Car Rental Podgorica

Where to drive

• Drive to Lake Skadar National Park, just a 30-minute drive (approx. 25 km) south, for boat tours, birdwatching, and traditional villages like Virpazar.
• Head to the historic coastal town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, approximately 1.5 hours (≈ 90 km) west, offering stunning fjord-like scenery and ancient architecture.
• Explore the Ostrog Monastery, a remarkable monastery built into a cliff face, roughly 1 hour (≈ 50 km) north of Podgorica, a significant pilgrimage site.
• Visit Biogradska Gora National Park, one of Europe's last primeval forests, about 2 hours (≈ 100 km) northeast, perfect for hiking and enjoying pristine nature.
• Discover the royal capital of Cetinje, approximately 45 minutes (≈ 35 km) southwest, offering museums and historical buildings, en route to Lovćen National Park.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Montenegro, you typically need a valid driver's license from your home country, a passport, and a credit card in the main driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and often required by local police, especially if your license is not in Latin script. The minimum age for renting is generally 21 years old, with at least 2 years of driving experience. Some companies may charge a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Podgorica vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 10-15 EUR per day in the low season, rising to 30-50 EUR or more in peak summer. Mid-range vehicles might cost 25-40 EUR off-peak and 60-90 EUR during high demand. SUVs and premium cars can range from 50 EUR to over 150 EUR daily, depending on the model and time of year. Booking well in advance, especially for summer travel, is highly recommended to secure better rates.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Montenegro, driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on highways (where available). Headlights must be on at all times, day and night. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is very low, approximately 0.3 permille, so it's safest to avoid alcohol entirely when driving. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 5 years old.

Parking

In Podgorica, parking is generally paid in designated zones during business hours. You can usually pay via SMS (if you have a local SIM card) or by purchasing a parking ticket from a kiosk or attendant. There are also several paid parking garages. Outside of the city center, free parking might be available, but always check signs carefully to avoid fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are widely available throughout Montenegro, especially along main roads and in towns. Both petrol (gasoline) and diesel are commonly available. The approximate price for a liter of fuel typically ranges from 1.40 EUR to 1.60 EUR, subject to market fluctuations. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to carry some cash, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For driving in and around Podgorica, an economy or compact car is suitable for city driving and trips to nearby attractions. If you plan to explore the mountainous regions or travel off the main paved roads, an SUV or a car with higher ground clearance would be a more comfortable and practical choice. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are available, though often at a higher price.

Frequently asked questions