Montenegro's former capital has a rich past, with the Royal Palace now a museum. Surrounded by mountains, it's a calm spot to explore historic buildings and nearby villages.
Cetinje, the former royal capital of Montenegro, is a small city at the foot of Mount Lovćen. Here, you can walk through the halls of King Nikola's former palace, now a museum, or admire the relics in the 18th-century Cetinje Monastery. A short trip brings you to Lovćen National Park, where you can hike mountain trails and visit the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš. Cetinje's compact size makes it easy to explore Montenegro's history and natural landscapes in one visit.
Key Sites in Cetinje
The Cetinje Monastery, built in 1701, is central to the city's religious heritage. Inside, you'll find valuable relics, including the right hand of John the Baptist and the remains of St. Peter of Cetinje. At King Nikola's Museum, housed in the former royal palace, the rooms display period furniture and gifts from foreign leaders. The Biljarda, once home to Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, now contains exhibits dedicated to this important Montenegrin ruler and poet.
Natural Wonders Near Cetinje
Lipa Cave, 5 km from Cetinje, is one of Montenegro's largest cave systems. You can join guided tours to explore its chambers and passages. A short drive from the city takes you to Lovćen National Park, home to a variety of plants and animals. In the park, you can visit the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš on Jezerski Vrh peak, where you can see the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Getting to Cetinje
Regular bus services connect Cetinje to Podgorica (36 km away), Budva (32 km), and Kotor (44 km). If you're driving, prepare for winding roads, especially when coming from the coast. The nearest airports are in Tivat (50 km) and Podgorica (55 km), both with flights to various European cities.
Where to Stay in Cetinje
Cetinje has a limited number of accommodations. Hotel Gradska, in the city center next to King Nikola's Court, provides rooms with modern amenities and a restaurant with a terrace. For a quieter stay, consider Apple House, which sits among trees but remains within walking distance of the city center. You can also rent apartments in the city for a more independent stay.
Local Cuisine and Dining
In Cetinje, you can taste traditional Montenegrin dishes. Many local restaurants serve lamb cooked under a metal bell (ispod sača), smoked ham (pršut), and various local cheeses. At Gradska Kafana, you'll find modern versions of Montenegrin food at moderate prices. Try priganice, a type of fried dough often served with honey or jam, for a sweet local treat.
Historical Significance of Cetinje
Cetinje, founded in 1482, served as Montenegro's political and religious center. From 1878 to 1946, it was the country's capital. During this period, Cetinje developed into a European capital, with many countries establishing embassies in the city. Today, you can see this historical importance reflected in the city's architecture and cultural institutions.
