Taxi or Bus in Montenegro: Cost, Time and Convenience

Taxi or bus: how to choose your transport in Montenegro

Planning a trip around Montenegro also means choosing the right way to get around. Whether you are arriving for a summer holiday, touring the popular sights or visiting several towns during your stay, one of the most common questions is "Is it better to travel by taxi or by bus?".

Montenegro is a relatively small country, but the distance between two places is not always a reliable guide to how long the journey will take. Mountain terrain, the coastal roads and heavy traffic in the tourist season can all add significantly to the time you need to reach your destination.

Bus travel in Montenegro is an affordable way to get between the larger towns and popular resorts. Taxis, on the other hand, offer more flexibility, take you straight to your destination and make the journey easier to organise, especially when travelling with luggage, family or a group. Still, neither option is best in every situation.

In this guide we look at whether a taxi or the bus is the better option in Montenegro, journey times, availability and the practicalities of each. You will find out when the bus is better value, when a taxi is the smarter choice, and what to look out for when planning your trip.

Which to choose: taxi or bus in Montenegro?

The choice between taxi and bus comes down to your priorities. For some travellers the lowest possible price matters most, while others put comfort, speed and getting straight to their accommodation first.

If you are travelling alone, have little luggage and plenty of time, the bus can be a perfectly practical choice. Intercity bus routes link Podgorica with many towns, and on the coast the connections between Budva, Kotor, Tivat, Herceg Novi, Bar and Ulcinj are especially useful.

Travelling by bus does, however, take some planning. You need to check the timetable, get to the bus station and, on arrival, organise transport on to your final destination.

A taxi is a different kind of transport because it takes you from your starting point straight to where you want to be. Instead of heading to the bus station and fitting in with a fixed departure time, you can arrange the ride around your own needs, subject to vehicle availability.

So when choosing how to travel, it is not enough to look at the ticket or fare price alone. You also need to weigh up the total cost, the journey time and how easy it is to reach your final destination.

The main differences between bus and taxi travel

Bus and taxi travel differ in several key ways that can shape your experience, from cost and journey time to comfort and availability.

How do taxis work in Montenegro?

Taxis are available in all the larger towns and resorts in Montenegro. You can book a car through local taxi companies, by phone or with a mobile app.

One of their main advantages is flexibility. A taxi ride can start wherever you choose and end right outside your hotel, apartment, restaurant or any other destination that can be reached by car. This is particularly useful in tourist towns, where accommodation is not always close to the main roads or the bus station.

The fare for a city taxi ride is usually calculated according to the operator's current tariff, while on certain intercity and airport transfers the price may be known or agreed in advance.

For first-time visitors to Montenegro, using a taxi app can make organising transport even simpler, as it lets you pinpoint your pick-up location and destination precisely.

How do buses work in Montenegro?

The bus is one of the main forms of public intercity transport in Montenegro. The larger towns have bus stations with services to other parts of the country. Several different companies run the routes, so timetables, ticket prices and conditions of travel can vary. Tickets are generally sold at bus stations, and for many intercity routes you can also buy them online.

Buses are especially practical on routes with several departures a day. Coverage is not the same everywhere, though. While there may be multiple daily departures between the popular tourist towns, getting to smaller places and more remote destinations often takes extra planning or a change of bus.

Bear in mind that buses generally connect bus stations and set stops, which means your journey may not end anywhere near your accommodation.

Bus versus taxi: comparing the cost

Cost is one of the most important factors when planning a holiday budget. At first glance, the bus is almost always the cheaper choice for a single traveller. When several people are travelling together, however, the gap between the total cost of bus tickets and a taxi fare can be smaller than you might expect.

How much does a taxi cost in Montenegro?

Taxi prices in Montenegro depend on the town, the distance, the operator, the type of ride and the time of year.

As an indicative guide, a shorter city taxi ride in Podgorica costs roughly 3–6 €, while in tourist towns such as Budva and Kotor shorter rides tend to be around 5–10 €. Intercity fares are higher, mainly because of the distances involved. A taxi between Budva and Kotor, for example, costs roughly 25–40 €, while a ride between Podgorica and Budva is typically around 45–65 €.

It is worth stressing that a taxi fare is per car, not per passenger, as long as the number of passengers fits the vehicle's capacity. This means four people travelling together can split the total cost, which makes a taxi far more affordable than when one person takes the same route alone.

You will find more detail on city tariffs, airport transfers and intercity routes in our guide "Taxi Prices in Montenegro 2026".

How much does the bus cost in Montenegro?

Bus tickets for intercity routes are generally much cheaper than taxi fares.

Based on the available information, a bus ticket between Podgorica and Budva currently costs around 7–9 € per person, a ticket from Herceg Novi to Budva costs about the same, and the trip between Budva and Kotor is roughly 4–6 €.

Prices depend on the operator, the date of travel, the type of service and any extra charges. When planning your budget, check whether all costs are included in the price. Some operators charge extra for luggage or for certain station services.

And if your hotel is some way from the bus station, you may need to pay for an additional taxi ride to your accommodation. That is why it makes sense to compare the total cost of the journey from start to finish, not just the basic bus fare.

The bus is the most economical choice for solo travellers and couples, especially when there is a direct service and the stations are close to both your starting point and your destination.

A taxi can work out better value for groups who share the cost, as well as for travellers with lots of luggage or limited time who want to be taken straight to their destination.

A taxi may not be cheaper, but it can be the more practical option. The best way to compare is to look at prices on the most common tourist routes in Montenegro.

Availability and flexibility

Availability and flexibility are important factors when choosing between taxi and bus. Bus travel is tied to a fixed timetable, which can limit your time for excursions, evening activities and getting back to your accommodation. A taxi takes you door to door, with no need to fit in with bus departures or combine several forms of transport. It is especially practical for early-morning departures, late arrivals and visits to places far from the bus station. That said, taxi availability should be checked and, where necessary, a ride booked in advance. Whichever you choose, it is wise to plan your transport ahead, particularly in the summer season.

Taxi or bus: which gets you there faster?

Journey time matters just as much as price, especially for visitors who want to make the most of their stay in Montenegro.

A taxi takes you directly, but the total journey time still depends on the distance, the traffic and the route taken. The bus, on the other hand, involves waiting for the departure, possible stops along the way and extra time to reach your final destination.

Journey time by taxi

A taxi takes you directly, with none of the compulsory stops you get at bus stations. That can make it the more practical option when travelling between two specific addresses, particularly if both are some distance from the main transport hubs.

If you are travelling from an apartment in Budva to a hotel in Kotor, for example, a taxi can take you straight from one to the other, with no detour to the bus station.

Travelling this way cuts out changes, extra walking and waiting for the next departure. A taxi is not immune to traffic jams, though. When taxis and buses are on the same road, hold-ups affect them both equally.

Journey time by bus

With bus travel, there are several time factors to allow for. First, you need to get to the bus station and wait for the scheduled departure. After that, the journey time depends on the route and the number of stops along the way.

On arrival in another town, you often need extra time to get to your hotel or the sight you are visiting. So a bus ride that takes 40 minutes does not necessarily mean the whole journey from your accommodation to your destination will take that long.

If your accommodation is close to the bus station and the timetable fits your plans, the bus can be a practical and time-efficient choice.

In July and August, traffic on the Montenegrin coast, particularly between Budva, Kotor, Tivat and Herceg Novi, can be much heavier. Journey times are often longer as a result, whichever form of transport you choose.

A taxi gives you more flexibility over when you leave, while the bus means fitting in with the timetable. Either way, allow extra travel time in the peak tourist season.

Taxi or bus from Montenegro's airports?

Arriving at the airport is one of those moments when your choice of transport can make a real difference to the start of your trip.

After a flight, most travellers just want to get to their accommodation as easily as possible, especially if they have large suitcases, children in tow or are arriving somewhere unfamiliar.

Montenegro has two main international airports: Tivat Airport and Podgorica Airport. Both are important gateways to the tourist destinations, but the public transport options differ.

Tivat Airport

Tivat Airport is the main arrival point for visitors holidaying in Tivat, Kotor, Budva, Herceg Novi and other places along the coast. Its big advantage is how close it is to the popular resorts, but that does not mean onward travel is always straightforward.

If you plan to take the bus, check the available services, where the stops are and how they connect with your destination before you travel. Depending on the route, you may need to walk some distance from the terminal to the right stop.

A taxi is the more practical option when you want to go straight from the airport to your hotel or apartment.

As an indicative guide, a taxi from Tivat Airport to Kotor costs roughly 15–25 €, while a ride to Budva is around 30–45 €. The final fare depends on the operator, the exact destination and other conditions of the ride.

Podgorica Airport

Podgorica Airport is a key gateway for visitors to the capital, central Montenegro and the coast. Unlike airports where you have to look for public transport outside the airport complex, Podgorica Airport has a bus stop right in front of the terminal.

There are certain bus connections to Podgorica and other destinations, but check the timetable before you travel. If you are heading on to Budva, Kotor or another resort, find out whether there is a suitable direct service or whether you will need to change.

A taxi takes you straight to your chosen destination, with no detour to the bus station.

As an indicative guide, a taxi from Podgorica Airport to the city centre costs 12–20 €, while a ride to Budva is around 45–65 €.

A taxi is considerably more convenient for this kind of transfer, especially when you arrive late in the evening, are travelling with family or have a lot of luggage.

After a long flight, waiting for a bus, changing and then finding your accommodation can be an unnecessary burden. A direct ride makes the onward journey much easier, particularly if this is your first visit to Montenegro.

That said, for travellers with time to spare who want to keep costs down, the bus remains an option worth considering. The main thing is to check the available departures, the total cost and how you will get from the last stop to your accommodation before you arrive.

Travelling with luggage: taxi or bus?

The amount of luggage you have often has a bigger influence on the choice of transport than travellers expect.

If you are travelling with just a backpack or a small suitcase, the bus can be perfectly practical. It is a different story when you have several large suitcases, a pushchair or extra equipment. On intercity buses, larger luggage usually goes in a separate hold, and operators generally charge an extra fee per item. Before you travel, check the rules of the operator in question, especially if you are carrying anything non-standard.

The other important factor is the distance between the bus station and your accommodation. In resorts such as Budva and Kotor, apartments are often in parts of town that are not easy to reach on foot with large suitcases. If you then need to pay for a taxi from the bus station to the apartment, the overall difference in cost between the two options can shrink.

A taxi is particularly practical for travellers with a lot of luggage, as it takes you directly from one place to the other. Before booking, though, make sure the vehicle has enough room for all the passengers and suitcases.

For a group of four with large luggage, a standard saloon car may not be enough, so choose a vehicle with suitable capacity.

Taxi or bus for families with children?

Family trips take extra planning, especially when it comes to travelling between towns or arriving at the airport. Parents are often travelling with several suitcases, a pushchair and extra equipment, which makes ease of organisation all the more important.

The bus can be the cheaper option for families looking to keep costs down, particularly where children qualify for discounts under the operator's rules. You do need to factor in waiting times, seat availability, where the luggage goes and how far the bus station is from your final destination.

A taxi takes you directly and gives you more flexibility over departure times. That can be a real advantage when travelling with small children, when you need to make stops or when you want to avoid changing.

It is important, however, to check in advance whether a suitable child seat is available and what the conditions are for carrying children. Do not assume that every taxi automatically carries equipment suitable for your child's age.

For families with two or more children, it is worth comparing the total cost of bus tickets with the price of a taxi ride. In some situations the difference in cost is a reasonable price to pay for the extra comfort and a simpler journey.

Which transport to use in Montenegro's summer season?

The summer tourist season has a major effect on traffic and travel arrangements in Montenegro. In July and August, large numbers of visitors stay in Budva, Kotor, Tivat, Herceg Novi, Bar and other coastal destinations, which puts more vehicles on the roads and leads to frequent congestion.

For those travelling by bus, this can mean longer journeys, possible delays and higher demand for seats on the most popular routes. It is therefore wise to check the timetable in advance and, where possible, book a ticket for the departure you want.

A taxi gives you more flexibility in organising your journey, as you can choose when to leave and go straight to your destination. Bear in mind, though, that taxis are not immune to traffic either, so a direct ride does not necessarily mean a shorter journey.

The main advantage of a taxi in summer lies in its flexibility and the ability to arrange transport around your own needs, not necessarily in a shorter ride.

For a day trip from Budva to Kotor, for instance, the bus can be an economical choice, especially if the departures fit your plans. But if you want to visit several places around the Bay of Kotor, have lunch or dinner in another town and get back to your accommodation at a time that suits you, a taxi can be the more practical solution.

Pay particular attention to how you will get to the airport, especially in the busiest summer months. Whether you opt for the bus or a taxi, plan the journey in advance and allow plenty of time for possible hold-ups, delays and other unforeseen circumstances.

When to choose the bus, and when to take a taxi

The choice between taxi and bus depends on your budget, how much time you have and what you need during your stay in Montenegro.

Choose the bus if saving money is your priority

The bus is an economical choice for solo travellers, couples and visitors planning trips between the larger towns who can work around the timetable. It is especially practical when your accommodation is close to the bus station and there is no need to change.

Choose a taxi if flexibility matters to you

A taxi is ideal for direct journeys, airport transfers, travelling with luggage and visiting places far from the bus station. It is also a practical solution for families, small groups and travellers who want to set their own departure time.

Combine taxi and bus for the best of both

By combining the two, you can keep costs down while holding on to flexibility. Use the bus for travel between towns and a taxi to get to your accommodation or back after an evening out.

When deciding, look beyond the fare alone and consider the total journey time, the available services and the distance to your final destination.

The easiest way to book a taxi in Montenegro

Mobile apps let you book a taxi without a phone call or having to explain where you are. The Blic Taxi app connects travellers with licensed local taxi drivers: enter your pick-up point and destination, confirm the ride and follow the car's arrival on the map.

The app is particularly handy for visitors who do not know the local taxi companies or simply want an easier way to organise transport. It is available in towns across Montenegro, including Budva, Kotor, Tivat, Podgorica, Bar, Ulcinj, Herceg Novi, Cetinje, Nikšić, Kolašin and Žabljak, as well as at both international airports.

For airport transfers, intercity rides and trips to tourist sights, enter the exact address of your destination. The app is also useful for getting to the bus station, to your accommodation or to places not served directly by public transport.

You will find step-by-step instructions on the quickest and easiest way to book a taxi here.

So which is the better choice for your trip?

Taxis and buses in Montenegro each have their strengths, and the best choice depends on your budget, how much time you have and how you plan to travel.

The bus is an economical option for intercity travel and for visitors who can work around the timetable, while a taxi offers more flexibility, comfort and a direct ride to your destination.

For families, small groups, travellers with luggage and airport transfers, a taxi can be the more practical solution. Many visitors strike the best balance by using the bus for cheaper travel between towns and a taxi on the routes where flexibility and a direct ride matter more.

To make organising a taxi simple, the Blic Taxi app lets you set your pick-up point and destination, book the ride and follow the car's arrival. That makes it easier to plan your movements during your stay and leaves you more time to explore and enjoy Montenegro.

A note on prices: All prices quoted are a guide for planning your trip. Taxi amounts are not guaranteed or official Blic Taxi tariffs. Bus fares, timetables and journey times may change depending on the operator, the date and the season, so check the latest information before you set off.