The Season of Winter Festivals and How to Reach Them

The Season of winter festivals and how to reach them

Ah, Montenegro – a land where the sea kisses the mountains, where coffee lasts longer than the average workday, and where winter festivals offer enough fun to make you forget about the heating, which, of course, isn’t working again. If you thought winter in Montenegro was just a cold period between wine season and rakija season, get ready to be surprised.

Here’s a guide to the best winter festivals you can reach by car – because we know bus routes aren’t your first love. And if you don’t have your own car, don’t worry – services like Rentacars.me will ensure you travel comfortably to wherever you desire, even if your personal vehicle is still hibernating in some garage "winter sleep."

Kolašin – Snow Fest

Kolašin, officially the capital of Montenegrin skiing, becomes a paradise in winter for all snow lovers, sledding enthusiasts, and adrenaline seekers. "Snow Fest" is an event that combines music, winter sports euphoria, and... mulled wine stronger than the average Montenegrin political debate. The festival offers night skiing, concerts by local and regional artists, and, of course, the inevitable cauldrons of goulash.

The road to Kolašin is a true winter experience – winding roads, snow, and that moment when you wonder if it's time for new tires. Rentacars.me offers a selection of SUVs and off-road vehicles that will safely take you to your destination, no matter the weather. Tip: if you get stuck on the main road, don't panic – there's always a local tow truck to pull you out, at a price that's less friendly than your winter budget.

Žabljak – Ice Sculpture Festival

Žabljak, the heart of Durmitor, looks like a scene from a fairy tale in winter—provided you enjoy fairy tales where your nose is constantly running from the cold. 🥶 During the Ice Sculpture Festival, artists from across the region come to showcase their skills in shaping ice, while the audience demonstrates their talent for wearing seven layers of clothing.

The journey to Žabljak is an experience in itself: winding roads through the Tara Canyon and the eternal question—why is the tunnel so narrow? At the end of the road, a reward awaits you—a tea with rakija and a view that makes every frostbite worthwhile.

Podgorica – Winter Bazaar

You might not expect the capital, known for its summer asphalt where you can fry an egg, to have anything to offer in winter, but the Winter Bazaar might surprise you. Stalls with local handicrafts, homemade specialties, and – of course – roasted chestnuts 😋, make this event a true urban winter spirit.

Add an ice skating rink (yes, it really exists!) to the mix, and you'll realize that Podgorica can be quite charming in winter – as long as you're ready for the crowds in the city center. Rentacars.me also offers small city cars, perfect for navigating narrow streets and finding parking, which in Podgorica can often be considered a successful day.

Nikšić – Holiday Carnival

Nikšić, known for its beer and the unmistakable charm of the locals, organizes the Holiday Carnival in winter, combining tradition with modern entertainment. Expect parades, live music, and unmissable specialties like fried dough and homemade honey.

Driving to Nikšić in winter is a real winter fairy tale... as long as you enjoy fairy tales with occasional potholes on the road. Tip: visit the nearby Krupac Lake – the frozen lake is a spectacular spot for a quick Instagram shot (or to test your skates if you're feeling adventurous).

Herceg Novi – Outdoor Christmas Market

If you think winter has to be cold and snowy, trip to Herceg Novi will convince you otherwise. This coastal town organizes an outdoor Christmas market in winter, where you can enjoy the sea breeze while sipping on mulled rakija. The stalls offer everything – from handmade jewelry to homemade cakes with more calories than you'd care to admit.

Traveling to Herceg Novi is, of course, easier than through the mountains, but don't forget: traffic through Boka Bay can be slower than internet connections in rural areas.

With our platform Rentacars.me, you can choose from economical vehicles or luxury options to reach the coastal winter paradise in style and enjoy every moment.

Why choose a car?

While winter festivals are a true paradise for all generations, getting to them can be challenging – unless you have a car. The advantages are clear: warmth, music to your taste, and the ability to stop wherever you want (read: every time you pass a tavern or restaurant 😉).

Of course, there are challenges: parking, fuel, and the eternal dilemma of who will be the "driver" on the way back – but these are minor compared to the opportunity to fully enjoy all the charms of these winter events.

Montenegro may not be known as a winter tourist destination, but winter festivals are slowly changing that. Whether you're a fan of skiing, art, or just a good mulled wine, you're sure to find something that will warm your heart – or at least your hands.

What are you waiting for? Pack your warm clothes and embark on a winter adventure – book a car through Rentacars.me. And if you forget the tire chains, you can always say you’re off to a festival of improvisation. Good luck!