2-Day Local Experience: Outdoor and Nightlife in Podgorica with Friends

Podgorica, Montenegro

2 days

Temple
Niagara waterfalls
Crnogorsko Oro, a sculpture of a Montenegrin traditional dance
Abstract Detail of Millennium Bridge
Illuminated Millennium bridge in the city center

About Podgorica, Montenegro

Discover the charm of Podgorica, the capital city of Montenegro, nestled between five mountain ranges. This city offers a blend of old and new, with modern shops and cafes alongside ancient ruins and Ottoman architecture. Visit the Millennium Bridge, the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, and the old town, Stara Varoš. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Ribnica River and explore the city's numerous parks. Podgorica is also a gateway to Montenegro's stunning natural landscapes, including Lake Skadar, the largest lake in Southern Europe, and Lovćen National Park. With its rich history, diverse culture, and warm Mediterranean climate, Podgorica is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Modern and Traditional Sides of Podgorica

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Millennium Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge that offers stunning views of the city. This is a great spot for photography and to appreciate the modern architecture of Podgorica.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Montenegrin lunch in the city center. The local cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Oriental flavors, with dishes like Njeguški steak and Kacamak.

Afternoon

After lunch, head to the King's Park. This park is home to the Monument to King Nikola and offers a peaceful environment for a leisurely walk.

Dinner

For dinner, try some local seafood dishes in a restaurant near the Moraca River. The riverfront area is known for its vibrant dining scene.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the trendy neighborhood of Stara Varoš for some nightlife. This area is known for its lively bars and clubs.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the Podgorica City Museum. This museum houses a collection of artifacts that tell the story of Podgorica's history.

Lunch

Have lunch in a restaurant near the museum. Try some local dishes like Burek or Pljeskavica.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the Petrović Palace complex. This complex includes a park, a museum, and the residence of the last Montenegrin king.

Dinner

Enjoy a dinner in a restaurant in the city center. Try some local wine and cheese.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Montenegrin National Theatre. Catch a play or a concert to experience the local culture.

Attractions in Itinerary (7)

Millennium Bridge

1
Millennium Bridge

An iconic cable-stayed bridge crossing the Moraca River, known for its modern design and night-time illumination.

Attractions
Landmarks
Architecture
King's Park

2
King's Park

A beautiful urban park in the heart of Podgorica, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.

Parks
Monument to King Nikola

3
Monument to King Nikola

The Monument to King Nikola is a significant landmark in Podgorica, dedicated to the Montenegrin King Nikola I.

Monuments
Landmarks
Stara Varoš

4
Stara Varoš

Stara Varoš is the old town of Podgorica, full of narrow streets, old houses, and mosques. It's a great place to experience the city's history and culture.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
Podgorica City Museum

5
Podgorica City Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Podgorica, featuring archaeological, ethnographic, and art collections.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Petrović Palace

6
Petrović Palace

The Petrović Palace, also known as the King Nikola's Palace, is a former royal residence in Podgorica. It was built in 1890 and is a beautiful example of the architectural style of that period.

Attractions
Monuments
Architecture
Montenegrin National Theatre

7
Montenegrin National Theatre

The Montenegrin National Theatre, located in Podgorica, is a significant cultural institution. It hosts a variety of performances, including plays, ballets, and operas, showcasing both local and international talent.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Njeguški pršut

Njeguški pršut

A dry-cured ham that is a staple in Montenegrin cuisine, especially in Podgorica. It's named after the Njeguši village in Montenegro where it originated.

Njeguški sir

Njeguški sir

A traditional Montenegrin cheese made in the Njeguši region. It's often served as an appetizer or used in various dishes.

Kacamak

Kacamak

A traditional Montenegrin dish made from cornmeal, potatoes, and cheese. It's a hearty dish often enjoyed in Podgorica.

Priganice

Priganice

A type of Montenegrin doughnut often served with honey, cheese, or jam. It's a popular sweet treat in Podgorica.

Ćevapi

Ćevapi

A type of grilled dish made from minced meat, often served in a flatbread with onions and sour cream. It's a popular street food in Podgorica.

Burek

Burek

A flaky pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. It's a popular breakfast item in Podgorica.

Pljeskavica

Pljeskavica

A traditional Montenegrin burger made from a mix of meats. It's a popular fast food item in Podgorica.

Crno vino Vranac

A red wine made from the Vranac grape, native to Montenegro. It's a popular drink in Podgorica and often paired with meat dishes.

Rakija

Rakija

A fruit brandy that is popular in Montenegro. It's often homemade and comes in a variety of flavors.

Pivo Nikšićko

A popular Montenegrin beer brewed in the town of Nikšić, not far from Podgorica. It's a common choice for a casual drink.

Medovina

Medovina

A traditional Montenegrin drink made from honey. It's a sweet and strong alcoholic beverage often enjoyed in Podgorica.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Podgorica, Montenegro is from late spring to early fall, specifically between May and October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The peak tourist season is in July and August when the city is bustling with activities and festivals. However, if you prefer a less crowded time, consider visiting in May, June, or September.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 2

Tue

New Year's Day Holiday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day/May Day

May 2

Thu

Labour Day/May Day Holiday

May 21

Tue

Independence Day

May 22

Wed

Independence Day Holiday

July 13

Sat

Statehood Day

July 14

Sun

Statehood Day Holiday

July 15

Mon

Statehood Day Holiday observed

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Podgorica is a relatively small city, so it's possible to reach many places on foot. This is a great way to explore the city and take in the sights at your own pace.

Bicycles are a popular mode of transport in Podgorica. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day. The city has a number of bike paths, making it easy to get around.

Renting a car is a good option if you plan to visit areas outside of Podgorica. The city itself is quite navigable by car, but parking can sometimes be a challenge.

Taxis are readily available in Podgorica. They can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or through a mobile app. This is a convenient way to get around, especially if you're carrying heavy luggage or travelling in a group.

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Podgorica. This can be a more cost-effective and convenient option than traditional taxis. You'll need a smartphone and internet connection to use these services.

Podgorica has a comprehensive bus network that covers the city and its suburbs. Buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around, especially during peak traffic times.

Podgorica's main train station connects the city with other parts of Montenegro and neighbouring countries. This can be a scenic and relaxing way to travel, especially if you're not in a hurry.

If you're travelling to or from the airport, there are shuttle services available. These need to be booked in advance and will take you directly to your hotel or the airport.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone94

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type F

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Podgorica, Montenegro as a first time visitor

1

Podgorica is the capital and largest city of Montenegro.

2

The official language is Montenegrin, but English is widely spoken, especially by younger people and those in tourism and business.

3

The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

4

Podgorica has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Average summer temperatures range from 70-95°F (21-35°C), while winter temperatures range from 30-50°F (-1-10°C).

5

Tipping is customary in Montenegro. A tip of 10% is standard in restaurants, while rounding up to the nearest Euro is common in taxis.

6

Podgorica is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

7

Public transportation in Podgorica includes buses and taxis. There is no metro or tram system.

8

Montenegro is part of the Balkan Peninsula, so the local cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Eastern European influences. Be sure to try local specialties like Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and Pljevaljski Sir (cheese).

9

The tap water in Podgorica is safe to drink.

10

Montenegro uses the Type F power socket, the same as most of Europe. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

11

Podgorica is in the Central European Time Zone (CET, UTC +1). Daylight saving time applies.

12

Smoking is very common in Montenegro and is allowed in many public places, including some restaurants and bars.

13

Montenegro is not part of the European Union, but EU citizens can enter with a valid ID card. Other nationalities may require a visa.

14

Healthcare facilities in Podgorica are adequate for routine medical treatment, but serious conditions may require evacuation to a country with higher-quality medical facilities.

15

Montenegro is a predominantly Orthodox Christian country, but it is also home to significant populations of Muslims and Catholics.

16

The country code for Montenegro is +382. It's a good idea to check with your mobile provider about international roaming charges.

17

Podgorica has a mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture, with few traditional Montenegrin buildings due to extensive bombing during World War II.

18

The city is relatively small and walkable, but it's also spread out with many residential areas. A map or GPS can be helpful for navigating.

19

Podgorica has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night.

20

While Podgorica itself is not on the coast, it's a good base for exploring the rest of Montenegro, including the stunning Adriatic coastline and mountainous interior.

Basic Montenegrin to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Zdravo

Zdrah-voh

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Doviđenja

Doh-vee-jen-ya

Saying goodbye

Please

Molim

Moh-leem

Making a request

Thank you

Hvala

Hvah-lah

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Da

Dah

Agreeing or confirming

No

Ne

Neh

Disagreeing or negating

Excuse me

Izvinite

Iz-vee-nee-teh

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ne razumijem

Ne rah-zoo-mee-yem

When you don't understand something

Do you speak English?

Govorite li engleski?

Goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee?

Asking if someone speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Gdje je kupatilo?

Gd-yeh yeh koo-pah-tee-loh?

Looking for the bathroom

I need help

Treba mi pomoć

Treh-bah mee poh-mohch

When you need assistance

How much does this cost?

Koliko ovo košta?

Koh-lee-koh oh-voh kosh-tah?

Asking for the price of something

I'm lost

Izgubljen sam

Iz-goo-blee-yen sahm

When you're lost

Can I have the menu, please?

Mogu li dobiti meni, molim?

Moh-goo lee doh-bee-tee meh-nee, moh-leem?

At a restaurant

Water

Voda

Voh-dah

When you want to order water

Beer

Pivo

Pee-voh

When you want to order beer

Wine

Vino

Vee-noh

When you want to order wine

Cheers

Živjeli

Zhee-vye-lee

Making a toast

Good morning

Dobro jutro

Doh-broh yoo-troh

Greeting someone in the morning

Good night

Laku noć

Lah-koo notch

Saying goodnight

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Pants/Shorts

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Sleepwear

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Swimwear (if planning to swim)

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers)

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Visa (if required)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations

  • Emergency contacts and important addresses

  • Local currency

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Umbrella or raincoat

  • Sunglasses

  • Travel lock

  • Pen and notebook

Weather Conditions

When planning a trip to Podgorica, Montenegro, it's important to consider the city's Mediterranean climate. The city experiences hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. During the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C), so it's advisable to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. It's also a good idea to stay hydrated and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day. In contrast, the winter months, from December to February, are much cooler with temperatures ranging from 41°F to 55°F (5°C to 13°C). Rainfall is also more frequent during this period, so packing a waterproof jacket or umbrella would be beneficial. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). These seasons are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, so be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for the cooler evenings. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you're adequately prepared. Enjoy your visit to Podgorica!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

13° / 1°

January is the coldest month in Podgorica, with occasional snowfall and frosty mornings.

February

15° / 3°

February is still quite chilly, but the days start to get longer and the weather slightly warmer.

March

18° / 6°

March sees the arrival of spring, with temperatures rising and more sunshine.

April

21° / 9°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine, perfect for outdoor activities.

May

25° / 13°

May is warm and sunny, with long days and cool evenings, ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.

June

28° / 16°

June marks the beginning of summer, with hot days and warm nights, perfect for beach activities.

July

31° / 19°

July is the hottest month in Podgorica, with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine, great for swimming and sunbathing.

August

31° / 19°

August is equally hot as July, with long sunny days and warm nights, ideal for enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

September

27° / 15°

September is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and less crowds, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

October

23° / 11°

October sees the arrival of autumn, with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors.

November

19° / 7°

November is a bit chilly, but still comfortable for sightseeing and exploring the city.

December

15° / 3°

December is cold and often rainy, with shorter days and longer nights, perfect for enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Did you know?

Did you know that Podgorica is the capital and largest city of Montenegro, with a population of about 185,000 people?

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