How To Get From Podgorica To Dubrovnik

Here is how you can get from Podgorica to Dubrovnik &, of course, from Dubrovnik to Podgorica.

The great thing about the Balkan region is that you can explore several different countries within the space of one trip. Borders are easily crossed as long as you have the proper documentation.

If you’re spending time in Podgorica and want to head over to Dubrovnik in Croatia, is it possible?

Yes! It’s also surprisingly quick too.

Podgorica is, of course, the capital of Montenegro and has plenty of things to see and do in its own right. From the stunning Millennium Bridge to the Clock Tower and the beautiful Old Town, you can also head out into the countryside and check out Lake Skadar National Park.

But, if you want to head to Dubrovnik for a short trip, nobody could blame you either!

Dubrovnik is super-popular, and you’ll notice crowds aplenty during the summer months. However, the rest of the year is much quieter, and you can usually explore with much more comfort.

Of course, the Old Town walls are the highlight, but the old buildings within the city are jaw-dropping in their architecture. You’ll find everything from nightlife to shopping, history to culture in Dubrovnik.

But how can you get between the two?

Remember, no matter which direction you’re traveling in and how you do it, you’re crossing borders between Montenegro and Croatia. That means you will need your passport, your license, and International driving license papers if you’re driving.

Queues at the border aren’t often too bad, but you may have to wait a short while during the summer months, depending on how many other people are crossing simultaneously.

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Podgorica To Dubrovnik By Bus (& Dubrovnik To Podgorica)

There is one long-distance bus service per day between the two cities, which takes between 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and how you’re traveling.

Taking the bus isn’t the most time-efficient way, and you’re not going to be able to visit the two cities in a day if you choose this option. However, if you don’t want to drive, you can take the bus and stay overnight.

Bus Stop In Podgorica & Buying Bus Tickets

The bus stop is less than  1 kilometer from the city center, close to Montenegro Mall.

You can purchase a bus online here. Some companies will ask you to have a printout of your ticket. While others use a QR code from your online booking.

If that does not suit you, you can easily go to the bus station on any day and buy tickets over the counter.

As with many buses in the Balkans, you may need to pay a surcharge for toilets and baggage storage, so carry small change euros with you.

Cost Of The Bus To Dubrovnik From Podgorica

The cost of transportation in Europe has increased a lot this year and is expected to rise again next year, so please keep this in mind when budgeting. The prices listed at the time of publication ranged from 15 to 35 euros per person. 

Podgorica To Dubrovnik By Car

Your second option is to drive yourself. You can easily hire a car from a major car hire provider and cross the border, as long as you have all the necessary driving documentation as you do so.

Driving yourself is much faster and takes 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. You will travel for just 150 km along the M6 highway, and it’s one high-quality road, so there are no problems with having to take detours. The road is smooth and easy – I have done it so many times without issue.

Crossing The Border between Montenegro & Croatia

Embarking on a journey from Montenegro to Croatia, particularly through the border crossing at Ploce, demands a certain level of preparedness and, yes, a hearty dose of patience.

While the scenic beauty of both nations is undeniable, it’s the logistical aspects that can cut into your fun time. Despite its European locale, Montenegro isn’t a member of the EU nor the Schengen Zone, making the border checks here more stringent and time-consuming than some might expect.

Waiting times at Ploce can vary significantly – it might be a breezy half-hour or a tedious several hours, especially during peak travel seasons. It’s essential, especially for travelers from outside the EU, to come ready with all the requisite documentation, ensuring a smoother passage into Croatia.

Visa details, accommodation information, and proof of funds might be requested, so keeping those handy is wise. Be mindful that if you’re on a bus and any issues arise at the border, the journey continues without you – buses adhere strictly to their schedules.

Navigating through the crossing can be viewed as a practical adventure, offering a slight pause between the Montenegrin and Croatian rich and vibrant experiences.

So, keep your documents ready, adopt a pragmatic approach, and step into this journey from Montenegro to Croatia with an easy-going mindset. Your adventure awaits on the other side of the border, ready to be explored and enjoyed with each passing moment.