Montenegro is experiencing a significant decline in German tourist interest, both for short visits and longer stays, according to Mihael Bader, president of the Future of Montenegrin Tourism Foundation. Current data from the Ministry of Internal Affairs show only 1,168 Germans in the country, with German tourist arrivals in the first half of 2025 down 13% compared to 2024.
Bader attributes the decline to high prices, poor value for money, traffic congestion, and restrictive laws, which push tourists toward competing destinations like Albania and Greece. While German tourist numbers once grew by 20% annually, growth is now limited to 1–2%. In contrast, nearly 13,000 Turkish nationals are present in Montenegro, highlighting a stark difference.
The peak tourist season has shortened, lasting only three weeks in August, with off-peak months seeing insufficient arrivals. Bader notes complaints about high prices for basic items, poor service, litter, stray dogs, and inadequate infrastructure.
Air connectivity issues also exacerbate the problem; for example, Ryanair is ending its Berlin route, reducing direct flight options.
Legal and bureaucratic hurdles further discourage foreign residents and investors. The recent legalization law restricts the sale or rental of properties without building permits, affecting long-standing properties used for tourism.
Additionally, the Law on Foreigners requires companies extending residency for directors to employ three full-time staff, one of whom must be Montenegrin, making it difficult for digital nomads and small entrepreneurs to comply.
Bader warns that unless these structural issues are addressed, tourist numbers and foreign investment could decline further.
