Montenegro is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes and cultural wonders, and to make the most of my journey, I opted for a self-driving adventure. With so many places to explore and the flexibility to set my own pace, renting a car at Podgorica Airport seemed like the perfect choice.
✅ **Car Rental Essentials**
‼️ Be sure to bring your passport, original driver’s license, and a certified translation of your license. For translations, you can conveniently arrange them through 🍑 (Peach).
✅ **Rental Provider**
‼️ After meticulously comparing several options, we decided on SIXT and booked our reservation via the Zuzuche app. Once at the counter, the staff will verify all your documents before handing over the keys. Keep in mind that early pickups are not permitted—stick to the reserved time on your booking.
✅ **Our Chosen Vehicle**
🚗 We went with a reliable Volkswagen Golf, which came to about 350 RMB per day (see P2-3 for specifics). A deposit of 500 € is required, payable by credit card. We chose the basic insurance package to keep costs manageable. Additionally, we prepaid for a full tank return option since there are numerous gas stations close to the airport—it’s more economical to refuel yourself before dropping off the car.
‼️ Pro tip: When picking up your vehicle, take comprehensive 360-degree photos to document its condition. As shown in P4, we meticulously photographed every nook and cranny, even the less obvious areas. This step is crucial to prevent any disputes or unexpected fines upon returning the car.
But here’s an important warning! ‼️ If you’re a new driver, driving in Montenegro might not be ideal. The country is famous for its roundabouts and winding mountain roads, which can be challenging—even for experienced drivers. Take, for instance, the road to Kotor (refer to the navigation map in P5). It’s breathtakingly scenic but incredibly twisty. Plus, watch out for loose gravel and ongoing construction zones, which increase the risk of scratches.
To wrap it up, I wish you all a memorable and safe journey! Choose the mode of travel that aligns best with your preferences, but always prioritize safety above all else. Happy travels!
