Podgorica is certainly one of the most underrated destinations for world travellers. Montenegro's capital offers interesting insights into what life was like in the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia and provides a window into the changes taking place from Montenegro's independence to the present day. The city is surrounded by greenery, in a flat area close to rivers and lakes, and experiences very high and torrid temperatures in spring and summer, while remaining mild during winter. The journey to discover it is both fascinating and inexpensive.
Here is a series of tips on what to see in Podgorica, a guide with practical advice on the city and its must-see attractions!
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1 - Old Town (Stara Varos)
Photo by Sailko. Compared to most cities, the old part of Podgorica is not concentrated in a single area but is scattered in several zones, not even close to each other.
The most interesting area is the one that starts behind the Clock Tower and goes all the way to the Morača River. Here you can admire an architecture that is very different from the vertical and majestic architecture that characterises the other districts of the city. There are also a couple of interesting mosques, such as Osmanagica, whose minaret stands imposingly in the middle of an intersection.
At every corner, you will come across low, colourful houses adorned with flowers and vine trees, small vegetable gardens sprouting in every little patch of land and cats snoozing in the shade of picturesque Soviet-style cars.
The main part is in the Novi Grad district, the second part stretches from the Clock Tower to the Morača River. It's easy to get around on foot - get directions
2 - New Town
The new part of Podgorica has very little that is traditional and a lot that is western. The three main streets are Slobode Bokeška, Slobode Ulica and Slobobe Njegoševa. Between pizzerias, Italian restaurants and Irish breweries, Podgorica's nightlife is concentrated here and is also particularly lively. During the day, however, this area is inexplicably empty. The central square, Republic Square, is fairly anonymous and offers no special attractions.
Right here is The Capital Plaza, the city's new commercial, social and gastronomic hub and symbol of the new Podgorica. Inside, in addition to the hotel, you will find restaurants, bars, a fitness centre and spa, an organic market and theHard Rock Café, all housed in a futuristic glass building.
Easily accessible on foot from the Millennium Bridge via Bulevar Ivana Crnojevića and Slobode (750 m), it stretches all the way to the City Kvart district, the centre of nightlife - Get directions
Discover the most exclusive clubs: at The Capital Plaza you will find The Parlour, one of the best restaurants in Montenegro, and The Living Room, the most exclusive lounge bar in the capital Also, here you will find many western cuisine restaurants, ideal if you want to take a break from Balkan food.
3 - Ribnica Fortress & Ribnica Bridge
Photo by ines lukic. Located in the Old Town, at the point where the Moraca River meets the Ribnica, the bridge and fortress are well worth a visit.
The fortress was for many years used as an ammunition store; in 1978 it was severely damaged when lightning triggered an explosion, destroying much of its interior and exterior. The bridge is located a few metres down from the road: a true oasis of peace within the city; while the old city walls stand out above you, allowing you to imagine a landscape now lost in the hectic modern life. Beyond the perfectly preserved bridge, you will find several walkways to skirt the banks of the river and sit and enjoy the view.
In the historical centre. Walking distance from Most Blaza Jovanovica (150 m, 3 min) and the Clock Tower (550 m, 8 min) - Get directions
Discover the legend of the fortress: a legend from the Serbian Orthodox Church has it that the fortress dates back to the 12th century, and that it was the birthplace of Stefan Nemanja, the founding father of the Nemanjica dynasty, which united the various Slavic entities of the Balkans into one state
4 - Clock Tower (Sat kula)
Photo by Colomen. The clock was built during the Ottoman Empire in 1667, and delineates the boundary between the Old and New Towns, which extend west and north of its tower respectively. Perfectly restored, it is an icon of Ottoman art and an important landmark in the city.
At 16 metres high, it is indeed an excellent landmark and meeting point for an afternoon break. A few hundred metres further north, going straight ahead with the river on your left, you will arrive at the nightlife of the New Town.
It lies between the old town and the New Town. It can be reached on foot from Trg Vojvode Becira Osmanagica (50 m, 1 min) and Ribnica Bridge (550 m, 8 min) - Get directions
Lunchbreak with a view: we recommend lunch or dinner at the typical Pod Volat restaurant, where you can discover the culinary tradition of Montenegro and the Balkans while enjoying a beautiful view of the tower
5 - King's Park
A recently renovatedcity park that offers a peaceful and cool place to relax, especially during the hot spring and summer days. It has free WiFi and a couple of chess boards (but you'll have to bring your own!) for pleasant moments of relaxation.
Inside, you will find many statues; in addition to the one dedicated to King Nikola, there is one in honour of Bozidar Vukovic Podgoricanin, one of the first printers of books on the Balkans, and one of Husein Dzarvid, a famous Azerbaijani poet. From inside the park, you can walk down to the Moraca shore, where there is a small beach for sunbathing.
It is easily reached on foot from Kralija Nikola. Inside the park the Old Ribnica River Bridge, nearby the Clock Tower (550 m, 6 min) - Get directions
6 - Cathedral of the Resurrection (Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja)
Photo by Sailko. Erected amidst imperfectly preserved buildings, the Resurrection Cathedral stands out in all its magnificence, obliterating the shopping malls that surround it.
Its construction took over twenty years; on 18 May 1994, the new church was inaugurated by Russian Patriarch Alexis II and Serbian Patriarch Pavle. It is admired for its high towers (27 m) and an imposing dome, in a style that blends the medieval, the romantic and the Byzantine. The interior is magnificent: every single inch of the cathedral is covered with gold paintings and mosaics.
Special feature: the rough blocks of white stone from which it is built have several icons carved into them. While the 7 crosses on the roof vary both in style and orientation. It is one of the most impressive churches in the entire Balkan region!
Visit the crypt: the church crypt was completed in 1997 thanks to donations from the faithful and financial assistance from the Government of Montenegro.
How to get there: in the historical centre. Easy to reach on foot from Moskovska, Millennium Bridge nearby (1.2 km, 15 min) - Get directions
Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-9pm, Sun 7am-9pm
Ticket price: free
7 - Vladimir Semënovič Vysockij Monument
Vladmir Vysovckij was an eclectic Soviet singer-songwriter and a strong dissident towards the socialist regime, to the point that the media in 1980 hushed up the news of his death. Today he is remembered not only in Russia, but in many Iron Curtain countries: a statue has been dedicated to him in Yekaterinburg, as well as in the Polish city of Kielce, while in Moscow they have even dedicated a museum to him.
His monument depicts him almost life-size, and is surrounded by a reflective frame with a skull at its foot, just to represent how special he was and how important his work was for music within the Iron Curtain countries. Behind the statue are the Montenegrin mountains and the Millennium Bridge.
In the old town, within easy walking distance of the Millennium Bridge (350 m, 4 min) - Get directions
Something more about his life: in 1993 he was awarded the Premio Tenco, the first time for an artist who is no longer alive, and on that occasion a tribute album entitled 'Il volo di Volodja' was recorded by several Italian singer-songwriters including Roberto Vecchioni and Eugenio Finardi.
8 - Millennium bridge
One of the symbols of modern Podgorica. Built in 2005 and designed by the Slovenian company Ponting and engineer Mladen Ulićevićè, it is stylistically reminiscent of the architectural works of Calatrava, who was in no way involved in its realisation.
Inaugurated on 13 July 2005, Montenegro's national holiday, it quickly became one of the city's most important landmarks. You can walk its 173 metre span or admire it from the nearby Moscow Bridge, even better at night when it is lit up!
It is easily reached on foot from Bluevar Stanka Dragojevica. Nearby is the Vladimir Vysotsky Monument (350 m, 4 min) and King's Park (1.1 km, 13 min). Below the bridge is the public beach Plaža Galeb and Njegošev Park - Get directions
Photograph it at night: after crossing it during the day, return there when it gets dark to admire it when it is lit up. For photography enthusiasts, this is a must-see spot, as they will be able to take long exposure photos, creating unique shots.
9 - Duklja Ruins
Photo by BuhaM. In the first century A.D., this was the site of a Roman town, of which only four unrestored ruins remain to this day. However, history buffs will be able to reconstruct a plan of the Roman city that housed around 10,000 people.
The place is also perfect for those who enjoy walking in nature: to get to the Duklja Ruins, one has to take a nice walk of about 4 km almost all along the river.
It is located 5 km from the historical centre of Podgorica. Reachable by taxi (10 min) or by walking along the river from the new town heading north, keeping the river on your left - Get directions
Taste the wines of Montenegro: the area is surrounded by the vineyards of many wineries that produce the world-famous brandies and fine wines. Take the opportunity to make a tasting stop at the Zenta Vinarija Vucinic winery.
10 - St. George Church
Photo by Colomen. The oldest Orthodox church in the city. It dates back to the 10th century and is located just behind the stadium, easily accessible from the Millennium Bridge.
Inside the simple structure, the nave is adorned with 19th century icons and frescoes depicting stories from the life of St George.
Due to its historical importance and location at the foot of Gorica Hill, it is definitely worth a visit, even if it is not one of the city's most conspicuous buildings. In the course of history it has been renovated and rebuilt several times.
How to get there: in the historical centre. It is reached on foot from the Millennium Bridge in the direction of the stadium (800 m, 10 min). Nearby King's Park (900 m, 11 min) - Get directions
Hours: daily 8am-8pm
Ticket price: free
11 - City Kvart
City Kvart is the district of young nightlife. It is located between the city's largest shopping centre, the Delta City Mall, and the University, so it is a lively and bustling area for young people, which is also an ideal place to stay if you are travelling with friends. Less recommended, however, for families with children.
On the ground floor of the residential buildings, numerous western-style bars and pubs have opened, where you can spend a pleasant evening in the company of the local youth, discover their lifestyle and immerse yourself in the new culture of Montenegro.
The district is the heart of the New Town, southwest of the old town. The main street is Cetinjski Put - Get directions
Experiencethe city's nightlife: among the coolest places in the neighbourhood are the James Buttler Pub, Plan B, which specialises in cakes and banana splits, and Strafta Gastro Bar with music. If you want to experience an Oktoberfest atmosphere in Podgorica, you can find the München Bierhaus here.
12 - Waterfalls Niagara Podgorica
Although their size is nothing like the real Niagara Falls, the waterfalls of the Cijevna River are still spectacular. During a tour of the falls, you can also admire a section of the beautiful canyon that the Cijevna River has carved out over the years.
Immediately after the main waterfall, the deep blue water starts flowing fast inside a small gorge from which other smaller waterfalls plunge in turn. It is also possible to walk along the rocky banks. If you visit on a spring or summer day, you can also take a swim in the river and enjoy the peace away from the city centre.
They are 8.5 km from the city centre and can only be reached by car via the E762 or by taxi (13 min) - Get directions
Plan your visit: budget half a day for the excursion, and after the visit enjoy a good lunch at Restoran Niagara, an excellent little restaurant directly on the river.
13 - Aventuristicki Park
Photo by Arto J. Large amusement park dedicated to adventure in the middle of nature. There are various routes with varying degrees of difficulty and suitable for all age groups. The park is really well equipped and the trails are very interesting. It is advisable to have good physical strength to be able to tackle the whole thing as one part culminates in a 13 m high platform jump into a cargo net!
In the various obstacle courses, which bear names such as Tarzan, Chita, Spider, Ninka, Koala and Panther, children (but also older children) will find themselves climbing bizarre wooden constructions, crossing rickety bridges, hanging from ropes and walking on ropes! All in total safety, just to ensure maximum fun!
How to get there: a couple of kilometres north of the new town, take a taxi or walk straight along the Morača River - get directions
Hours: daily 8:00-22:00
Ticket price: full price €15.00, concessions up to 13 years €12.00, concessions up to 8 years €8.00
14 - Plantaže Winery
Montenegro, but especially the Podgorica area, is famous for the wine produced here. You will find numerous wineries to visit and perhaps even have a wine tasting. Also, not far from Podgorica is the largest vineyard in all of Europe, with 11 million vines and over 2,310 hectares of land! The country's most famous varieties are Krstac and Montenegro Cormorant.
We suggest the Plantaže Winery, a vineyard that dominates the European scene and exports its products to more than 30 countries. You can visit its production facilities and taste its wines at very attractive prices.
Discover the Sipcanik wine cellar: the Sipcanik wine cellar, in the shape of a tunnel 356 metres long and over 13 metres wide, contains almost 2 million litres of wine.
How to get there: outside the city, about 7 km from the centre. There is no public transport, it can be reached by car or taxi (10 min) - Get directions
Timetable: visits and tastings by appointment, see official website
Ticket price: depending on activities, from €6.00
15 - Lake Shkodra
Lake Shkodra is the largest lake in the Balkans.
It traces the border between Albania and Montenegro and is named after the town of the same name on the Albanian shore. It is characterised by dense aquatic vegetation and inhabited by rare bird species, such as the curly pelican and the pygmy cormorant. Carp and eel fishing is practised in its waters, and the area is also famous for the traditional smoking of fish. Among the various activities to be enjoyed: hiking amidst breathtaking views, boat tours, relaxing on its beaches and birdwatching. Within the lake is Grmozur Fortress, built in 1843 on a stone island and converted into the Balcanian version of Alcatraz prison.
It is located 25 km south of Podgorica, well connected to the city by a fast road. The best way to get there is by taxi. There is also a bus service that takes 1 h or the train that stops in Moraca - Get directions
Plan your visit: go in the morning and then stop for a fish lunch. Return to town for sunset. For lovers of slow travel, we suggest a boat trip starting from the town of Virpazar and let the waters take you through the silence and beauty of nature.
16 - Ostrog Monastery
Photo by Diego Delso. Montenegro's most popular pilgrimage site
Originally, the monastery consisted of only two small frescoed caves, in which the original frescoes are still perfectly preserved and visible, and the monks' residences, also carved out of stone. Its present structure is due to the renovations after the fire of 1926. Today, the structure is divided into two parts: the Lower Monastery, consisting of a small stone church and the monks' quarters, and the Upper Monastery. Separating them is a couple of kilometres of ascent that can be covered either by car or on foot through the woods, following the ancient pilgrims' route.
It is about a forty-minute drive from Podgorica. There are also buses and trains, but they leave a little way from the monastery (10 and 3 km respectively). the best way to get there is by your own vehicle or taxi - Get directions
Other sights to visit
Photo by Nije bitno.... It's not a real attraction, but wandering aimlessly through the streets and neighbourhoods of Podgorica allows you to take a tour of socialist architecture: in addition to the classic grey tenement buildings of the former Yugoslavia, you can find graffiti and examples of street art in the streets of Montenegro's capital. For a bit of shopping, you can head to one of Podgorica's three shopping centres, we recommend the Mall of Montenegro, which brings together big name brands and everyday shopping in one place.
For museums, we recommend a visit to the Natural History Museum of Montenegro, a fascinating institution with 12 exhibits representing the country's biodiversity (€4.00). Art lovers can visit the Centre for Contemporary Art (free). Finally, if you have more days available, another trip 'out of town' (about 40 km from Podgorica) is to Lake Bukumirsko Jezero.
5 things to do in Podgorica
Beach along the Moraca River
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Walk at Gorica Park: this park is located on a hill just outside the old town and is the place where the city's inhabitants gather at weekends on fine days! Amidst footpaths, the Mediterranean garden and small cafes, it is the ideal place for a little relaxation and beautiful views of the city
Café at Knjižara Karver: this is a bookshop used as a café, where you can have a hot or refreshing drink surrounded by lots of books. It is also one of the most popular cafes in the city.
Lunch at Pod Volat: one of the most popular restaurants in town, a real local institution: giant portions of delicious Balkan dishes at bargain prices
Relaxing along the Moraca River: the river runs through the entire town and on its banks you can find several small beaches and numerous parks, which in the summer are frequented by locals, to enjoy a few hours of relaxation in the cool of the weather
Excursion to Kotor: the Bay of Kotor is one of the most photographed places in all of Montenegro! Known in Italian as Bocche di Cattaro, it is a series of inlets in the coastline that offer wonderful views and landscapes
Plan your stay in Podgorica: flights and hotels
Podgorica Golubovci Airport is located 12 km from the capital(compare flights). There is also the possibility to reach the destination by sea, via regular ferry connections from Bari and Ancona. Good weather can be enjoyed from April to October; winter should be avoided.
Whether Old Town or New City, accommodation in Podgorica is reasonably priced(compare accommodation on booking), and in general the cost of living is quite low. The centre can easily be visited on foot. For getting around outside, there is no major public transport and taxis are the best option. The hub of Podgorica's nightlife is New Town, and specifically its three main streets: Slobode Bokeška, Slobode Ulica and Slobobe Njegoševa.
If you are travelling as a family, the children will certainly appreciate a walk in the parks, a trip to Lake Shkodra, but especially a fun day out at Aventuristicki Park. In general, the city is very quiet, with a slow and collected lifestyle.
