Montenegro Tour Information
At Journey Beyond Travel, we get lots of questions all the time about Montenegro. We try to keep this list updated so that you can get an understanding about how we run our Montenegro tours. We are different from a lot of other tour operators and pride ourselves on our dedicated staff and deep knowledge of the country. Find out how you can customize your tour for a bespoke experience tailored to your travel needs. Read through these common questions we get as our answers may help you decide if we are the best tour operator for you!
Please reach out and send us an email if you have any questions at all!
What kinds of tours are available?
Coastal tours, cultural heritage trips, mountain adventures, wine routes, and active tours (hiking, rafting, skiing)
What transportation options are available?
Buses connect most towns, but renting a car is ideal for exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. Roads are improving, but mountain routes can be challenging.
Is Montenegro safe?
Yes, it’s considered very safe for travelers with low crime rates. Use common travel sense.
Do I need a visa?
Citizens of the EU, UK, USA, Canada, and many others can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Always check up-to-date requirements before traveling.
Is tipping expected?
Appreciated but not mandatory. 5–10% is standard in restaurants or for good service.
Best time to visit?
- For beaches and coastal cities: May–September
- For hiking: May–October
- For skiing: December–March
Can I drink tap water?
Yes, the water is generally safe and clean, especially in the mountains.
Some of our Favorite Montenegro Tours
We’ve got some great Montenegro tours we’ve developed over the years. These are some of our favorites. And, while many tour operators have similar routes, it’s really the inner-workings and attention to detail that truly matter and make our Montenegro tours stand out.
Ultimate Montenegro
This Montenegro tour takes you on a journey through the country’s dramatic coastlines, medieval towns, and rugged mountain landscapes. From the fortified streets of Kotor’s Old Town to the sparkling Bay of Kotor, the royal city of Cetinje, and the tranquil shores of Lake Skadar, each day reveals a mix of ancient heritage, stunning scenery, and rich Mediterranean culture. Enjoy boat rides on crystal-clear bays, visits to centuries-old monasteries, traditional Montenegrin meals, and panoramic drives through mountain passes, all designed to immerse you in the heart of Montenegro.
JBT World Collection Testimonials
Read what our clients are saying about our tours. We work endlessly to ensure that those who travel with our team have an unparalleled experience. Take a look at the reviews of our private trips. And, if you’d like to talk to one of our past travelers, just let us know!
“Our Spain journey with JBT was even better than we imagined, the perfect complement to our Morocco adventure. From seamless planning in Madrid to Andalusia’s beauty, every detail was cared for. We adored our city guides, and our driver Jebril welcomed us into his home for a delicious couscous meal — a memory we’ll treasure forever. The special touches from Amina and Lucas, from homemade gifts to sharing lunch together, made us feel like family. Truly, it was one of the best trips of our lives, and we can’t wait to explore more of the world with JBT!”
The Durants
“Our Italy trip with JBT was absolutely unforgettable. From the moment Alexei crafted our detailed, personalized itinerary — even pulling off a last-minute hot air balloon ride for my niece — we knew we were in the best hands. Each day was filled with extraordinary experiences, from private tours of Rome and Florence’s greatest treasures to a pasta-making class and a Chianti winery lunch. Our guides were exceptional, our hotels perfectly located and welcoming, and every driver and detail seamless. JBT once again exceeded my expectations, and I wouldn’t hesitate to turn to them for future adventures anywhere in the world!”
Judy F.
“Our Japan adventure with JBT was nothing short of epic! The itinerary Jon crafted was so thoughtfully designed — from a serene start in Hakone to the journey through ancient traditions and modern wonders — and the variety of lodging, from ryokans to a Kyoto townhouse to a glamping tent, made it truly unforgettable. The train instructions were flawless, and having Yuka as our guide and new friend was a gift. After two incredible journeys with JBT, we can honestly say you are the best!”
Kelley and Steve
Montenegro Travel Information
We hope that as you prepare for your personalized Montenegro tour that you’ll be able to use our website as a handy reference. We’ve got all sorts of information to share here with you about Portugal! Enjoy learning and feel free to check out our blog for more information, articles, and videos to help you prepare for your travels through Montenegro. This information, among other details, will be sent to you in a packet before your Montenegro vacation begins.
Introduction to Montenegro
Montenegro is a small but breathtakingly diverse country in Southeast Europe, located on the Adriatic Sea. Nestled between Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania, it is known for its dramatic mountains, medieval villages, and pristine beaches. Despite its compact size, Montenegro offers an astonishing variety of landscapes, from rugged peaks in the north to sparkling coastal towns in the south.
Montenegro is a parliamentary republic, with a President serving as head of state and a Prime Minister leading the government. As of the last update, Jakov Milatovic was President, and Milojko Spajic served as Prime Minister.
Montenegro boasts a rich history influenced by Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman civilizations. It was part of the former Yugoslavia and gained independence peacefully from its union with Serbia in 2006. Its cultural heritage is deeply rooted in both Eastern Orthodox Christianity and the Mediterranean spirit, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals.
The official language is Montenegrin, though Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, and Croatian are also spoken, reflecting the country’s ethnic and linguistic diversity. Montenegro’s population of about 620,000 people is known for its warmth and hospitality.
Montenegro’s climate varies: the coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, while the interior has a more continental climate, including snow-covered mountains perfect for skiing in winter.
Montenegrin cuisine blends Balkan, Mediterranean, and Turkish influences. Local dishes include cevapi (grilled minced meat), njeguški pršut (dry-cured ham), fresh seafood, and hearty stews. Montenegrins also produce excellent wines and rakija (fruit brandy).
Tourism is a major part of the economy, with popular destinations including Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; the glamorous coastal town of Budva; and the stunning Durmitor National Park in the north. Montenegro is also part of the European Union accession process, aspiring to become a full member.
In terms of daily life, Montenegrins tend to dress stylishly, especially in urban centers and coastal areas. Visitors should pack both beachwear and layers for the mountainous regions.
Montenegro offers a unique mix of Adriatic charm, alpine adventure, and Balkan hospitality—perfect for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Country Facts
OFFICIAL NAME: Montenegro (Crna Gora)
CAPITAL CITY: Podgorica (Cetinje is the historical and cultural capital)
GOVERNMENT: Parliamentary Republic
RULER: President (As of latest update: Jakov Milatovic)
GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION: Southeastern Europe, on the Adriatic Sea, bordered by Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania
GEOGRAPHY: Coastal plains, mountainous interior, deep canyons, high plateaus, and glacial lakes
BODIES OF WATER: Adriatic Sea, Skadar Lake (largest lake in the Balkans), Tara and Moraca rivers
POPULATION: Approximately 620,000
AREA: 13,812 sq km / 5,333 sq miles
COASTLINE: 293 km / 182 miles
LANGUAGES: Montenegrin (official); Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, Croatian also recognized
ETHNICITY: Montenegrin, Serb, Bosniak, Albanian, Croat
RELIGION: Mainly Eastern Orthodox; also Muslim and Catholic minorities
LITERACY RATE: Over 98%
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE: Approx. 15% (can vary over time)
CURRENCY: Euro (EUR), despite not being an EU member
ANNUAL PER CAPITA GDP: Around $9,000 – $11,000 USD (varies)
ARABLE LAND: Approximately 13%
FORESTS: Around 45% of land area
AGRICULTURE: Wine, olives, citrus fruits, vegetables, livestock
NATURAL RESOURCES: Bauxite, hydropower, forests, coal
INDUSTRIES: Tourism, energy, agriculture, aluminum, textiles
NUMBER OF TOURISTS IN 2019: Over 2.5 million
LARGEST CITIES: Podgorica, Nikšic, Herceg Novi, Bar, Budva, Kotor
TIME ZONE: Central European Time (CET), UTC+1
TELEPHONE COUNTRY CODE: +382
CLIMATE: Mediterranean on the coast; continental in the interior
HOTTEST CITY: Podgorica
COLDEST CITY: Žabljak (in the mountains)
BEST TIMES TO VISIT: May–September for the coast; December–March for skiing in the north
PEOPLE: Hospitable, family-oriented, and proud of their heritage and natural landscapes
Geography
Montenegro spans 13,812 square kilometers and packs in stunning variety—from the Bay of Kotor, a winding fjord-like bay with ancient towns and fortified walls, to the Durmitor Mountains, home to glacial lakes and the Tara River Canyon—the deepest in Europe.
The Adriatic coastline is famous for its pebbled beaches, picturesque old towns, and sun-drenched resorts. Inland, rugged mountains dominate, with peaks over 2,500 meters and dense forests. Montenegro also features Lake Skadar, shared with Albania, and numerous rivers ideal for rafting, fishing, and kayaking.
The Tara River Canyon, part of the Durmitor National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top destination for eco-tourism.
Money & Shopping
Montenegro uses the Euro (EUR), even though it’s not part of the EU. Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are common in cities and tourist areas.
ATMs are accessible in most towns. Tipping is customary (5–10% in restaurants and for tour guides), though not obligatory. Prices are generally lower than Western Europe, but coastal resorts can be more expensive in peak season.
Popular souvenirs include handmade jewelry, local wines, rakija, woolen crafts, and olive oil.
Internet, Phone, Post, and Health
Montenegro has good internet coverage, especially in tourist areas. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and restaurants. Local SIM cards (Telenor, Crnogorski Telekom, One) are easy to buy and offer affordable data plans.
The country code is +382, and Montenegro operates on 230V European-style sockets.
Postal services are reliable, and healthcare is decent, with good emergency care and many doctors speaking English. Dial 124 for emergency medical help.
Travel insurance is recommended, especially for adventure sports or travel to remote areas.
If you like reading stellar travel articles, explore our journal for even more great expert information!
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Eco-Tourism Provider
