If you look at the map of Montenegro, it is striking that most of this already small country is occupied by Lake Skadar or Shkodra. Lake Skadar can easily be called the heart of Montenegro. It is spread over the territories of two countries at once - Montenegro and Albania. Most of the lake is about 220 sq. km - belongs to Montenegro, where it is part of the national park.
Since the beginning of its development by man, the Skadar Lake region has been a place of mixing of a large number of civilizations and cultures. And now along the shores of the lake you can see numerous monuments of human presence: military fortifications, abandoned fishing villages.
On small islands scattered along the Montenegrin part of the coast, medieval Orthodox monasteries have survived to this day. medieval monasteries - Morachnik, Starcheva Gorica, Beshka, Kom, which were known as scriptoriums - workshops where a census of church books was carried out. military fortifications, abandoned fishing villages. Ancient and younger architectural structures blend so harmoniously into the surrounding landscape, as if a good designer had worked on its creation. Just look at the small fishermen's houses with red tiled roofs, clinging to the folded stone shores!
Now Lake Skadar is the largest European reserve of wading birds (more than 260 species), as well as a large ichthyoreserve (more than 45 species of fish), the most valuable fish being Skadar carp, trout and bleak. Some species of plants and animals that live in the lake are endemic, such as the Dalmatian pelican and the green frog. In addition to fishing, it is also allowed to hunt fox, wolf, hare and wild boar, traditional for Montenegro, and some species of birds.
Podgorica Airport
This airport is also called Golubovtsi Airport - this is the name of the nearest town.
As Montenegro's airlines receive increasing load over time, the old terminal, designed for both domestic and international flights, was no longer sufficient, and therefore a new terminal with an area of 5.5 square meters was opened in May 2006. kilometers. Work was also carried out to improve lighting and energy supply.
If in the old terminal there was only one exit to departures, then in the new there are eight of these exits.
The new terminal is designed to serve about 1 million people per year.
The airport has two cafes, newsstands, traditional duty free and car rental.
What sights of Podgorica did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.
Republic Square
Republic Square is the central square of the city, where government buildings and a beautiful fountain are located. This is the largest area in the country.
The square is decorated with colonnades and trees. It also has free internet, which attracts many people to the square.
Republic Square is located next to Negosheva and Svoboda streets, where many fashionable shops and boutiques, cafes and restaurants have been built.
The Daibabe Monastery is an Orthodox monastery, curious because it is half dug into the ground: most of its premises are located not above, but underground.
The monastery, founded at the very end of the 19th century, is located in a rocky area and a significant part of its premises is located in the thickness of the rock. Old-timers say that even before the monastery arose here, Christian images were found in the caves, probably dating back to the first centuries of Christianity. It is even believed that the monastery itself is of miraculous origin.
The monastery is named after its founder, Saint Simeon of Daybab; the frescoes that are now painted on the premises of the monastery belong to his hand.
This place is revered as miraculous and covered in legends. Many believers come here for healing and blessings.
Monument to Vladimir Vysotsky
Vladimir Vysotsky is a creative personality, without whom it is no longer possible to imagine Russian culture. But it is not only in Russia that his memory is perpetuated in one way or another. There are monuments and memorial plaques dedicated to Vladimir Semenovich in almost every city where he visited. The capital of Montenegro, Podgorica, was no exception. Here in October 2004, on the banks of the Moraca River, a monument to Vysotsky, a great Russian poet, was inaugurated.
The author of the monument is Russian sculptor Alexander Taratynov. He captured Vysotsky with a guitar on a small pedestal, where the words of Vysotsky’s poem dedicated to Montenegro are carved in two languages. Vladimir Semenovich was here on tour and filming and captured his warmest impressions of the country in poetic lines. His bronze figure is surrounded by a peculiar frame. The monument is located near two bridges, which in their own original way complement the figure of the poet.
Ivan Milutinovic Park
Ivan Milutinović Park is a beautiful park named after the Yugoslav revolutionary and political figure Ivan Milutinović.
There are many trees in the park; there is also a river flowing here, on the banks of which you can have a picnic.
Hercegovachka Street
Hercegovačka Street is one of the main shopping streets in Podgorica. This is a true shopping paradise. By the way, you can also shop in Podgorica on Negosheva Street.
Hercegovachka has many boutiques and shops selling products from leading brands. These are Diesel, Women's secret, Mango, Lacoste, Tomm Hilfinger, Springfield, Timberland, etc. Also here you can buy clothes and shoes from famous Balkan brands such as Azzaro, Kara, etc.
Remains of a prison on Lake Skadar
The remains of the prison on Lake Skadar are a partially preserved stone building that once served as a prison.
The depth of the lake reaches 44 meters, it is the largest lake in the Balkans. In the middle of the lake there is a small island on which a prison was built in the Middle Ages.
In recent years, the capital (or, as it is sometimes called, Montenegro) – Podgorica, the political center of the state, has become increasingly popular among tourists. This is where the parliament sits and the government of the country works. Podgorica is a major railway junction and air traffic center. The city is also the cultural and educational center of Montenegro. There are theaters and the State University of Montenegro here. All daily newspapers in the country are published in Podgorica.
Those wishing to visit Podgorica should pay attention to the photo of the city: it is immediately clear that this is a modern, clean and well-maintained European city, which, however, has retained its originality and...
general information
The city of Podgorica is one of the oldest in Montenegro: the first settlement here was in the Stone Age, and the city was first mentioned in 1326. At one time it was called Ribnitsa, Bogurtlen, Burgrurice. In the period from 1946 to 1992 it was called Titograd, the modern name is the historical name that the city received in honor of one of the hills on which it stands.
About 1/4 of the population of the entire country lives in Podgorica; in total, the city has about 170 thousand inhabitants. Montenegrins, Serbs, and Albanians live here, but the Montenegrin language is most often heard in Podgorica.
Climatic conditions in the capital
The climate of Podgorica is Mediterranean, characterized by hot and dry summers and fairly mild winters. There are 132-136 days a year when the thermometer rises above +25°C. In summer, the daytime temperature often rises above +30°C, the maximum recorded temperature is +44°C.
In winter, the temperature is most often above 0°C, but often drops to negative values, and sometimes it can be completely cold. For example, the lowest temperature ever recorded in the city is -17°C. Snow falls almost every winter, but it only lasts for a few days. Most of the precipitation falls in winter, with July being the driest month.
Resorts
Often, tourists who come visit Podgorica for 1-2 days. But this city deserves more attention. The area where Podgorica is located is amazingly beautiful: in the city area, five rivers merge together, and their banks are connected by 160 bridges! Despite the fact that Podgorica, unlike others, is located quite far from the sea, it is still considered a resort.
The beaches of Podgorica are mainly located on Moraca. They are quite clean and well-maintained, but are popular only among city residents. The resorts of Podgorica are those located on: Murici and Pesacac.
The city's attractions
If you look at the map of Podgorica from, it’s easy to see that they are all within walking distance of each other. They are mainly located within the Old Town (Stara Varoš). Here you can feel the atmosphere of a medieval Turkish town, which is facilitated by the preserved buildings of the mosques.
In general, there are not many attractions here: Podgorica, like the whole country, suffered greatly during the Second World War.
From what to see in Podgorica on your own, the following deserve attention:
Entertainment
Those who are staying in Podgorica for a few days are interested in the question of where to go. The Montenegrin National Theater is worth visiting. And families who come on vacation with children can go to the Children's Theater or the Puppet Theater.
Where to stay in Podgorica?
Podgorica is not the most luxurious in Montenegro, since the Montenegrin Riviera still withstands the main influx of tourists. Most of the hotels are 3* and 4*, but there are also 5* hotels in the city, which are not inferior in splendor to the hotels in Budva.
The best hotels in Podgorica are rightfully considered:
- 5* Hotel Ziya;
- 5* Hilton Podgorica Crna Gora;
- 4* CentreVille Hotel and Experiences;
- 4* Hotel M Nikić;
- 4* Hotel Aurel;
- 4* Hotel Hemera;
- 3* Hotel Crnogorska Kuća;
- 3* Hotel Keto;
- 3* Hotel Laguna.
Nutrition
According to reviews from tourists, the best in Podgorica are:
- Pod Volat – meat restaurant in the city center;
- Chinese food establishment Restaurant Zheng He;
- another meat restaurant Stara Kuca;
- Italian pizzeria Sicilia Italijanska Pekara i Picerija;
- Hard Rock Cafe, a cafe serving North American and European cuisine;
- restaurant serving Mediterranean and Japanese dishes – Ahh Riba;
- restaurant serving Mediterranean and Italian cuisine Lanterna Podgorica.
Events in the city
The city hosts many events organized by the Budo Tomović Cultural and Information Center. This includes FIAT - the International Festival of Alternative Theaters, which takes place in August, and the DEUS art scene in December, and numerous exhibitions.
In addition, the traditional Bridge Jumping Cup takes place in July, and the Podgorica-Danilovgrad Marathon takes place in October. Well, the event that attracts the largest number of visitors to the city is the New Year, which is celebrated in Podgorica on a grand scale.
Shopping
Podgorica is the capital. In the area of Republic Street there is a block in which there are small but very cozy shops, and not far from it there is a whole “jewelry street”.
There are also large shopping centers in Podgorica, such as:
- Delta City, which has more than 70 shops under one roof, as well as a multi-screen cinema, a restaurant and much more. etc.;
- Mall of Montenegro with a large food supermarket, restaurant, bowling alley, disco and gym;
- Palada Shopping Mall;
- Bazar, which offers an extensive program for family recreation, including the giant Zuyalitsa games room, whose area is 500 sq. m. m.
Transport
The city has a well-developed system of buses and taxis. Moreover, a Podgorica taxi can rightfully be considered public transport, since its prices are quite low and it is used very widely. The cost of a taxi ride within the city is around $4-5.
How to get to Podgorica?
Those who have chosen Podgorica for vacation are, of course, interested in how to get to the city. The fastest route is by air: the first most important route in Montenegro is located in Podgorica (the second is located in Tivat). It receives flights from Belgrade, Ljubljana, Vienna, London, Kyiv, Budapest, Moscow, Minsk and many other European capitals and major cities.
You can also get to Podgorica by train: from Belgrade (the city is a station on the Belgrade-Bar railway) and Montenegro. Previously, trains ran here from (from), but now this railway line is not in use. Several routes of European importance also pass through the city: to Serbia and other countries of Central Europe, to other countries of Western Europe, to Albania and to the Adriatic Sea.
“I love Montenegro very much. I am delighted with the Adriatic Sea and these majestic mountains. Why not visit the capital of this magical country at least once?” - It was with these thoughts that I got into the car and rushed towards new adventures to the most populated city of this small state - Podgorica. Was I impressed by it or disappointed? Don't know.
Probably for the first time in my life I cannot accurately determine whether I like the city or not. However, it’s worth going there to see for yourself whether this is your place. I return there periodically, but I still cannot say that Podgorica is a city that everyone should see. No, it's not, it's not, and it's not even . But he will also leave his mark on your memories.
How to get there
What is the most convenient way to get to Podgorica? You have several options:
- plane (with transfers or direct flights),
- automobile,
- train.
All you have to do is choose the one you like.
By plane
The most convenient way, of course, is to buy a ticket for a direct flight to Podgorica and fly there in comfort in 3 hours. Unfortunately, there is also a fly in the ointment here, namely the price. Tickets to Podgorica are very expensive at any time of the year. Their cost starts from 500 EUR, and sometimes reaches 1500 EUR! Montenegro Airlines flies. As you can imagine, few people would agree to spend that much money on a seat in economy class on an airplane. Therefore, before buying a ticket, it is better to compare prices. This can be done, for example, .
There is another way out - to fly with a transfer. It is most convenient to make a transfer in the capital of Serbia - the city. Airlines flying there include AirSerbia and Aeroflot. The waiting time between flights ranges from an hour to 10 hours. If suddenly you bought a ticket and it turned out that you need to wait at the airport for more than 6 hours, feel free to go for a walk in. Russians do not need a transit visa.
The ticket price will be about 15,000 rubles round-trip if you are not flying in July-August or during public holidays (New Year, May 1, May 9). During the “season” it is almost impossible to guess the cost: it starts from 17,000 rubles and goes on indefinitely. Therefore, I advise you to buy plane tickets in advance. Flights operate daily, and sometimes several times a day.
There is only one airport in the city of Podgorica, so it will be easy for you to find it. I advise you to get from there to the hotel by taxi, it is usually inexpensive, but again depends on the distance between the airport and your vacation spot. Be prepared to pay about 10 EUR per trip.
By train
Podgorica, unlike most other cities in Montenegro, has a train station. Is it comfortable to travel by train from Moscow to Podgorica? I wouldn't say that. Maybe it's because I don't particularly like trains. There is still such an opportunity, but you will have to change planes in Belgrade.
Clue:
Podgorica - the time is now
Hour difference:
Moscow 1
Kazan 1
Samara 2
Ekaterinburg 3
Novosibirsk 5
Vladivostok 8
When is the season? When is the best time to go
What months are the best to fly to? And in? And to Moscow? It seems to me that you can come to any capital that is not on the coast or in the mountains at any time of the year. Of course, if you hate rain, you shouldn't choose November for your trip. If the heat bothers you, then it is better to spend July and August in some other place. Do you want to celebrate New Year in Podgorica? Great idea! In winter it is cool here, but there are no such frosts and snowdrifts as in Moscow. Don’t know where to fly for the May holidays? Podgorica is the perfect place! Just at this time the trees bloom and the city becomes fabulously beautiful after the gray winter. Yes, yes, in Podgorica in winter it’s also not very bright and joyful.
As for tourists, there are few of them here at any time. I repeat: Podgorica is not the dream city of the average traveler. You are unlikely to hear from your friends: “You know, since childhood I dreamed of visiting Podgorica.” Most likely, most of them have never heard of it.
Weather
During the winter months, temperatures range from 0 to +7–8°C. Of course, it also happens -10°C, but this happens very rarely. In spring the weather is much better than in Moscow: on average, starting from the end of March, thermometers show +15–18°C. From May to September you can find the highest temperatures here: from +20°C in early May to +40°C in July and August! October and November are quite rainy and cool months: the thermometer rarely rises above +10–15 °C.
Podgorica - weather by month
Clue:
Podgorica - weather by month
Districts. Where is the best place to live?
What are the prices for holidays?
Podgorica is an excellent option for a budget tourist. Of course, with the current euro exchange rate it has become, in principle, expensive to travel, but, compared to the main European tourist destinations (,), prices in Podgorica are low.
A night in the best hotels in the city (for example, the five-star Hilton) costs about 100 EUR. Agree, this is rare to find anywhere. Food is also cheap. It is quite possible to have dinner for two with a bottle of wine for 20–25 EUR. It will be even cheaper to buy food in supermarkets, of which there are a lot in the city.
Taxi trips around the city cost approximately 5 EUR. The cost of excursions in Montenegro varies from 15 to 100 EUR.
You don't even have to save money in Podgorica because you are unlikely to spend a large amount of money when you come here.
Clue:
Cost of food, accommodation, transportation and other things
Currency: Euro, € US Dollar, $ Russian Ruble, Rub
Museums. Which ones are worth visiting?
It is important to know that there are restrictions on car rental in the city: age only over 21–22 years and a mandatory driving experience of more than 2 years. Gasoline in Podgorica, unlike Moscow, is expensive, so be prepared to spend a pretty penny at gas stations: approximately 1.1 EUR per liter.
Personally, I didn’t rent a car in Podgorica, but all my friends who did were satisfied with both the cars and the work of the companies.
Podgorica is the only place where you will be more or less comfortable and not afraid to drive. Yes, many people drive breaking the rules: too fast, not using turn signals, not keeping a distance. However, in the city there are no mountain serpentines, there are no too narrow roads along which you move, holding your breath, just so as not to hit anything or anyone. People who are accustomed to driving in Moscow will find it easy to get used to it.
Podgorica - holidays with children
Often, when planning a trip, parents think about the comfort of a particular city for the youngest members of the family. Will it be difficult to enjoy your holiday in Podgorica with your little ones? Of course not. Any restaurant will offer you a baby chair, and in the city passers-by will help you with your stroller if they suddenly see that you are facing any difficulties.
Yes, here you are unlikely to find Disneyland, where you can entertain children, but you will also not see any bans on visiting any places with them (of course, nightclubs do not count).
Take the whole family with you and enjoy your vacation!
Ski holiday
A unique country. Where else can you find the sea, mountains and beautiful cities at the same time? Yes, perhaps more of your friends prefer to ski and snowboard in the Alps or Rosa Khutor, but a ski holiday in Montenegro is also possible, and it is one of the most common sports in the country.
At the resort Kolasin there are 12 routes:
- 2 blue(low level of complexity);
- 7 red(medium difficulty level);
- 3 black(high level of complexity).
At the foot of the mountains there are various hotels and chalets where you can stay and from there you can walk to the ski lifts. The length of all trails at the resort is about 16 kilometers.
The resort (or Durmitor in other words) offers to conquer only 5 kilometers in the mountains, but even here there are both blue and red and black slopes. You can also stay near the ski lifts in various small hotels.
There is a widespread belief among tourists that the capital of the country, Podgorica, has few attractions and the tourism sector here is not as developed as in the coastal regions. This is partly true, but once here you will feel an incredible atmosphere, the interweaving of ancient history, sometimes tragic, and modern architecture.
Podgorica (Montenegro) is interesting not only for its large shopping complex; see this by walking through the cozy streets of the city.
A brief excursion into historical events
During the Second World War, after the bombing, there were no cultural and architectural monuments left in the city. Fortunately, the German bombers failed to completely destroy the rich historical and cultural heritage.
In the 7th century, Slavic tribes lived on the territory of modern Montenegro. The settlement was called Ribnitsa and existed until the 14th century. Around 1330, Ribnica was captured by representatives of the Nemanjic dynasty from Serbia and renamed Podgorica. In the period from 1361 to 1421, princes from Montenegro came to power. Then a vassal of the Ottoman Empire, Stefan Lazarević, came to power and was replaced by a descendant of the Branković dynasty, Djuradj Branković.
In 1455, an alliance was concluded between Podgorica and Venice, two armies united in the fight against the Ottoman Empire. In 1479, the settlement became part of the Skadar Sanjak, founded by the Sultan from Turkey. Only in 1878 the city returned to Montenegro. In 1918, after the deposition of the royal family, a historical event occurred - the unification of Serbia and Montenegro. A new state appeared on the political map of the world - Yugoslavia, and Podgorica became the center of the organization of the revolutionary uprising.
At the beginning of World War II, Montenegro was captured by the Italian army. In April 1945, Podgorica received the status of capital.
Over the years, different cultures, religions and states dominated the territory of Montenegro. Every milestone in history is reflected in the architecture and cultural heritage of Podgorica. In 1952 the city was renamed Titograd. The former name was returned after 40 years in 1992.
Podgorica – general information
The city of Podgorica is the largest settlement and business capital of Montenegro. The city of Cetina is recognized as the historical and cultural capital, but Podgorica also has many architectural monuments. The status of the capital is assigned to Podgorica in the national constitution.
Photos of the city of Podgorica
The capital of Montenegro, Podgorica, occupies the central part of the state in the Zeta Plain. Lake Skadar is located nearby. The city is surrounded by rivers - Moraca and Ribnica flow through it. Reservoirs are a surprisingly picturesque feature of the capital.
The settlement is located on a plateau. The highest place in the city, from where a beautiful view opens, is Goritsa Hill.
According to the latest census, just under 200 thousand people live in the city of Podgorica, which is 30% of all residents of the country. The area of Podgorica makes up 10% of the total area of the country.
The settlement is located in an area with a flat landscape, a favorable, mild climate and fertile soil. You can quickly get to the Adriatic Sea.
Climate and weather
The city has a climate familiar to the Mediterranean. There are quite hot summers and warm winters. Truly summer weather sets in in May. In the summer months the temperature reaches +43 degrees. The autumn temperature regime remains at +20-+22 degrees, and in winter the thermometer does not fall below +5 degrees.
Considering that the city is located in a flat area, snow falls here rarely and in small quantities, with rain most often falling between December and March. Regardless of the time of year, the capital of Montenegro is beautiful, attracting with its hospitality and charm.
Podgorica Airport
The airport is called the “Heart of Montenegro”, has international status and is located south of the capital. This is a hub for Montenegro airlines. The airport is located near the town of Golubovichi, so in some cases it is called the same. In 2007, the airport received first prize in the category “Best Airport for up to 1 million passengers.” The airport's annual passenger traffic averages 400-500 thousand people.
The maximum load is observed from April to the end of October. At this time, the airport also accepts charter flights in addition to regular ones. The buildings are made of aluminum and glass, so they seem light and airy, and are equipped with the latest equipment inside.
Here passengers will find a full range of services:
- cafe;
- kiosks;
- the shops;
- Rent a Car;
- ATMs;
- mail;
- bank.
Not far from the airport there are comfortable hotels designed for tourists with different income levels.
You can get to the airport by your own transport along the E 80 and E 65 highways. These are the main highways connecting almost all the cities of the Adriatic coast in Montenegro.
You can get to Podgorica on your own by bus. There are regular flights from the airport with an interval of 20 minutes, departing from the terminal. The fare is 2.5 euros.
You can get to the city comfortably by taxi; you will have to pay an average of 15 euros.
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Sights of Podgorica
If you want to enjoy the incredible atmosphere of the capital, put on comfortable, sports shoes and go for a walk. Because it is better to get acquainted with the city of Podgorica in Montenegro only by leisurely walking, inhaling the aroma of the streets, touching the walls of houses and admiring the picturesque landscapes.
Temple of St. George
So, the attractions of Podgorica in Montenegro begin at the highest point of the city - on Gorica Hill. The Church of St. George is located here. The construction dates back to the 10th-11th centuries. An incredibly powerful energy reigns on the territory of the church, the walls are decorated with ancient frescoes, and the building is surrounded by an old cemetery.
Photo of the Church of St. George
Memorial to the Partisan
Going down the hill, the tourist finds himself in a picturesque park where city residents love to walk. Here you can visit the Partisan Fighters Memorial, the burial place of almost a hundred war heroes - partisans who fought against the German invaders.
Location: Vaka Durovica, Podgorica, Podgorica Municipality 81000, Montenegro.
Ruins of Dukla
In the northwest direction, 3 km from Podgorica, are the ruins of the ancient city of Duklja. This is the oldest settlement of the Illyrian tribes who lived on the territory of modern Montenegro several thousand years ago. The settlement was owned by the Romans; after the fall of the empire, the Slavs settled in Dukla. In 1474, the city was ruled by the Turks, and it was they who turned it into a fortified fortress.
Location: Rogamska bb, Podgorica, Montenegro. The entrance is free.
Depedogen Fortress
Under the hill there is another Depedogen fortress. This is a large-scale fortification structure located in the Stara Varosha district. Over the four hundred years of Ottoman occupation, the fortress was strengthened and modernized many times. However, after liberation, the local population literally tore away the building stone by stone, leaving only ruins.
Rivers Ribnica and Moraca
After a walk near the fortress, you will find yourself in the most romantic place - on an ancient stone bridge over the Ribnica River. This place is called Sastavtsi or Skaline. There is a cozy cafe here, but you can eat there only in the warm season, since it is located in the open air, so that nothing prevents visitors from admiring the beauty of nature. In hot weather, the bank of the Moraca River turns into a clean, comfortable beach.
Be sure to take a walk along the Moraca River. In 2005, the Millennium Bridge, 140 meters long and 57 meters high, was opened. In 2004, a monument to Vladimir Vysotsky was erected nearby. Further along the course you can see the 105-meter-long Moscow pedestrian bridge, opened in 2008.
Old city
Walking along the bridge, you will find yourself in the central part of the city. Here passes the pedestrian street Hercegovachka, where you can have a hearty and tasty meal, choosing a cafe or restaurant with cuisine to suit your taste. Visit Sloboda Street, public transport traffic on it is blocked every day at 17-00.
Clock tower Sakhat-Kula
If you are already in Stara Varos, pay attention to the Clock Tower - this is the only thing that still reminds you of the period of rule of the Ottoman Empire. Take a walk along the narrow, crooked streets and feel the atmosphere of the East, unusual for these places.
Attraction location: Trg Becir Bega Osmanagica bb | Stara Varos, Podgorica, Montenegro.
City Museum
Those who want to study the history of the capital in more detail are welcome to visit the museum, which contains exhibits demonstrating the life and traditions of the townspeople. Clothes, books, and jewelry presented in the museum were found during archaeological excavations.
Attraction address: Marka Miljanova 4, Podgorica, Montenegro.
Republic Square
In the center of the capital of Montenegro there is Republic Square, in the middle of which there is a fountain. This location has been used for city events for many years.
Photo of the fountain on Republic Square.
Cathedral of the Resurrection of the Lord
The largest Orthodox Church of the Resurrection of Christ was built on George Washington Boulevard. Construction work lasted ten years and was completed only in 2013. The grandeur, architecture and interior decoration of the cathedral make a powerful impression on visitors. You should definitely go inside and look at the wall paintings, icons, and feel the peaceful atmosphere.
If you decide to visit Podgorica in the summer, be prepared for fairly hot weather; you can hide from the scorching sun in shady parks. The most popular is Petrovic Park or Krusevac Park. Here you can visit the Church of the Holy Great Martyr Demetrius and the Palace of King Nikola. Today, on the territory of the palace there is a Center for Contemporary Art - a rather original place, there is something to see.
Shopping
When choosing what to see in Podgorica on your own, be sure to leave time for shopping. There are two large shopping centers in the city:
- "Delta City" with a cinema, cafe, children's play areas and a beauty salon;
- "Mall of Montenegro" with a grocery super-market, gym, restaurant, cafe, children's, play area and shops.
Night life
Most nightclubs are located on Hercegovinka Street. The most visited are Klopka, Kulto and Shminka. The Shass club, which is the best according to tourist reviews, is located on Sloboda Street, and here you can also visit Camelot and the Irish Pub. Themed parties are very popular among local residents, at which local stars often perform; Turkish motifs predominate.
There are casinos in the Podgorica Hotel and on Herzegovinka Street where you can play electronic roulette and test your luck on slot machines.
Bonuses and surprises
- Sandwiches
- Sun
In Montenegro, foreign films are rarely dubbed, so in a cinema you can enjoy watching a film in the original language - English. Subtitles are provided for local residents.
This is the most revered drink in the country, so in any cafe or restaurant you can easily find your favorite type of coffee.
While walking around the city, you will probably want to have a snack. Be sure to try the huge chicken sandwich with fries. Local residents have a special attitude towards sandwiches; they are prepared according to a secret recipe. Believe me, it turns out very tasty.
Already in March you can sit on a bench, feeling the warm rays and soft breeze on your skin.
Podgorica is a unique city where the urban landscape and picturesque nature are surprisingly intertwined. You will always see mountains in the distance, patches of bright greenery around and fresh streams of the Moraca River.
Transport
The attractions in Podgorica are compactly located, so you can visit and explore them on your own, on foot. However, the most convenient way to travel is by taxi. The city has a huge number of parking lots, so renting a car will not be difficult. The taxi service in the capital of Montenegro is represented by 23 companies. All cars, and there are more than 800 of them, are equipped with air conditioning and navigation systems. A study tour around the city will cost an average of 5 euros.
There are buses in the capital, but it is quite difficult to wait for them and finding a route map is not so easy. The fare will be approximately 0.8 euros, tickets are sold by the driver.
Main highways for those traveling independently:
- northern direction – highways E65 and E80 to Belgrade and Central Europe;
- western direction – highway E762 to Bosnia and Western Europe;
- southern direction – highways E65 and E80 to the Adriatic Sea;
- eastern direction – highway E762 to Albania.
The Sozina Tunnel connects Podgorica and the main port of Montenegro, Bar. The trip takes no more than half an hour.
The railway station is located in the central part of the city. The main direction is the Belgrade – Bar road. There are also directions connecting Podgorica with Niksic and Tirana.
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Concluding the journey through the city of Podgorica (Montenegro), I would like to note that the capital is where you can observe contrasts. In some places it resembles a calm village, and in others it surprises with modern architecture and glass buildings. In one city, cozy, small courtyards covered with grapes, high-rise buildings, antique shops and expensive boutiques, museums, fountains and temples framed by picturesque nature peacefully coexist.
Map of Podgorica with attractions in Russian.
Video from the capital of Montenegro, Podgorica.
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Podgorica is the main city of Montenegro. You can’t call it a typical European capital, but Podgorica is worth a visit because of its unique atmosphere. Here, in an amazing way, evidence of the events of the history of these places is combined: ancient temples, ruins of medieval fortresses, mosques in memory of Turkish rule.
Modern Podgorica is the main transport hub of the country, its administrative and scientific center. Compared to Budva and Kotor, there are few tourists here. But recently, the Montenegrin capital has become increasingly popular: guests are attracted by its location in the valley of five rivers, the abundance of greenery and parks, as well as relatively low prices for accommodation and entertainment.
How to get to Podgorica
The closest airport to the capital of Montenegro is Golubovci Airport, 11 km away. Now there is no direct regular communication between it and Moscow; you will have to fly with a transfer. Air Serbia offers a flight departing from Sheremetyevo and connecting in Belgrade; total travel time is 4.5 hours one way. An alternative is to fly to Tivat. Direct flights there from Domodedovo are operated by Sibir together with Montenegro Airlines, from Sheremetyevo by Aeroflot, and from Vnukovo by Pobeda.
There is virtually no public transport from the airports; you will have to take a taxi to get there. A trip from Golubovtsi to Podgorica will cost 12 EUR. From Tivat airport (90 km) they will charge at least 50 EUR, but you can and should bargain with taxi drivers, especially since they understand Russian well. Prices on the page are as of November 2018.
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Transport
Within the center of Podgorica you can also move around on foot, since all the attractions are nearby. The situation with public transport is not very good. The buses are outdated, there is no air conditioning, and there are no schedules. They go rarely, and route maps are very difficult to find. The fare costs 0.6-0.8 EUR, tickets are sold at newspaper and tobacco kiosks (including reusable ones for several trips). If you buy a ticket directly from the driver, it will cost 1.5-2 times more. You must validate your ticket upon entry.
Both tourists and local residents prefer to use taxis: they are inexpensive here, and parking lots are located almost throughout the city. The minimum cost of a trip is 3 EUR, and in the central city it is difficult to spend more than 4-5 EUR. You can rent a car in a special parking lot, on the street, or call by phone; the rates do not depend on the method.
There is no public bicycle rental network in the city, and there are no private offices either. You can ask about “bicycles”, as Montenegrins call bicycles, at the hotel - perhaps the owners will provide such a service or allow you to ride yours.
Maps of Podgorica
Rent a Car
Podgorica is located near the largest body of water in the Balkans - Lake Skadar; to see its beauty, it is worth taking a car. Well-known brands offer their services in the capital and airports - AVIS, Europcar, Sixt, Hertz. It is more convenient to order a car in advance via the Internet. When booking, an advance payment of 20% is usually required, the remaining amount must be paid on the spot. Be prepared to leave a deposit of 100-200 EUR. A green card for travel to neighboring countries is issued free of charge or for little money - 2 EUR per day.
The road surface is good, the attitude of the police towards Russian drivers is loyal. However, there is no need to be reckless - there are many mountain roads with narrow serpentines, on which there is a speed limit: in populated areas - 50 km/h, on highways - 80 km/h.
A mandatory requirement for the driver is normal shoes, not beach flip-flops. When driving, you must turn on your low beams at any time. During the season, you should avoid parking in the center of resorts or near the embankment - tow trucks are actively working.
Podgorica Hotels
Hotels in Podgorica are not the best in Montenegro; all the chic and glitz, as well as a wealth of choice, went to the Montenegrin Riviera. Most hotels are 3 and 4*, but there are several “five” hotels that are not inferior to hotels in popular resorts.
A night in a five-star hotel will cost from 120 EUR for a double room (we are talking about international chains; in local private hotels prices start from 90 EUR). Among the “fours” there is more choice and the same price range: for a double room they will ask from 50 EUR per day. A good three-ruble note for two will cost from 35 EUR per night. The most budget option is motels located near highways. You can stay there for two for 20-25 EUR per day. There are also hostels in the city. One of the most popular is located near the Clock Tower - an overnight stay there can be arranged for 15 EUR.
What to bring
The most popular souvenirs from Podgorica are edible. Tourists bring olive oil, Njegush prosciutto, cheese and wine from here. Local seasonal fruits - citrus fruits, grapes, pomegranates, figs, kiwi - will also survive transportation. They are of wonderful quality here. Surprise your loved ones with unusual fruits - “zinzula”, which grows in Montenegro, tastes like a pear and an apple. Montenegrin honey collected in the area of the Moraca and Tara rivers is especially valued.
The bazaar (Blaza Jovanovica) sells dried chanterelles and porcini mushrooms from the Durmitor National Park, as well as other farm products
.It is better to buy pickled olives at the market, but olive oil - in the store. Pay attention to the labels with the brand of the oldest Montenegrin creamery, Barsko Zlato. As a gastronomic Balkan specialty, you can also buy vegetable caviar “ajvar” or “lyutenitsa” and special soft cream cheese “kajmak”. For those with a sweet tooth, bring Bananica candies and Plazma cookies - everyone who grew up in the Balkans knows their taste.
Podgorica
Cuisine and restaurants of Podgorica
Montenegrins are traditionalists, including when it comes to food. That is why any foreign cuisine, especially Asian, has difficulty taking root in the country. But the closest neighbors influenced the taste preferences of the region - there are many pizzerias in Podgorica, and instead of burgers from McDonald's, locals eat Greek gyros for 3 EUR or Turkish burek for 1 EUR. The best establishments here offer national cuisine, the main feature of which is fresh, natural products of simple preparation.
Meat is often cooked either on an open fire - “rostil”, or in coals under a lid - “from under a sacha”. French fries are served as a side dish, and coarsely chopped vegetables are served instead of salad. Local delicacy varieties of dried meat "prosciutto", sausages, cheeses and olives - an excellent appetizer for an aperitif.
One of the most popular dishes is “mixed mese”. A large portion for a whole group includes different types of grilled meat, as well as “čevapi” and “pljeskavica” - sausages and cutlets made from minced meat.
Among the wines, the best varieties are considered to be the white “Krstac” and the red “Vranac” produced by the local winery “Plantaže”. The national strong drink, rakija, is made from almost all fruits and berries. Despite the strength and heavy taste, the hops it produces are light and not intoxicating.
Prices are moderate - a heavy dinner in a restaurant with alcohol will cost about 15 EUR per person. Be sure to try the cakes for 1.5-2 EUR in the “poslastichary” confectionery shops.
Entertainment and attractions
Podgorica suffered greatly during World War II, so there are few historical attractions here. Almost all of them are located in the Old Town (Stara Varos) and can be explored on foot. Ancient mosques and churches have been preserved. The most famous of them is the 10th century Church of St. George at the foot of Mount Gorica (Decembar, 19). Despite numerous reconstructions, it remained almost in its original form, even the frescoes by an unknown master were practically undamaged.
The symbol of the city is the Millennium Bridge, or the Millennium Bridge, connecting the banks of the Moraca River, the Old and New Town. It is especially beautiful at night, when the lights turn on along the entire length of the structure.
Among Russian tourists, the monuments to Pushkin (Njegoseva, 2) and Vladimir Vysotsky (Jovana Tomasevica) are popular. The latter loved Montenegro very much and dedicated several poems to it. A 5-meter figure of the artist with a guitar in hand stands on a mirror pedestal. Lines from a poem about the country in Russian and Serbian are carved on it, and at the foot lies a bronze skull - in memory of Hamlet, brilliantly performed by Vysotsky.
The clock on the façade of the Clock Tower in the Stara Varoš quarter has been showing the time for 250 years.
The City Museum of Podgorica (office site in English) preserves the rich historical heritage of these places - it displays artifacts dating back to the Roman and Illyrian eras. You can feel the ancient spirit of the city by walking along the pedestrian street Hercegovacka pesacka ulica. The most romantic place is considered to be the old stone bridge over Ribnica. In summer there is an open concert venue, and the river bank turns into a beach.
In Podgorica, tourists can go through an exciting quest - find and take pictures with giant transformers. 7 scrap metal statues by Danilo Baletic are scattered around the city.
Outside the capital there are also several interesting places. Eco-complex “Plavnica” (office site) stands on the shore of Lake Skadar. People come here to fish, ride catamarans, swim in the pool and taste the signature dish “Skadar style carp” in the ship restaurant. 13 km from Podgorica, in the village of Medun, there are the ruins of the ancient city of Meteon (3rd century BC) with an acropolis and fortress walls. Another attraction is the Museum of Writer Marko Miljanov (Medun bb), which displays an ethnographic collection telling about the life of Montenegrins in the 19th century.
Little tourists will be interested in visiting the petting zoo 14 km from Podgorica in the village of Blizna (drive along the Podgorica-Kolašin highway and 10 km from the capital, follow the sign for a country road). It is also a shelter for animals in difficult situations. Therefore, the composition of the inhabitants there is always different - after treatment and restoration of animals, zoos are dismantled. Here you can interact with deer, wild boars, ostriches, llamas, foxes and even bear cubs and wolf cubs, as well as numerous almost tame birds.
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