You've landed at Podgorica Airport and your destination is the sea. Ahead of you is an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive, several transportation options, and one question—which option makes the most sense?
Here's a fair overview of each option.
How far is the sea from Podgorica Airport?
Podgorica Airport (PGD) is located a few kilometers southeast of the city center. From the airport to the coast, depending on the destination:
| Destination | Distance | Driving time |
|---|---|---|
| Budva | ~95 km | ~1h 10min |
| Petrovac | ~110 km | ~1h 20min |
| Sveti Stefan | ~100 km | ~1h 15min |
| Bar | ~105 km | ~1h 15min |
| Kotor | ~90 km | ~1h 15min |
The road to the sea leads through the Morača Canyon and tunnels—modern, safe, and one of the most beautiful stretches in Montenegro.
Option 1 — Rented car
The most flexible option and the smartest for most travelers. You pick up the vehicle directly at the airport or in the city, and from that moment on, you are completely independent.
Benefits:
- Start whenever you want, no waiting
- You stop wherever you want on the road
- More importantly, you have the car for your entire stay.
- Luggage goes directly into the trunk, without juggling it around the bus.
Price: from €45 to €60 per day depending on the vehicle type — which is far more cost-effective for a longer rental than a combination of transfers and taxi rides during your stay.
For Vehicle pickup in Podgorica vehicles are available from economy to SUV models, with pickup available in the city.
Option 2 — Taxi or transfer
A private transfer from the airport to the coast is fast and comfortable, but one-way. You get to the hotel — and that's where your freedom of movement ends.
Approximate transfer prices:
- Airport → Budva: €50 — €70
- Airport → Kotor: €80 — €110
- Airport → Bar: €60 — €80
Disadvantage: You pay almost the same as for a one-day car rental, and you only get one ride. Every trip during your stay means a new expense.
Option 3 — Bus
There are bus lines from Podgorica to Budva and Bar, but the airport is not directly on that route. You first need to get to the bus terminal in the center of Podgorica.
Realistically: With luggage, transferring to the terminal, and waiting—this is the slowest option. For families or travelers with multiple suitcases, it's practically unfeasible without added stress.
Which option makes the most sense?
If you're only planning arrival and departure without excursions, a transfer is acceptable. But for anyone planning to explore Montenegro, a rental car pays for itself from the first day.
Montenegro is a country where the value of a vacation is measured by freedom of movement. Lake Skadar, Cetinje, Kotor, Petrovac—everything is accessible, everything is close by, but only if you have a car.
Practical notes for arrival
Road to the sea: From Podgorica to Budva, you go via Cetinje — the road is good and clear. If you are going towards Bar, you pass through the Sozina Tunnel; the toll is €2.50.
GPS: Use Google Maps or Waze — both apps have good coverage of Montenegro's roads.
Fuel: Fill up in Podgorica or on the way out to the sea — there are limited gas stations along the highway, so it's best to refuel in Podgorica or near exits
Planning excursions during your stay? Check out our guide on Day trips by car from Podgorica — five routes you can do in one day.
