The capital of Montenegro sits on the Zeta River. This active city has universities, museums, and theaters. Its parks provide calm spaces amid the urban environment.
Podgorica, Montenegro's capital, is a city where you can climb the 17th-century Clock Tower, cross the ancient Old Bridge, and walk along the sleek Millennium Bridge spanning the Morača River. Relax in King's Park, a green space in the city center, or explore the bustling Independence Square. While not a typical tourist destination, Podgorica serves as a gateway to natural areas like Lake Skadar, the largest lake in Southern Europe.
Getting to Podgorica
Podgorica Airport, Montenegro's main international hub, is 11 km south of the city center. It receives flights from major European cities, including some low-cost carriers. If you're traveling by bus, Podgorica has direct connections to neighboring countries like Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Albania, and Serbia.
Exploring the Old Town
Stara Varoš, Podgorica's Old Town, dates back to Ottoman times. While much of it was destroyed during World War II, you can still find remnants of its Turkish past. Visit the 17th-century Clock Tower (Sahat Kula), one of the few surviving Ottoman structures. Nearby, you'll see the Old Bridge over the Ribnica River, which some claim dates back to Roman times.
Modern Podgorica
The Millennium Bridge has been a prominent part of Podgorica's skyline since 2005. This cable-stayed bridge spans 173 meters across the Morača River, with its single pylon rising 57 meters high. For a taste of local life, go to Independence Square and the surrounding area. Here you'll find shops, cafes, and restaurants where Podgorica residents gather, especially in the evenings.
Green Spaces
Despite its urban character, Podgorica has several green areas. King's Park, recently renovated, is a relaxing spot in the city center with a pavilion, fountain, and free Wi-Fi. Along the Morača River, you can use walking and cycling paths where locals exercise and unwind.
Food and Drink
To sample traditional Montenegrin cuisine, visit Pod Volat in the Old Town. Open from early morning until midnight, it serves hearty Balkan dishes popular with both locals and visitors. For a more modern dining experience, try the restaurants along Bokeška Street, which becomes active in the evenings.
Day Trips from Podgorica
Podgorica's central location allows for easy exploration of Montenegro. Lake Skadar is a 30-minute drive away. Here you can take a boat tour, go birdwatching, or enjoy the scenery. For a more adventurous outing, visit the Cijevna Canyon, known for its large waterfalls that some locals compare to Niagara Falls.
