Car Rental in Sutomore

Where to drive

• Drive north to the historic town of Budva, approximately 30 minutes (25 km), famous for its Old Town and lively nightlife.
• Head south to the charming old town of Bar, about 15 minutes (10 km), and further to Ulcinj, roughly 45 minutes (40 km), known for its long sandy beaches and Ottoman-era architecture.
• Explore Lake Skadar National Park, a vast freshwater lake shared with Albania, about 30 minutes (20 km) inland, offering boat trips and birdwatching opportunities.
• Take a scenic drive up to Cetinje, Montenegro's old royal capital, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes (50 km), passing through picturesque mountain roads.
• Visit Petrovac, a quieter coastal town with beautiful beaches and a Venetian fortress, just 15 minutes (10 km) north of Sutomore.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Montenegro, you typically need a valid national 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 highly recommended, and often required by rental companies, especially if your license is not in Latin script. The minimum age for renting is usually 21, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or 25 for certain car categories, and often an additional 'young driver' fee applies for those under 25. Drivers usually need at least 2 years of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Sutomore vary significantly by season and car 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, prices can easily double or even triple across all categories, reflecting high demand.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Montenegro, vehicles drive on the right. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h outside urban areas, and 100 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is 0.3‰. Headlights must be on at all times, even during the day. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are required for children under 5 years old or shorter than 135 cm.

Parking

Parking in Sutomore, especially during the summer season, can be challenging. There are designated paid parking zones in many central areas and near popular beaches, often indicated by signs. Payment is typically made via parking meters or by SMS to a local number. Free parking might be available further from the center or at your accommodation, but it's advisable to confirm in advance. Always check signage carefully to avoid fines or towing.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available along main roads and in most towns, including Sutomore. You'll find unleaded petrol (Eurosuper 95 and 98) and diesel (Eurodiesel). Prices are regulated and generally comparable to other European countries, though subject to change; expect to pay approximately 1.50-1.70 EUR per liter for petrol or diesel as of 2026. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For navigating Sutomore's often narrow streets and Montenegro's winding coastal roads, an economy or compact car with a manual transmission is often the most practical choice. It offers better maneuverability and easier parking. If you plan extensive trips into the mountains or prefer more comfort, a mid-size sedan or a small SUV can be suitable, especially if you have more luggage. Automatic transmission cars are available but might be less common and slightly more expensive.

Frequently asked questions