How to get there

How to Reach Kotor Montenegro from North America: Your Complete Travel Guide

Updated Sun, Dec 21, 2025

Reach Kotor via connecting flights through Europe to Tivat Airport (5km away) or Podgorica (90 minutes drive). Limited direct flights require stops.

How to Reach Kotor Montenegro from North America: Your Complete Travel Guide

Overview

Ease of getting there

Reaching Kotor from the US and Canada requires connecting flights through European hubs like Frankfurt, Vienna, or Belgrade to reach either Podgorica or Tivat airports in Montenegro. Tivat Airport sits just 5 kilometers from Kotor, making it the preferred choice. Most travelers fly into major European cities first, then catch regional flights on Montenegro Airlines or other carriers. From Tivat, buses run every 30 minutes to Kotor's Old Town, taking about 15 minutes. Alternatively, Podgorica Airport offers more international connections but requires a 90-minute drive to reach Kotor. Rental cars provide flexibility for exploring the stunning Montenegrin coastline and nearby attractions.

Customs and immigration

Montenegro offers visa-free entry for US and Canadian citizens staying up to 90 days. Passport control typically processes quickly within 10-15 minutes at both airports. No digital passport systems currently operate. Customs declarations rarely require inspection for tourists carrying standard personal items. Immigration officers may ask about accommodation details and departure plans. Airport facilities remain basic but efficient. Peak summer months see longer processing times due to increased tourist volume.

Flights from the US / Canada

No direct flights exist from North America to Montenegro. Major US cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles connect through European hubs including Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, Belgrade, or Istanbul. Air Serbia offers good connections via Belgrade. Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, and Turkish Airlines provide reliable routing. From Canada, Toronto and Montreal passengers typically connect through Frankfurt or Vienna. Montenegro Airlines and regional carriers operate final legs to Tivat or Podgorica airports with 1-3 daily flights depending on season.

From airport to city center

Tivat Airport offers the shortest route to Kotor at just 5 kilometers. Public buses depart every 30 minutes during peak season, taking 15 minutes to reach Kotor's bus station near the Old Town walls. Taxis cost 10-15 euros and take 10 minutes. From Podgorica Airport, rental cars provide the most convenient 90-minute scenic drive along winding mountain roads. Public buses run twice daily but require 2-3 hours with stops. Private transfers cost 40-60 euros and take 90 minutes direct.
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