Exploring the beauty of Montenegro in an adventure on four tyres and renting a car is the ultimate way to see all that this Adriatic country can offer. From panoramic coastal to risky mountain roads, having your own set of wheels gives you more freedom on your trip setting the peace you want.
Exploring the beauty of Montenegro in an adventure on four tyres and renting a car is the ultimate way to see all that this Adriatic country can offer. From panoramic coastal to risky mountain roads, having your own set of wheels gives you more freedom on your trip setting the peace you want.
But how do you go about renting a car in Montenegro? Continue to read to learn everything you need to know about car hire.
Key Benefits of Hiring a Car in Montenegro
Why should you even consider hiring a car in Montenegro? The answer is simple – convenience and flexibility.
Driving a rented car, you can explore at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you want. Relying on public transportation in Montenegro or joining tour groups gives you less time to focus on the things important to you.
According to a recent survey, over 65% of travellers prefer renting a car due to relaxed vacations and flexibility to visit main attractions in Montenegro.
And let’s not forget the amazing countryside that makes for the ultimate road trip. From the largest fjord in the Adriatic Sea Bay of Kotor to the National Park of Durmitor, you’ll want to explore every inch of Montenegro.
What You Need For Car Hire in Montenegro?
Before you start planning your road trip in Montenegro, you’ll need to meet a few basic requirements for car hire.
First and foremost, you’ll need a valid National driver’s license or International. If you’re coming from an EU country, your license should be enough. However, if you’re from outside the EU, you may need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before your trip. This needs to be checked with a car rental company before you make a booking. For example, citizens of Russia, Ukraine or Turkey can drive with a National driver’s license.
Most international car rental companies in Montenegro require you to be at least 21 years old, but with local car rental companies is different. You can hire a car even if you are 18 years old, which is super good.
It’s always best to check with your specific car hire in Montenegro to avoid any unwanted surprises.
Top Car Rental Companies in Montenegro
When it comes to choosing a car rental company it’s important to understand that there are international brands and local agencies. Remember that international companies are cheaper in terms of rents, BUT in most cases, they will charge you everything else from small scratches to tyre rapids. Usually, they take a huge deposit from credit cards. Our advice is to carefully read the terms and conditions for rentals.
Opposite to international brands are, local car hire companies. Most of them take small deposits but the good thing is you can purchase daily insurance called Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and be protected if anything happens with the car on the road or parking. Usually, CDW for economy-class vehicles is from 10 to 12 EUR.
Here are some of the best car rental companies in Montenegro:
- Locallrent.me: This platform is a one-stop shop for car rental in Montenegro, offering competitive prices and a wide selection of vehicles. They work with reputable local companies, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Tara-Car rent a car Podgorica: Another Podgorica-based company, Tara-Car is known for its friendly service and affordable rates, with over 150 positive reviews.
- Sixt: An international brand with a strong presence in Montenegro, Sixt is a reliable choice for car rental in Podgorica and beyond.
- Europcar: Another global player, Europcar offers a diverse fleet and convenient pick-up/drop-off locations across Montenegro.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
With so many options, how do you choose the right vehicle for your Montenegrin road trip? We will explain what is the best vehicle to drive in Montenegro.
Here are a few factors to consider:
Group Size: If you’re travelling solo or as a couple, a compact or economy car should suffice. But if you’re travelling with a larger group or family, you’ll want to opt for a spacious sedan or even an SUV.
Terrain: Planning to explore the mountains or venture off the beaten path? No worry, the roads are good and economy class cars will be enough. And we do not recommend going off-road with car hire as can cause damage to a car which leads to extra charges from the rental company.
Fuel Efficiency: Montenegro’s scenic routes can be long and winding, so fuel efficiency is essential. Consider a hybrid or smaller engine for better gas mileage. Also automatic is preferred, but manual transmission is usually cheaper.
Car Rental Prices in Montenegro
The prices of renting a car in Montenegro can vary significantly depending on the season, the type of vehicle, and the duration of your rental.
Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:
Low Season from November to March: During the off-peak months, you can find compact cars for as little as €5 per day.
High Season from June to September: Summer season rates can range from €35-60 per day for a basic economy car, with luxury vehicles commanding even higher prices.
To save some cash, consider renting for a longer period. Many companies offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly rentals. Additionally, booking well in advance can help you find the best deals.
Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like insurance, fuel, and any extras you might need (GPS, child seats, eSIM cards etc.). These can quickly add up, so it’s always wise to plan a budget.
Top Tips for Renting a Car in Montenegro
Now that you know the basics, let’s see what are the recommendations and tips to make your car rental seamless in Montenegro:
- Read the Contract: Before signing any contracts, carefully review the terms and conditions. Pay close attention to policies regarding insurance, fuel policies, and any additional fees.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Upon pick-up, thoroughly inspect the car for any pre-existing damage and document it with photos or video. Also, make sure to check under the vehicle. This will protect you from being held responsible for existing issues.
- Understand the Insurance: It’s not easy to understand rental insurance policies. Sometimes they can be very complex and confusing for people who do not rent vehicles often. Keep in mind that most rental agencies offer different insurance packages. Familiarise yourself with the coverage and make the right decision based on your needs and budget.
- Know the Rules of the Road: Brush up on Montenegro’s traffic laws and regulations. Things like speed limits, parking restrictions, and driving etiquette can vary from country to country.
- Plan Road Trip: While spontaneity can be fun, it’s wise to have a general idea of your route and destination. This will help you choose the most suitable vehicle and plan for any necessary permits or insurance.
- Stay Connected: Consider renting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot or purchasing a local eSIM card. Having reliable navigation and internet access can be a lifesaver, especially in remote areas.
- Enjoy Adventure: Most importantly, remember to enjoy your road trip. Renting a car in Montenegro gives you the possibility to explore the entire country and to visit neighbouring countries as well.
Cross-Border Travel and One-Way Rentals
If you decide to extend Montenegrin road trips beyond its borders, many car rental companies allow cross-border travel and one-way rentals. However, be prepared for additional fees and paperwork. However, some rental companies will allow you to cross borders for a small fee, but you have to prepare yourself that some agencies will request additional insurance like theft protection etc.
Cross-border travel typically requires a “green card” from your rental company, which covers you for insurance in neighbouring countries like Albania.
One-way rentals, where you pick up the car in one location and drop it off in another, often incur a one-way fee to cover the cost of returning the vehicle.
Be sure to discuss this with your rental company upfront and obtain the necessary documentation and approvals.
Hiring a car in Montenegro is more than just a mode of transportation – it’s a gateway to great adventure and unforgettable experiences, driving scenic Adriatic roads.
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