Things to know before visiting Montenegro

Language

The official language of Iceland is Montenegrin, but it is super easy to get around with English in the big cities. If you go more offroad or in the smaller villages it gets a bit complicated. We used google translate when visiting hostels or cabins rented out by locals and they are patient enough to communicate this way!

Currency

It's a good idea to carry some local currency (Euro). Many businesses may not accept other currencies or may offer unfavorable exchange rates. ATMs are widely available in major cities, and credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand.

Tipping

Tipping in Montenegro is not mandatory, but it's always appreciated for good service. Here are some examples:

1. Restaurants: In Montenegro, it's common to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill in restaurants. If the service was exceptional, you can leave a larger tip, but it's not expected.

2. Cafes and Bars: In cafes and bars, it's common to leave a small amount of change or round up the bill as a tip. For example, if your coffee costs €2.50, you can round up to €3 as a tip.

3. Taxis: Tipping taxi drivers is not expected, but you can round up the fare to the nearest euro or leave a small amount of change as a tip.

4. Tour Guides and Drivers: If you take a tour or use the services of a private driver, it's customary to tip them around 10% of the total cost.

5. Hotel Staff: It's not necessary to tip hotel staff.

Water

In Montenegro, tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas. However, it's always a good idea to check with locals or your accommodation provider to confirm the water quality in the specific area you are visiting. If you're unsure about the water quality, it's best to stick to bottled water.

Weather

Montenegro experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The summer months, from June to September, are the most popular time to visit, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F). However, coastal areas can get crowded during this time, and prices may be higher. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October, when temperatures are still warm but crowds are thinner. Winter temperatures in Montenegro are generally mild, but the mountainous regions can experience heavy snowfall, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Electricity

The standard electrical voltage in Montenegro is 230V, with a frequency of 50Hz. The plugs used in Montenegro are the Europlug (Type C) and the Schuko plug (Type F), which are the same as those used in most of Europe. If you are traveling from a country that uses a different plug type, you will need to bring an adapter. Some hotels may have adapters available for guests to borrow, but it's always best to bring your own to avoid any inconvenience.

Wifi

WiFi is widely available in Montenegro, especially in tourist areas and major cities. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free WiFi for guests. However, internet speeds may be slower in some areas or during peak tourist seasons. If you need a faster and more reliable connection, consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan, which can be easily obtained from one of the many mobile network operators in Montenegro.