Montenegro: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
No, Montenegro is not in the Schengen zone. Days spent in Montenegro do not count toward your 90-day Schengen limit. This small Adriatic nation sits just south of Croatia (which is in Schengen) and offers stunning coastal scenery, medieval walled towns, and dramatic mountain landscapes, all without touching your Schengen clock. For UK travellers looking to extend a European trip or take a break from the Schengen count, Montenegro is one of the most attractive options available.
Montenegro has become increasingly popular with British visitors in recent years, and for good reason. The Bay of Kotor is regularly ranked among Europe's most beautiful spots, Budva's old town rivals anything on the Dalmatian coast, and the country's compact size means you can combine beach, mountains, and culture in a single short trip. UK passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 90 days, giving you plenty of flexibility.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: No
- EU Member: No
- Year Joined Schengen: N/A
- Capital: Podgorica
- Currency: Euro
- Languages: Montenegrin, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian, Croatian
Montenegro is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen zone. It is an EU candidate country and uses the euro despite not being in the eurozone. Days spent in Montenegro do not count toward the Schengen 90-day limit.
Combining Montenegro with Schengen Travel?
Montenegro is one of Europe's best Schengen clock-pause destinations. Enjoy the Adriatic without burning through your 90-day limit. When you head back into the Schengen zone, use Entorii to track exactly how many days you have left.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK citizens can stay in Montenegro for up to 90 days without a visa. This is a separate allowance from the Schengen 90/180-day rule and is governed by Montenegro's own immigration policies. You could spend your full 90 Schengen days in Italy or Croatia and then cross into Montenegro for additional weeks without any visa issues.
Montenegro uses the euro as its currency, despite not being part of the eurozone, which makes it convenient for travellers arriving from Schengen eurozone countries. There are no currency exchange hassles. A typical UK visitor stays for 7 to 14 days, often combining Montenegro with neighbouring Croatia or Albania as part of a Balkan itinerary.
Top Destinations in Montenegro
Kotor (2-3 days)
A UNESCO-listed walled town at the head of a spectacular fjord-like bay, with Venetian architecture and the fortress climb above.
Budva (3-5 days)
A lively Adriatic resort with a charming old town, sandy beaches, and the iconic Sveti Stefan island nearby.
Durmitor National Park (3-4 days)
Rugged mountain scenery, the Tara River Canyon (Europe's deepest), hiking, rafting, and the Black Lake.
Perast (1-2 days)
A tiny baroque town on the Bay of Kotor with two picturesque island churches just offshore.
Herceg Novi (2-3 days)
A fortress town at the entrance to the Bay of Kotor, known for its botanical diversity and relaxed pace.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from the UK to Montenegro serve Tivat Airport on the coast, which is the most convenient gateway for Kotor, Budva, and the Bay of Kotor. easyJet, Jet2, Ryanair, and Wizz Air all operate seasonal and year-round services from London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, and other UK airports. Flight times are approximately three hours. Podgorica Airport also receives some flights and is better positioned for the capital and northern Montenegro. Alternatively, you can fly into Dubrovnik in Croatia (a Schengen country) and cross the border into Montenegro by bus or car in around two hours, though note that the Dubrovnik day will count as a Schengen day.
Travel Tips
Montenegro is compact enough to explore by car, and the coastal road from Herceg Novi to Budva is one of the most scenic drives in Europe. Hire cars are available at both airports and in resort towns. Roads in the mountains can be narrow and winding, so allow extra time for journeys inland. The Kotor to Cetinje serpentine road has 25 hairpin bends but offers breathtaking views. Parking in Kotor old town is limited, so use the car parks on the approach road and walk in.
Montenegro is excellent value compared to neighbouring Croatia. Restaurants in Kotor and Budva offer high-quality seafood at prices well below the Dalmatian coast. The local Niksicko beer is cheap and widely available. Tipping around 10 percent is customary in restaurants. English is widely understood in tourist areas, and the general atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming toward British visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Montenegro in the Schengen zone?
No. Montenegro is not in the Schengen zone or the European Union. Days spent in Montenegro do not count toward the 90-day Schengen limit for UK passport holders.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Montenegro?
No. UK passport holders can stay in Montenegro for up to 90 days without a visa. This is a separate allowance from the Schengen 90/180-day rule.
What currency does Montenegro use?
Montenegro uses the euro as its official currency, despite not being a member of the European Union or eurozone. This makes it convenient for travellers arriving from Schengen eurozone countries without needing to exchange money.
Can I combine Montenegro with Croatia in one trip?
Yes, and many travellers do. However, Croatia is in the Schengen zone, so days there count toward your 90-day limit while days in Montenegro do not. When crossing the border, be aware that you are entering or leaving the Schengen zone and your passport will be checked and stamped.
Is Montenegro safe for UK travellers?
Yes. Montenegro is considered a safe destination for British tourists. The main tourist areas along the coast and in the national parks are well-established and welcoming. Standard travel precautions apply, the same as anywhere in Europe.