What is the Currency in Montenegro?

What is the Currency in Montenegro?

If you’re travelling to Montenegro—a stunning Balkan country known for its dramatic coastline, medieval towns, and national parks—it’s helpful to know what currency is used and how best to handle your money. This guide is written for UK travellers and covers the currency in use, payment options, and practical money tips for your trip.

What currency does Montenegro use?

Montenegro uses the euro (EUR) as its official currency, despite not being a member of the European Union or the Eurozone. The euro is the only legal tender accepted in Montenegro, and all goods, services, and transactions are priced and paid for in euros.

Montenegro adopted the euro unilaterally in 2002 after previously using the German mark. It does not issue its own coins or notes—only euro currency issued by Eurozone member countries is in circulation.

How is the euro structured?

The euro is divided into 100 cents, similar to pounds and pence. Banknotes include:

• €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500
  Coins include 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and €1 and €2 coins.

At the time of writing, £1 is worth around €1.15, though rates can vary depending on your provider and method of exchange. Always check the current exchange rate before travelling or making purchases abroad.

Can you use British pounds in Montenegro?

No. All payments in Montenegro must be made in euros. British pounds are not accepted, even informally. If you bring GBP with you, you’ll need to exchange it at a local bank or exchange bureau.

Should you bring cash or use a card in Montenegro?

Montenegro has a cash-oriented economy, particularly outside major tourist hubs. While hotels, restaurants and larger shops in places like Kotor, Budva or Podgorica often accept card payments, many local businesses, taxis and rural establishments still prefer cash.

For this reason, it’s advisable to bring some cash in euros or withdraw money from ATMs upon arrival. UK visitors should ideally use a fee-free travel card (like Monzo, Starling or Revolut) to avoid foreign transaction and withdrawal fees.

Exchanging money and using ATMs

You can exchange money in the UK before your trip, but exchange rates may be better locally. ATMs are widely available in towns and cities across Montenegro, and most accept international cards.

Avoid exchanging money at airports where rates are typically worse, and steer clear of unlicensed street exchangers. Stick to banks and authorised exchange offices.

Tips for managing money in Montenegro

• Carry euros in small denominations for taxis, buses and local shops

• Always pay in euros—avoid dynamic currency conversion if offered

• Use ATMs connected to banks to minimise fees and improve security

• Keep a mix of cash and card to suit both urban and rural settings

• Tipping is appreciated—round up or offer 5–10% in restaurants

Common mistakes to avoid

A common misconception is that Montenegro, not being in the EU, might use a different local currency. However, the euro is the only accepted form of payment.

Another mistake is assuming that card payments are widely available in rural areas—many small businesses operate on a cash-only basis, so being unprepared could leave you in a tricky situation.

In summary

Montenegro uses the euro (EUR) as its official currency, even though it is not part of the Eurozone. Cash is widely used, especially in local and rural settings, so UK travellers should carry a mix of euros and a travel card to manage their spending efficiently and avoid extra fees.