Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Montenegro or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
Traveled around Budva and Bar in May and personally never used an ATM after sunset. Not that it felt dangerous - most of Montenegro felt quite safe - but more just to avoid being alone at a machine and drawing attention. A local woman in Bar told me that it’s not unsafe, but it’s better to use ATMs near Voli or Aroma supermarkets during the day when staff and people are around. I carried a little backup cash just in case I needed it in the evening.
I stayed in Podgorica in April and used ATMs after dark a couple of times, mostly out of necessity. Always chose ones attached to banks like NLB or Addiko Bank on main roads where streetlights and CCTV were visible. Didn’t feel threatened, but definitely stayed alert. I avoided any corner or freestanding ATMs especially in less busy parts of the city. It’s not a huge safety risk, but if you’re solo, best to plan cash runs during the day if you can.
I was in Kotor last month and I mostly stuck to daytime ATM withdrawals. The Old Town feels safe, even in the evenings, but I still didn’t want to take any chances. One evening I did need cash and used the CKB ATM right near the main gate where there were lots of people and lights around. It was fine, but I avoided any quiet or secluded ATMs. General rule I followed if it’s attached to a bank or supermarket and there’s foot traffic, it’s okay, otherwise I waited for daytime.
Just last month I had my N26 card swallowed at an Addiko Bank ATM in Herceg Novi. I was lucky because the ATM was attached to a bank and still during working hours. The lady inside asked for ID and the exact time I used the ATM. They told me they retrieve stuck cards once a day and if it was still in there, I could collect it next morning. I got it back in 24 hours. Key thing is to move quickly and be polite. If it’s the weekend, you may need to wait until Monday.