Is Montenegro Safe for Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
Wondering is Montenegro safe for solo female travellers? is completely normal. If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro on your own, safety isn’t just nice to know like things to do or places to stay – it’s one of the first and most important things on your mind.
I get it because I’ve been there. Not just to Montenegro, but in that exact headspace. I’ve walked solo through the narrow side streets of Kotor, eaten alone at restaurants in Budva, taken local buses across the country and spent long days exploring the spectacular national parks. And just like you right now, I wanted the truth about Montenegro before I travelled. Not just generic advice or scary, clickbait headlines, but real, experience-based insights into what travelling Montenegro solo as a woman actually feels like.
And during my trip, Montenegro surprised me in so many ways I didn’t expect – with how peaceful it felt but also with the little things I wish I’d known earlier. You might be asking: Will I feel safe walking at night? Will locals be respectful? Is rural Montenegro okay to explore solo? Is Montenegro safe for solo female travellers? Well, you’re in luck, because those are some of the exact questions I’ll help you answer in this Montenegro solo female travel safety guide!
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Is Montenegro Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Let’s start with the question that brought you here: Is Montenegro safe for solo female travellers? My honest answer is yes, Montenegro is generally a safe and welcoming country for women travelling alone. Violent crime is extremely rare and petty crime levels are low compared to other European tourist hotspots. But as with anywhere in Europe, being prepared and trusting your gut is key to staying safe as a solo female traveller.
One of the reasons I believe Montenegro feels so safe is because tourism is on the rise, but the country hasn’t been overwhelmed by mass tourism just yet. In my experience, local people, especially in coastal Kotor and Budva, are used to travellers and so you’re unlikely to draw unwanted attention just by being alone. However, some less developed areas of the country can feel a bit quiet or remote outside of the summer season, which is something to consider depending on your travel style and confidence level as a solo traveller. We’ll get more into this later in the guide!
Katie’s Top Tip: I would recommend basing (or at least starting) your solo Montenegro trip in a well-travelled and popular town like Kotor. Kotor is truly Montenegro’s gem, with beautiful coastal and mountain scenery, easy navigation and transport links, and a strong culture of hospitality and tourism. Staying in Kotor will help you ease into the unique vibe of solo travel in the Balkans.
Understanding Montenegro’s Culture
Montenegro’s culture is a truly unique mix of Balkan, Mediterranean and Eastern European influences, which makes it fascinating to explore! The vibe is relaxed and locals are deeply proud of their culture (which usually surprises travellers who come expecting it to be just another pretty beach stop!) Montenegro is also defined by its strong sense of hospitality, and you’ll discover that locals are normally very friendly and helpful towards tourists, without being intrusive or overbearing.
At its heart, Montenegro’s culture is guided by family, tradition and a connection to nature. That means you may notice more traditional roles in family structures, or that Sunday’s are quiet because all of the locals are off enjoying time with their families. As a solo traveller, this isn’t something you need to be wary of, but it is important to be aware, especially in smaller, more traditional inland towns. In general, being warm, respectful, curious, and open-minded will both keep you safe and help you make the most of your solo trip to Montenegro!
Katie’s Top Tip: Embrace Montenegro’s slower travel vibe. Take your time, ask questions if you have them and let go of the need to see your itinerary as a checklist to tick off.
Attitudes Towards Women in Montenegro
Montenegro’s culture and local people are generally very respectful toward women, and being a solo female traveller won’t make you stand out in any negative way, as solo travellers are common in the Balkans.
Locals might be curious (especially in quieter towns that aren’t used to tourists,) but they are usually polite and welcoming in a quiet, unobtrusive way.
The culture in Montenegro can still feel more traditional than in other parts of Europe, especially inland or in older generations. But that doesn’t translate to feeling unsafe (at least in my experience.)
You might also find that locals, in particular the older generation, are a lot more chivalrous (holding doors, offering help, etc.)
But there is no aggressive catcalling culture that I have experienced or heard about from other travellers, and I walked alone at night in Kotor old town many times during my trip and felt totally safe and at ease at all times.
According to Numbeo, worries about being harassed in Montenegro score low, and concerns about being attacked based on gender are even lower, which definitely reflects what I’ve experienced here: people are generally respectful and leave you in peace.
Katie’s Top Tip: If someone starts a conversation you don’t want to continue or is making you feel uncomfortable, remember that you don’t have to stay just to be polite. A calm but firm “I’m going to meet a friend now” and walking away with purpose usually does the trick.
How to Dress in Montenegro
For all my fellow fashion lovers, you’ll be pleased to know that Montenegro’s dress codes are pretty relaxed – especially as you’ll be spending so much time by the sea! On the beaches, you’ll see everything from swimsuits and cover-ups to casual dresses and shorts, and no one looks twice. The vibe in summer, in particular, is very laid-back and there are lots of tourists around, so you won’t stand out for wearing your usual warm-weather outfits. Just remember to stay mindful and respectful of how you dress when you leave the beachfront and head into the old town, or a café, shop or restaurant.
If you’re heading inland on a day trip during your trip to Montenegro, perhaps into small, rural villages or religious sites like the Ostrog Monastery, it’s a bit of a different picture. These spots tend to be more local and conservative, and it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees. You don’t need to stress about it – just make sure to throw a lightweight scarf, a throw-on midi dress or longer shorts into your packing so you’ve got options!
If in doubt, think pieces that are versatile, go with anything, can be layered… And honestly, dressing in a way that blends in with those around you (both locals and tourists) will make you feel so much more confident, especially as a solo female traveller in Montenegro.
Katie’s Top Tip: A lightweight, neutral coloured scarf is my travel BFF, and I always carry one in my day bag. It doesn’t take up space, goes with any outfit and is perfect for visits to religious sights, sudden cool breezes that might whip up, and covering up if I ever feel uncomfortable. Plus, it doubles as a beach wrap. Win-win!
Montenegro Crime Rates
When it comes to crime stats, Montenegro actually does a lot better than some of the more popular European travel destinations. This is especially true for violent crime, which is low and not typically aimed at tourists. Montenegro also has one of the lowest crime rates in the Balkans, according to the Global Peace Index.
Most reported crimes in tourist towns are non-violent. Think pickpocketing in crowded old town streets or the occasional taxi scam – and that’s usually opportunistic rather than targeted. I carried my camera, phone, and purse around without issue, but I was always mindful, especially in crowded areas or on public transport. I also never felt unsafe walking alone, even at night, and that’s something I definitely don’t say about every country I solo travel to!
The stats also back this up, as according to recent data from Numbeo, Montenegro’s overall crime level is rated low, with especially low concerns for theft, mugging, assault and harassment. That means the kind of violent or opportunistic crimes most solo travellers worry about are statistically rare here.
What serious crime does exist in Montenegro is usually linked to organised crime or local disputes, which rarely affects tourists.
Basically, Montenegro is one of those countries where the news might sound dramatic, but the reality on the ground (at least for tourists), is mostly calm, friendly and laid-back.
Katie’s Top Tip: Montenegro’s crime statistics can sound scary if you don’t have context. The reality is that Montenegro feels peaceful as a tourist, especially if you stick to the popular spots. Use the same common sense you would anywhere, trust your gut, and you’ll be just fine.
Risk of Theft in Montenegro
As is the case in all European countries, petty theft happens, but it’s not super common in Montenegro. Also, like many destinations loved by tourists, pickpockets do operate in busy areas, especially during the summer when the old towns’ narrow streets get crowded with holiday makers and cruise ship passengers. You’ll want to take general solo female travel safety precautions here, like keeping your bag zipped and your valuables tucked away, but overall, the risk of theft in Montenegro is nothing unusual or excessive.
To keep myself and my belongings safe when out exploring Montenegro solo, I always carry a crossbody bag that zips up fully. I also keep backups of my valuables (spare cards and cash) in a slimline travel pouch tucked under my clothes. Theft from your accommodation is also rare but possible, especially if you’re not staying in private accommodation, so using lockers or travel safes where possible is always a smart move.
Katie’s Top Tip: Don’t leave your bag hanging from the back of your chair or your phone sitting on the table if you’re in a bar or cafe.
Risk of Terrorism in Montenegro
The risk of terrorism in Montenegro is considered to be very low. There have been no major incidents in recent history, it’s not seen as a current target, and it’s not a country that’s been flagged for concern by international governments. Honestly, it’s probably one of the last things you need to worry about on your trip when it comes to Montenegro safety.
It is always worth staying aware of your surroundings in any public place – especially during big events, festivals or demonstrations. But generally speaking, this isn’t a country where terrorism is a concern.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you ever feel unsure, your local government website will have up-to-date travel alerts. Bookmark it before you go (but not to scare yourself, just to stay informed.)
Risk of Violent Crime in Montenegro
Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon in Montenegro. This is one of those (honestly rare) countries where, even as a solo female traveller, you’re unlikely to attract negative attention or feel targeted.
And the data supports this too, with violent crimes such as assault or armed robbery rated low. Reports of attacks due to gender are also low, which means that solo female travellers are statistically unlikely to experience targeted violence in Montenegro.
Alcohol-related incidents (bar fights, anti-social behaviour…) can and do happen in nightlife-heavy areas like Budva, particularly in peak summer. But it’s important to realise that this is typically among other tourists rather than locals. If you’re out at night, just remember to trust your gut. If a place feels chaotic or gives you weird vibes, leave. You’ll never regret removing yourself from a situation early.
Katie’s Top Tip: Stick to busy, well-lit streets when heading back to your accommodation after dark and keep a trusted taxi number handy just in case.
Risk of Harassment in Montenegro
One of the things I appreciated most about travelling solo in Montenegro was the lack of constant attention. You won’t get the street harassment that’s common in some other European countries. Catcalling is rare, and when it does happen, it’s usually very low-level and you can easily shut it down by walking away.
If you do choose to go out at night, especially in popular party spots, there may be the odd drunk guy who tries to flirt – but then show me a place where that doesn’t happen! Just make sure that you’re clear on your boundaries before you head out – and that you enforce them without apology or explanation. You don’t owe anyone anything. And as before, the risk of harassment is higher from other tourists than it is from locals in Montenegro.
Katie’s Top Tip: If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, walk into the nearest shop, cafe or restaurant, or up to a nearby woman if you feel comfortable with that. Also don’t be afraid to firmly say “no” or “leave me alone.” Confident energy goes a long way, even when you’re not feeling it.
Risk of Pickpocketing in Montenegro
Pickpocketing isn’t a huge issue in Montenegro, but like most big cities in Europe, it can happen in the main tourist towns of Kotor and Budva. The key to staying safe from pickpockets is to always be low-key and alert – but without being paranoid. You should also use a zip-up crossbody bag, don’t carry your passport around and keep some backup cash/cards hidden in a separate place just in case.
Katie’s Top Tip: Invest in a lightweight anti-theft bag or wear your backpack on your front in crowds. I know, I know it’s not the chicest look – but safety first!
Risk of Scams in Montenegro
Scams do exist, but they’re not as aggressive or common compared to other European countries, and most travellers go their whole visit without experiencing or even seeing one. When they do happen, it’s usually things like unfairly inflated taxi fares, dodgy restaurant bills, or unlicensed vendors trying to sell things on the street.
Taxi scams are the most common in Montenegro – especially at bus stations or airports, where unofficial drivers approach tourists directly. I learnt this lesson the hard way: always insist on the meter or agree a price beforehand or, better yet, never pick a taxi driver who approaches you. During my trip to neighbouring Croatia, I experienced a taxi driver who told me it would be one price into the city centre and then more than doubled it upon arrival and insisted I pay. Because of this, I would recommend you only choose a reputable taxi company for your journey, even if it means waiting longer for them.
In Montenegro, reputable local taxi companies are:
- Red Taxi
- Dijr Taxi
Katie’s Top Tip: Never be afraid to speak up if something doesn’t seem right, but also make sure you feel safe and comfortable to do so. For example, with my taxi scam experience, I ended up just paying the money because I was alone in his car. It wouldn’t have felt safe or comfortable for me to confront him in that situation. As always, trust your gut.
Montenegro’s Emergency Number
You probably won’t need them, but it’s always smart to be prepared. Montenegro follows the EU emergency number system, which means calling 112 will connect you to the general emergency services.
Here are the key numbers to save in your phone before you travel:
- 112 – EU General Emergency
- 122 – Police
- 123 – Fire Department
- 124 – Ambulance
Katie’s Top Tip: Make an emergency card to keep in your purse with emergency contacts, your accommodation address, and any relevant medical info.
The Safest Places to Visit in Montenegro
The Montenegrin stretch of the Adriatic coast is lined with small towns that feel peaceful, relaxed and very solo-female-travel friendly. There’s a strong sense of community in these places, which naturally makes them feel safer to navigate. Montenegro is also more of a hidden gem travel destination, generally attracting friendly travellers, and it also doesn’t have a big party reputation.
If you’re looking for peaceful, low-risk places to travel solo in Montenegro, Kotor, Perast and Budva are your ideal starting points. Kotor, especially outside of the peak cruise-ship season, is the perfect base for exploring the rest of the country solo. The old town is pedestrianised and well-lit at night, and there’s no real party scene unless you specifically go looking for it.
Inland, towns like Žabljak and Cetinje are also considered safe and are much quieter than the coast, which is ideal if you want a trip with a whole lot less tourists and a whole lot more time in nature!
Katie’s Top Tip: Stick to smaller towns if you’re dreaming of a different vibe to touristy Kotor and slower travel. Tiny Perast is great if you want to stay close to the action of Kotor without actually staying within the busy old town walls.
Places to Avoid in Montenegro
There aren’t many “no-go” zones in Montenegro, but there are a few areas that might feel overwhelming, especially as a solo female traveller. The outskirts of Podgorica (the capital) can feel a bit gritty, and while the city isn’t known for being dangerous, it’s not the best place to stay as a solo female traveller. It doesn’t have the charm or tourist safety net or things to do of the smaller coastal towns, so unless you’ve got a reason to be there, you’re not missing much by skipping it in my opinion.
Some parts of Budva can also feel intense in peak summer, especially late at night around the clubs and bars. Think loud music, drunk tourists, over-friendly strangers… Now I’m not at all saying that Budva is unsafe or that you shouldn’t visit, but if you’re not into partying, maybe a day trip from Kotor would be better for your solo trip.
Some solo travellers will choose to stay just outside old town Kotor in Dobrota. It’s a peaceful neighbourhood along the waterfront, with beautiful views and much more budget-friendly accommodation. But just a heads-up: it can feel a little disconnected after dark. The walk back is safe, but not particularly well-lit in some areas. If you like being right in the middle of things and want the comfort of people nearby, stay inside the old town walls.
Katie’s Top Tip: Stick to well-lit areas in cities at night and avoid beaches and parks alone after sunset.
Is Kotor Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
Yes! Kotor is one of the most solo female travel-friendly destinations in Montenegro and the town I would recommend you stay in during your trip to Montenegro. The old town is small, walkable and packed full of charm, with cosy alleyways, cats sunbathing on stone walls, a friendly vibe, and loads to see and do. During my own trip to Montenegro, I walked Kotor’s streets alone, both at night and during the day, and never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable in Kotor.
Having said that, Kotor does get cruise ships, so it can get very crowded during the day. Keep an eye on your bag in the packed old town streets, and if you’re climbing the fortress alone early in the morning or late in the day, just be aware that the path can feel quite empty. It’s safe, but it’s still good to tell someone your plans before you go and bring water and good shoes.
I’ve also written a full, much more in-depth guide about whether or not Kotor is safe for solo female travellers, which you should definitely check out before your trip to Montenegro!
Katie’s Top Tip: Book accommodation inside or very close to the old town so you can easily walk home after dinner without needing taxis. It’s well-lit and the atmosphere is calm in the evenings once the cruise crowds disappear.
Is Budva Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
Budva is safe overall, but it comes with a bit of a disclaimer! By day, it’s a picturesque beach town with a beautiful old town and lots of cafes and restaurants. But by night (especially in high season,) it is Montenegro’s most popular nightlife destination. Now, if that’s your vibe, you’ll probably love it. But if you’re a solo female traveller looking for a bit of peace, you might find the nightlife side of Budva a bit much.
The beaches in Budva are popular and so can be crowded and a little chaotic, so don’t leave your things unattended. If you are choosing to stay in Budva, pick accommodation in or near the old town. It’s a lot calmer than the newer, high-rise parts of town.
Katie’s Top Tip: Visit Budva as a day trip if you’re curious, but I would recommend basing yourself elsewhere if you prefer quieter evenings. Perast and Kotor are nearby and offer a much more relaxing atmosphere.
Is Perast Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
Perast might be the safest-feeling place I’ve ever been to! It’s tiny – blink-and-you’ll-miss-it tiny – but in the very best way! This picture postcard town on the Bay of Kotor is so relaxed it almost feels like time stands still. There are no rowdy bars, no traffic (it’s car-free in the centre,) and everything is within easy walking distance.
Because it’s so small, it’s a great base if you’re a little nervous about travelling alone and want to ease into solo travel gently. It’s also one of the prettiest places in the country, with spectacular views of the bay, bobbing fishing boats, and dreamy sunset views.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you want to truly experience Perast, book at least one night here instead of just doing a day trip. Perast transforms in the early evening once the tour groups leave, becoming peaceful and more than a bit romantic!
Is Rural Montenegro Safe For Solo Female Travellers?
Montenegro’s rural areas, like the rest of the country, are generally very safe – but visits do require a bit more planning. Public transport can be patchy or non-existent and phone signal isn’t always reliable. Having said that, most locals are warm, welcoming, and happy to help, even if you don’t share a language.
Where you’ll want to be more cautious is with hiking or heading out into the national parks solo. Trails in places like Durmitor or Lovcen can be wild and unmarked, and you won’t always find people nearby if something goes wrong. So be sure to let someone know your plans, take offline maps, and bring more water than you think you’ll need.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re staying in Kotor, book a private guide or group tour to explore inland Montenegro. It’s safer and, honestly, you’ll get so much more out of the experience by learning from a local!
Is Montenegro Safe at Night?
Generally? Yes!
Montenegro’s main towns are mostly calm at night. Locals often stay out late for dinners and evening walks, and there will always be tourists wandering around Budva and Kotor old town’s. I felt very safe walking alone in Kotor, even late, but as always, trust your gut and stick to well-lit, familiar routes.
And I’m not alone in feeling safe at night in Montenegro.
In fact, Numbeo ranks walking alone at night in Montenegro as highly safe. (And for context, that’s a lot safer than many other major countries and cities in Western Europe!)
The only time you might feel a little uneasy is in the more party-heavy spots like Budva after midnight, where the vibe can shift quickly, especially in peak season. It’s not really dangerous, but you may experience pushy behaviour from drunk tourists, especially if you’re walking alone near clubs or bars.
Katie’s Top Tip: Always pre-plan your route home at night. If you’re staying further out of town, make sure you’ve got a safe way to get back, for example a trusted taxi or heading home before it gets too late.
Nightlife in Montenegro
Montenegro isn’t famous for its nightlife, but it does have a casual nightlife scene with bars, restaurants and clubs. If you enjoy a drink and want to socialise, there are plenty of great bars where you can meet other travellers and enjoy the atmosphere. The drinking age in Montenegro is 18, and you will be asked for ID.
What is important to know is that Montenegro has very strict drug laws. Even small amounts can lead to big trouble, so just don’t go there. Also, smoking indoors is banned in most public places, although enforcement can be a bit patchy in some bars.
Katie’s Top Tip: Stick to places that feel welcoming, and don’t be afraid to leave if the energy changes or someone makes you uncomfortable.
Safest Time of Year to Visit Montenegro
Montenegro is a year-round destination, but for solo female travel, the shoulder seasons (April–June and September–October) are perfect. The weather is still beautiful, the sea is still warm, and you’ll avoid the intense summer crowds that can make the old towns feel overwhelming. Plus, as a bonus: old town accommodation is so much more affordable outside of peak season!
Katie’s Top Tip: For the best balance of sunshine, safety and easy solo travel, aim for May, June or September. You’ll get more frequent transport, calm towns and a much more relaxed pace of travel.
Is English Spoken in Montenegro?
The official language in Montenegro is Montenegrin. But English is widely spoken in Montenegro – especially in the places you’ve most likely got on your solo travel bucket list. In Kotor, Budva, Perast and even Podgorica, you’ll have no problem asking for help or directions, ordering food or booking tours. Tourism is a growing part of the economy in Montenegro, and younger locals in particular usually speak excellent English.
Once you travel inland, into the national parks or less touristy areas, the number of locals speaking fluent English gets smaller, but it’s still manageable. Don’t be afraid to use Google Translate or point to things to get your point across. Most local people in Montenegro are incredibly kind and will try to help if they can, even if you don’t speak their language.
Katie’s Top Tip: Download Montenegrin in Google Translate before you leave stable WIFI (before your trip is ideal.) Offline tools = lifesavers when signal’s patchy.
Is Public Transport Safe in Montenegro?
Montenegro’s public transport system is pretty basic (and that’s putting it kindly!) but it works. Buses are your main option for getting between major towns, and they’re generally safe and affordable. The only thing to be aware of is that bus stations aren’t always super well-signed, and you often buy your ticket from a small window or onboard from the driver. Keep small change handy and always, always double check your destination when boarding.
Within the towns themselves, you’ll be walking between most places. Kotor, Perast and Budva are all small enough to get around on foot. Taxis do exist in Montenegro, but make sure you use a reputable company like Red Taxi or Dijr Taxi, or ask your accommodation to book one, as some drivers do overcharge tourists.
Katie’s Top Tip: Not all of Montenegro’s bus routes (in particular, the popular route from Kotor to Perast,) have timetables, so be sure to leave plenty of room in your schedule for waiting at bus stops!
Top Montenegro Solo Female Travel Safety Tips
Is Montenegro safe for solo female travellers? With these tips, absolutely! Here’s a quick round-up of the five safety basics I swear by when solo travelling in Montenegro:
- Choose your accommodation wisely: Stay close to old town centres so you can walk back to your accommodation easily at night.
- Don’t leave your drink unattended: Same as anywhere, always keep an eye on your drink when you’re out at night.
- Walk with confidence: Even if you’re lost, fake it till you make it! Then find a quiet corner or duck into a shop or café to check your phone.
- Avoid hiking solo in remote areas: Or at least tell someone your route and thorougly check weather conditions first.
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, don’t overthink it. Just leave.
So, Is Montenegro Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
So, is Montenegro safe for solo female travellers? In my experience – yes, absolutely! Montenegro is definitely not perfect (nowhere is), but it is friendly, welcoming, and absolutely packed full of charming towns and incredible things to do that you absolutely don’t want to miss. In fact, I truly believe Montenegro is one of the most underrated, solo-female-travel-friendly countries in all of Europe.
With a bit of planning, a whole lot of (fake or real!) confidence, and these Montenegro solo travel safety tips in your back pocket, you can explore this beautiful country with total peace of mind.
Have you visited Montenegro before? Or are you planning your first solo trip there? I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer any questions in the comments!
Discover More of Montenegro:
- The 17 Best Things to Do in Budva for First-Time Visitors
- 10 Magical Things To Do in Perast, Montenegro in One Day
- Is Kotor Safe for Solo Female Travellers? My Honest Take
- Is Montenegro Safe for Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
- How to Plan the Perfect Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
