10 Best Things to Do in Podgorica

Njegošev Park overlooking the Moraca River is where you can take in the early morning tranquillity of Podgorica. The peaceful park sits in between Podgorica’s 3 main river crossings so provides a good starting point for exploring the city.

Take a stroll between the pine trees to the cafe in the middle of the park where you’ll find locals ordering strong coffee; it’ll give you the boost you need to explore the rest of the city.

Old Ribnica River Bridge is the crown jewel of Podgorica and the Ribnica River. The river itself winds its way gently through the leafier northern part of the old town. It’s well worth a stroll from Park Forest Gorica, the largest park in the city, down to the Ribnica and along its tree-lined banks. You’ll twist your way through King’s Park and hear the birds tweeting before reaching the monument to King Nikola.

Along the route, you’ll eventually arrive at the old bridge. The ancient Roman bridge crosses the Ribnica at its mouth to its bigger brother, the Moraca. The meeting of the 2 rivers and ancient blocky stones that form the structure makes for some great photo opportunities.

Independence Square is one of Podgorica's most lively hubs. It’s also the centre of the city's arts scene, bordered by both the National Library and Al Galerija art gallery. The square is lined with palm trees and benches, with a sparkling fountain in the centre. Vučedolska Street to the south and Slobode Street to the east are both popular shopping destinations.

At night, Independence Square is lit up in bright colours and filled with people socialising in the surrounding bars and cafés. Concerts and other performances are regularly hosted here, as is Podgorica's festive Christmas market.

The Podgorica clock tower stands tall to this day in spite of the rigorous bombing that pounded Podgorica in the Second World War. It’s one of the only remaining relics from the times of the Ottoman Empire so provides an interesting contrast to the modern architecture of the city. Standing at 16 metres tall it also provides a good meeting point for an afternoon drink.

The iconic monument and testament to Islamic architecture can be found in the hub of the bustling Old Town. Don’t be mad if it’s not keeping perfect time, it’s over 300 years old!

Waterfall Niagara Podgorica (Vodopad Nijagara) is a very pretty series of waterfalls just outside the city of Podgorica. A major waterfall cascades over a dam, surrounded by lots of smaller falls formed by the erosion of the limestone rock into strange shapes. The best views are from the boulders, which form a narrow crevasse right in front of the falls.

It's a very peaceful area, surrounded by farmland and a sprawling landscape of vineyards which produce a type of red wine called Vranac. Restoran Niagara serves traditional Montenegrin cuisine in a rustic stone dining room with views of the river. Vodopad Nijagara is at its most sensational in spring.

The Dajbabe Monastery is a working cloister first established in the late 19th century. The modest porticoed stone building is surrounded by tranquil gardens with local olive and cypress trees. Beneath the monastery, a secret cave contains an Orthodox church covered in religious frescoes painted by the founder of the monastery.

The frescoes of prophets, religious figures and local saints cover the whole cave, following the natural shape of the stone. Look above you to see a fine painting of Christ and the Virgin Mary adorning the dome. The church also houses several religious icons and a shroud dating back to the 10th century.

Lake Skadar is a large freshwater lake just a half-hour’s drive south of Podgorica. Legend has it that the dolphin-shaped was created from the tears of a crying pixie – a magical description well earned by its enchanting beauty. The lake is part of a national park that’s teeming with wildlife and stunning, photo-worthy vistas.

The lake is about 25 km to the south of Podgorica and is well connected to the city centre by the highway. Your best bet is to get a cab down there, enjoy the sights and sounds of the wildlife, treat yourself to a locally sourced seafood lunch and get back to Podgorica before sundown.

The Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ is a Serbian Orthodox cathedral that took around 20 years to build. It’s striking and unusual inside and out. While the towers and higher levels are intricately carved marble, the ground level is more akin to an ancient city stone wall.

The inside brings more intrigue, every surface adorned with colourful, provocative imagery including one painting showing Karl Marx burning in hell!

The Mall of Montenegro in Podgorica combines brand-name shopping with fresh produce. It’s an interesting place for those looking to soak up the real, local culture. Inside the striking circular building, you’ll find all the local and international brands you could ask for as well as a pool hall and bustling fresh produce market. 

Visit the mall in the early afternoon on a weekday to avoid crowds or on a Saturday morning to see Mall of Montenegro at its busiest.