Montenegro Travel Safety

Identification

You must carry valid identification, such as a passport, at all times and present it to local authorities upon request. You could be fined if you fail to do so.

Taxis

Use only officially marked taxis. To avoid being overcharged, obtain a price estimate in advance and ensure that the taxi driver is using the meter.

Public transportation

Public transportation systems are available in most cities and larger towns. A number of companies offer regular domestic and international bus services. Train service is also available, however, it is slow and often subject to delays.

Women's safety

Montenegro is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise increased caution throughout your travel.

Crime

The crime rate is low. Pickpocketing may occur on public transportation and in other public places, particularly during the summer tourist season from May to September. Four-wheel-drive and luxury vehicles are targeted by car thieves more than other models. Avoid leaving luggage or valuables in the vehicle. Use secure parking facilities.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.

LGBT

There are no laws against same-sex sexual activity and there's a general tolerance towards same-sex couples in Montenegro. However, due to the conservative nature of society, overt public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention. Pride events have been held since 2013 and generally take place without incident.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Photography of military or police installations, vehicles and personnel is prohibited, unless authorized by the Ministry of Defence.

Identification

Under Montenegrin law you must carry a valid form of ID with you at all times, for example a driving licence, passport or equivalent, otherwise you may be fined.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended. Always carry identification and vehicle registration papers. Drivers of vehicles bearing foreign licence plates must be in possession of vehicle insurance. The Montenegrin government introduced an eco-tax for using road vehicles. Foreign nationals must pay the tax when entering Montenegro by car. The fee is determined according to the make and size of the vehicle. The eco-sticker obtained upon payment of the tax is valid for one year and must be displayed on the inside of the front windscreen in the upper right-hand corner. Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.03%. A person visibly under the influence of alcohol may not travel on the front passenger seat. If your vehicle is visibly damaged it must be certified by the authorities at the frontier when entering Montenegro. You will be issued with a certificate that must be produced when leaving the country. Posted speed limits are strictly enforced. There have been incidents where police target vehicles with foreign plates, often demanding immediate cash payment for alleged traffic violations. The use of headlights and seatbelts is mandatory at all times, as is the use of car seats for children under the age of 5. All vehicles must have high-visibility vests (to be carried in the passenger compartment, not the trunk) for the driver and any passenger who leaves the vehicle in case of breakdown, as well as a European car incident report form, spare bulb set, first aid kit and a warning triangle.