Is Montenegro Expensive? 7 Tips To Save You Money

Montenegro has been on our travel list for a while. We wanted to see and explore it before it becomes too popular and loses its charm. As more and more travellers discover Montenegro, one question consistently arises: Is Montenegro expensive?

The short answer is no, but it can get very expensive if you don’t plan your trip properly. We have covered all the key areas to consider in this article if you want to avoid unnecessary spending.

This year, we finally did it and spent 7 days exploring the country – check out our Montenegro guide for all the areas to look for to save money.

Despite its growing popularity, Montenegro remains a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast and one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations. We were left speechless by its dramatic mountain landscapes, medieval towns, and crystal-clear waters.

It is not a straightforward question with a simple yes-or-no answer, and it depends on many factors. For example, we live in London (one of the more expensive cities in the world), so for us most places seem cheaper!

This doesn’t mean, though, that they are affordable in general. It is all relative to the budget, spending habits, timing, and what we compare it to.

In this article, we will answer the question by providing detailed cost insights for various travel styles and budgets. We will break it down by area and also provide you with saving tips for visiting Montenegro.

Whether you’re a backpacker seeking adventure on a shoestring budget, a mid-range traveler looking for comfort without breaking the bank, or a luxury enthusiast ready to indulge, understanding Montenegro’s cost structure will help you plan the perfect trip while managing your expenses effectively.

Is Montenegro Expensive? Our view.

As we mentioned above, we live in London, where the daily cost of living is very high. Accommodation, food, and experiences are making many places around the world more affordable by default. This doesn’t mean we like to splash during our trips and always look for a balance between saving on the trip and having a good experience.

So, where does Montenegro sit, and is it expensive? We found it to be very affordable, actually, compared to its neighboring European countries, such as Greece, Italy, or even Croatia. That is why it ranks high on various budget-friendly countries lists.

It is important to highlight that the country s changing and in recent years became one of the more popular destinations in the region. The increasing presence of luxury resorts and high-end developments, particularly along the coast, has created a significant increase in costs in those areas. 

Places like Tivat, Kotor, and Budva have been impacted by these developments, but remain more affordable compared to similar experiences in other Western European tourist spots.

Additionally, there are still many affordable and budget-friendly options available for accommodations and dining, allowing you to stay within your budget.

We experienced an authentic Mediterranean culture without paying the hefty price tags that are common in other Western European countries. 

So, let’s dive into the details and insights into the cost of accommodation, transportation, food, and experiences.

Daily travel costs & budget types

The best place to start is by establishing your budget type and from there determining how much you will spend per day to stick to it. The daily spend can go up and down a bit, but there are certain essentials that you will spend money on no matter what, and that is accommodation and food.

Understanding daily travel costs is the key to determining whether Montenegro is expensive for your specific travel style. The answer to the question “Is Montenegro expensive?” depends largely on your travel preferences and budget expectations. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend per day based on different budget categories:

Budget Travelers 

If you are a Budget Traveler or a backpacker, we think you can easily explore Montenegro for €40–€60 per day. We assume that you will stay in dorms, hostels, or guesthouses. Additionally, you will either prepare your meals or dine at local restaurants or street vendors. 

This amount can be affected by the time of your travel. Everything is more expensive during high season, so it’s worth keeping that in mind when planning your trip and budget. 

When it comes to transportation, you can take buses between main towns and cities. This will allow you to save money compared to car rental costs, which can be expensive when you add insurance and petrol.

Mid-Range Travelers

We consider ourselves in this bracket. What we budgeted for our trip was approximately. €180 per day for the two of us, and we felt it was a comfortable amount to experience Montenegro. On average, a mid-range traveller spends around €130 per person, but this amount again depends on personal choices regarding the quality of accommodation, dining out, and excursions.

We assume staying in 3-4 star hotels, Airbnb apartments, or guesthouses. Also assumehere that you will be eating at a mix of local and mid-range restaurants, renting a car to travel between places, and taking part in some paid activities and guided tours. 

Luxury Travelers

Well, here, the sky is the limit, really. We would consider spending anything above €280-€300 to automatically place you in the Luxury Traveler bracket. 

Montenegro is the ideal destination for those seeking to stay in high-end hotels and resorts, dine at fine restaurants, and enjoy private experiences at relatively moderate prices.

Are stays expensive in Montenegro?

Accommodation represents one of the most significant factors in establishing a budget and usually accounts for 60% or more of a daily (or overall) budget. We have already mentioned above that the price of accommodation varies significantly and caters to all types of budgets and travelers.

We will provide you with a few examples below for each type, so you can get an idea of what you can expect for your money.

Budget Options

There are so many budget options available throughout Montenegro, with hostels and guesthouses ranging from €15 to €30 per night. These options are particularly prevalent in popular destinations like Kotor, Budva, and Zabljak. 

You will find here clean, safe, and often cute accommodation options that provide excellent value for money. Many of those places also include breakfast which will help you save money on food. They also and offer comunal areas where you can meet and socialize with other fellow travelers.

Mid-Range Hotels 

These hotels typically range between €50 and €100 per night, representing the sweet spot between budget and luxury. These apartments and boutique hotels offer comfortable rooms, private bathrooms, air conditioning, and often include breakfast. 

Many mid-range accommodations feature stunning views, providing exceptional value for the price point. We stayed in 2 locations where the view from our room was unreal.

Luxury Hotels & Resorts 

Montenegro’s growing reputation as a high-end destination is visible in those luxury resorts. Properties like One&Only Portonovi lead the way for premium rates. Their prices range from €700 (for a standard double room)  to over €4,500 per night for their most exclusive suites! 

Porto Montenegro in Tivat offers luxury at more reasonable prices, ranging from €300 (for a one-bedroom apartment) to € 2,000 for their most exclusive suite. All those hotels offer private beaches, multiple restaurants, spa services, and personalized concierge experiences that rival the finest properties anywhere in Europe.

Is food expensive in Montenegro?

The food in Montenegro is delicious, and we thoroughly enjoyed trying local and traditional dishes. We dined in both nicer restaurants and local eateries during our trip. We can assure you 100% that the culinary scene offers options for every budget, while maintaining high quality and authentic flavours. 

Local Restaurants

Those provide the most budget-friendly dining experiences and value for money. Authentic and traditional meals in family-run restaurants typically cost €5 to €10 per person. Local eateries serve hearty portions of specialties like ćevapi, pljeskavica, and fresh seafood dishes. 

Eating at local eateries not only saves money but also provides an authentic cultural experience. Additionally, it is a great way to support local businesses and residents.

We found that eating at local restaurants helped us stay within our budget and proved that you don’t have to eat at expensive restaurants to enjoy traditional Montenegrin cuisine. 

Mid-Range Restaurants 

These restaurants often offer a more sociable atmosphere, a more extensive menu, and a wine list, whilst still maintaining a reasonable price. You can expect to pay between €15 and €30 per person for a meal, which is a great value compared to other European countries. 

Many mid-range restaurants in Montenegro offer spectacular views whilst you eat.

Groceries and meal prepping

This is the most budget-friendly option, but it requires accommodations with kitchen facilities. Local markets offer fresh produce, seafood, and regional specialties at very reasonable prices. It is the most cost-effective option, but you will need to spend time preparing all the meals.

Whilst cheaper, this option is more for slow travellers, where time to explore the country is not a limiting factor. To be more efficient, we recommend a combination of self-catering for breakfast and dinner, with local restaurants for lunch.

Is transport Expensive in Montenegro?

Transport costs in Montenegro are relatively affordable, even when renting a car or using taxis. We almost always rent a car personally, as we want the flexibility it provides. However, it does come with some challenges, which we will cover under the car rental section. 

As we didn’t use public transport during our trip, we will only cover those costs based on what we have learnt during our trip and what friends shared with us.

Public Transport 

Apart from driving, buses are the most popular way to get around Montenegro. If you don’t want to rent a car and save money, you can still get to most places. The only exception are the small villages in the mountains.

From what we heard, buses are very reliable and punctual. The best way to get your ticket is to buy it online or at the bus stop. Bus fares typically range from €0.50 to €5, depending on the distance. Popular routes, such as Kotor to Budva, cost around €3-€ 5, while longer journeys, like Kotor to Ulcinj, take approximately 4.5 hours and cost around €10.

When purchasing an online bus ticket, please make sure you read the fine print. Most bus companies require a printed copy to be shown when you board the bus. In addition, there are some extra fees that you’ll have to pay before you get on the bus. 

One of them is a bus station fee, which is around €0.50 to €1, and you pay it for getting on a bus at the station. Strange but true. Additionally, you will have to pay a baggage fee of approximately €1 per bag for your suitcase or backpack, so it’s essential to have cash on hand for this purpose.

Car rentals

Renting a car provides excellent flexibility for exploring Montenegro and its diverse landscapes. Prices vary depending on the rental company, vehicle type, rental duration, and seasonal demand. We recommend renting a car if you want to explore some of the more remote areas or if you’re short on time, as waiting for buses can impact your trip.

Daily rental rates starting from €15 and €30. We found a great deal on Kayak.com for €14, which included unlimited mileage, allowing us to explore without any restrictions. There are a few things to note here, as it can be a hidden cost. The daily cost provides very basic insurance, and if you’re renting a car in Montenegro, we strongly recommend getting full insurance. 

Car Insurance

Rental companies often offer insurance, but it is typically more than twice the amount you pay for the car rental! Review the fine print and look for a car rental that includes insurance in the daily price. Don’t go for the cheapest option, as it will not include it.

If you travel frequently, check if your country offers an annual rental car insurance policy. It is something we have in the UK and we have been using it for years. Instead of paying additional car insurance each time, we purchase an annual policy that covers all rental cars in most countries worldwide. 

The cost of our annual policy is around £120, which is less than the car insurance we would have to pay in Montenegro for our trip!

Taxis 

As we had our car, we saved on using taxis to get to places. However, if you’re not planning to hire a car, taxis can be a convenient way to get to nearby areas. 

A trip within a city typically costs between €5 and €10. They are more expensive than public transportation in Montenegro, but we believe they remain reasonably priced compared to other European destinations.

Are tours expensive in Montenegro?

There is so much to do and see in Montenegro, and honestly, most of them are free! Even if you decide to take a tour or day trip (if you don’t have a car), those are very reasonably priced. 

We will cover the free activities here, but we will also include the indirect costs of some of them to be transparent and help you plan your budget.

Free Activities

Montenegro has so many incredible things to do that won’t cost you a thing. Activities such as hiking in national parks, visiting pristine beaches, exploring historic old towns, and enjoying panoramic viewpoints are free.

There are so many great hikes in and around Tivat and Kotor alone. Then, if you head into one of the national parks, such as Durmitor, Lovcen, or Biogradska Gora, you will be even more spoiled for choice. 

One thing to note is that you will need to pay a daily fee to enter those parks. It now costs €5 per day to enter any National Park. If you’re planning to stay for more than 2 days, we recommend buying an annual pass, which you can get online. You just need to register and get your pass there.

Paid Attractions

The paid attractions are reasonably priced, and entrance fees to museums and local attractions typically range from €3 to €10. As mentioned above, all National Parks require a daily entrance fee of €5, which helps protect the areas and provide facilities in some locations.

Guided Tours

Organized tours and day trips are a great way to explore and see Montenegro without the need to drive on those narrow roads. The prices start at €30 for group tours and range from €90 to €100 for a day tour, which is not expensive for Montenegro or Europe in general.

These tours typically include multiple stops, meals, and a guide, offering excellent value for those seeking a comprehensive experience.

Peak vs Off-Peak cost

The cost of your holiday can vary significantly and depends mainly on the time of year you visit. Accommodation, flights, car rental, and even food prices fluctuate throughout the year, and collectively, these factors can make your trip to Montenegro either expensive or very affordable. So let’s look at this in more detail.  

Peak Season (July–August)

The high season typically brings higher prices due to increased demand during this period. Accommodation rates can double or triple compared to off-season prices. For example, we paid £650 for 8 nights in April, but in the summer we would have to pay £1350 for the same accommodation!

However, even peak season rates in Montenegro often remain competitive with those in shoulder seasons of more expensive European destinations.

Shoulder Seasons (April–June, September–October) 

The shoulder season features lower prices throughout Montenegro. The weather is still lovely and warm, and the roads and towns are less congested. Flights are cheaper, and the overall experience is much more pleasant.

We saved over £1,000 on accommodation, flights, and car rental by visiting Montenegro in the shoulder season. We would have paid double for everything in the summer!

Off-Peak Season (November–March) 

The shoulder season features the lowest prices. However, some attractions, accommodations, or restaurants may be closed or operate reduced hours during those periods. 

Travelers willing to accept cooler weather and potential service limitations can experience Montenegro with significant savings across all areas.

Cheap vs Pricey Areas

The cost of accommodation and food varies significantly by region in Montenegro, which affects the overall assessment of whether Montenegro is an expensive destination.

Coastal Areas like Kotor, Budva, and Bar are generally more expensive due to their popularity with tourists and proximity to the Adriatic Sea. These destinations offer the highest concentration of restaurants, accommodations, and activities, but also command premium prices, especially during summer months.

Inland Regions, including Podgorica, Zabljak, and Pljevlja, offer more affordable options with fewer tourists and lower overall costs. These areas provide more authentic experiences and serve as perfect base for exploring Montenegro on a budget.

Emerging luxury spots, such as Tivat and Porto Montenegro, are developing upscale amenities that influence local pricing structures. These areas represent Montenegro’s most expensive regions, featuring luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and exclusive services that result in premium prices. However, even these luxury developments often provide better value than comparable hotels and resorts in established luxury destinations in other European countries.

Avoid Montenegro being expensive by

Travel Outside of High Season

To keep your Montenegro trip affordable, consider traveling during the shoulder season (April–June or September–October). You’ll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and much lower prices across the board, from accommodation and car rentals to tours and entry fees.

Walk More, Ride Smart

Montenegro’s compact towns, such as Kotor, Budva, and Perast, are perfect for walking. Not only will you save on transportation costs, but you’ll stumble upon tucked-away cafes, artisan shops, and stunning photo spots. For longer distances, skip the pricey taxis and use the public bus system—it’s reliable and only costs a few euros per ride between cities.

Dine Where the Locals Do

One of the quickest ways Montenegro can become expensive is by dining exclusively at tourist-targeted spots. Instead, look for konobas (traditional eateries) and bakeries where locals eat. You’ll enjoy hearty meals for as little as €5–€10. Also, check out farmers’ markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and snacks—ideal if you’re self-catering.

Enjoy Free and Low-Cost Activities

Some of Montenegro’s best experiences are completely free. Hike through Durmitor National Park, wander the old town of Kotor, swim in the Adriatic, or drive scenic coastal roads. Entry to national parks and cultural sites typically range from €3 to €10.

Stay in Less Touristy Regions

The coast is beautiful, but prices reflect the demand. Inland destinations like Cetinje, Nikšić, or Lake Skadar offer fantastic nature, culture, and lower costs. You’ll often find better deals on accommodation and meals, without sacrificing the experience.

Summary: Is Montenegro Expensive?

We believe that with proper planning and smart travel choices using our tips, you will have the most fantastic experience in Montenegro. We hope we showed you that this is a remarkably budget-friendly destination that doesn’t compromise on quality or experience. 

For the best experience, we recommend planning your travel for April or May, or September. This way, you will have the best of all worlds. You’ll be able to take advantage of cheaper flights, accommodations, and car rentals, and enjoy fantastic weather.