What's the best, cheapest, and safest way to get from Podgorica Airport to my hotel or guesthouse? And back again.

When you land in a new country, the last thing you want is confusion at the airport. Montenegro is a welcoming and relatively easy country to travel in, but getting from Podgorica Airport (TGD) to your hotel or guesthouse — and returning again — deserves a bit of planning.

The best transport depends on your destination, travel style, and budget. In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn what the best, cheapest, and safest options are — and why pre-booked transfers with certified taxis are the smartest choice for most travelers.

⚠️Be warned that in Montenegro there are lots a traffic jams due to few big roads, Budva is one hotspot of 60 minutes of delay, as well Tivat.
As well there are bank holidays which we do not know, or public holidays - both stop any business.
In addition, the Certification of Public Transport runs an important activity of the Ministry of Security and Order and you risk that your unlicensed taxi driver has will be stopped from police. This is to reduce the problem of "black money" as well as the car accidents recently.

 ✨ The BEST Option: Pre-Booked Transfer with Certified Taxi

Why this is #1:

A pre-booked private transfer with a certified taxi is hands down the best way to go. It's reliable, convenient, and safe. Here's why travelers love it:

✅ Door-to-door service

✅ Fixed price — no surprises

✅ Meet & Greet at the airport

✅ Driver tracks your flight for delays

✅ No need to speak the language or negotiate fares

Whether you're heading to Kotor, Budva, Bar, or just staying in Podgorica, this method guarantees a stress-free arrival and departure.

Price Examples (small taxi, 2 persons):

• Budva: €60-€70
• Kotor: €120–€160
• Bar: €90–€120

This is the most popular choice among travelers, especially families, couples, solo visitors, and those with luggage or arriving late at night. We guarantee you cheap and reliable Airport transfer and give you 5% when booking the return option;  just check the price and options here.

Cheapest Option: Public Transportation (Train or Bus)

Montenegro has some basic but functional public transport options. If you're traveling light and don't mind some effort, this is the most budget-friendly route.

Option 1: Train

• The nearest station to the airport is called "Aerodrom", about 1.5 km from the terminal
• You can walk (20 mins) or take a quick taxi (5 mins, €15)
• Trains go toward Bar, Podgorica, and inland towns
• Tickets: from €5

BUT: There are no train routes to Kotor, Budva, or Tivat

 Option 2: Bus

There exists no direct airport bus

• You'll need to take a taxi to Podgorica Bus Station (approx. €30), then a bus to:
• Budva (1h 30m, ~€12)
• Kotor (2h, ~€8–€15)
• Ulcinj (2h 30m, ~€12)

Downside: Not ideal with heavy luggage, kids, or late-night arrivals

Upside: Cheapest possible way to travel

Regular ad-hoc booked Taxi: Easy but never cheap

You can also take a standard airport taxi when you arrive — they’re available right outside the arrivals area.

What to Know:

• Airport taxis have posted fares, but confirm the price in advance
• Some taxis don’t use meters, so always ask
• They pay a fee to the Airport so they are more expensive than pre-booked taxis.

Estimated Fares for small taxi, 2 persons:

• Podgorica: €20–€35
• Budva: €90
• Kotor: €140

⚠️ Warning: Avoid anyone inside the terminal offering you a ride — these are usually unlicensed.

If you’re in a hurry and didn’t pre-book, a standard taxi works fine but is greatly expensive. Just stick to official stands.

 Renting a Car: For Explorers & Roadtrippers

If you want full independence and plan to explore remote regions, a rental car is a good choice.

• Rental desks at the airport include:
• Sixt
• Europcar
• Local agencies: not at Podgorica
• Prices: €40–€80/day for a small car without complete insurance and depending on season

Pros:

• Total freedom to explore
• Ideal for visiting national parks, hidden beaches, and rural villages

Cons:

• Not cheap if you're only staying in one place
• Rental offices will try to sell you additional insurances
• At return you might want to expect additional payments for "damages"
• Roads can be narrow and winding, if you have an accident you might get a problem because you are foreigner
• Parking in towns like Kotor or Budva is limited

Returning to the Airport: What’s the Smartest Way?

Hotel-Arranged Transfer

Most guesthouses and hotels will order a taxi for you for you. Ask at reception the day before.
However, they will always add a hidden fee to get their provision of usually 25% in Montenegro.
And: Often they order you their "cousins", that is family members with private cars - since at departure day you are under time-pressure you have to accept these unreliable transports - don't use those please because even as passenger you are breaking the laws of Montenegro with an uncertified taxi.

Best option: Pre-Booked Taxi, booked directly with first booking because often you get a bonus then (we give you 5% when booking the return option here). If you booked a round-trip transfer in advance, you can be sure to have a proper and reliable service.
Certified Taxi drivers know the traffic and will bring you in time.

Bus or Train (Budget Method)

Only good for daytime departures, as public transport can be limited at night.

Plan enough time for transfers and possible delays. Or even break-downs of public transportation.

Self-Drive Return your rental car

Returning a rental car is straightforward. Just fill up the tank near the airport and drop off the keys. Most agencies are right at the terminal.

⚠️ Practical Tips & Common Mistakes

Situation & What to Do:

• Late-night arrival
• Book a certified taxi transfer in advance
• Passenger with special need
• Heavy luggage
• Avoid buses; use private transport
• Remote hotel
• Let the hotel arrange a shuttle or pickup
• Unsure about local taxis
• Use apps or book online for peace of mind
• Language barrier
• Have your destination written in Montenegrin

Final Recommendation

If you want a safe, smooth, and hassle-free start (and end) to your holiday in Montenegro, the best choice is a pre-booked transfer with a certified taxi. It offers peace of mind, professional service, and fair, fixed prices.

While cheaper options like public buses or trains are available, they require more effort, extra time, and are not ideal with luggage or late arrivals.

Montenegro is beautiful — start enjoying it the moment you arrive by avoiding airport stress.

Need Help Booking a Transfer? Check out our offers today, we offer cheap and reliable certified taxis here.