MileHacker Logo
Practical Information

Practical Information

Montenegro

Local SIM Cards

The main mobile network providers in Montenegro are Yettel (formerly Telenor), Crnogorski Telekom, and M:Tel. All have good coverage in Petrovac and most populated areas.

SIM Purchase

  • Local SIM cards are readily available at airports, kiosks, and official provider stores.
  • Your passport is a necessity for registration, a standard procedure.
  • Look for "tourist SIM" packages; they present good value for data, calls, and SMS.

Internet Access

Wi-Fi is widely available and typically free in hotels, apartments, restaurants, and cafes throughout Petrovac. Speeds are usually fine for browsing and communication.

Staying Connected

  • If you purchase a local SIM card, you will have reliable mobile data coverage.
  • Mobile data keeps you connected across most of Montenegro on the go.
  • Solis Wi-Fi offers portable WiFi devices for constant connectivity.

Postal Services

Montenegro Post (Pošta Crne Gore) operates post offices nationwide. There is a post office in Petrovac.

Sending Mail

  • Send postcards, letters, and packages internationally.
  • The post office offers reliable services for your mailing needs.
  • Look for the local post office location within Petrovac.

Language Basics

The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin, a standardized variety of Serbo-Croatian. Serbian, Bosnian, and Croatian are mutually intelligible.

Common Languages

  • English is spoken in tourist areas like Petrovac, especially by younger generations.
  • Those in the tourism industry (hotel staff, waiters, guides) often speak English.
  • Russian is also commonly spoken due to a significant number of Russian-speaking visitors.

Translation Tools

Digital Aids

  • Download the Google Translate app for offline language packs.
  • This facilitates instant text and voice translation without an internet connection.
  • Airalo eSIMs keep you connected to download translation apps anywhere.
  • Rosetta Stone provides language learning if you wish to prepare more deeply.

Traveler's Wisdom

  • Carry a small phrasebook with common Montenegrin phrases.
  • If language presents a barrier, a friendly attitude, gestures, and patience often contribute to communication.
  • Learning a few basic phrases shows respect for local culture.
  • Such efforts make your interactions more pleasant.

Essential Phrases

Learning a few basic Montenegrin phrases can make your journey more engaging:

  • Hello: Zdravo (ZDRAH-voh)
  • Good morning: Dobro jutro (DOH-bro YOO-troh)
  • Good evening: Dobro veče (DOH-bro VEH-cheh)
  • Goodbye: Doviđenja (doh-vee-JEH-nyah)
  • Please: Molim (MOH-leem)
  • Thank you: Hvala (HVAH-lah)
  • Yes: Da (dah)
  • No: Ne (neh)
  • Excuse me: Izvinite (eez-VEE-nee-teh)
  • Do you speak English?: Govorite li engleski? (GOH-voh-ree-teh lee EN-gleh-skee?)
  • How much?: Koliko košta? (KOH-lee-koh KOH-sh-tah?)
  • Water: Voda (VOH-dah)
  • Cheers!: Živjeli! (ZHEE-vyeh-lee!)

Business Hours & Schedules

Shop Hours

Generally open from 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. Many tourist shops extend hours in peak summer. Some smaller shops close for a lunch break (1 PM to 4 PM).

Supermarket Hours

Most supermarkets operate from around 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. They are often open daily, including weekends.

Dining Hours

Cafes open early for coffee. Restaurants serve lunch from noon and dinner until 10:00 PM or later, especially during peak season.

Pharmacy Access

Pharmacies usually operate from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays. They often have shorter hours on Saturdays.

Emergency Info

  • Some pharmacies operate emergency shifts (dežurna apoteka) after hours.
  • Look for signs indicating the nearest emergency pharmacy.
  • A local inquiry can confirm late-night availability.

Banking Services

Banks typically operate from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays. They generally close on weekends and public holidays.

ATM Availability

  • Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are widely available in Petrovac.
  • Find them near banks, larger supermarkets, and along the promenade.
  • Most ATMs accept international Visa and Mastercard debit and credit cards.

Holiday Closures

Public Holidays

  • New Year's (January 1-2)
  • Orthodox Christmas (January 6-7)
  • Easter (Orthodox, dates vary each year)
  • Labor Day (May 1-2)
  • Independence Day (May 21-22)
  • Statehood Day (July 13-14)

Seasonal Adjustments

  • During the low season (November to April), many tourist-oriented businesses close or operate on limited schedules.
  • Services become scarcer during this period.
  • Accommodation prices are notably lower in the off-season.

Planning Note

Always verify if your visit overlaps with any major holidays, as services may face reduction.

For flight-related issues, Compensair offers a service that aids customers in securing compensation for flight delays or cancellations.

Frequent travelers may appreciate Priority Pass for airport lounge access globally.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

A thoughtful approach to local customs can make your trip more rewarding.

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common for both men and women upon first meeting or in a formal setting.

Friendly Welcome

  • Close friends and family may greet with three kisses on the cheek (right-left-right).
  • A simple "Zdravo" (hello) or "Dobar dan" (good day) is always well-received.
  • Such greetings demonstrate respect for the local culture.

Dress Code

Dress is generally casual in Petrovac and other coastal tourist areas. Swimwear stays suitable for beaches only.

Modest Wear

  • Avoid walking through town streets in just your swimsuit.
  • When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered.
  • Consider bringing a light scarf or shawl for women to cover shoulders.

Dining Practices

See Sections 2.3 and 7.1 for detailed information on tipping and general dining customs. Tipping is a kind gesture but not a mandatory act.

The Bill

  • Waiting staff will not bring the bill unless you request it.
  • Politically ask for the bill by saying "Molim vas, račun" (Please, the bill).
  • Payments are usually made at the table.

Photography Guidelines

Generally, photography is permitted in public spaces and at attractions.

Sensitive Subjects

  • Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural areas.
  • Photography may see restriction inside some churches or monasteries. Look for signs or ask.
  • Avoid photographing military or government buildings.

Sensitive Topics

Discussion Points

  • Be cautious when discussing recent Balkan conflicts.
  • Montenegrin identity has distinct features; avoid conflating it with neighboring countries.
  • Show deference for religious customs and sites. Avoid making light of religious practices.

National Symbols

  • Show deference for the Montenegrin flag and other national symbols.
  • Upholding respectful behavior mirrors well on visitors.
  • Approach sensitive topics with tact if they surface.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Travelers

Gender Considerations

  • Montenegro features a largely patriarchal society.
  • Women generally travel safely and receive welcome as tourists.
  • Solo female travelers usually experience a positive reception.

LGBTQ+ Info

  • Homosexuality has legal recognition in Montenegro.
  • Public displays of affection by same-sex couples might attract attention outside major liberal hubs.
  • Petrovac, a tourist town, has a generally more open-minded atmosphere; discretion still warrants consideration.

Consideration for All

Thoughtful behavior towards local customs greatly improves your travel experience and fosters good relations.

Accessibility Information

Montenegro's infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is still developing.

Infrastructure for Mobility

Montenegro generally lacks comprehensive accessibility infrastructure. Many public spaces, transportation systems, and older buildings may not fully equip themselves for travelers with mobility challenges.

Petrovac Specifics

  • The main promenade along the waterfront is relatively flat and can accommodate wheelchairs.
  • Access to pebbly beaches and the sea often features steps or uneven terrain.
  • Many older apartments, guesthouses, and public buses do not have ramps or elevators.

Attractions & Transport

Some ground-level attractions might offer access, but many historical sites, especially old towns with cobblestones or stairs (like Stari Bar or Kotor's city walls), do not feature easy accessibility.

Getting Around

  • Public buses typically do not feature accessibility.
  • Private taxis might form the best option, but verify accommodation of specific mobility needs upon booking.
  • Sidewalks can be uneven, narrow, or obstructed.

Visual & Hearing Support

Specialized services or infrastructure for visually or hearing-impaired travelers exist in limited form in Montenegro.

Assistance Animals

  • Guide dogs may not have universal recognition or permission in all establishments.
  • It warrants confirming policies with individual venues or accommodation.
  • Hearing-impaired traveler services are not widespread.

Information Sources

Specific resources focused on accessible travel in Montenegro are limited.

Direct Inquiry

  • Contact hotels and tour operators directly for inquiries about specific accessibility features.
  • Discuss your needs before booking for direct suitability confirmation.
  • Advance communication makes a smoother experience.

Accessibility Advisory

Travelers with mobility, visual, or hearing impairments may find Montenegro challenging in some areas.