Skopje to Sarajevo via Montenegro: A Scenic 2-Day Route
Planning a road trip from Skopje, North Macedonia, to Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina? This 2-day itinerary takes you through the captivating landscapes of Montenegro, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport provides reliable vehicles to explore this stunning region.
Why Choose Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport for Your Balkan Adventure?
We’ve been providing quality car rentals from Skopje Alexander the Great Airport (SKP / LWSK) since 2001. We offer a diverse fleet including economy, compact, SUVs, and 7-seater vans, ensuring the perfect vehicle for your travel needs. From our convenient airport pickup (including a free shuttle) and city-centre delivery to our competitive prices starting from just €22/day (low season), we strive to make your rental experience seamless.
Day 1: Skopje to Podgorica via Lake Ohrid & Shkodër
Your journey begins at Skopje Alexander the Great Airport (SKP). After picking up your rental car from Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport, head southwest towards Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy the picturesque views and consider a brief stop in Ohrid town.
Lake Ohrid: A Brief Stop
Lake Ohrid is the deepest and oldest lake in Europe, brimming with history and natural beauty. Take some time to wander through the old town, visit the Church of St. John at Kaneo, and enjoy a lakeside lunch. Distance from Skopje to Ohrid is approximately 170 km (around 2.5-3 hours).
Crossing into Albania & Shkodër
From Ohrid, continue towards the Albanian border. You'll briefly pass through Albania to reach Shkodër, a vibrant city with a rich history. Explore Rozafa Castle for panoramic views. Driving in Albania requires an international driving permit and Green Card insurance (which Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport provides as standard – Zone 1 & 2).
Arriving in Podgorica, Montenegro
Continue across the border into Montenegro, heading towards Podgorica, the capital. The distance from Shkodër to Podgorica is roughly 50 km (about 1 hour). Check into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the city.
Day 2: Podgorica to Sarajevo via Durmitor National Park
Day 2 focuses on the spectacular Durmitor National Park and the final leg to Sarajevo. This is arguably the most scenic part of the journey, with dramatic mountain landscapes and winding roads.
Durmitor National Park: Montenegro's Jewel
Durmitor National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its stunning glacial lakes, rugged peaks, and pristine rivers. Allow ample time to explore – hiking trails abound! Some roads within the park can be challenging, so ensure your rental car is suitable for mountain driving (an SUV is recommended).
Crossing into Bosnia and Herzegovina & Arrival in Sarajevo
After Durmitor, cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina. The drive from Podgorica to Sarajevo is approximately 230 km (3-4 hours), mostly along well-maintained highways. Remember that speed limits are generally 50 km/h in cities and 130 km/h on motorways.
Exploring Sarajevo
Sarajevo is a city steeped in history and culture. Explore Baščaršija, the old bazaar, visit the Latin Bridge (site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand), and learn about the city's resilience. Return your rental car to a designated location in Sarajevo, or arrange for airport drop-off for your onward journey.
Practical Tips & Quick Reference
- Driving Documents: Ensure you have a valid driver's license, passport, and international driving permit. A Green Card insurance is essential for driving in Albania and North Macedonia (Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport includes this).
- Currency: North Macedonia uses the Macedonian Denar (MKD), Montenegro uses the Euro (EUR), and Bosnia and Herzegovina uses the Convertible Marka (BAM).
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h in cities, 80 km/h on smaller roads, 100-130 km/h on motorways (depending on the section).
- Toll Roads: Be prepared for tolls on some highways in Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Cash is usually accepted.
- Vehicle Suitability: Consider an SUV if you plan to explore Durmitor National Park extensively.
Fleet Comparison
| Vehicle Type | Ideal For | Approximate Price/Day (Low Season) |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Solo travelers, budget-conscious couples | €22 |
| Compact | Couples, small families | €28 |
| SUV | Families, exploring mountainous terrain | €45 |
| 7-Seater Van | Larger families, groups | €60 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need an international driving permit to rent a car in North Macedonia? A: Yes, an international driving permit is required for visitors renting a car in North Macedonia. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport can advise on requirements.
Q: What is the Green Card insurance and why do I need it? A: The Green Card is proof of third-party liability insurance and is mandatory for driving in Albania and North Macedonia. It's included in your rental with Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport.
Q: What is the best time of year to drive this route? A: Spring (May-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Q: What is the typical speed limit on the highways in Montenegro? A: The typical speed limit on Montenegrin highways is 80-130 km/h, depending on the specific road.
Q: Can Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport deliver the car directly to my hotel in Skopje? A: Yes! We offer convenient city-centre delivery for an additional fee. Contact us to arrange this service.
