Car Rental at Podgorica Airport

Airport travel guide

Unlike in many other countries, the capital of Montenegro is not among its most fabled attractions — most travelers are in a hurry to take off for the country’s beaches and mountains. But if you give Podgorica a chance, you’ll discover a surprisingly historic place with many hidden gems. The relatively small size of the country means that the city can also be used as a base for exploring the different parts of Montenegro. With that in mind, these are five of the most interesting attractions in and around Podgorica:

• Podgorica City Museum. One of the most interesting cultural institutions in the capital, this museum covers the archaeology, ethnography, history, and cultural aspects of Montenegro. Some of the most interesting artifacts on display are related to the Illyrian and Ancient Roman cultures that inhabited the present-day territory of Montenegro 1,700-2,600 years ago. 
• Stara Varoš. Also known as a Turkish town, this is one of the oldest and most distinct neighborhoods of Podgorica. Most of its landmarks date back to the times when the city was ruled by the Ottoman Empire. These include the 17th-century clock tower of Haji-pasha Osmanagič, Ribnica Fortress, and the Aji-pasha Bridge.
• Orthodox Temple of Christ's Resurrection. The Orthodox Temple of Christ's Resurrection in Podgorica is a new, magnificent architectural gem, known for its imposing interior. This spiritual landmark holds significant cultural and religious significance in Montenegro, attracting both locals and visitors seeking a glimpse of the country's Orthodox heritage.
• Skadar Lake. Known for its rich biodiversity and diverse bird life, Lake Skadar near Podgorica is the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula. It serves as a vital habitat for numerous fish species and is a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.
• Lovčen National Park. Named after the impressive mountain at its heart, Lovčen National Park is one of the most visited protected areas in Montenegro. The area is characterized by rugged peaks, thick woodlands, the Mausoleum of Njegoš (a resting place of the Montenegrin king Petar II), and authentic village architecture. The drive from Podgorica takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes; a visit to Lovčen can be combined with seeing Cetinje, the historical capital of Montenegro, which is on the way between the two.

Top international routes

• Belgrade
• Istanbul
• Vienna
• Zurich
• Rome
• London
• Warsaw
• Wroclaw

Main airlines

Montenegro Airlines, Wizz Air, flydubai, Ryanair, Austrian Airlines, and Air Serbia

Terminals

The main terminal, also called the new passenger terminal, was opened in 2006 and serves all domestic and international flights.

Location

Podgorica Airport is about 11 km (6.8) south of downtown Podgorica, the national capital of Montenegro. Motorway E80 and 4. Jul. Street are the main roads connecting the airport to the city.

Most popular types of rental car

• Small cars - from $2 per day
• Medium cars - from $3 per day
• SUVs - from $10 per day
• Large cars - from $9 per day
• Station wagons - from $10 per day
• Vans - from $25 per day
• Premium cars - from $59 per day
• Convertibles - from $48 per day

Car rental desks

Most are inside the airport terminal building. The exact location of your car rental provider's desk will be listed on your Confirmation Voucher.

Services and facilities

You’ll find a few cafeterias, bars, and fast food outlets, as well as convenience stores and a duty-free shop. There are also several ATMs, a bank with a currency exchange, a couple of nearby hotels, lounges, baby changing facilities, a lost and found office, and the airport clinic. Luggage lockers are located to the left after entering the airport through the main entrance. The airport is partially equipped for travelers with reduced mobility, and you can request additional assistance, but be sure to contact your airline in advance if you’d like this service. You can find more information on the airport's official website.

Nearest gas station

Zeta Petrol gas station, located at Mahala b.b., Podgorica 81304, can be reached in about four minutes and is open 24/7. There are many other gas stations near Podgorica Airport and on the way to the city.

Popular one-way rentals

• Tivat (89 km / 55 mi). Located on the picturesque Bay of Kotor, Tivat is one of the prettiest coastal towns in Montenegro. Most of the things to do in Tivat are connected to the sea, but there is also an impressive botanic garden and a number of nearby mountain villages that you can easily reach by car.
• Budva (65 km / 40 mi). Another popular destination on the Adriatic coast, Budva is often mentioned as one of the poshest places in the region. The city is characterized by built-up beaches, energetic wildlife, as well as more historic attractions like the labyrinthine Budva Old Town.
• Zadar (472 km / 293 mi). Located in the historic Croatian region of Dalmatia, the seaside city of Zadar was named the best European destination in 2016. The city is famous for its Venetian heritage that includes impressive city walls. You’ll have to cross an international border to travel from Montenegro to Croatia or any other neighboring country, so ask your rental car provider in advance if they permit it. Also, find out if you need a visa to visit the country of your destination.
• Dubrovnik (158 km / 98 mi). Located just a relatively short drive west of Podgorica in neighboring Croatia, Dubrovnik is an amazing travel destination. Like elsewhere on the Adriatic there are awesome beaches, but this city also boasts an impressive array of churches, museums, and ancient sites.
• Zagreb (725 km / 450 mi). The capital and largest city of Croatia, Zagreb has a very different vibe than the country’s famous coastal destinations. Influenced by nearby Austria and Hungary, Zagreb is a real metropolis of history, learning, architecture, and cuisine.
• Budapest (833 km / 517 mi). There are many good reasons why the capital of Hungary is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. Imperial, yet accessible and youthful, this unique city is characterized by famous landmarks like the Castle Hill, royal views of the Danube river, and the deliciously spicy Hungarian food.