Montenegro is an amazing destination known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have and amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation.
How much does it cost to travel to Montenegro?
You should plan to spend around $134 (€128) per day on your vacation in Montenegro. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $62 (€60) on meals
- $16 (€16) on local transportation
- $89 (€85) on hotels
A one week trip to Montenegro for two people costs, on average, $1,878 (€1,792). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Montenegro expensive to visit?
Montenegro is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Montenegro is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Estonia or Cyprus.
Whether you're watching your wallet or ready to splurge, Montenegro provides a range of accommodation options and things to do. There are budget accommodation options like hostels in Kotor, Podgorica, and Budva, but if you're looking for a higher-end stay, luxury hotels are available, as well as mid-range choices for families or couples.
While Montenegro can be costly, following advice like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can make your trip more affordable.
On average, budget travelers spend $57 (€52) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $139 (€128) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $324 (€297) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Montenegro.
For more details, see Is Montenegro Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Montenegro?
The average Montenegro trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Montenegro travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Montenegro cost?
Montenegro on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$18
(€18)
|
$44
(€42)
|
$99
(€94)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$6.84
(€6.53)
|
$16
(€16)
|
$37
(€35)
|
|
Food 2
|
$25
(€24)
|
$62
(€60)
|
$148
(€142)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$6.71
(€6.41)
|
$16
(€16)
|
$38
(€36)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-9
(€3-8)
|
$7-21
(€7-20)
|
$15-45
(€14-43)
|
Kotor, Montenegro
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Montenegro without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit Montenegro for $57 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Luckily, Montenegro boasts a wide range of hostels. The highest concentration can be found in Kotor, Podgorica, and Budva. Although food is a highlight for everyone visiting Montenegro, budget-conscious travelers typically opt for street food or make meals in their hostels, which might prevent them from fully experiencing the culinary scene.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
As a couple or family, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore major museums and attractions, many of which have entry fees. You won't want to miss all of the major sights and attractions. Since most things cost money, your daily budget should realistically be closer to $139 per person, per day.
There are a wide range of hotels and vacation rentals in Montenegro. If you're traveling with others, you'll share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, so costs will be split accordingly, saving money. In places like Kotor, which are particularly family-friendly, you'll find hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Also, in Budva, Hotel Budva is a good kid-friendly option, and in Kotor, Hotel Casa del Mare - Amfora is also terrific. For a romantic retreat in Zabljak, couples will love Hotel Soa. You'll find more hotels that cater to families and couples in our hotel guide for Montenegro here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $324 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and hire private drivers to get around, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. With this level of spending, you'll be traveling alongside the rich and famous in places like Podgorica and Kotor. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as Off-season Bosnia+Montenegro 5 days discovery tour from Dubrovnik. UNESCO sites. Nature. Architecture. Culture. Wine. Cuisine. History. Old towns. Ancient monasteries. - offered by Monterrasol Travel.
Accommodation Budget in Montenegro
In Montenegro, you'll find a wide range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Peak season brings higher costs, but if you travel in the off-season, prices drop. Booking ahead is another great way to save some money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Montenegro for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $89 (€85). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $44 (€42) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Montenegro? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Kotor
As one of the less touristy places, Kotor offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $40 in the low season to $228 during the busy peak season. As many travelers stay up to four days, you should make sure to find a comfortable place in a good location if you're planning to explore for a while. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Hotel Casa del Mare - Amfora for $151 and Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro starting at $156. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $20 for a dorm bed.
Local Transportation Budget in Montenegro
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $16 (€16) per person, per day, on local transportation in Montenegro. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Montenegro is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$16
€16
In Montenegro, you'll find an outstanding train system that links you to almost all destinations nationwide. The fares are affordable, and the journeys are both comfortable and quick. If trains don't cover your route, regional and long-distance buses can help.
Many destinations around Montenegro have limited options for public transportation unless you're visiting places like the biggest cities. You should plan to rent a car or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. However, this may cut into your overall trip budget.
If you're heading to the countryside, you'll probably want to rent a car. Keep in mind that most vehicles in Europe come with a manual transmission, and opting for an automatic will significantly increase the price. It's also wise to book early, as the more affordable options tend to sell out quickly.
If you're in a larger city with a car, it's best to verify the parking situation with your hotel beforehand. You might have to pay for parking at the hotel or in a public garage nearby. It might be more affordable to find a parking spot outside the city limits.
Listed below are some transit expenses in Montenegro, taken from reports by other travelers. These costs offer a snapshot of transportation prices in the city to give you an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that your costs may differ, especially if you opt for more expensive options like taxis, which typically cost more than public transportation.
Food Budget in Montenegro
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Montenegro can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Montenegro is $62 (€60) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$62
€60
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Montenegro is around $65 (€60) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $154. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Montenegro are as follows:
- Breakfast: $12 to $19
- Lunch: $10 to $32
- Dinner: $23 to $52
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $10
Because of its proximity to the sea, Montenegro has plenty of fresh fish and seafood dishes. These dishes are typically garnished with polenta, blitva (a kind of spinach), or broiled potatoes. Drying fish is also traditionally practiced along the coast. Further inland, meat is more popular with selections of mutton, pork, beef, and poultry used in a variety of dishes. Meats are often served with vegetables and Kajmak (a kind of clotted cream made with sheep's milk). Montenegrin cuisine also distinguishes its soups: 'supa' for clear soup, 'corba' for a thick soup or stew, 'kasa' for a porridge-style dish.
For dessert, there is an assortment of local sweets, including palacinke (a large pancake filled with jam, chocolate or cream), baklava with raisins and walnuts, krofne (doughnut filled with jam or chocolate), and a cream layered cake called krempita. Most sweets are served with coffee.
Famed for its exceptional food, Montenegro is a culinary destination admired around the world. Many people travel specifically to savor the local cuisine. The best cities for foodies include Kotor.
Kotor
Kotor is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.
Traveling with little ones? Keep an eye out for restaurants featuring a kids menu. This can lead to significant savings, as those meals are generally cheaper. Also, some places might not list the childrens' options, so it's wise to ask the waiter before ordering.
Numerous hotels provide breakfast at no additional charge, but others might tack it on as an extra expense. The cost and quality can differ significantly from hotel to hotel. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you decide if you want to pay more for a tasty hotel buffet or find a cheaper option at a local bakery or café.
Bringing a water bottle with you instead of buying drinks can save you money and is also great for the environment.
Before you embark on a tour, it's wise to check which meals are included. You could end up needing to pay for some of your meals out of pocket, which might stretch your budget further.
If you want to experience the culture in Montenegro, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Kotor private cooking class with lunch and Old town guided tour for $222 details
- 3 Hour Kotor Food Tour - Rick Steves' Recommended for $150 details
- Kotor and Perast Private Tour with Cooking Class and Boat Ride for $257 details
- Kotor City Tour and Cooking Class for $200 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Montenegro
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Montenegro typically cost an average of $16 (€16) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$16
€16
Montenegro features many lesser-known destinations that aren't as overrun with tourists, giving you the chance to explore some truly authentic hidden gems. Some of the well-known locations here include Kotor.
Kotor
Kotor is a stunning walled town that sits dramatically along Montenegro's Adriatic coast. The coastline is lined with stunning limestone cliffs and the town is compact and filled with wandering lanes and vibrant squares. There are stone churches and cathedrals, as well as restaurants and cafes. You'll find kids playing in the street and hidden views of the striking blue water.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Montenegro. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Private Tour: Custom Made (Charged per Hour) for $97 details
- 3 Hours Blue Cave Tour in Montenegro for $43 details
- Blue Cave Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Kotor Speed Boat Tour 3H for $45 details
- Perast-Our Lady Of The Rocks &Blue Cave-Private Tour Black Pearl for $278 details
Nightlife Budget in Montenegro
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $14 (€13) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Montenegro per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$14
€13
Montenegro offers a lively nightlife atmosphere, featuring a variety of bars, clubs, and festive parties. Among the top cities for nightlife are .
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Montenegro. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Private tour: Homemade food and wine tasting at my family home for $150 details
- Podgorica Car Trip - Architecture, History, Wine tasting, Churches, Doclea city for $95 details
- National parks and wine tasting (NP Lovcen, NP Skadar lake, Cetinje, Njegusi) for $180 details
- Wine tasting and magical tour from Kotor, Budva, Tivat (Lovcen,Skadar lake) for $269 details
Travel Costs Last Updated: Jan 28, 2024
Traveling in Montenegro
Kotor, Montenegro
Located in the Balkans region on the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro is a nation best characterized by its rugged mountains, medieval villages, and a narrow strip of beaches along its Adriatic coastline. The nation also hosts a number of National Parks and historic towns.
Related:
Looking for a party in Croatia?
Traveling alone to Split or Dubrovnik?
Find a Contiki tour to Europe.
Top Tourist Attractions
Montenegro is generally divided into five regions:
Bay of Kotor: Considered one of the most beautiful bays of Europe, the Bay of Kotor features a typical Mediterranean vibe with scenic towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like Perast and Kotor. It encompasses Montenegro's northernmost coastal area.
Budva Riviera: This region makes up the nation's central coast and features the main tourist drag with pleasant beaches, historic villages and a thriving nightlife.
Central Montenegro: Just inland from the coast, Central Montenegro makes up the heart of the nation. It is home to the state capital Podgorica, the historical capital Cetinje, and the industrial center NikSic. Skadar Lake National Park and Lovcen National Park showcase the region's natural beauty as well.
Montenegrin South Coast: This is Montenegro's southernmost coast on the Adriatic Sea. Its main hubs are the towns of Bar and Ulcinj.
North Montenegrin Mountains: Furthest inland, this region is a place dominated by natural scenery. It is situated within the Dinaric Alps and features some of the wildest beauty in the nation, like Durmitor National Park's Tara River Canyon. Zabljak is the center of Montenegrin mountain tourism and a popular spot for skiers.
Top Tourist Attractions
Kotor: The Bay of Kotor, which resembles a fjord, is dotted with coastal churches and fortified towns such as Kotor and Herceg Novi. Kotor itself is a beautifully preserved fortified, medieval town, featuring a labyrinth of cobbled streets, lively piazzas, historic churches, and an entire spread of bars and restaurants. Some of the most impressive churches include the 12th century St. Tryphon Cathedral, the Church of St. Luke, and the Orthodox St. Nicholas Church.
Budva: A coastal resort in Montenegro, Budva is probably the country's most popular tourist destination. Not only does it host a number of great beaches, but it is also home to a picturesque old town center located on a small peninsula. Some of its best features include narrow winding lanes, historic buildings, churches, and small squares. The walled town center also has a medieval town fortress referred to as Citadela.
National Parks: Boasting a plethora of beautiful natural scenery from its glimmering coastline to its mountainous inland, Montenegro also hosts a number of national parks. Biogradska Gora National Park is one of furthest inland, standing as one of the last remaining untouched forests in Europe. Durmitor National Park is Montenegro's other inland treasure. This park's most sought-out attraction is the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe and a hub for rafting excursions. Closer to the coast is Lovcen National Park where many visitors climb to the top of the mountain for stunning views. And finally, there is Skadar Lake National Park, the largest lake on the Balkans with a very diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna.
By plane, Podgorica Airport is Montenegro's main international airport, located about 12 kilometers south of the capital city Podgorica. It serves as a hub for Montenegro Airlines. Tivat Airport is situated near the city of Tivat, on the Montenegrin coast. It has regular flights to Belgrade and Moscow throughout the year, and has charter flights to major European destinations during the summer. Another possible flight option is Dubrovnik airport in Croatia, a half-hour drive from the Montenegro border. It is served by many major airlines, making it a good option for tourists coming by plane.
Montenegro is also well-connected to neighboring countries by bus; there are trains from Belgrade, and ferry lines from Italy.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.