Parking in Montenegro: Where You Can Leave Your Car and How Much It Costs
If you’re renting a car in Montenegro, be prepared for one of the biggest challenges in popular coastal towns – parking. Narrow streets in old towns, limited spaces, and strict rules can easily spoil the experience if you’re not ready. In this article, we’ll explain where to park, how much it costs, and how to avoid fines.
Main Types of Parking
Municipal Parking Lots
- Marked with a “P” sign, sometimes with zone numbers (1, 2, 3)
- Payment via parking meter or SMS
- Prices vary depending on the zone and city
Private Paid Parking
- Available near old towns, airports, and beaches
- Often open 24/7, payment in cash or by card
- Usually a fixed hourly or daily rate
Hotel / Apartment Parking
- Always check in advance whether parking is included in the price
- Often charged separately, even at expensive accommodations (especially in Budva and Kotor)
Parking Prices and What to Expect in Different Cities
Budva
- City center & beaches: €1.00–2.50/hour
- Old Town parking: from €15/day, but can reach up to €30
- TQ Plaza underground parking: €0.80–1.50/hour, around €15/day (varies by time and season)
Kotor
- Near Old Town: €0.80–2/hour
- In high season, parking lots fill up quickly – you might wait an hour to enter
- No free parking within walking distance, go straight for paid options
Tivat
- City center: €0.50–1.50/hour
- Porto Montenegro parking: paid but spacious
- Promenade street is often overcrowded
Podgorica
- Wider streets, easier to find parking
- Prices: from €0.50/hour in the center
- Many free spots outside the central zone
How to pay?
- Via SMS
Usually, you need to send your license plate number (no spaces) to the number shown on the parking sign. In practice, the system is unreliable: messages don’t always go through, and confirmation might not arrive.
- Via parking meters
You can find them in major cities, but not on all parking lots. They work with coins or bank cards. Always place the receipt on your dashboard. Keep in mind that card payment is not always available.
- Mobile apps
In theory, some municipalities have local apps for parking payment, but in practice, they are rarely available or used.
⚠️ Recommendations:
- It’s best to choose a parking lot with a clear payment system in advance – such as an underground garage or one with a barrier and ticket system.
- Always carry small cash – card payments are not accepted everywhere.
Do Free Parking Spots Exist?
Yes, but:
- They’re usually located far from the city center
- Early mornings or off-season offer better chances to find a spot
- Often unmarked – pay close attention to road signs
⚠️ Recommendations:
- If you’re planning to rent a car, choose accommodation with parking. It’s the easiest way to avoid stress about where to leave your vehicle overnight – especially in popular coastal towns, where parking can be a real challenge.
- Be extra cautious when parking in areas without clear markings or signage, even if other cars are already parked there. In Montenegro’s tourist hotspots, tow trucks are active, and fines for improper parking are common.
Fines and Towing
- For illegal parking: €20–70
- In popular tourist areas, your car may be towed
- Towed vehicles are taken to an impound lot – you’ll need to retrieve the car and pay a fine (up to €150 including towing)
⚠️ Helpful Tips:
- Always check if your hotel offers parking before booking
- Never park on sidewalks, grass, or pedestrian crossings – it’s strictly enforced
- Carry small coins and ensure you have mobile internet for payments and finding spots
Parking in Montenegro can be a real challenge – especially in summer and near the coast. Plan ahead: research parking options, pay on time, and avoid unnecessary risks. A rental car gives you freedom – but only if you know where to leave it without trouble.