Road in Montenegro

Montenegro Roads and Infrastructure -All You Should Know

Montenegro’s roads and infrastructure aim to reduce environmental impact, improve the quality of air and water supplies, and upgrade highways in the coastal region of Montenegro.

The main and most important goal of Montenegro’s roads is to enhance the country’s attractiveness, making it easily accessible and connecting cities seamlessly, thereby offering visitors a glimpse into rich Montenegrin culture

However, the infrastructure in Montenegro is not always optimal. Highways often have only one lane, and it is not uncommon for major roads to be closed for a few hours or even days or months, due to construction work.

Energy, environmental, and infrastructure projects are always welcome news in Montenegro. The country’s road infrastructure has never seen more investment than it does today, with numerous ambitious projects being undertaken simultaneously across the county.

Main Montenegro Roads are Always in Progress

A major issue with Montenegro’s road infrastructure is that the state’s transit routes are not fully equipped to connect all areas of this rapidly developing country effectively.

The Montenegro infrastructure project is part of a wider programme to reconstruct twelve main road sections, with a total length of approximately 216 km, co-financed by the state and private investors.

The ultimate objective of this programme is to improve connections between the two main airports and facilitate smoother movement of goods and tourists, both domestic and international. 

The three most significant  and important road sections in Montenegro are:

  • The M-2 road section Rožaje – Špiljani (20 km long Montenegrin roads), 
  • The M-18 road section Podgorica – Danilovgrad (15 km) and 
  • The M-2 road section Tivat – Budva (16 km long Montenegrin roads reaching the Jaz beach, one of the best beaches in Montenegro)
A traffic sign on the road

Montenegro Infrastructure Leading the Way in Sustainable Development

For a small country whose economy heavily relies on tourism, investment in airport infrastructure is a prerequisite for boosting overall development and attracting more visitors.

The aim of Montenegro’s ongoing road construction projects is to enhance the capacities of Podgorica and Tivat Airports by expanding their facilities and installing modern equipment. These efforts will ultimately provide comfortable and efficient services for the ever-growing number of passengers.

These infrastructure projects aim to ensure that Montenegro’s roads become more accessible and compliant with international standards. Plans include setting up an energy management system and working towards carbon accreditation for Tivat Airport. 

Reducing carbon emissions and increasing airport sustainability will begin with measuring the carbon footprint.

Growing passenger numbers will drive tourism and contribute to overall economic growth.

The responsible use of materials during the expansion of Montenegrin infrastructure supports a functional and modern transport economy, enabling it to reach its full potential. The overarching goal is to help the country develop sustainable transport infrastructure and enhance energy efficiency, culminating in the carbon accreditation of airports.

The Rehabilitation of Slopes - Twisting Montenegro Roads Chiselled into the Mountainside

Montenegro’s mountain roads offer breathtaking landscapes that rival any in the world. The undulating Montenegrin mountains stand out because of the numerous canyons that had to be connected by monumental bridges and railways. 

Railway Infrastructure of Montenegro

Montenegro’s railway infrastructure predominantly consists of tracks laid along mountain slopes, zigzagging up hills and spanning bridges over canyons. The state oversees and maintains five concrete bridges on the Vrbnica River, which form part of the Bar railway line, along with Tunnel 206.

Plans for Hydropower Exploitation and Gas Pipeline Reconstruction

In addition to traffic infrastructure projects, Montenegro has ambitious plans for hydropower development and water management, focusing on the rivers Drina, Piva, Tara, Ćehotina, Lim, Ibar, and Morača. Key projects include hydropower plants on the Morača and Komarnica rivers.

Both the railway and road networks of Montenegro are integral to the Italy-Montenegro-Serbia-Bosnia-Herzegovina interconnection, which includes the Ionian-Adriatic gas pipeline.

The ecological reconstruction of the Pljevlja power plant will introduce central heating to the town of Pljevlja, improve energy efficiency in public buildings, and ensure reliable power supplies to several tourist resort areas.

Montenegro Highways: A Growing Network

Montenegro’s highway infrastructure is rapidly developing to connect key cities and regions more efficiently. Below are the main highways currently under construction in Montenegro.

Railway in Montenegro

Bar-Boljare Highway: The Largest Montenegrin Project Since Independence

The Moračica Bridge stands as a testament to the Chinese and Montenegrin engineers, demonstrating humanity’s ability to overcome geographical challenges.

Rising 200 metres above the Morača riverbed, this kilometre-long bridge is the pinnacle of an ambitious new highway stretching from Smokovac, near Montenegro’s capital of Podgorica, to Mateševo in the north.

The motorway carves its way through nearly impassable mountainous terrain.

The new 41-kilometre stretch cuts through Montenegro’s rugged scenery, with 20 bridges and 16 tunnels shortening a 180-kilometre nail-biting journey into a carefree 30-minute drive.

However, this impressive piece of civil engineering comes at a cost. Critics argue that the small country may struggle to afford such an ambitious project, warning that it could result in substantial debt to the Chinese constructors.

The Smokovac-Mateševo highway, also known as the Princess Xenia Highway, is a vital artery intended to connect the Adriatic port of Bar to Boljare on Montenegro’s northern border with Serbia. This route will form part of the future Belgrade-Bar motorway. 

The Montenegrin section represents the country’s largest infrastructure investment since gaining independence in 2006. It will include approximately 165 km of roads, 48 tunnels, 107 bridges, and several viaducts.

Adriatic-Ionian Highway: Connecting the Coastline and Beyond

The Adriatic-Ionian Highway, often called the Blue Corridor, is an ambitious infrastructural project set to redefine travel along the stunning Adriatic and Ionian coasts. Spanning over 1,100 kilometres, this highway will connect several countries, including Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, and Greece, providing a seamless and scenic route for residents, tourists, and businesses.

For Montenegro, this highway is more than just a road; it represents a gateway to growth, improved accessibility, and an elevated travel experience. Positioned as a central hub, Montenegro stands to benefit significantly, further establishing its status as a premier destination for leisure, investment, and luxury living.

Montenegro Highway Tolls - Pricing and Criteria

Category Vehicle Type Highway Bar-Boljare (Pelje Brijeg – Veruša – Mateševo) Tunnel Sozina
Category 1 Motorcycles, mopeds, quadricycles €0.50 – €1.50 €1
Category 2 (a) Vehicles ≤1.3m at the first axle €1.50 – €3.50 €2.50
Category 2 (b) Vehicles ≤1.9m and ≤3,500kg €1.50 – €3.50 €2.50
Category 3 (a) Vehicles with 3+ axles, height ≤1.3m at the first axle €2.50 – €6.00 €5
Category 3 (b) Vehicles with 3+ axles, height ≤1.9m and ≤3,500kg €2.50 – €6.00 €5
Category 3 (c) Vehicles with 2 axles, height >1.9m and ≤3,500kg €2.50 – €6.00 €5
Category 4 (a) Vehicles >3,500kg, height >1.3m at the first axle €4.50 – €10.50 €10
Category 4 (b) Vehicles >3,500kg, height >1.9m and with a trailer €4.50 – €10.50 €10
Category 5 Vehicles with 4+ axles, height >1.3m, weight >3,500kg €7.00 – €17.00 €18

Roads Leading to Montenegro’s Top Attractions

Montenegro’s diverse attractions are connected by a network of roads catering to all types of travellers. Here’s how to reach some of the country’s must-visit sights:

Durmitor National Park and Tara Canyon

  • Route: From Podgorica, take the E762 and then regional roads to Žabljak.
  • Distance: About 130 kilometres.
  • Road Conditions: Well-maintained, but expect narrow sections as you approach Žabljak.
  • Seasonal Considerations: Snow chains may be required in winter.

Lake Skadar

  • Route: The M2.3 road connects Podgorica to the towns of Virpazar and Rijeka Crnojevića near Lake Skadar.
  • Distance: Approximately 25 kilometres from Podgorica.
  • Key Features: The road offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Ostrog Monastery

  • Route: Accessible via the E762 from Podgorica or Nikšić, with a steep and narrow final approach.
  • Safety Tip: Drive cautiously on the final stretch, as it has sharp turns and limited space for overtaking.

Roads Around Tivat: A Gateway to the Bay

Tivat, located in the Bay of Kotor, is a key destination for travellers exploring Montenegro. Its road network is essential for accessing the luxurious Porto Montenegro marina, Tivat Airport, and nearby towns.

Jadranska Magistrala (Adriatic Highway)

  • Route: This coastal road connects Tivat with Herceg Novi, Kotor, and Budva.
  • Features: The road is scenic but narrow in some sections, with occasional traffic during summer months.
  • Safety Tips: Exercise caution on curves and watch out for pedestrians and cyclists.

Road to Lovćen National Park

  • Route: A steep and winding road leads from Tivat to Lovćen National Park, offering panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor.
  • Challenges: The road has sharp turns and requires confident driving.

Vrmac Tunnel

  • Purpose: This tunnel connects Tivat to Kotor, bypassing the winding coastal road and saving travel time.
  • Length: Approximately 1.6 kilometres.

Montenegrin Infrastructure Promises a Futuristic Approach to Building

One significant challenge Montenegro faces is its ageing buildings. Many cities feature Yugoslav-era or panel-style buildings – constructed before 1990. These structures were designed to last approximately 30 years, and many are now in various states of disrepair.

These buildings are also highly inefficient in terms of heat retention. While replacing all of them at once is virtually impossible, innovative methods are being adopted to redesign, extend their life spans, and improve energy efficiency

One popular solution is the installation of green roofs, which significantly reduce heat radiation from a building’s roof. 

This innovation helps to retain heat within residences, reducing overall energy consumption and promoting green infrastructure in Montenegro as well.

While some infrastructure in Montenegro still has a long way to go, particularly in less developed, areas, the country’s tourist areas such as Porto Montenegro marina resorts around Tivat, set a high standard.

Montenegro’s infrastructure is poised to undergo significant improvements as the economy continues to grow, promising better experiences for affluent visitors. Environmentally friendly innovations and world-class accommodations, aim to make everyday life more convenient and enjoyable for both Montenegrins and their guests.