Can You Drink Tap Water in Montenegro? (2026) Safety Guide

Quick Reference

Key Statistics

Water Infrastructure & Supply

Montenegro benefits from abundant freshwater resources, with water supply primarily sourced from natural springs, rivers, and Lake Skadar , one of Europe's largest freshwater lakes. The country's mountainous terrain provides high-quality karst spring water to many municipalities, and cities like Podgorica and Niki have historically enjoyed reliable water supplies. During the Yugoslav era, significant investments were made in water infrastructure that still forms the backbone of today's systems.

However, much of Montenegro's water distribution network dates from the 1970s and 1980s, with aging pipes leading to water losses estimated at 50-60% in some municipalities. The treatment process varies by location , larger cities like Podgorica and coastal towns such as Budva and Kotor chlorinate their water supply, while smaller municipalities may rely on spring water with minimal treatment. Water quality monitoring is conducted by the Institute of Public Health, which regularly tests for microbiological and chemical parameters at distribution points.

Montenegro has been undertaking significant water sector reforms as part of its EU accession process. Major investment projects funded by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have targeted wastewater treatment plants along the coast and improvements to water supply networks in Podgorica, Cetinje, and the coastal municipalities. A new wastewater treatment plant for the Montenegrin coast was completed in Tivat, and further projects are planned for the Bay of Kotor and Bar regions through 2027.

Contamination & Health Risks

The primary health risk associated with Montenegro's tap water is microbial contamination in areas served by older, poorly maintained infrastructure or unregulated local water sources. After heavy rains, turbidity can increase in mountain-fed water systems, potentially introducing sediment and bacteria. The Institute of Public Health occasionally issues advisories during such events, particularly for smaller municipalities in the north such as Pljevlja, Bijelo Polje, and abljak.

Wastewater management remains a significant challenge, with only about 29% of wastewater being safely treated nationwide. In some coastal areas during the peak summer tourist season, increased demand can strain systems and lead to temporary quality fluctuations. Agricultural runoff and illegal dumping near water sources have been documented in parts of the Zeta Plain and around Lake Skadar, though these issues primarily affect environmental water quality rather than treated drinking water.

For most travelers staying in Podgorica, Budva, Kotor, Tivat, or Herceg Novi, the tap water poses minimal health risk and is regularly monitored. The greatest practical risk comes from consuming water from unmarked springs, rural wells, or in very remote mountain areas where treatment may be inconsistent. Travelers with sensitive stomachs may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort during adjustment, which is common when changing water sources in any country.

Regional Water Quality Breakdown

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Look for public drinking fountains (esme) in old towns , these are fed by natural springs and are a free, safe source of clean water in cities like Kotor, Cetinje, and Podgorica.
• To ask for tap water at a restaurant in Montenegrin, say 'Mogu li dobiti au vode iz slavine?' (Can I get a glass of tap water?) , many restaurants will provide it free of charge.
• If traveling to the Durmitor National Park or remote northern areas, carry a reusable water bottle with a basic filter as a precaution, especially during spring snowmelt season.
• During peak summer months (July, August) on the coast, water supply may be intermittent in some areas , keep a backup bottle of water in your accommodation.
• Avoid drinking from unmarked mountain streams or wells unless locals confirm the source is safe , some rural water sources are unregulated and untested.
• The local sparkling water brand 'Gorska' () is excellent and inexpensive , ask for 'gazirana voda' for sparkling or 'negazirana voda' for still water.
• Hotel tap water throughout Podgorica, Budva, Kotor, and Herceg Novi is safe for drinking, brushing teeth, and making coffee , you don't need to rely on bottled water in these areas.
• If you notice tap water running cloudy or with sediment (rare but possible after storms), let it run for 30 seconds before filling your glass or switch to bottled water temporarily.

Bottled Water Availability & Cost

Bottled water is widely available throughout Montenegro at supermarkets, kiosks, restaurants, and beach vendors. Popular local brands include Gorska (sourced from Montenegrin mountains), Lipovo, and Aqua Bianca, which typically cost 0.50, 1.00 for a 0.5L bottle at a shop and 1.50, 3.00 at restaurants. International brands like Evian and San Pellegrino are also available but cost more. A 1.5L bottle at a supermarket generally costs 0.60, 1.20.

For budget-conscious travelers, buying water in bulk at supermarkets like Voli, Idea, or Aroma is the most economical option, with 6-packs of 1.5L bottles costing around 3.00, 4.00. Many restaurants will serve tap water upon request, though it's not always automatically offered. While bottled water is convenient, Montenegro's generally safe tap water in cities means travelers can reduce plastic waste by using a reusable bottle , many towns also have public drinking fountains (esme) with clean spring water, particularly in the old towns of Kotor, Cetinje, and Podgorica.

Frequently Asked Questions