Montenegro travel guide
About Montenegro
Montenegro remains one of Europe’s hidden gems… but for how much longer? Independent since 2006, the country has been quietly developing its fledgling tourism industry and is now being vaunted as one of the continent’s hottest new destinations.
So what does this nascent nation have to offer? Well, inland it’s all pine-scented mountains, rolling prairies and traditional, stone villages, which are a joy for hikers, bikers and nature lovers. The star attraction, though, is the blissful, 293km (183mile) coastline, which gives onto the calm blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.
The most popular coastal destinations are the enchanting Venetian-era port towns of Kotor and Budva, with their medieval stone buildings, family-run seafood restaurants and burgeoning hotel scene. Other less developed seaside towns include Herceg Novi, Petrovac, Bar and Ulcinj, where travellers can get a taste of local life.
The coastline harbours a pleasing combination of long sandy beaches to the south, near Ulcinj, curving pebble bays along the so-called Budva Riviera, and little coves around the perimeter of the meandering Bay of Kotor to the north.
As investment arrives, luxury marina-resorts have begun to spring up, offering mooring facilities for sailing boats as well as accommodation, restaurants, cafes, spas and shops. Porto Montenegro in Tivat is designed to accommodate some of the world’s biggest mega yachts and is indicative of the kind of travellers Montenegro seems to be targeting.
Of course, it’s not all about wealthy oligarchs. Particularly inland, where travellers can grab a slice of traditional Balkan life and lose themselves in rugged mountains, many of which rise above 2,000m (6,560ft).
The hinterland is also home to five national parks. Go in search of bears, wolves and lynx atop the peaks of Durmitor National Park; raft down the River Tara in Europe's deepest canyon; explore Europe's last virgin forest within Biogradska Gora National Park; or go bird watching in the wetlands of Lake Skadar National Park. But go now, before everyone else gets the same idea.
Key facts
13,812 sq km (5,333 sq miles).
626,101 (UN estimate 2016).
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 a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – 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, 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.
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 be registered with the local tourism office or police in the town or city where they’re staying.
If you’re staying in a hotel or in some holiday lets, the staff or the owner will register you. If you’re staying with family or friends, or in rented accommodation, make sure you register within 24 hours of arrival in Montenegro.
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 items of value 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.
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
Violent crime
Incidents of violent crime between organised criminal groups can affect others close by. Be cautious, remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings. 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 and prison sentences
Drugs laws are similar to the UK. There are strict penalties and lengthy prison sentences for possession or trafficking of drugs.
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
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
Hikers have got lost in the mountains when they have left marked paths. If you get into trouble, call the emergency number 112.
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 to poor. 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.
Contact the Auto-Moto Association of Montenegro for roadside assistance and information about road closures. Assistance is available in English.
Telephone: +38219807
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).
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 124 and ask 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
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
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).
You will need to take your British passport and GHIC to a local office of the Montenegrin Health Insurance Fund (in Montenegrin) to request a certificate of entitlement to medical care. You need this in advance of medical treatment, or as soon as possible after an urgent admission to hospital. If you do not have a certificate, the hospital will charge for the treatment and paid bills will not be reimbursed.
Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Montenegrin nationals. You’ll have to pay for your prescribed medicines and for other medical treatment.
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.
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 (ambulance, fire, police)
Ambulance: 124
Fire: 123
Police: 122
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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Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
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