Renting a Car at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Dubrovnik Airport handles a wider range of airlines than Montenegro's own airports. If your preferred carrier does not serve Tivat or Podgorica, landing at Dubrovnik and driving south through Montenegro to Ulcinj is a well-established route — though it is a longer drive of 4-5 hours.
The drive takes you through the Croatian coast, across the Montenegro border at Debeli Brijeg, along the Bay of Kotor, and then south via Budva, Bar, and finally Ulcinj. Ensure your rental company includes a Green Card for Montenegro.
Croatian motorway tolls apply on the A1 from the airport toward the border. The toll is modest (under 5 EUR) and can be paid by card or cash.
Border Crossing Tips
The Debeli Brijeg checkpoint is the only coastal crossing between Croatia and Montenegro. In summer, expect 30-90 minute queues during mid-day. Cross before 8 am or after 8 pm for shorter waits. Have passport, rental contract, and Green Card ready in hand.
Airport Facilities
The terminal sits 20 km south-east of Dubrovnik Old Town. Rental car desks are in the arrivals hall. Collect paperwork inside, then walk to the car park.
Some agencies use off-site lots with shuttle transfers — confirm in advance whether your car is on-site.
The Drive to Montenegro
Exit the airport and follow the E65 south-east through Cavtat toward the Montenegro border. The road is well-maintained with sea views. After the border, continue through Herceg Novi and along the Bay of Kotor.
From the bay, continue south through Budva and Bar to Ulcinj. The total drive is 4-5 hours depending on border wait times and route choice. Break the journey with stops at Kotor, Budva, or Petrovac.