Being in the top 3 smallest Balkan countries, Montenegro is often overlooked. I even wondered if this country was worth my time when I planned an itinerary for my time in Europe. I am so glad I decided to go and give it a try. Montenegro is amazing for its mountains, blue waters, coastal towns and rivers. Here is everything there is to know about the country to help you plan your trip!

• When you should go
• Money currency
• What to eat
• How to use your phone / SIM card
• Some facts
• Insurance
• Different accommodation options
• Essential apps to have

When you should go

I haven’t experienced the 3 other seasons. Therefore, I can only say there will be even fewer tourists than in the summer. That means lower prices. Also, there’s never a bad season to travel in a country close to the Adriatic Sea. You will have a good time no matter what season you choose.

Money currency

Montenegro is not a country in the eurozone or the EU. However, their currency is still the Euro (€). Unlike Canada, there is no tax. Every price you see is the final price. Also, tipping is not expected. It is never mandatory, but it is always nice to leave a tip if you feel like the person deserves it. 

There is usually a big fee when getting money out of an ATM. You should always try to pay by card. Go get Euros at your local bank in your country before traveling. You will save a lot on ATM fees. 

What to eat

In Montenegro, lunch is typically between 12 pm and 3 pm. Dinner starts around 8 pm, especially if you are eating out. 

Honestly, I didn’t know what I was going to eat before getting to the country. Here are some of my favorite traditional dishes I tried. Of course, there are many more, I just didn’t have time to try them all.

• Njegusi Prosciutto: tinned slices of prosciutto, typically served with cheese
• Cevapi: kind of kebab, but with skinless sausages 
• Burek: meat pie served with cheese, potato or vegetable fillings

How to use your phone / SIM card

The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy an E-card / pre-paid SIM card. You can buy them online, they are way cheaper than anything at the airport! I bought mine 2 days before I left and it was perfect. The company I used was Holafly and you have multiple options depending on what you want. For example, it’s €34 for 10 days or €47 for 15 days.  

If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Most of the time, when I go to Europe, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I go there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps). If I really need WI-FI, I stop at a McDonald’s, a grocery store or a mall. 

Some facts

Here are some fun facts about Montenegro:

Insurance 

Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.

By booking your insurance through our link, we are able to earn a small commission, allowing us to keep inspiring people to travel.

Different accommodation options

Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms. 

Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.

Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is your cheapest option. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience. 

Essential apps to have

Transport: 

• GetByBus: Gives you many options (& the cheapest) to travel in Montenegro comparing the different bus companies. You can book everything directly on the app. I find the prices are always the same or sometimes cheaper than on the websites of the companies.

Others:

• Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
• WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Europe uses WhatsApp to te