Planning a trip to Žabljak starts with a simple question: how do you get there? Tucked away in the heart of Durmitor National Park, Žabljak may feel wonderfully remote—but it’s more accessible than you think. Whether you’re coming from Podgorica, Kotor, Tivat, or even neighboring countries like Bosnia or Serbia, there are multiple ways to reach this highland haven.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best travel options by car, bus, and private transfer so you can pick the route that fits your style, schedule, and sense of adventure.
Reaching Žabljak is part of the journey—and it sets the tone for what lies ahead. As you ascend through winding roads, past turquoise rivers, canyons, and sleepy mountain villages, the scenery begins to shift. The air cools, the views expand, and with every kilometer, you feel further removed from the rush of daily life. This isn’t just transportation—it’s a transition into Montenegro’s wilder side, where nature reigns supreme. Whether you’re behind the wheel or relaxing in the passenger seat, getting to Žabljak is the first step in immersing yourself in the spirit of the mountains.
Getting to Žabljak by Car
Driving is by far the most scenic and flexible way to reach Žabljak. Montenegro’s mountain roads are part of the experience—offering dramatic views, spontaneous photo stops, and the freedom to travel at your own pace. Most routes to Žabljak are paved and well-marked, but expect winding segments and occasional steep climbs.
From Podgorica (Approx. 2.5 hours / 125 km)
The most direct and popular route is Podgorica → Nikšić → Šavnik → Žabljak.
- Podgorica to Nikšić (55 km): A well-maintained highway with smooth driving.
- Nikšić to Šavnik (40 km): Scenic countryside road through rolling hills.
- Šavnik to Žabljak (30 km): Mountain curves begin here. Drive cautiously and enjoy the rising altitude and cooler air.
Expect to pass through pine forests, small villages, and stretches where the landscape opens dramatically. In winter, check weather conditions—snow and ice can affect driving times.
From Kotor or Tivat (Approx. 3.5–4 hours / 160–180 km)
From the coast, the most common route is Kotor/Tivat → Nikšić → Žabljak.
- Drive from Kotor or Tivat to Nikšić via Kotor Serpentine Road (for epic views) or detour via Budva and Cetinje if you prefer a gentler climb.
- From Nikšić, follow the same route through Šavnik to Žabljak as above.
This drive offers a unique shift from coastal Mediterranean scenery to rugged highland terrain. Be sure to fuel up before leaving the coast—gas stations become less frequent after Nikšić.
From Dubrovnik (Approx. 4.5–5.5 hours / ~180 km)
Start by crossing the Montenegro border near Herceg Novi and follow the coastal highway through Kotor or Tivat toward Nikšić. Then follow the standard Nikšić → Šavnik → Žabljak route. Border delays can occur, especially in summer, so plan extra time. The road is scenic but involves mountain driving—ideal if you enjoy road trips with rewarding views.
From Sarajevo (Approx. 3.5–4.5 hours / ~170 km)
Take the M18 south through Foča, then cross the border into Montenegro. From there, continue along the scenic Piva Canyon and through Plužine toward Žabljak. This route includes stunning cliffside drives and views of the turquoise Piva River. Road conditions are good, but winding sections require careful driving.
From Belgrade (Approx. 6.5–8 hours / ~300–350 km)
There are two main routes: via Novi Pazar and Berane or via Užice and Pljevlja. The latter is generally preferred for its balance of drive time and road quality. After crossing into Montenegro near the Đurđevića Tara Bridge area, follow signs to Žabljak. It’s a long journey but increasingly popular with road trippers from Serbia.
From Tirana (Approx. 5.5–6.5 hours / ~250 km)
From Tirana, head north toward Shkodër, then cross the border into Montenegro at Hani i Hotit. Continue toward Podgorica, then follow the route: Podgorica → Nikšić → Šavnik → Žabljak. The roads are mostly in good condition, and the trip combines lowland stretches with stunning mountainous climbs as you approach Durmitor. It’s best to start early and avoid driving the mountain roads after dark, especially in winter months.
Bus Routes to Žabljak
Žabljak is connected by bus to major Montenegrin cities, though routes are less frequent compared to coastal destinations. The most reliable buses depart from Podgorica and Nikšić, typically once or twice a day, depending on the season.
- Podgorica to Žabljak: ~3.5 hours
- Nikšić to Žabljak: ~2.5 hours
Tickets can be purchased at bus stations or online via platforms like busticket4.me. Make sure to arrive early, as buses can fill up quickly in high season. Note that buses are slower due to stops and mountainous terrain.
There are also occasional routes from Pljevlja, Bijelo Polje, and even Sarajevo, though these should be double-checked ahead of travel, as they may run only on certain days.
Private Transfers & Taxis
For a hassle-free and direct option, many visitors opt for private transfers. Several companies offer door-to-door service from Podgorica, Tivat, Kotor, or even Dubrovnik directly to your hotel in Žabljak. This is especially convenient if you’re traveling with luggage, kids, or during winter months when public transport can be less predictable.
Private transfers can be booked in advance and customized with stops at scenic viewpoints or lunch spots along the way.
Renting a Car
If you prefer full control over your journey, renting a car is an excellent choice. Major rental agencies operate in Podgorica, Tivat, and at all international airports. Renting a vehicle gives you the flexibility to explore the Durmitor Ring, nearby villages, and hidden viewpoints at your own pace.
Driving in Montenegro is safe and relatively easy if you’re comfortable with mountain roads. During winter, make sure your rental includes snow chains or winter tires.
Parking at Our Hotel
If you’re arriving with your own car or rental, our hotel provides free garage parking for all guests. You can park securely and step right into comfort, knowing your vehicle is protected from the elements—especially helpful in snowy months.
Final Reflections
Getting to Žabljak isn’t just about reaching a destination—it’s about the transition from the ordinary to the extraordinary. With every kilometer, the landscape begins to whisper that something different is ahead. Mountain ridges rise on the horizon. Forests close in. The roads twist like storylines, drawing you closer to a place that feels untouched and profoundly alive. This journey—whether taken by car, bus, or private transfer—isn’t a detour. It’s a gateway.
Žabljak rewards those who make the effort. The town may be small, but its surroundings are limitless. And the routes that lead here? They’re not obstacles. They’re preludes to something powerful. Whether you pass through river canyons, old stone villages, or high-altitude switchbacks, every road to Žabljak builds anticipation and deepens the experience.
And the best part? Once you arrive, you don’t just feel like a visitor—you feel like you’ve arrived somewhere real. Somewhere rare. Whether you came from the coast, the capital, or crossed borders from Serbia, Bosnia, Albania, or Croatia, the road here invites you to slow down and look closer.
Our hotel is proud to be part of your journey. We’re not just a place to sleep—we’re your mountain base, your warm welcome after the road, and your quiet retreat once the adventure begins. From your first step into our lobby to your final glimpse of the peaks in your rearview mirror, we aim to make every part of your experience just as memorable as the road that brought you here.
So plan your route, take your time, and enjoy the drive. Žabljak is waiting—and so are we.
