Car Rental Petrovac, Montenegro

A car puts the entire Montenegrin coastline at your fingertips, transforming Petrovac from a charming beach town into your launchpad for Adriatic adventures, from the iconic Sveti Stefan to the ancient walls of Kotor. Navigate winding coastal roads and uncover hidden coves at your own pace, ensuring every scenic vista and authentic village experience is within easy reach.

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Petrovac, Montenegro

Where to drive

Explore Sveti Stefan: Drive just 10 km (≈15 minutes) north to marvel at the iconic island-hotel of Sveti Stefan, a picturesque former fishing village.
Visit Budva Old Town: A short 17 km (≈25 minutes) drive will take you to the bustling medieval walled city of Budva, famous for its vibrant nightlife and historical charm.
Discover Kotor Bay: Journey approximately 50 km (≈1 hour) to the stunning Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its dramatic fjords and ancient fortified town.
Day trip to Skadar Lake National Park: Head inland about 40 km (≈45 minutes) to Skadar Lake, the largest lake in the Balkans, perfect for boat trips and birdwatching.
Relax at Lučice Beach: Just 1.5 km (≈5 minutes) south of Petrovac, this beautiful sandy beach offers clear waters and a more secluded atmosphere than the main town beach.
Coastal drive to Bar: Drive south for about 30 km (≈35 minutes) to the port city of Bar, exploring its Old Town (Stari Bar) ruins nestled in the mountains.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Montenegro, you typically need a valid driving license, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is often recommended, especially if your license is not in English or a Latin alphabet. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 and to have held their license for at least 2 years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Petrovac vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. During the peak summer months, expect prices to increase by 50-100% across all categories due to high demand. The lowest daily prices can be found outside of July and August.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

25€

Feb

30€

Mar

35€

Apr

45€

May

60€

Jun

80€

Jul

85€

Aug

65€

Sep

40€

Oct

30€

Nov

25€

Dec

Demand by month

20%

Jan

20%

Feb

30%

Mar

45%

Apr

60%

May

80%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

85%

Sep

50%

Oct

30%

Nov

25%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Montenegro, drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h outside urban areas, and 130 km/h on motorways, where available. Headlights must be on at all times, day and night. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 5 must use an appropriate child seat.

Parking

In Petrovac, parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are designated paid parking zones in the town center and near popular beaches, often managed by meters or attendants. Free parking can be found further away from the main attractions, but availability is limited. Always look for parking signs and avoid parking illegally to prevent fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available along main roads and in larger towns across Montenegro. In Petrovac, you will find a few local stations. Unleaded petrol (BMB 98 and BMB 95) and diesel are standard. Fuel prices are comparable to other European countries, often fluctuating. Payment is typically by cash or credit card.

Which car to choose

For exploring Petrovac and the surrounding coastal areas, a compact or economy car is often sufficient and easier to navigate on narrow, winding roads and for parking. If you plan to venture into the mountains or desire more comfort for longer trips, an SUV with good ground clearance would be beneficial. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are available, though they might be slightly more expensive.

Pros

Flexibility to explore hidden beaches and coves inaccessible by public transport.
Freedom to visit historical towns like Kotor and Budva at your own pace.
Opportunity to discover stunning national parks such as Skadar Lake.
Convenient for carrying luggage and beach gear.
Easily access restaurants and attractions outside of Petrovac center.

Cons

Parking in Petrovac and other popular towns can be difficult and costly, especially in summer.
Some roads, particularly in mountainous areas, can be narrow and winding.
Traffic can be heavy during the peak tourist season (July-August) on coastal routes.
Fuel costs can add up, especially with extensive driving.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Petrovac?

Typically, the minimum age to rent a car in Montenegro is 21 years old. Some rental companies may require drivers to be 23 or even 25 for certain vehicle categories or may apply a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for car rental in Montenegro?

While not always strictly required if your national license is in English and uses a Latin alphabet, an IDP is highly recommended. It serves as an official translation of your license and can prevent issues with local authorities or rental agencies.

What payment methods are accepted for car rental in Petrovac?

Most car rental companies require a major credit card (Visa, MasterCard) in the main driver's name for the security deposit. Cash payments for the rental fee may be accepted by some local companies, but a credit card for the deposit is almost always mandatory.

Can I pick up my rental car at Podgorica or Tivat Airport and drop it off in Petrovac?

Yes, many rental companies offer one-way rentals between different locations, including airport pickups (Podgorica TGD or Tivat TIV) and drop-offs in Petrovac. Be aware that a one-way fee usually applies. You can check options and fees on platforms like RentoRika.

What is the cancellation policy for car rentals in Petrovac?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking platform. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, while others may charge a fee. Always check the specific terms and conditions of your booking before confirming.

Are there any toll roads in Montenegro?

There is currently one major toll road in Montenegro, the Sozina Tunnel, located on the route between Podgorica and Bar, which you might use when traveling to or from Petrovac. The toll is usually a few Euros and can be paid in cash.

Available cars — Petrovac