Montenegro: A Year-Round Destination

Here’s the thing about Montenegro — there’s no single “best” time to visit. It depends entirely on what you want to do. The beaches of Budva in January? Not so great. Hiking Durmitor in February? Fantastic, if you like skiing. The country’s small size means you can be on the beach and in the mountains on the same day, but the seasons offer very different experiences.

This guide breaks down what to expect each season, so you can plan your trip around the weather, the crowds, and your budget. And because car hire is often the best way to explore Montenegro, we’ll look at how each season affects driving and rental prices too.

Summer (June to August)

This is Montenegro’s peak season, and there’s no denying the appeal — long, hot days, sea temperatures perfect for swimming, and a lively atmosphere in the coastal towns. But with the good comes the crowded.

Weather

Expect daytime temperatures of 25-35°C on the coast, with July and August being the hottest months. Inland, it’s slightly cooler, but the humidity can be high. Rain is rare. In the mountains (Durmitor, Kolašin), temperatures are pleasant at 20-25°C — a welcome escape from the coast.

The Experience

The coast comes alive. Budva’s old town is buzzing, beach clubs are pumping, and the nightlife is genuine. But so are the crowds. Beaches fill up early, restaurants need reservations, and the coastal roads can get congested. If you want the classic Mediterranean beach holiday, summer delivers — just book early.

Car Hire

Availability: Limited. Book at least 2-3 weeks ahead, especially for July-August.

Prices: Highest of the year. Expect to pay 30-50% more than in shoulder season.

Driving: Coastal roads are busy but manageable. Leave early for popular destinations to beat the traffic. Watch for reckless driving from stressed tourists.

Tip: If you can, avoid the very peak of August. The first half of July or late August offers similar weather with slightly fewer crowds.

Autumn (September to November)

If we had to pick the single best time to visit Montenegro, it would be autumn. The sea is still warm (often warmer than in peak summer), the crowds have thinned, and the countryside takes on a golden glow.

Weather

September is still firmly summer-like, with temperatures around 25-28°C and warm seas. October sees temperatures drop to 18-22°C, with occasional rain. November is transitional — cooler, some rainy days, but still pleasant enough for exploring.

The Experience

This is when Montenegro feels most authentic. The beaches are empty, the old towns are peaceful, and locals return to their routines. The harvest season brings excellent food — olives, grapes, and autumn produce are at their best. In the mountains, the first snow often appears in November, creating beautiful scenery.

Car Hire

Availability: Good. Most companies have plenty of stock.

Prices: Significantly lower than summer. September is still relatively high; October and November are bargains.

Driving: Excellent. Roads are quiet, and you can take your time exploring. Mountain roads may have early snow in late November — check conditions.

Tip: September offers the best of both worlds — summer weather with autumn prices and crowds.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is Montenegro’s secret season. It won’t be for everyone — many coastal hotels close, and the beach towns can feel shuttered. But if you love mountains, culture, and getting off the beaten track, winter has real charm.

Weather

Cold on the coast (5-12°C) but rarely freezing. Rain is common. In the mountains, expect snow and temperatures below freezing — perfect for skiing. Podgorica can be foggy.

The Experience

Durmitor and Kolašin become ski destinations, with far fewer crowds than mainstream Alpine resorts. Christmas and New Year bring festive markets in some towns. The old towns of Kotor and Budva have a magical, atmospheric quality when empty of tourists. It’s a completely different Montenegro — quieter, more introspective, and genuinely rewarding for the right traveller.

Car Hire

Availability: Good on the coast. Limited in mountain areas (some companies don’t offer winter car hire in Žabljak or Kolašin).

Prices: Lowest of the year, except during Christmas/New Year when they spike.

Driving: Challenging in the north. Mountain roads can be snow-covered or icy. A 4WD with winter tyres is essential for Durmitor. Coastal driving is straightforward.

Tip: If skiing is your thing, February usually has the best snow conditions. Book accommodation and car hire early for school holidays.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a close contender for the best time to visit. The countryside blooms, the weather warms up, and everything feels fresh after winter. It’s particularly good for hiking and outdoor activities.

Weather

March starts cool (10-15°C) with some rain. By April and May, temperatures climb to 18-24°C. May is particularly pleasant — warm days, cool nights, and the sea starting to warm up for swimming. Rain is possible but usually passing showers.

The Experience

This is hiking season in the mountains. The trails are green and blooming, the waterfalls are flowing from snowmelt, and the weather is perfect for walking. The coast is quiet — some hotels and restaurants may not have fully opened yet, but that’s changing as tourism grows. Lake Skadar is beautiful in spring, with birdlife at its peak.

Car Hire

Availability: Good. Easter weekend can be busy.

Prices: Moderate. Lower than summer, similar to autumn.

Driving: Generally good. Some mountain roads may still have late snow at higher elevations (particularly March and early April). Check conditions before heading to Durmitor.

Tip: May offers the best balance — excellent weather, beautiful scenery, and prices that haven’t peaked yet.

Season-by-Season Summary

Final Thoughts

There’s no wrong time to visit Montenegro — just different experiences. For most people, late May, June, September, or October offer the best balance of weather, crowds, and value. Winter is a hidden gem for adventurous travellers, and summer delivers the classic beach holiday if you don’t mind the crowds.

Wherever you decide to go, having a car gives you the flexibility to make the most of whatever season you choose. So pick your time, book early (especially for summer), and get ready to discover one of Europe’s most underrated destinations.

Ready to find the best car hire deal for your trip? Compare prices and book your Montenegro adventure today.