Budva’s central location on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast makes it a popular transfer hub. Private transfers connect Budva to all major airports and cities in Montenegro and neighboring countries. Standard sedan rates for up to 4 passengers typically run €35-50 from Tivat Airport (20 minutes), €60-80 from Podgorica Airport (60 minutes), and €100-130 from Dubrovnik Airport, Croatia (90 minutes).
For larger groups, minivans seating 7-8 passengers cost approximately 40% more than standard sedans. Premium vehicles like Mercedes E-Class or BMW 5 Series add 30-50% to base rates. All prices include luggage, fuel, tolls, and border crossing fees where applicable.
Airport Transfer Options
Tivat Airport (TIV): The closest airport at just 23 kilometers offers the quickest transfers. The coastal route passes through Kotor Bay with stunning views. Summer traffic can double journey times, especially July-August weekends.
Podgorica Airport (TGD): Montenegro’s main international airport sits 65 kilometers inland. The mountain route via Cetinje offers scenic views but includes winding roads. Winter transfers may take longer due to mountain conditions.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): Located 95 kilometers away in Croatia, this option requires passport for border crossing at Debeli Brijeg. Allow extra 15-30 minutes for border procedures during peak summer season.
Where to Book Online
Book directly through transfer company websites for best rates and customer protection. Established operators serving Budva include Montenegro Transfer Service, Elite Montenegro, and Red Taxi Montenegro. These companies offer instant booking confirmation, flight monitoring, and 24/7 customer support.
International platforms like Welcome Pickups, Suntransfers, and GetTransfer.com also operate in Budva with English-language booking systems and customer service. Rates typically run 10-15% higher than local operators but offer familiar booking interfaces and payment protection.
Avoid booking through hotel concierges unless necessary—markups often reach 30-50% above direct booking rates. Similarly, airport taxi desks charge premium rates compared to pre-arranged transfers.
Booking Requirements
You’ll need the following information when booking:
– Flight number and arrival time (for airport transfers)
– Accommodation name and address in Budva
– Number of passengers and luggage pieces
– Child seat requirements (mandatory for children under 12)
– Mobile phone number with WhatsApp for driver communication
Most services request payment at booking via credit card. Some local operators offer cash payment to driver, typically saving 5-10% compared to card rates.
Best Booking Timeframe
Book airport transfers 48-72 hours before arrival for optimal rates and availability. During peak season (June-September), book at least one week ahead as services fill quickly. Christmas and New Year periods also require advance booking.
Last-minute bookings remain possible but expect 20-30% higher rates and limited vehicle choices. Same-day bookings through WhatsApp or phone calls to local operators sometimes yield better rates than online platforms.
For departure transfers from Budva, book simultaneously with arrival transfer to secure 10-15% round-trip discounts. Confirm pickup time accounts for check-in requirements—most drivers recommend 2 hours before international flights from Tivat, 2.5 hours for Podgorica, and 3 hours for Dubrovnik.
Meeting Your Driver at Airports
Tivat Airport: Drivers wait outside the single terminal building with name signs. The small airport makes finding your driver straightforward—exit baggage claim and look for transfer company signs near the main door.
Podgorica Airport: Meeting point is in the arrivals hall after customs. Drivers position themselves near the information desk with clearly visible name boards.
Dubrovnik Airport: Drivers cannot enter the terminal. Exit the building and find them at the designated meeting point to the right of the main exit. Look for “Transfer Meeting Point” signs.
All reputable services provide driver phone numbers via email/SMS after booking. Free airport WiFi enables WhatsApp contact if needed.
Budva Pickup Locations
Private transfers collect passengers anywhere in Budva municipality, including:
– Budva Old Town (may require short walk to vehicle access point)
– Slovenska Beach hotel zone
– Becici and Rafailovici areas
– Przno and Sveti Stefan vicinity
– Private villas in Budva hills
Specify exact pickup location when booking. Old Town’s pedestrian zones require meeting at designated pickup points—drivers know these locations and provide clear instructions. Hotels and apartments outside Old Town offer direct door-to-door service.
Payment Methods and Tipping
Credit/debit card payments through online booking systems process in euros regardless of your card currency. Local operators accepting cash prefer euros but usually accept US dollars at less favorable exchange rates.
Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated for good service. Round up to nearest €5-10 or add 10% for exceptional service, especially if driver assists with luggage or provides local recommendations.
Keep small euro bills handy for potential extras like water bottles or parking fees at certain pickup locations. ATMs throughout Budva dispense euros if needed before departure transfers.
Coastal vs Mountain Route Options
For Podgorica Airport transfers, you can request either the faster mountain route via Cetinje or the longer coastal route via Petrovac. The mountain route saves 20-30 minutes but includes sharp curves potentially uncomfortable for those prone to motion sickness.
The coastal route adds 15 kilometers but follows the Adriatic shoreline through Petrovac and Sutomore. Some transfer services offer this scenic option at no extra charge if requested when booking. Summer sunset transfers along this route provide spectacular photo opportunities.
Winter transfers (November-March) default to coastal route when mountain roads face adverse conditions. Drivers monitor weather and road conditions, selecting the safest option regardless of your preference.
Extra Services and Special Requests
Most transfer companies accommodate special requests with advance notice:
Child seats: EU-approved seats cost €5-10 extra. Specify child’s age and weight when booking. Infant seats (0-13kg), child seats (9-18kg), and booster seats (15-36kg) usually available.
Multiple stops: Add stops in Kotor, Perast, or other locations for €10-20 per stop. Popular for sightseeing transfers combining airport arrival with brief touring.
Grocery stop: Drivers can stop at supermarkets en route for €5-10, helpful for stocking villa rentals.
SIM cards: Many drivers sell local SIM cards with data packages, saving time versus purchasing at airports or shops.
Water and refreshments: Complimentary bottled water standard with quality operators. Some provide WiFi hotspots during journey.
Cancellation Policies
Standard cancellation terms offer full refunds 24-48 hours before scheduled transfer. Within 24 hours, expect 50% charges or full payment for no-shows. Flight delays and cancellations usually exempt from charges with proof.
Review specific operator policies before booking. Some offer free cancellation up to 6 hours before transfer, while others maintain strict 48-hour policies. Travel insurance may cover transfer cancellation costs—check your policy details.
For departure transfers, inform operators immediately about any pickup time changes. Most accommodate adjustments without penalty if notified several hours ahead.
Alternative Transport Options
While private transfers offer convenience and comfort, alternatives exist for budget-conscious travelers:
Public buses: Blueline buses connect Tivat Airport to Budva for €5-7 but run limited schedules with no luggage assistance.
Shared shuttles: Some operators offer seat-in-coach services for €15-20 per person from Tivat, €25-30 from Podgorica. Requires flexibility as routes include multiple hotel stops.
Rental cars: Available at all airports but consider Budva’s summer parking challenges and €2-4 hourly rates in central areas.
Regular taxis: Metered taxis cost similar to pre-booked transfers but lack fixed pricing and may not accept cards.
Booking Confirmation and Communication
After booking, expect immediate email confirmation containing:
– Booking reference number
– Driver contact details (usually provided 12-24 hours before transfer)
– Meeting point instructions with photos
– Company emergency contact number
– Vehicle type and license plate (sometimes)
Save confirmation emails offline and screenshot important details. WhatsApp communication with drivers works well—most speak basic English and use translation apps when needed.
For departure transfers, drivers typically send reminder messages the evening before pickup. Confirm your accommodation’s exact address as Budva has many similarly named hotels and apartment complexes.