In the previous period, we received many inquiries on the subject of a road trip through Montenegro. From where to start the trip, which car to rent, and what to visit in a short time. With that, we decided to create a road trip itinerary for you in 3 days through Montenegro.
Since our agency offers a large selection of well-maintained and new vehicles for rent, take a look at our offer.
Choice of car
When it comes to choosing a car, we suggest opting for an SUV if you plan to travel in mountainous areas, of course. Small cars are also great, especially with good infrastructure. When it comes to visiting coastal cities, where during the summer season it is expected to be very crowded, we recommend cars from the mini and economy categories. Due to greater flexibility through city traffic, easier finding of parking spaces, and efficiency in fuel consumption.
After you have decided on a car, our sales agent will meet you at the previously agreed-upon address to hand over the ready vehicle to you.
If your starting point is to rent a car in Podgorica, we suggest that you start your trip with the Skadar Lake National Park property.
Day 1: Lake Skadar
Start with Lake Skadar, an easy 25-30 minutes from the airport or the city center of Podgorica via Virpazar, where stone bridges and fishing boats set the timeless rhythm and historical heritage of this climate. Skadar is the largest lake in Europe, and the best way to feel its size is from the water.
At the visitor center in Virpazar, pay the entrance fee for the national park for 4.5 EUR and choose the boat tour that suits you: shorter trips of 1-2 hours glide through canals surrounded by lilies and past island fortresses, while longer trips include stops at monasteries and swimming if the weather is favorable. Local skippers know how to thread the reed mazes when the light is soft and the birdlife is active, and small private boats can reach quieter spots where the lake quiets down and you can take a swim break. Prices for a 2-hour tour are usually 20-25 EUR per person. It is usually free for children with their parents.
After the two-hour tour, stay for lunch on the lake, simple barbecue, fresh fish, and local wine, Vranac or Kratošija, or visit Rijeka Crnojevića, a historical place for Montenegro. For the night, either rent accommodation on the lake or in Budva so that you can breathe in the fresh smell of the sea in the morning.
Day 2: Budva, Kotor
The second day stretches along the coastal part, where the old town of Budva sits like a sunlit stage. Although the town can feel lively, its core of cobblestone streets, tiny chapels, and sea-covered walls retains an older romance, especially early or late in the day.
While the sun hasn't seen noon yet, we suggest a visit to St. Stefan, one of the most luxurious places on the Adriatic. After sightseeing in St. Stefan, drive to Kotor in a comfortable car.
Kotor is ideal for a day visit, through the streets and cathedrals, you will enjoy. Protected under UNESCO heritage, it is one of the most beautiful pearls of the Montenegrin coast.
After visiting the old town of Kotor, we suggest one of two options.
A visit to the Kotor-Lovćen cable car or the fishing village of Perast.
If you decide to take the cable car, you will enjoy the wonderful view from Lovcen of the Bay of Kotor, with an incredible sunset. At the top, you can find various facilities, a bobsleigh track, hiking tours, biking, restaurants, and cafes with a stunning view.
In case you visit Perast, expect to be left breathless. A small and charming place, with a great history, in which you can enjoy a walk. You will find many excellent restaurants in the town, such as the Conte restaurant. In addition, we recommend a visit by boat to Our Lady of Škrpjela. Since it is not allowed to drive through Perast, the car park is located at the entrance to the town, and usually costs around 6 EUR for the day.
Day 3: Durmitor
On the third day, trade the sea for the heights as the route bends inland towards Durmitor National Park and the mountain town of Žabljak. The road climbs into the pale limestone mountains where the meadows rise and fall like waves, and the Sedlo pass, paved but narrow and mostly without guardrail, passes through the jagged heart of the massif.
It is the highest road pass in Montenegro, and the switchbacks are irresistible: layered ridges, hidden tarns, trails leading to peaks such as Bobot's hip. Drive patiently, ease into tight corners, and let the landscape set the pace.
Read more: The Best Outdoor Activities on Durmitor
Then visit Black Lake, a true natural pearl of Durmitor National Park. Here you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake and lunch at the restaurant on the lake. Entrance to the national park is 5 EUR.
When it's time to return, expect a 2.5-3 hour drive back to Podgorica Airport from Žabljak.