In planning mode - how much budget should I keep in mind for Montenegro - any experiences?
We did Montenegro in early June as a couple and spent about 80 euros per day between the two of us. We rented an apartment in Bar through Airbnb for a week and cooked a lot. Eating out was cheap if you went to local spots like Restoran Vuk or fast food places in the market areas. Petrol was a bit more expensive than expected but renting a car from Rokšped helped us see places like Lake Skadar and Durmitor without relying on buses. Used an N26 card for most payments and had no issues at Idea or Franca supermarkets. Would say Montenegro is still a hidden gem for budget travelers if you avoid the luxury coastal resorts.
Visited Montenegro in May this year as part of a Balkans trip. Kotor was definitely the priciest of the bunch, especially around Old Town, but still way cheaper than Dubrovnik. I budgeted around 60 euros a day and that included kayaking, bus rides to Perast and Herceg Novi, and the occasional splurge on seafood. I stayed at Old Town Hostel in Kotor and Freedom Hostel in Budva. Most cards worked fine but Hipotekarna Bank ATMs gave me the best conversion when using my Monzo card. Tap water’s good everywhere too which helps keep things low-cost.
Traveled across Montenegro for 10 days last month and did it comfortably on a 45 euro daily budget. I stayed in a mix of hostels and private rooms on Booking in places like Budva and Cetinje. Local buses like Blue Line and Nikšić Bus are super cheap but a bit unpredictable. Groceries from Aroma or Voli supermarkets are reasonably priced and I cooked most breakfasts and dinners. I had a Wise card and mostly used Addiko Bank ATMs since they didn’t add fees. Wine and rakija are dirt cheap so nightlife doesn’t break the bank unless you go clubbing in Podgorica.
I just spent three weeks in Montenegro in April and was surprised how affordable it still is compared to places like Croatia. If you’re staying in hostels like Montenegro Hostel B&B in Kotor or Hostel Pirate in Ulcinj, you can get a dorm bed for around 12 to 18 euros a night. Meals at local restaurants like Konoba Scala Santa or BBQ Tanjga rarely crossed 10 euros unless you go for fresh seafood. I used my Revolut card for almost everything and withdrew cash from CKB Bank ATMs which didn’t charge extra. For a daily budget, I’d say 35 to 50 euros covers you well if you're not splurging.