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Public Transportation

Public Transportation

Montenegro

Bus Network Overview

Petrovac lacks a metro or tram system. The bus network constitutes the main form of public transport. Within Petrovac, most areas are easily accessible by walking. Intercity buses serve as the main mode of transport for travel between Petrovac and other Montenegrin towns along the coast and inland.

Route maps might not always be current online; it is advisable to check schedules at the Petrovac Bus Station or with locals for precise information.

Aspects

  • Main Mode: Intercity and local bus services.
  • Petrovac Bus Station: Located on Jadranska Magistrala, the main hub for connections.
  • Ticketing: Purchase directly from driver or at station counter; Euro cash only.
  • Hours/Frequency: Early morning to late evening (approx. 6 AM - 9-10 PM), frequency varies by route/season.

Popular Routes

Regular bus services link Petrovac to destinations like Budva, Bar, Sveti Stefan, and smaller coastal villages.

Fares & Payments

Fares are always paid in Euro cash. Having small denominations ready for bus fares is advisable.

Accessibility

Public buses in Montenegro generally lack features for travelers with mobility challenges. Access ramps or lifts are rare. Private transport might be a consideration.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Pre-Travel Checks
  • Confirm Schedules: Bus schedules change; double-check departure times on travel day.
  • Cash is King: Carry small Euro denominations for fares.
  • Be Early: Buses fill quickly, especially in peak season.
Onboard & Luggage
  • Luggage: A small fee may apply for bags stored in the under-bus compartment.
  • Keep small bags or backpacks with you if possible.
  • Local Stops: Observe where locals wait, as signage may be unclear.

Public Transport Summary

No Metro/Tram

Bus network handles transport needs.

Walkable Town

Petrovac itself is best explored on foot.

Intercity Bus main

Connects to other towns along the coast and inland.

Cash Payments

Euro cash is necessary for bus fares.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a suitable way to travel, especially for short distances or when public transport frequency is lower. Ride-sharing apps are not widely available.

Licensed Taxis & Hailing

  • Look for official taxi signs, company names, and meters. Taxis often appear white or yellow.
  • Hailing: On the street, at designated taxi stands (bus station/town center), or call a local company.
  • Payment: Cash (Euro) is preferred. Some accept cards but do not rely on it.
  • Fares: Short rides within Petrovac €3-€8. Petrovac to Budva €15-€25. Always agree on price or insist on meter.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Ride-Sharing Apps: Uber or Lyft do not officially operate in Petrovac/Montenegro.
  • Local apps are not widespread for tourists; traditional taxis or calling services are common.
  • Safety: Licensed taxis are generally safe. Take a photo of license plate if concerns arise.
  • Avoid unlicensed taxis or unsolicited offers for rides.

Airport/Station Taxi Arrangements

  • Taxis are readily available outside Petrovac bus station.
  • At airports, taxi ranks are immediately outside terminal buildings.
  • For airport transfers, agreeing on a fixed price before the journey is recommended.
  • Pre-booking private transfers offers fixed rates and convenience.
  • Be mindful of potential surcharges for luggage or late-night travel.
  • Some local taxi companies may use their own apps, but these are not common for tourists.

Considerations for Taxi Use

Meter Use

Insist on the meter for shorter rides to guarantee fair pricing.

Longer Journeys

For longer distances, always negotiate and agree on the total fare before you set off.

Availability

Taxis are generally readily available in Petrovac, especially in the town center.

Rental Options

Rental options grant flexibility in exploring Petrovac and its surroundings.

Car Rental

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license, IDP (if non-Latin script), passport, major credit card for deposit.
  • Minimum age usually 21 (sometimes 23-25 for certain car classes), with 1-2 years driving experience.
  • Companies: International (Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Avis) and local (Meridian, Rokšped).
  • Insurance: CDW typically included; Full insurance (Super CDW/Zero Excess) is advisable.

Motorcycle, Scooter, & Bicycle Rentals

  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Available during tourist season. Valid motorcycle license (A category) needed. Helmets are mandatory.
  • Scooter rentals: €20-€40/day. Motorcycles cost more.
  • Bicycle: No formal sharing programs. Some hotels/shops offer rentals (€10-€20/day).
  • Specialty Vehicles: No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, etc., common in Petrovac.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Laws

Drive on the right, seatbelts mandatory, headlights on 24/7, zero-tolerance for alcohol, no mobile phone use without hands-free.

Speed limits enforced.

Road Network

Main roads (Jadranska Magistrala) are well-maintained. Mountain roads are narrow, winding, and steep.

Caution needed in adverse weather.

Parking

Limited in summer. Paid parking near town/beaches. Street parking varies: blue for paid, white for free, yellow for no parking. Fines are common. Hotel parking is advisable.

Confirm parking with lodging.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas
  • Petrovac Promenade: Pedestrianized, stretching along the main town beach and to Lučice beach via a tunnel.
  • Town Center: Compact and best explored on foot for local shops and cafes.
  • Coastal Paths: Scenic walks to nearby beaches and viewpoints, offering sea vistas.
Walking Tours & Cycling Safety
  • Walking Tours: Self-guided exploration is straightforward. Guided tours specifically within Petrovac are less common.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Limited dedicated cycling paths. Cyclists share roads with vehicles.
  • Safety: Exercise caution on roads; Montenegrin drivers may not be accustomed to sharing. Wearing a Helmet is highly recommended.

No-Go Areas & Road Hazards

  • No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians/cyclists in terms of safety.
  • Avoid walking/cycling on main roads, especially Jadranska Magistrala, during peak traffic.
  • Vehicle speeds and narrow shoulders make main roads less enjoyable for cyclists.
  • Always prioritize personal safety when sharing the road with vehicles.
  • Choose dedicated pedestrian paths or quieter streets when available.
  • Consider off-road trails for cycling to avoid traffic.
  • Be visible to drivers, especially at dawn or dusk.
  • Awareness of local driving habits is beneficial.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, some specialized transport experiences provide distinct ways to observe Petrovac and its surroundings.

Tour Buses & Water Taxis

  • Tour Buses: No hop-on-hop-off services in Petrovac.
  • Used for organized excursions to Budva, Kotor, Skadar Lake, monasteries.
  • Boat Taxis: Available from Petrovac harbor for nearby beaches (Buljarica, Lučice) or islets (Katic, Sveta Nedjelja).
  • Negotiate fares directly with boat owners before boarding.

Excursion Boats & Accessibility

  • Excursion Boats: Numerous daily trips from Petrovac harbor, offering coastline tours, island visits.
  • Provide a distinct perspective of the area, including the Petrovac Fortress from the sea.
  • Accessibility Services: Montenegro's infrastructure for mobility needs is limited.
  • Public transport and many historical sites may not be fully accessible. Research and contact establishments in advance.

Cable Cars & Funiculars

Petrovac itself does not feature cable cars or funiculars. The closest cable car is in Kotor, providing spectacular scenic views over the Bay of Kotor.

Accommodations & Accessibility

Some newer hotels may offer accessible rooms. Advance research and direct communication with lodging establishments are recommended to confirm specific accessibility features.

General Accessibility Info

Travelers with mobility needs may find navigating Montenegro's general infrastructure challenging. Public transportation and historic sites often lack full accessibility.

Getting Around Smoothly

Local Transport
  • Utilize the local bus system for intercity travel.
  • Explore Petrovac town center on foot.
  • Opt for licensed taxis for convenient short distances, negotiating fares when appropriate.
Rental & Tours
  • Consider car rental for maximum flexibility in exploring the region.
  • Take excursion boats or boat taxis for unique coastal perspectives.
  • Book organized tours for guided exploration of major attractions outside Petrovac.

Your Travel Experience

Navigating Petrovac and Montenegro becomes easier with knowledge of available transportation. Whether by land or sea, options cater to diverse travel styles.