Montenegro : Safety by City
Montenegro might be small, but it’s packed with contrast—beaches on one end, alpine peaks on the other.
It’s wedged between Croatia, Serbia, Albania, and the Adriatic Sea, and saw about 2.6 million visitors in 2024, including a steady stream of cruise passengers.
Historically, it’s been through a lot: Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, Venetians—you name it.
It became an independent kingdom in the 19th century, then spent most of the 20th century as part of Yugoslavia before officially breaking off from Serbia in 2006.
Montenegro is loosely divided into three regions.
The coast gets most of the attention, thanks to places like Kotor, Budva, and Ulcinj.
The central region includes the capital, Podgorica, and the old royal capital, Cetinje.
The north is all about mountains and national parks, home to the kind of terrain that draws serious hikers and skiers.
It’s a country where you can start your day at the beach and end it in a fleece jacket on a mountain trail.
And while it’s not as cheap as some of its Balkan neighbors, it’s still more affordable than most of Western Europe.
Warnings & Dangers in Montenegro
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Montenegro is considered low risk by the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Most travelers don’t run into serious trouble, especially if they stick to well-known areas. We'll cover the major safety concerns in this article.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Medium risk, mostly due to road conditions and unpredictable drivers, not crime. Some rural roads are narrow, winding, and poorly lit. Official taxis are generally safe, but always agree on a fare ahead of time or insist on the meter. Bus travel is popular, affordable, and safe, though not always punctual.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Medium risk during peak travel months, especially in busy spots like Kotor Old Town, Budva beaches, or anywhere cruise passengers crowd in. Don’t carry valuables in open bags, and be especially careful around ATMs. It’s the usual stuff. If you’ve been to Europe before, you know the drill.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Low risk, but not zero. Wildfires can affect coastal areas during hot summers, and flooding occasionally hits inland regions. If you're heading into the mountains, sudden weather changes are more likely than any kind of large-scale natural disaster. Check forecasts and trail conditions before hiking.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Low. Muggings are rare and not something most travelers need to worry about. Violent crime rates are low, and tourists are not typically targeted. That said, avoid wandering isolated areas alone at night, especially in unfamiliar cities, just as you would anywhere.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Very low. Montenegro isn’t considered a target, and there haven’t been recent incidents tied to terrorism. The country’s Level 1 rating reflects this. Like most of Europe, officials stay alert, but travelers don’t need to think twice about it.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Medium risk, mostly because of overcharging or tourist bait tactics. Some taxi drivers and tour guides might pad their prices or tack on hidden fees. Stick with official services or those with solid online reviews. Double-check restaurant bills in tourist zones, too; sneaky charges do happen.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Low risk for solo female travelers. Locals are generally respectful, and catcalling isn’t common. That said, trust your gut and stay aware in nightlife areas, especially in Budva during summer when the party scene gets rowdy. Stick to well-lit areas and use verified transportation after dark.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
The official risk is low, but I've read a lot about food poisoning or water issues from fellow traveler reports. If you're deep in the mountains or staying somewhere very rural, you might want to stick with bottled water just to be cautious.
Safest Places to Visit in Montenegro
Several tourism websites for Montenegro are out there, but “montenegro.travel” is the official website of the National Tourism Organisation.
Information on this site is helpful whether you’re arriving by land or cruise ship.
The two cruise ports are Kotor and Bar, so let’s start the overview of safe places to visit in Montenegro in those locations.
Kotor is the country’s star attraction.
It is an old walled city with Venetian roots, wedged between mountains and the sea.
You can walk off the ship and be in the medieval town center within minutes.
Drivers, beware, parking here can be a pain!
Bar, a larger and less touristy port, is the jumping-off point for ferries to Italy, with regular service to Bari and Ancona.
It also has its own old town—Stari Bar—worth a visit if you’re exploring southern Montenegro.
Beyond the ports, Montenegro’s highlights stretch inland and north.
Durmitor National Park is the country’s adventure capital, offering whitewater rafting, glacier lakes, and hiking to Bobotov Kuk, the highest peak.
Biogradska Gora is one of the few remaining primeval forests in Europe and is great for mellow walks or lakeside picnics.
For something more offbeat, head east to the Prokletije mountains, one of the least crowded but most dramatic areas for serious hiking.
Beachgoers will find sun and sand in Budva, which has a lively waterfront and a party scene in summer, while Ulcinj, near the Albanian border, offers the longest beach in the country and a more laid-back vibe.
If you’re driving, take the Bay of Kotor scenic route.
It’s one of the most stunning coastal roads in Europe, and you can ferry across the bay to cut down on time.
Montenegro packs a lot into a small space.
You can cover diverse terrain in a short trip.
Places to Avoid in Montenegro
Montenegro is generally safe, but a few things are worth avoiding.
Celebratory gunfire, especially during weddings or holidays, has caused injuries as the stray bullets come back down.
Assume if there are fireworks, there is gunfire; observe from a distance or head inside.
Along the coast, strong currents can catch swimmers off guard, and crowded beaches make pickpocketing easier.
In the mountains, sudden weather changes and narrow, winding roads can be dangerous, especially in the Moraca Canyon area.
If you’re heading above 6,000 feet—like in Durmitor or Prokletije—know that some travelers experience altitude sickness.
Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue, so take it slow if you’re not used to high elevations.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Montenegro
- Montenegro’s police are professional and generally approachable, especially in tourist-heavy areas. In an emergency, dial 122 for police, 124 for an ambulance, and 123 for fire. English may not be guaranteed, so keep your hotel’s number handy. They can often translate or step in if needed.
- There’s no unified nationwide alert system like in the U.S., but weather warnings and major disruptions are usually posted on the Montenegro Hydrometeorological Service’s website and local news sites. If you’re hiking or driving in remote areas, check for updates before you head out. Cell coverage can drop quickly in the mountains.
- No special vaccines are required, but make sure your routine ones (like tetanus and hepatitis A) are up-to-date. There’s no malaria or Zika here, but tap water can be hit or miss in rural spots. Also, reports of foodborne illness have been rising—more on that below.
- Foreigners can drive with a valid U.S. or EU license, but Montenegro’s roads demand full attention. The Moraca Canyon stretch north of Podgorica is particularly dangerous: narrow, winding, and prone to rockslides or heavy snow. Summer traffic clogs it, winter turns it icy. Either way, go slow or find an alternate route.
- The official language is Montenegrin, but most young people speak at least some English. In rural areas, expect fewer people to understand you. Translation apps help, but learning a few basics like “thank you” (hvala) goes a long way. Menus are often bilingual, though not always accurately translated.
- There’s been a noticeable uptick in food poisoning cases. Visitors have blamed everything from poorly handled chicken to spoiled cheese and sketchy seafood. Podgorica seems to be a hotspot. When in doubt, avoid raw or lukewarm food, and don’t assume seafood is fresh just because you’re near the water.
- If crowds stress you out, skip Montenegro in July and August. That’s peak season, and if a cruise ship is in port, even quiet towns like Kotor can feel like Times Square. You can check cruise schedules online to plan around the influx and find quieter times to explore.
- Celebratory gunfire is a thing here. It’s most common during weddings, holidays, or national events, often paired with fireworks. Unfortunately, stray bullets have injured and even killed bystanders. If you hear loud bangs, don’t assume it’s just fireworks. Get inside or move away from the crowd.
- If you’re taking the ferry from Bar to Bari or Ancona, check the weather before you go. Bad conditions can delay or cancel service. Also, double-check entry rules for Italy, which can vary depending on your citizenship and whether you’re traveling with pets or medication.
- Montenegro isn’t as cheap as you might expect, especially along the coast. Prices in places like Kotor or Budva can rival Western Europe during summer. Inland towns are more budget-friendly, but overall, be ready for higher tabs than in neighboring countries like Albania or Bosnia. (And ask yourself, “Do I want to pay more to be in larger crowds?”)
So... How Safe Is Montenegro Really?
Montenegro has the lowest risk rating from the U.S., Canada, and Australia—a Level 1, which just means “exercise normal precautions.”
That’s about as safe as it gets for international travel.
That said, petty crime picks up during peak tourist season (May through September), especially in crowded beach towns and around ATMs.
Keep an eye on your stuff, don’t flash cash, and be smart about where and when you withdraw money.
Otherwise, the main safety concerns are the usual ones that come with exploring both coasts and mountains: slippery trails, strong currents, and the occasional reckless driver.
If you’re renting a car, Montenegro’s winding rural roads can be beautiful but unforgiving.
Drive like a local, which is to say, alertly and a little defensively.
Quite frankly, it might be safer to take ferries to get from place to place on the coast.
In short, Montenegro is considered a safe place to visit.
We’ve highlighted in this article the top concerns and safety guidance.
Most issues travelers run into are avoidable with basic common sense.
How Does Montenegro Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Montenegro | 70 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
U.S., Canadian, UK, and EU passport holders can visit Montenegro for up to 90 days without a visa. If you’re staying longer or plan to work or study, you’ll need to sort that out in advance. Always double-check entry requirements before you go—things can shift without much warning.
Currency
Montenegro uses the euro, even though it’s not part of the EU. Credit cards are widely accepted in touristy areas, but carry cash if you're heading into the mountains or smaller towns. ATMs are easy to find, but watch for fees if you're using a foreign card.
Weather
Coastal Montenegro has hot, dry summers and mild winters—ideal for beach days from May through September. Inland and in the mountains, expect cooler temps and snow in winter. If you're planning to hike or ski, pack accordingly. Shoulder seasons are great if you want fewer crowds.
Airports
The main international gateways are Podgorica and Tivat. Podgorica covers most year-round routes, while Tivat is popular in summer thanks to its proximity to Kotor and the coast. If you're coming from elsewhere in the Balkans, regional airports or buses might be cheaper and just as efficient.
Travel Insurance
It’s not required for entry, but skipping travel insurance here is a gamble. Mountain roads, water sports, and last-minute plan changes are all part of the experience. Go with a policy that covers medical care, cancellations, and outdoor adventure.
Montenegro Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
9 | 11 | 15 | 19 | 24 | 28 | 31 | 31 | 27 | 21 | 15 | 10 |
| Low °C |
1 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 19 | 19 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 3 |
| High °F |
48 | 52 | 59 | 66 | 75 | 82 | 88 | 88 | 81 | 70 | 59 | 50 |
| Low °F |
34 | 37 | 43 | 48 | 55 | 61 | 66 | 66 | 59 | 52 | 45 | 37 |
Montenegro - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Podgorica | 51 |
I would never recommend this place for vacation, beaches are covered with feces and gross garbage so many travelers get sick never never go there
I suppose you were visiting overcrowded and wrong places, you should’ve asked any local or other near, cleaner and less crowded beaches, accommodations, etc.
It is very clean place.The beaches is very clean and gorgeous.I highly recommend to visit the coastline in some places remind me of Maui.Montenegro coastline it is very similar to coastline from Kihei to Lahaina.
Serbs from Montenegro
I loved Budva & Igalo!
These coastal towns are very historic & they are filled with beautiful Serbian people from Montenegro. They are honest, hard working and proud. They keep their cities clean and they treat their guests/tourists with respect. You won’t be sorry and you don’t have to worry about feces and poisoning. Croatia is also very beautiful don’t miss Dubrovnik and Split!
All this thing’s you mention,does not fall from the sky on the beach,just like that…there is many people with different “culture’s” especially from neighbors state’s and they make wrong picture about Montenegro.
Amazing country
Thats lie, Montenegro is amazing county to visit and also for vacation..
Been there last year, its beautiful, so many thing to see, visit and learn
It would help if you would state which beaches, Mila. I’m on my 3rd visit to the country and have found the coastline and beaches no more dirty than countries around Europe each time. I doubt that “beaches were covered in faeces” as you state. Maybe you found a beach with an isolated problem caused by an unfortunate combination of tide and weather that brought sewage ashore? And where can I find the evidence / reports to support your claim that “so many travellers get sick”?
Very safe, full of Chinese citizens, and I do not expect any kind of problems.
Full of na*** black people
What has the colour of a person’s skin got to do with the quality of their character? Suprised your racist comment is permitted to remain here.
Sama Sloga Serbina Spasava 🙁
So I guess Mila is a Serb from Serbia. They hate their fellow Serbs from Montenegro.
They rather visit Turkey, Greece or anywhere their fellow Montenegrin’s are not.
It’s too bad that Sama Sloga Serbina Spasava isn’t true with the above Serbs from Serbia.
I’m glad I’m an American born & raised. Oh by the way they have some of the most beautiful woman and men. I should know my Mother & Father are Serbs from Montenegro!
Please go and enjoy a wonderful vacation in Montenegro but don’t go to Serbia especially Belgrade because it is full of Montenegrin’s that came to study and never went home.
Now I understand why Milo keeps winning the elections!
What a stupid comment…
I think that too.. Mila is probably Serbia and hate everything from Montenegro..
I think you should also preview if it’s safe for racism too. Some of my trips to Europe have been really uncomfortable.
Agree. Recently my family and I went to Austria. The treatment we received as Kiwis was terrible.
People in Austria were not nice to us and we are from Poland. They would stare at you in pubs and restaurants. We travelled across the Alps and to be honest we not felt welcomed there at all.
They're just jealous
Polish people are much more fun than the stuffy Austrians and Germans. Their sense of humor is non existent. Their food is greasy and unappetizing. My family is from there, and I’d choose Poland over Austria any day. Hopefully ukraine will be open soon and rebuild as another option. Not missing out on much, although I’m a sucker for mozartkugen.
Waste of time and money
I’ve read a few reviews by people praising it, who were, if you have been there, obviously threatened by one of the local racketeers into submitting a positive review of what is essentially a mix of fundamentalist Islam meeting North Korea and the leftover communist takeover of Europe ambitions you can still find alive and kicking (and running the show too) over there.
Security wise they may let you walk around free/without too much police hassling or bribes, but the appealing food and palpable anger at your as a foreigner wherever you go – I’d rather spend all of my money in a local pub anywhere in the EU than EVER see that nasty place again.
Well, at least until they get treated like the Vietnam of the 60s they aim to be.
i agree.
Not that bad
I’ve been in Montenegro and it didn’t look to me anything close to fundamental Islam country or North Korea. Honestly, I never been in North Korea, but I can bet that it doesn’t look nothing similar to Montenegro. In fact, I saw some wild party hotspots there, although I’m not party person. Can’t say that I would come back, but nothing uncomfortable there. I don’t have any reason to defend Montenegro, but I hate when people write false kind of comments about anything or anybody.
Waste of money
Very dirty beaches and hostile locals. Sure, you can see some good things, but don’t plan more than a single day or two in Montenegro. Not worth your money.
Visit to gorgeous Montenegro 1
I just read all the comments , the good and the bad ! I certainly don’t minimize anyone’s experience but would like to add a few of my own ! I am a 65 year old Albanian/Montenegrian who has lived away from Montenegro since 1974 ! I have traveled the world and been back to Montenegro several times especially while living in London ( short flight to Dubrovnik). My experience has always been wonderful although I must admit that I avoid hot summer months. The places are crowded , hot and some dirty but there are beautiful almost private idyllic places everywhere, Food is excellent , taxis are cheap and where the heck are the Islamic Fundamentalists ??? People , use your common sense and you should keep you comments sincere and unbiased ! Some of you are obviously NOT seasoned travelers ! What a pity ! I am planning to go back as soon as this coronavirus is over ! Do vidjenja and Revoir beautiful Montenegro !
Risque travel.
what about if you need medical attention? Will you be able to get a speaking English doctor?
English Doctor
My wife and I travelled independently, so had no reps to depend on. When my wife needed medical help, we found an English speaking doctor easily. Enjoy this wonderful country and its people.
Not going back, ever again
The locals are hostile people who only care about their rich Russian tourists. I spent most of my vacation in Budva, where everything is overpriced and of poor quality. Fast food takes up to 40 minutes to make, and neither employees nor owners care if you get a good service, since they’re probably aware of the country’s shit reputation. I liked Kotor, but had the same experience there as well. The stay is very expensive as well, we paid 40€ per night for a tiny room with a toilet. At least the host was nice and gave us a ride to the bus station on our final day. I would rather not talk about the beaches, as that was the worst prt of the entire trip. They are all so small, and Balkan people have absolutely no common sense in regards to private space, so the beaches are extremely crowded and dirty due to the shit ton of people who visit. As mentioned previously in the title, I do not plan on visiting Montenegro’s coastline ever again in my life, and would much rather go to Croatia which is not so far away from this overpriced and shitty country.
I had a similar experience.. most people were rude and always in a bad mood…not helpful at all! and i did not enjoy the food either. Serbia is so so much better..nicest warmest people, good food.. i thought Montenegro people would be the same…but they are not🤔
I never step a foot to Montenegro again
When I was flaying to Montenegro and seeing those beautiful mountains I felt exited and happy. Not so on my way back. Due to the fact that the booking I paid for failed, I had to pay 1637 euros directly at Square hotel in Budva. The room they sold me has faulty electricity and I requested and promised refund. After 15 days of not receiving that refund and hotel ignoring my requests I wrote google review describing what happened to me. When I called the hotel again the manager told me ‘No refund for you because of your bad google review’. He demanded that I remove the review. I did , but it didn’t change anything. I tried to find the administrative body in charge of tourism in Montenegro to file a complaint. It wasn’t easy, but after another month of research I did. The government organizations in Montenegro are not more cooperative and responsive than hotels administrations are. I am still waiting. Why is the Square manager so brazen and confident while taking tourist’s money with no intention of returning it in case of failing to provide the service? Because there is wild, wild west there in Montenegro despite the legislative alignment with the EU.
The best law is useless if it is not enforced.
Come to Montenegro and stay
I visited this amazing country and am now the owner of a beautiful home near the seaside.
The neighbors are amazing and friendly.
I will never move back to the USA. Best thing we ever did was to move to this amazing and loving country. My advice. Don’t listen to a single negative comment. Come see Montenegro for yourself.
Montanegro Is Beautifull
my aunts parents went there on a cruise and the country was beautiful. i dont get why you are downfalling on it. I’ve been there and it was great, beautiful beaches and great mountains. If you are scared about terrorism then dont be it is probably as far away as it can get from ukraine and russia
Budva is the place to go if you want pools and waterparks. If you travel to Montanegro. i highly recommend travaling to croatia dubrovnik city. then driving/taking a bus to Budva. where the resorts are beautifull, also travel in october when its at its best temprature