list of airports in Montenegro
Exploring the Airports of Montenegro: Your Gateway to the Adriatic
Montenegro, the "Land of the Black Mountains," is a stunning destination on the Adriatic Sea, attracting visitors with its dramatic landscapes, charming coastal towns, and rich history. Getting to and around this Balkan gem is becoming increasingly easier, thanks to its growing network of airports. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Montenegro, helping you plan your journey with ease.
A Brief Overview of Montenegrin Aviation
Montenegro’s aviation infrastructure, while relatively small, is modernizing to accommodate the increasing tourist demand. The country currently operates three main airports, each serving different regions and offering varying levels of connectivity. These airports are crucial for both international tourists and domestic travel within Montenegro. Historically, air travel was limited, but recent investments and a focus on tourism have spurred significant improvements. The state-owned company, Airports of Montenegro, manages all three facilities.
The Airports of Montenegro: A Detailed Look
Here’s a detailed look at each of Montenegro’s airports, including their location, airlines, and key features:
| Airport Name | IATA Code | City Served | Approximate Distance from City Center | Airlines (as of late 2023/early 2024 – subject to change) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Podgorica Airport (Golubovci) | TGD | Podgorica | 12 km (7.5 miles) | Ryanair, Wizz Air, Air Serbia, Turkish Airlines, easyJet, Eurowings, Montenegro Airlines (ceased operations) | Main international airport, serves the capital city and central Montenegro. Undergoing modernization. |
| Tivat Airport (Ivo Andrić) | TIV | Tivat | 5 km (3.1 miles) | Ryanair, Wizz Air, Air Serbia, Turkish Airlines, easyJet, Eurowings, | Serves the Bay of Kotor, a popular tourist destination. Known for its challenging approach due to surrounding mountains. |
| Žabljak Airport (Ponari) | ZBJ | Žabljak | 3 km (1.9 miles) | Primarily seasonal charter flights, limited scheduled services. | Serves the Durmitor National Park, popular for skiing and outdoor activities. The highest altitude airport in the Balkans. |
Podgorica Airport (TGD)
Located near the capital city, Podgorica Airport is the busiest in Montenegro. It serves as a primary entry point for international travelers and offers connections to various European destinations. The airport is currently undergoing expansion and modernization to increase capacity and improve passenger experience. Expect a range of services, including car rental, currency exchange, and duty-free shopping.
Tivat Airport (TIV)
Situated in the picturesque Bay of Kotor, Tivat Airport is a convenient option for those heading to the Montenegrin coast. Its location makes it particularly popular during the summer months. Landing at Tivat can be a thrilling experience, as the approach is surrounded by stunning mountains and requires skilled piloting. The airport offers a good selection of services, though smaller than Podgorica.
Žabljak Airport (ZBJ)
This airport, located in the northern mountains near Durmitor National Park, is the smallest and least frequently used. It primarily caters to seasonal charter flights, particularly during the winter ski season. While it doesn’t offer the same level of amenities as the other two airports, it provides quick access to the stunning natural beauty of the Durmitor region.
Getting To and From the Airports
Podgorica Airport: The most common way to reach Podgorica city center is by taxi, which takes around 15-20 minutes. Airport shuttle buses also operate, offering a more affordable option. Car rental services are readily available at the airport.
Tivat Airport: Taxis are the most convenient way to get to Tivat town or other destinations in the Bay of Kotor. Local buses connect the airport to nearby towns, but schedules can be limited. Car rental is also an option.
Žabljak Airport: Taxis are the primary mode of transport from Žabljak Airport to the town center and surrounding areas. Pre-booking a transfer is recommended, especially during peak season.
Future Developments in Montenegrin Airports
Montenegro is committed to further developing its aviation infrastructure. Plans are underway to potentially expand capacity at both Podgorica and Tivat airports, and to attract more airlines to offer a wider range of routes. The goal is to position Montenegro as a more accessible and attractive tourist destination. There’s also ongoing discussion about potential improvements to Žabljak Airport to better serve the Durmitor region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which airport is best for visiting the Bay of Kotor?
A: Tivat Airport (TIV) is the closest and most convenient airport for the Bay of Kotor.
Q: Are there direct flights from the US to Montenegro?
A: Currently, there are no direct flights from the US to Montenegro. You will need to connect through a major European hub.
Q: What is the currency exchange situation like at the airports?
A: Currency exchange services are available at all three airports, but exchange rates may not be the most favorable. It’s often better to exchange currency in town.
Q: Do I need a visa to enter Montenegro?
A: Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many nationalities can enter Montenegro visa-free for a certain period. Check the Montenegrin Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the latest information.
Q: Is it easy to rent a car at the airports?
A: Yes, several international and local car rental companies operate at Podgorica and Tivat airports. Availability at Žabljak Airport is more limited.
Resources
- Airports of Montenegro: https://www.airports-montenegro.com/
- Montenegro National Tourism Organisation: https://www.montenegro.travel/
- Montenegrin Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Visa Information): https://mfa.gov.me/en/
- FlightRadar24 (Real-time flight tracking): https://www.flightradar24.com/
- Wikitravel – Montenegro: https://wikitravel.org/en/Montenegro
