Coastal Montenegro, Montenegro
Tivat Airport (TIV): Approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) from Herceg Novi, the most convenient within Montenegro. Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), Croatia: Around 28 kilometers (17 miles) from Herceg Novi, often with more international flight connections. Podgorica Airport (TGD): Montenegro's largest airport, approximately 105 kilometers (65 miles) from Herceg Novi.
Tivat (TIV): mainly by seasonal charter flights and budget airlines (like Wizz Air and Ryanair during peak season) from various European cities. Air Montenegro (the national carrier) and Air Serbia operate year-round flights connecting to regional hubs like Belgrade. Dubrovnik (DBV): Served by major European carriers (including Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France, Croatia Airlines) and budget airlines (like EasyJet, Ryanair, Vueling) with connections across Europe. Podgorica (TGD): Air Montenegro, Air Serbia, Turkish Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Ryanair, and Wizz Air connect Podgorica to various European hubs, including Istanbul, Vienna, and major cities in Central and Western Europe.
This is a smaller airport with basic facilities, including car rental desks, a cafe, and a duty-free shop. It functions efficiently despite its size.
A larger airport with more amenities compared to Tivat. You will find multiple international car rental agencies, several cafes, shops, and ATMs.
Offers modern facilities and more services than Tivat. It includes various car rental companies, cafes, restaurants, and shops, providing a more comfortable waiting experience.
Croatia-Montenegro (Karasovići/Sutorina): Main road, delays in peak season. Bosnia-Montenegro (Sitnica/Zupci): Generally less busy, quicker passage.
Herceg Novi main bus station is a hub for domestic (Kotor, Budva, Podgorica) and international routes (Dubrovnik, Mostar, Belgrade).
Herceg Novi has no direct train connections. Closest line connects Bar with Belgrade, Serbia. Not a practical option.
To rent a car, you will need a valid domestic driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended or necessary if your domestic license is not in English or a commonly understood language.
Motorcycles and scooters are available for rent from various local shops in Herceg Novi, especially along the promenade. Bicycle rentals are available from private shops or some guesthouses and hotels.
In Montenegro, you drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Headlights must be on at all times, day and night. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very low, and there is zero tolerance for professional drivers. Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited.
Herceg Novi's sea arrival options are mainly local ferries and tour boats. The Kamenari-Lepetane car ferry operates frequently across the Verige strait, significantly shortening the driving distance around the Bay. The passenger fee is minimal, and the car fee is around €5-€7.
The main public transit system in Herceg Novi is a network of local buses. These buses connect different parts of Herceg Novi, providing access from Igalo in the west, through the city center and Old Town area, to Meljine and Zelenika in the east.
Taxis offer a convenient way to get around Herceg Novi, especially for longer distances or when carrying luggage.
Pet Danica Promenade: 7km pedestrian walkway from Igalo to Meljine, with scenic coastal views, cafes, and restaurants. Old Town: Maze of narrow cobblestone streets and stairs, pedestrian-only, ideal for exploration.
Dedicated bicycle infrastructure is limited. Cycling mainly occurs on shared roads. Promenade becomes crowded in peak season. Main coastal road can be challenging due to traffic.
Water transportation is abundant and popular. Boat taxis take you to nearby beaches. Organized boat tours explore the Bay of Kotor, including the Blue Cave and Mamula Island.
For easy movement between the two sides of the Bay of Kotor, use the Kamenari-Lepetane car ferry. It saves significant driving time compared to circumnavigating the entire bay.