Seasonal Activities in Montenegro After the Summer Season
When summer in Montenegro slowly quiets down and the beaches empty of tourists, the country of sea and mountains reveals a different, yet equally magical side. Autumn and early winter
Traveling through Montenegro is a dream for many: narrow mountain roads, the endless blue of the Adriatic, and picturesque views in Sveti Stefan, Kotor, Budva… But once you arrive and ask for a rental car, you face an important question: automatic or manual transmission? This article is written for those who have never rented a car before and want to make a smart, relaxed, and informed decision.
Understanding the Offer and Market Dynamics of Car Rentals in Montenegro
Which Transmission Is More Common and Affordable?
Most rental cars in Montenegro come with a manual transmission, as they’re cheaper to maintain and more widely available. They’re usually 30–50% less expensive during the off-season, while in July–August high season, prices rise to €40–70 per day.
Automatic – Comfort at a Higher Price
Automatics are more popular with tourists, especially in summer, but they’re also more expensive—€5–15 more per day, often harder to find, and usually booked well in advance. If you're planning a summer vacation, book 2–3 months ahead to increase your chances of getting an automatic at a reasonable price.
Comfort and Driving Experience – What Suits You Best?
Why Automatic Is Ideal for Tourists
- On Montenegro’s winding mountain roads, an automatic allows for smooth driving without constant clutching.
- In urban traffic in Podgorica, Kotor, Budva… you avoid the hassle of gear changes—driving is more relaxed.
- One American tourist on TripAdvisor wrote:
“I am able to enjoy driving much more without… constant gear shifting.”
Manual Advantages for Those Who Enjoy Control
- Manual transmissions give quicker control over gear shifts on hills and offer a more connected driving feel.
- They consume less fuel and can be significantly more budget-friendly.
- If manual feels more natural to you (like riding a bicycle freely), you’ll likely enjoy the driving experience more.
Roads and Conditions in Montenegro – Where Transmission Choice Matters
Mountainous and Winding Roads
Roads like Durmitor, Kolašin, and Lovćen involve steep climbs—manual transmission offers more control but demands skill. For a relaxed drive, automatic handles the terrain effortlessly.
Traffic and Infrastructure
Congestion near Kotor and Budva, and limited parking—automatic helps with frequent maneuvers. However, in smaller towns where parking is less organized, a compact manual car is easier to handle.
Road Quality
Potholes, narrow passages, and uneven surfaces require careful driving—choose the transmission you’re confident operating without losing focus.
Price, Costs, and Additional Charges
Base Rental Price
- Manual: €30–50/day (off-season), €40–70/day (summer)
- Automatic: +€5–15 per day
Fuel Costs & Insurance
Fuel costs around €1.30–1.38 per liter. Insurance is important—CDW and Super CDW are recommended to cover damage on rough roads and steep trails.
Deposit • Buyout • Extra Fees
Deposits range from €500 to €3,000, depending on the company. Extras (GPS, additional driver, off-location delivery) typically cost €10–30. Always review all costs during booking.
Tips for Safe and Enjoyable Car Rental
1. Book in Advance
You'll get the best offers and availability of automatic cars if you book 2–3 months before your trip.
2. Don’t Skip Insurance
On mountainous roads, narrow passages, and due to police controls—CDW / Super CDW is not a luxury but a smart precaution.
3. Inspect the Vehicle
Take photos of the car when picking it up—useful evidence in case of any disputes.
4. Research the Rules
In Montenegro, headlights are mandatory during the day, speed limits are 50–130 km/h. To cross borders, you’ll need rental agency consent + a green card (~€15 at the border).
5. Plan Your Route and Timing
Mountain roads are narrow with blind curves. It’s recommended to allow 20–30% more time than what Google Maps suggests—especially in peak season.
Conclusion – What to Choose?
Recommendation for You, a Tourist from Serbia
- Automatic: Ideal for:
- City trips – Podgorica, Kotor, Budva
- Comfortable and relaxed driving with less leg fatigue
- Fewer driving concerns and more time to enjoy the scenery
- Manual: Worth considering if:
- You want control and active participation in driving
- You want to save money
- You have experience with manual transmission
If this is your first rental – an automatic offers peace of mind and a simpler travel experience, especially on Montenegro’s narrow and demanding roads.
Quick Tips – At a Glance
- . Book 2–3 months in advance – more choice for automatic models
- Manual is cheaper but more tiring
- Always get proper insurance (CDW, for scratches)
- Photograph the car when picking it up
- Rules: daytime headlights + reflectors – these are legal requirements
- Plan for 20–30% more travel time in the mountains
- Crossing the border? Green card – ~€15 + agency permission
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which is better for city driving – automatic or manual transmission?
For city driving, automatic is recommended—it makes navigating traffic easier and reduces fatigue. No need to constantly use the clutch, which is especially helpful at stoplights and in traffic jams.
Does an automatic use more fuel than a manual?
Automatics used to consume more, but modern automatic transmissions are much more efficient. In many cases, the difference is minimal—it mostly depends on the car model and driving style.
Can I rent an automatic if I only have a manual driving license?
Yes—if you have a license for manual, you can drive an automatic. The reverse is not true—if you only have an automatic license, you cannot drive a manual. This rule applies in most European countries, including Serbia.
What if the rental company doesn’t have the automatic car I booked?
It’s best to reserve early and confirm with the rental company a day or two before pickup. If the automatic model isn’t available, they’ll usually offer a manual as a replacement. If an automatic is essential, you may want to switch rental companies or negotiate compensation.
Related Blogs
Seasonal Activities in Montenegro for Nature Lovers
Welcome to Montenegro, a country where nature is not just a backdrop but the main star of your holiday. As someone born and raised here, I want to share with
Rent a Car for Business Travelers – How to Improve Business Trips?
Business trips often require speed, efficiency, and maximum flexibility. For those who frequently visit different destinations, the mode of transportation can significantly impact the success of the trip itself. Rent-a-car
