Journey through the aesthetically pleasing Dinaric Alps by train, where speed takes a back seat to stunning vistas and natural splendor.
The Montenegro Express, a train journey of near-mythical appeal, links Belgrade, Serbia, and Bar, Montenegro. This summer day train traverses 296 miles across the Dinaric Alps, offering a unique blend of engineering marvels, unspoiled landscapes, and a sense of adventure.
For those planning to embark on this stunning journey, purchasing tickets is best done in advance at the train station. Online ticket sales are currently not available for the Belgrade to Bar route. It is recommended to secure your tickets a few days ahead of your trip, especially if you plan to use a Eurail pass, which requires reservations showing your assigned seat or berth.
The Montenegro Express operates only in the summer, with a day train running on select days. However, a night sleeper train runs year-round, offering travellers the opportunity to experience the route in its entirety, including the breathtaking views as the sun rises over the Montenegro segment of the journey.
The journey takes approximately 11 hours, and while the train is rarely fully booked, advance reservations are advised to avoid any issues, especially in busy travel periods. Ticket prices range approximately as follows: 2nd class around €24 (about $27), 1st class around €35 (about $40), and sleeper berths vary from about $9 in a shared 6-person compartment to $56 for single occupancy.
The Montenegro Express offers more than just a means of transport. The scenery along the route transitions from pastoral to dramatic, including rolling farmland, combed vineyards, glassy rivers, rugged mountains, and the shimmering Adriatic Sea. Every season has its charm, and in the fall, the landscape is set alight by the colours of the foliage.
One of the engineering marvels on the route is one of the world's highest railway bridges, standing at 660 feet above the Mala Rijeka riverbed. The train also crosses 254 tunnels and 435 bridges, adding to the sense of adventure.
Travellers departing southbound from Belgrade recommend the overnight option for the best views. The best way to enjoy the scenery is by sitting on the right-hand side on the southbound train, or left-hand side if northbound.
In 2023, Belgrade inaugurated its new Beograd Centar station to the highest European rail travel standards, making the start of the journey even more comfortable for travellers. The Montenegro Express carriages are equipped with Wi-Fi and air conditioning, although performance may vary.
The Montenegro Express was originally opened in 1976 to boost connections within the former Yugoslavia. Despite its reputation for delays, extended stops, and taking longer than the intended duration, the Montenegro Express remains a must-do for any traveller seeking a unique and unforgettable rail journey through the Balkans.
So, set your alarm for dawn, purchase your tickets in advance, and embark on an adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
To complement your upcoming adventure, consider experiencing the Montenegro Express journey in its entirety by booking a night sleeper train, offering stunning views as the sun rises over Montenegro. As you plan your travel, secure your tickets early, especially if you're using a Eurail pass, and be mindful of the varying ticket prices for different classes and berths.
