Currency
Montenegro uses the euro, despite not being an EU member. ATMs are widespread in all main towns and tourist areas. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas; smaller places and rural areas often prefer cash. Declare amounts over €10,000 at borders.
Language
Montenegrin is the official language, closely related to Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian. In practice, Serbian is widely spoken and understood. English is spoken in tourist-facing businesses along the coast and in Podgorica. In rural areas and among older people, Italian or German may be more useful than English.
Phone and Internet
Montenegro's country code is +382. SIM cards are cheap and widely available — buy one at any mobile shop in Podgorica, Tivat, or Budva for a few euros. Wi-Fi is standard in hotels, cafes, and restaurants along the coast. Coverage in the mountains is spottier.
Safety
Montenegro is a safe country for travellers. Petty crime exists in busy tourist spots in summer — pickpocketing in crowded old towns. Traffic is the main hazard, particularly on mountain roads. Landmines remain in some border areas near Kosovo and parts of the north — stay on marked paths and heed warning signs.
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry. Tap water is safe to drink in most areas. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not accepted — Montenegro is not in the EU. Private travel insurance with medical coverage is strongly recommended. The main hospital is in Podgorica.
Electricity
220V, 50Hz. Standard European two-pin plugs (Type C/F).
Registration
All visitors must register with the local tourism office or police within 24 hours of arrival. Hotels and most private accommodation operators handle this automatically. If you're staying with friends or in an unregistered private rental, you need to register yourself at the nearest police station. This is taken seriously — there is a fine for failure to register.
Tourist Tax
A small daily tourist tax (a few euros) is charged by accommodation providers and is usually included in the quoted room rate or added at checkout.