Common tourist scams in Montenegro and how to avoid them

Montenegro is a low-violence destination for visitors, and most trips pass without incident. The friction is money: small overcharges and pressure at the points where tourists have no alternative. The coast in July and August, and the arrivals halls at Tivat and Podgorica, are where it concentrates.

Taxis. Meters that stay off, or jump faster than the distance justifies, are the classic complaint. At airports and bus stations, drivers may quote a flat price well above the metered fare. Use a ride-hailing app where it works, or agree the total before the doors close and pay in euro notes you can count. Keep the receipt if you can get one.

Restaurants. The bill is where to look: bread, olives, a 'cover' charge or a dish nobody ordered. Prices on the coast can also differ from the menu you were handed at the door. Ask for the itemised bill, check it before paying, and pay by card where possible so there is a record.

Accommodation. Off-platform bookings, especially for apartments, are the main risk: a deposit by bank transfer or a link sent by message, then no key on arrival. Book through a major platform with payment protection, or pay on arrival after seeing the room. If a host pushes you off the platform, treat it as a warning.

Rental cars. Damage disputes are the most expensive kind. Photograph and video the car from every angle, including the roof and the underside, before you drive away and again at return, with the fuel gauge and mileage visible. Note existing scratches on the contract. Check what the insurance actually covers before signing.

Cards and cash. Skimming and card cloning happen, mostly at small terminals and ATMs away from bank branches. Use ATMs attached to banks during opening hours, cover the keypad, and never hand your card to someone who takes it out of sight. If a terminal offers to charge you in your home currency, decline and pay in EUR.

Street and beach. Common small tricks include 'free' bracelets or roses that become a demand for payment, unofficial parking attendants asking for a fee on public ground, and people offering to help with a ticket machine or ATM while watching your PIN. A firm no and walking on usually ends it.

Beaches and boats. Check the price list before renting a sunbed or a boat, and confirm whether the price is per person, per hour or per day. On boat trips, ask what is included and whether the return leg is guaranteed if the weather turns.