This laid-back Montenegrin town has a traditional market square, local cafes, and easy access to mountain trails. The surrounding lakes make it an ideal spot for day trips.
Nikšić, Montenegro's second-largest city, lies at the foot of Trebjesa Hill. You can climb to the 256-meter summit for city views, swim in Lake Krupac's clear waters, or walk across the 269-meter Emperor's Bridge with its 18 stone arches. The city's 1883 street layout forms a half-spider web pattern, with the Freedom Square at its center and the Nikšić Brewery, operating since 1896, producing the local Nikšićko beer.
Getting to Nikšić
The city lies 50 kilometers northwest of Podgorica, connected by the E762 highway. You can reach Nikšić by bus from Podgorica in about one hour, with departures every 30 minutes during daytime. The nearest airport is Podgorica Airport, from where you can take a taxi or bus to the city center.
City Layout and Main Square
Croatian architect Josip Slade designed Nikšić's street pattern in 1883, with six main roads extending from Freedom Square (Trg Slobode). On the square's eastern side stands King Nikola's Palace from 1890, which now houses a museum displaying 19th-century furniture, traditional weapons, and documents about the city's development.
Lakes and Swimming
Three artificial lakes - Krupac, Slano, and Vrtac - border the city. At Krupac Lake, you'll find three beach areas with pebble shores and clear water. The lake comes alive in July and August with the Lake Fest music festival. Slano Lake, spanning 9 square kilometers, attracts fish species like carp and trout, making it popular among anglers.
Trebjesa Hill Activities
Walking paths zigzag through pine forests on 256-meter Trebjesa Hill. The summit trail takes about 40 minutes to walk, passing ten exercise stations along the way. At the top, information panels point out landmarks visible from four viewing platforms. A stone monument commemorates local World War II resistance fighters.
Local Beer and Drinks
Take a one-hour tour at the Nikšić Brewery to see the copper brewing kettles and fermentation tanks. The tour explains the brewing process of Nikšićko beer and includes tastings of their light and dark varieties. Along Freedom Square and Njegoševa Street, you'll find bars serving local beers and rakija (fruit brandy).
Ancient Bridges and Fortresses
The Emperor's Bridge crosses the Zeta River with 18 stone arches spanning 269 meters. Built in 1894, its stone railings and viewing points remain intact. The Bedem Fortress sits on a hill above the city, incorporating stones from Roman fortifications. Inside, you can walk along the defensive walls and climb two preserved towers.
Cultural Events
The September Days of Culture fills venues across Nikšić with events for three weeks. The International Guitar Festival brings 30+ musicians to perform at the Cultural Center each June. During the Chamber Music Festival in August, classical concerts take place in King Nikola's Palace and local churches.
Winter Sports
At Vučje ski resort, 18 kilometers from Nikšić, three ski lifts operate from December to March when snow conditions allow. The resort maintains five slopes for beginners and intermediate skiers. During other seasons, marked hiking trails lead through the surrounding pine forests to mountain viewpoints.
