When planning your trip through Montenegro, one of the most common travel questions is:
Should I rent a car or rely on taxis in Montenegro?
To help you decide, we’ve compared the costs, convenience, and travel flexibility of both options — especially if you’re flying into Podgorica Airport or Tivat Airport.
Renting a Car in Montenegro
Renting a car is ideal for travelers who plan to explore the coast, national parks, or the mountains. Whether you’re starting from Podgorica or Tivat, you can pick up your rental directly at the airport and start your trip stress-free.
Pros of Renting a Car:
✅ Full freedom to explore at your own pace
✅ More affordable for multi-day or multi-location trips
✅ Easy access to remote areas and scenic roads
✅ You can stop whenever and wherever you want
✅ More cost-effective if you’re traveling in a group
💡 See our Top 7 Scenic Road Trips in Montenegro to get inspired.
Average Cost: €30–50/day depending on car class and season
📍 View our full fleet and prices
Using Taxis in Montenegro
Taxis are a common choice for travelers who only need occasional transportation — especially in cities like Podgorica, Budva, or Kotor. Most drivers accept cash only and rates can vary.
Pros of Using Taxis:
✅ Good for short city rides
✅ No responsibility for driving or parking
✅ Easy to hail in major towns
Cons:
❌ Can get expensive for longer distances
❌ Limited availability in remote areas
❌ Prices not always transparent
💬 Example: A taxi from Podgorica Airport to Budva can cost €45–50 one way.
For the same price, you could rent a car for an entire day and explore more.
Comparing Costs: Rent a Car vs Taxi
Trip type | Taxy estimate | Rental car estimate |
|---|---|---|
Podgorica Airport → Budva | €50 one-way | €35/day |
Tivat Airport → Kotor | €25–30 one-way | €35/day |
Day trip: Kotor → Lovćen | €60+ round-trip | Included if you rent |
3-day Coastal Exploration | €150+ total | €90–100 total |
Planning transfers? Explore our private airport transfers for a third option.
Our Recommendation
Choose a rental car if:
You plan to explore Montenegro beyond a single city
You want to save on long-distance trips
You’re traveling with luggage, family, or friends
You want to drive scenic routes like Kotor to Lovćen
Stick to taxis if:
You’re only staying in one place
You prefer door-to-door rides and don’t plan to drive
Your budget allows for flexibility with fares
Final Tip: Mix & Match
You can also combine services:
🛬 Book a private airport transfer when you arrive
🚘 Then pick up your rental car later for the road trip days
Book Smart. Travel Freely.
With Drive Smart Rent a Car, you don’t have to choose blindly.
Compare all transport options and book the one that gives you freedom, comfort, and value.
🔹 Check Vehicle Availability
🔹 Book a Private Airport Transfer
🔹 Explore More Travel Tips on Our Blog
