Žabljak is the highest town in the Balkans and the main gateway to Durmitor National Park. In this guide we explain exactly how to get to Žabljak (Zabljak) by bus, car or private transfer - from Podgorica, from the coast and from neighbouring countries - plus what to expect on the mountain roads.
How to Get to Žabljak: Overview
| From Podgorica | about 81-95 km, 2-2.5 hours by car |
| Bus from Podgorica | about 2.5 hours, ticket around €13-14 |
| From Nikšić | via Šavnik, about 1.5-2 hours |
| From the coast (Budva, Kotor) | about 3.5-4 hours by car |
| Nearest airport | Podgorica, then Tivat |
Distances and times are approximate - mountain roads are winding, so always allow extra time.
Podgorica to Žabljak by Bus
Several buses run daily from Podgorica to Žabljak. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and tickets cost roughly €13-14. Timetables change between seasons, so always check the current schedule at the bus station or online before you travel. There are also connections from Nikšić, Pljevlja and Belgrade.
The bus is the cheapest option, but keep in mind that many highlights outside town (the Tara Canyon, Nevidio and the Durmitor Ring) are poorly served by public transport.
Driving to Žabljak
A car gives you the most freedom. There are two common routes from Podgorica:
- Via Kolašin and Mojkovac - through the Morača Canyon and over the Đurđevića Tara Bridge to Žabljak. A scenic route with a natural stop at the bridge.
- Via Nikšić and Šavnik - through Nikšić, then Šavnik and up onto the Durmitor plateau. This route passes the turn-off for Pošćenje and Nevidio Canyon.
Roads are paved but narrow, with many bends and some tunnels. Drive carefully, especially at night and in rain. In winter, snow tyres and chains are required.
From the Coast and Abroad
From Budva or Kotor, Žabljak is about 3.5-4 hours by car, usually via Podgorica or Nikšić. From Bosnia and Herzegovina you enter at the Šćepan Polje border crossing, then drive through Plužine and over the Sedlo pass - one of the most beautiful routes in the region. Read more in our guide on how to get to Plužine and Piva Lake. From Serbia you come via Pljevlja and the Tara Bridge - see our Pljevlja travel guide.
Private Transfer to Žabljak
If you'd rather not drive mountain roads, a private transfer is the most comfortable option. We offer transfers across Montenegro - from the airport to Žabljak and to the meeting points of our tours. Contact us on WhatsApp at +382 67 354 616.
When You Arrive in Žabljak
Žabljak sits at about 1,456 m above sea level, so nights are cool even in summer. The Black Lake is around 3 km from the town centre. The national park entrance fee is commonly around €5 per person per day, paid in cash (check on site). For ideas on how to spend your days, read our guide to the best things to do in Durmitor National Park.
Adventures Near Žabljak
- Tara River rafting - one-day tour €75, meeting point at Šćepan Polje
- Nevidio canyoning - €120, meeting point at Eco village Jatak near Šavnik
- Grabovica canyoning - €100, ideal for beginners
Ready for an adventure? Book your tour - payment is in cash on site and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before departure.
