Montenegro Travel Guide: Practical Tips on Driving, Money & Entry
Everything you need to know for a smooth stay in Bijela and the Bay of Kotor.
Well Prepared for Montenegro
Everything you need to know for a relaxed stay
A holiday in Montenegro is straightforward if you know a few local details. From currency to traffic specificities – here is your compact knowledge hub for your trip to Bijela.
I. Getting Around by Car
A car is the best way to explore hidden coves and remote mountain villages.
- Headlight Requirement: In Montenegro, dipped headlights must be switched on 24 hours a day, even in bright sunshine.
- Tolls & Fees: There is no general highway vignette. Tolls are only required for the Sozina Tunnel (towards Lake Skadar) and the new highway section near Podgorica.
- Bay Ferry: From Bijela, you will often use the Lepetane-Kamenari ferry to cross the bay. This saves about 45 minutes of driving time around the Kotor basin. Tickets can be bought directly at the kiosk before boarding (approx. €5 per car).
- Parking: Parking spaces are scarce in Kotor and Herceg Novi. Use the large public parking lots outside the old towns. Watch out for no-parking zones – towing services are very active!
II. Money & Communication
Currency: Although Montenegro is not a member of the EU, the Euro (€) is the official currency. This means no currency conversion is necessary for you!
Card Payment: In supermarkets, gas stations, and larger restaurants, card payment (Visa/Mastercard) is standard. However, you should always carry some cash for smaller konobas or local markets.
Roaming: Montenegro is usually not part of the EU roaming tariff. Tip: Buy a local "Tourist SIM" at the airport or a kiosk (approx. €10-15 for huge data packages).
III. Entry & Documents
For EU citizens, a valid ID card is sufficient for a stay of up to 30 days. For longer stays or citizens from outside the EU, a passport is required.
Important for rental cars: If you enter with a rental car from abroad (e.g., Croatia), you need the "Green Insurance Card" and must ensure that entry into Montenegro is permitted in the rental agreement.