Looking for car hire in Petrovac? This charming coastal town on Montenegro’s Adriatic shore makes an excellent base for exploring the Budva Riviera and beyond. With your own vehicle, you can discover hidden beaches, historic monasteries, and the spectacular coastal road that connects some of the Balkans’ most beautiful spots.
Why Rent a Car in Petrovac
Petrovac sits roughly halfway between Budva and Bar on Montenegro’s main coastal road. It’s smaller and quieter than the party towns of Budva and Kotor, with a more relaxed family atmosphere and a lovely sandy bay. While buses run along the coast, they can be infrequent and crowded in peak season — having a car means you can explore at your own pace and reach places public transport simply doesn’t go.
The town is compact and walkable, but the real attractions are scattered along the coast and up in the mountains. From here, you can easily reach Sveti Stefan, the old town of Budva, Lake Skadar, and even make day trips to Kotor and Dubrovnik (just across the border in Croatia).
Top Places to Visit from Petrovac
Sveti Stefan
Just 15 kilometres north of Petrovac (about 20 minutes by car), the iconic islet of Sveti Stefan is Montenegro’s most photographed sight. Connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, this former fishing village is now a luxury resort — the public can’t enter the island itself, but there are viewpoints on the mainland that offer stunning photos. Spend some time at the nearby beaches of Milocer and Queen’s Beach, just a short walk from the parking area.
Budva Old Town
Less than 20 kilometres north (25 minutes by car), Budva’s fortified old town is one of the Adriatic’s most atmospheric spots. Wander through narrow stone streets, explore the citadel, and enjoy the sea views from the walls. The town gets very busy in July and August, so arrive early to find parking. Nearby Mogren Beach is a lovely spot accessed through a tunnel from the old town.
Lake Skadar National Park
About 40 kilometres inland (45 minutes by car), this vast lake straddles the Montenegro-Albania border and is a haven for birdlife, including the rare Dalmatian pelican. The park offers boat tours, hiking trails, and opportunities for wine tasting at local vineyards. The village of Virpazar is the main entry point, where you can rent boats or join guided tours.
Bar and Stari Bar
Driving 25 kilometres south of Petrovac (30 minutes) brings you to Bar, Montenegro’s main port. The modern town isn’t particularly atmospheric, but Stari Bar — the old town, perched on a hillside 4 kilometres inland — is fascinating. It was abandoned after an 1979 earthquake, and the ruins are now a haunting open-air museum. The drive up offers panoramic views of the coast.
Ulcinj
About 60 kilometres south (an hour’s drive), Ulcinj is Montenegro’s southernmost coastal town, with a distinctly Albanian flavour. The old town perches on a dramatic cliff above a long sandy beach. It’s more off the beaten track than Budva, with a different cultural atmosphere and excellent fresh seafood.
Driving in Montenegro
Driving in Montenegro requires a bit of adjustment if you’re used to wide, straight roads. The coastal road (Jadranska Magistrala) is scenic but can be winding and narrow in sections, with tight curves and occasional rockfalls. Local drivers can be aggressive, and parking in popular towns like Budva and Kotor can be a challenge in high season.
Roads in Montenegro are generally well-maintained, though mountain routes can have sheer drops with limited barriers. If you’re not a confident driver on winding roads, consider a smaller car — they’re easier to manoeuvre and park. Speed limits are 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h on open roads, and 130 km/h on highways (though there are few true highways in Montenegro).
For crossing into Croatia (for Dubrovnik trips) or Albania, you’ll need the relevant car insurance documentation. Most rentals allow cross-border travel within the Balkans, but check your rental agreement for restrictions and additional fees.
Car Rental Pickup in Petrovac
There’s no airport in Petrovac, so most people pick up rental cars at Tivat Airport (30 kilometres north) or Podgorica Airport (55 kilometres east). Many rental companies will deliver to your accommodation in Petrovac for a fee, or you can arrange pickup in Budva. If you’re arriving by ferry or bus, several local agencies have offices in town.
To rent a car in Montenegro, you’ll need a valid driver’s licence and a credit card for the deposit. Drivers must be at least 21 years old (sometimes 23) and have held their licence for at least two years. An International Driving Permit is required if your licence isn’t in Roman script.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the nearest airport to Petrovac?
Tivat Airport is about 30 kilometres away (35-minute drive). Podgorica Airport is 55 kilometres away (about an hour). Both have a good selection of rental companies.
Can I cross into Croatia or Albania with a rental car?
Most rental companies allow cross-border travel to neighbouring countries, but you’ll need to declare this at pickup and pay an additional insurance fee. Always check your rental agreement first.
Is parking difficult in Petrovac?
Petrovac has public parking lots near the beach and along the main road. In summer these fill up, but it’s generally easier to find parking than in Budva or Kotor. Many hotels offer private parking.
Do I need a 4×4 in Montenegro?
For coastal driving and main routes, a standard car is fine. A higher clearance vehicle is useful if you’re heading into the mountains or exploring rural areas, but it’s not essential.
What’s the drive like from Petrovac to Dubrovnik?
It’s about 90 kilometres (1.5 to 2 hours), but the coastal road is scenic and winding. Allow extra time during peak season when there can be delays at the border crossing. The views are spectacular, so consider making stops along the way.
With no hidden fees and 24/7 support, booking your Petrovac car hire through our platform means you can explore Montenegro’s coast and mountains with complete peace of mind.