours from Budva.
Yes. Each country adds €30–50 to the booking and a Green Card is required. The Božaj crossing into Albania is normally quieter than Sukobin or Murićani. A useful Bosnian crossing is Klobuk, on the road from Nikšić, especially when heading for Mostar or Sarajevo.
Yes — no separate permission from the supplier is needed. A car with passengers costs €4.50 one way, paid by card or cash at the booth. The ferry runs 24/7 and leaves every 15–30 minutes in season. The crossing takes about ten minutes and saves roughly 30 km of road.
There is no national vignette. Only two paid sections exist: the Sozina tunnel (€2.50 for cars) on the Bar–Podgorica route and the A1 motorway Podgorica–Mateševo (€4.50). The Kamenari–Lepetane ferry adds €4.50. All other roads, including mountain passes and the coastal route, are free.
Use a parking meter (cards or coins) or a paper "parking karta" ticket from a duvan kiosk. Pay-by-SMS only works with a Montenegrin SIM (+382), so a foreign number will not register. Parking is forbidden inside the Kotor Old Town — use the paid lots near the Sea Gate or by the Jadran shopping centre.
Call 112 immediately — a police report is mandatory; without it neither CDW nor Super CDW will pay out. Photograph everything from several angles, sign nothing without a translation and notify the supplier within 48 hours. Don't move the car before the police arrive, even if it's partially blocking traffic.
From 15 November to 1 April, M+S winter tyres are compulsory on most regional and mountain roads. Suppliers fit them free of charge during the season. Snow chains must sit in the boot — the fine for not having them starts at €60. For Kolašin, Žabljak and Durmitor in winter this is a practical necessity, not a formality.
Rates from November through April sit 40–60% below the summer peak. July and August are the most expensive months. May and September are the sweet spot — pleasant weather, prices 30–40% below August and a noticeably wider choice of cars in stock.