Best things to do in Podgorica
Find out more about those top places in Podgorica
Podgorica, Montenegro: Europe's Up-and-Coming Underdog (Where "Little Hill" Hides Big Adventures and Wine Flows Like Water!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Balkan Beauty!
Dobro došli! (That's "welcome" in Montenegrin, and you'll be hearing it in this capital city that's ready to steal your heart!) Say hello to Podgorica (pronounced POD-go-reet-sa), the official capital and the largest city of Montenegro, home to around 400,000 awesome people. Now, the name itself, which adorably translates to "little hill," might not scream "bustling metropolis," but don't let that fool you! Situated right in the center of Montenegro, Podgorica is a city that proudly clings to its rich cultural heritage while quietly blossoming into a must-visit destination.
Let's face it, Podgorica has been a bit of an overlooked gem in the past, often overshadowed by its more glamorous European neighbors. But the winds of wanderlust are changing, my friends! This "little hill" is steadily rising as a force to be reckoned with in the tourism scene, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, historical intrigue, and a local charm that's as potent as a shot of rakija (the local brandy!).
So, what are the must-see places to visit in this Balkan beauty? Well, prepare to be wowed by the cascading splendor of the Cijevna Waterfalls, a natural spectacle that proves even "little hills" can have impressive water features! For a dose of modern creativity, the Center of Contemporary Art will tantalize your artistic senses with its thought-provoking exhibitions. And for the oenophiles among us (that's fancy for wine lovers!), a tour of the Plantaze Winery is an absolute must. Imagine strolling through sprawling vineyards and sampling some of Montenegro's finest vintages – it's basically adult grape juice heaven!
But Podgorica's appeal extends beyond these top attractions. It's a city where you can wander through charming streets, discover hidden cafes serving strong coffee and even stronger opinions, and soak in the laid-back Balkan atmosphere. The locals are known for their warm hospitality, and you might just find yourself invited for a chat and a coffee (or that aforementioned rakija!) before you know it. Plus, its central location makes it a fantastic base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of Montenegro, from the dramatic mountains to the sparkling Adriatic coast.
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Montenegrin marvel. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from marveling at natural waterfalls and exploring contemporary art to indulging in local wines and discovering hidden cultural gems, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Podgorica a truly special and hilariously welcoming destination.
Top Attractions: Waterfalls, Art, and Wine Wonders!
Podgorica offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences:
Cijevna Waterfalls: Nature's Cascade
Witness the stunning beauty of the Cijevna Waterfalls, a picturesque natural attraction just outside the city. A must-see place to visit for nature lovers and sightseeing.
Center of Contemporary Art: Modern Expression
Explore the Center of Contemporary Art, showcasing a diverse range of modern and contemporary artworks by local and international artists. A key place to visit for art enthusiasts.
Plantaze Winery: Taste of Montenegro
Embark on a tour and tasting at the Plantaze Winery, one of the largest vineyards in Europe, and sample Montenegro's renowned wines. A top thing to do for wine lovers.
Ribnica Fortress: Historical Ruins
Discover the ruins of the Ribnica Fortress, offering a glimpse into Podgorica's medieval past and scenic views of the Ribnica River. A noteworthy place to visit for historical sightseeing.
Independence Square: City Center Hub
Wander through Independence Square, the central gathering place in Podgorica, surrounded by important buildings and a vibrant atmosphere. A key place to visit for experiencing the city's pulse.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Balkan beauty!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Podgorica vibe:
- Explore the Old Town (Stara Varoš): Wander through the historic Ottoman-era quarter with its charming architecture.
- Visit the Millennium Bridge: Admire the modern design of this iconic cable-stayed bridge.
- Relax in Gorica Park: Enjoy a peaceful escape in this large park offering walking trails and recreational activities.
- Sample Traditional Montenegrin Cuisine: Indulge in hearty local dishes like Ćevapi (grilled minced meat) and Kačamak (cornmeal porridge).
- Take a Day Trip to Lake Skadar: Explore the stunning natural beauty and wildlife of the largest lake in the Balkans.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in Europe that offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, delicious wine, and a refreshingly authentic atmosphere, Podgorica, Montenegro, is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with surprising sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared for friendly locals, stunning landscapes, and maybe a newfound appreciation for Montenegrin wine! Živjeli! (Cheers!)
-
Cijevna Waterfalls
Popularly known as the “Niagara Falls of Montenegro”, it is the most visited waterfall in Montenegro. The waterfall is not as large as the actual Niagara Falls but it is matches it in beauty. The waterfall gets its “source” from the Cijevna river which originates from Albania, it flows and merges with the Moraca river south of Podgorica. Best to go to the waterfall during spring or after a rainy day when the waterfall is at full flow because at the end of summer it is completely dried up.
-
Ribnica Bridge
Built during the roman rule, the old bridge over the Ribnica River is the oldest bridge in Podgorica. The bridge is perfect for anyone who loves historical architecture, in the 18th century the bridge had to undergo major reconstruction under the Ottoman rule which was funded Adzi-pasa Osmanagic, so since then the bridge has been known by the Adzi-pasa Osmanagic’s bridge.
-
Center of Contemporary Art
Established in 1995 the gallery can be found inside the palace of King Nikola Petrovic in Krusevac. The center is for art lovers, featuring over 1000 artworks from 60 different countries, which is broken up into different sections; Asian, European, Latin-America and Africa.
The center also has two smaller galleries which are used for special exhibitions and events. After viewing the exhibitions displayed, visitors can walk through the garden in the premises and have a picnic or relax.
-
International Podgorica Marathon
The Podgorica marathon is always highly anticipated by foreigners and locals; it has thousands of participants yearly. The marathon has been happening since the last decade, runners run from Podgorica to Danilovgrad and then back. There is a half-marathon if the main marathon is too overwhelming and the Hyper-marathon which is over 100 km (involves running 100 circles round the hill Ljubokic).
Tourist visiting Podgorica during the marathon are always advised to join in the fun.
-
Plantaze Winery
For wine lovers, Podgorica can be said to be a dream destination, many families in the capital make their own wine. It is home to the largest unbroken vineyard in Europe and one of the largest wine factory too; Plantaze Winery built in 1963 deals mainly in wine production. Tourist can go wine tasting which also features a train ride through the vineyard and a tour of the Sipcanik, which used to be a hidden underground aircraft hangar but now houses millions of gallons of wine.
