4-Day Exploration Guide to Podgorica, Montenegro

Podgorica, Montenegro

4 days

Vladimir Vysotsky Monument
Abstract Detail of Millennium Bridge
Crnogorsko Oro, a sculpture of a Montenegrin traditional dance
Niagara waterfalls
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.

4-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City and its History

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Millennium Bridge, a modern architectural marvel that offers stunning views of the city. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the bridge and take in the panoramic views of Podgorica.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Montenegrin lunch at a local restaurant. Try local dishes like 'Njeguški pršut' and 'Kacamak', paired with a glass of local wine.

Afternoon

Visit the Podgorica City Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history and culture. The museum houses a variety of exhibits, from prehistoric artifacts to contemporary art.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant in the city center, where you can try more traditional Montenegrin cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll through King's Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful night views of the city.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, a stunning example of modern Orthodox architecture. Take some time to admire the intricate frescoes and mosaics inside.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try 'Burek', a traditional Balkan pastry filled with cheese or meat.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Town of Podgorica. Wander through the narrow, winding streets and admire the old stone houses and historical buildings.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant in the Old Town, where you can try 'Pljeskavica', a traditional Balkan dish similar to a hamburger.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Clock Tower, a historical landmark in the Old Town. Enjoy the stunning night views of the city from the top of the tower.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to Skadar Lake National Park, a beautiful natural area known for its diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy a boat tour of the lake and take in the stunning scenery.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park. Try some local produce like fresh fruits and cheeses.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon hiking in the park. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. Enjoy the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant near the park, where you can try 'Crni Rižot', a traditional black risotto made with squid ink.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing evening at a local spa. Enjoy a traditional Montenegrin massage or a rejuvenating facial.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to St. George's Church, a beautiful Orthodox church known for its stunning frescoes. Take some time to admire the beautiful interior and the peaceful atmosphere.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try 'Cevapi', a traditional Balkan dish made with grilled minced meat.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping at the Mall of Montenegro, a large shopping center with a variety of local and international brands.

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant in the city center, where you can try 'Sarma', a traditional dish made with minced meat and rice wrapped in cabbage leaves.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to Plantaze Vineyard, where you can enjoy a wine tasting and learn about the local wine production process.

Attractions in Itinerary (10)

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
Podgorica City Museum

2
Podgorica City Museum

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

Museums
Cultural Experiences
King's Park

3
King's Park

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

Parks
Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

4
Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

One of the most iconic landmarks in Podgorica, this Serbian Orthodox cathedral is known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.

Attractions
Religious Sites
Architecture
Old Town of Podgorica

5
Old Town of Podgorica

The Old Town of Podgorica is a historical and cultural hub of the city. It features narrow streets, old houses, and numerous landmarks such as the Clock Tower and Osmanagic Mosque.

Attractions
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Clock Tower

6
Clock Tower

A historic clock tower located in the heart of the city, a symbol of Podgorica.

Monuments
Landmarks
Skadar Lake National Park

7
Skadar Lake National Park

The largest lake in the Balkan Peninsula, Skadar Lake National Park is a haven for wildlife and offers activities like bird watching, fishing, and boat tours.

Attractions
Parks
Tours
St. George's Church

8
St. George's Church

St. George's Church is an ancient religious site in Podgorica, known for its beautiful architectural design.

Religious Sites
Architecture
Mall of Montenegro

9
Mall of Montenegro

The Mall of Montenegro is a large shopping center in Podgorica. It offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options including a cinema.

Shopping
Entertainment
Food and Drink
Plantaze Vineyard

10
Plantaze Vineyard

A large vineyard offering wine tasting tours and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

Attractions
Tours
Food and Drink

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 (4 pairs)

  • Socks (4 pairs)

  • T-shirts (4)

  • Long-sleeve shirts (2)

  • Jeans or trousers (2 pairs)

  • Shorts (1 pair)

  • Swimwear (1)

  • Sleepwear (1 set)

  • Lightweight jacket or sweater (1)

  • Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)

  • Sandals or flip-flops (1 pair)

  • Hat or cap (1)

  • Sunglasses (1 pair)

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

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

  • Prescription medications

  • Travel-size laundry detergent

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash (Euros)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and car rental reservations

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Maps and guidebooks

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Universal power adapter

  • Portable power bank

  • Laptop and charger (optional)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Snacks

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader

  • Travel-size umbrella

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notebook and pen

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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