Tourist attractions in Montenegro’s capital are located in two main areas: Stara Varos (Old Town) and Nova Varos (New Town).
In Podgorica’s Old Town, the main landmarks are the National History Museum, the 17th-century clock tower, Depedogen Castle, and Ljubovic Park, where you can get a bird’s eye view of the city.
The New Town starts north of Depedogen Castle, past King’s Park and the bridge over the Ribnica River. At the heart of the New Town is Independence Square, a large public square framed by government buildings, the city’s main art gallery and Montenegro’s National Library. Other sites of interest include Podgorica’s Museum and the riverside beach next to the Millennium Bridge.
Podgorica’s New Town continues west of the bridge. Here you can visit the impressive Orthodox cathedral, known for its elaborate interior and frescoes, or take a free guided tour of the art gallery in Petrovic Castle, a former royal residence situated among beautifully landscaped gardens.
Podgorica’s central location makes it an ideal base for driving tours and day trips around this compact country. A 30-minute drive takes you to Skadar Lake, a popular weekend getaway for locals and a great place to discover Montenegro’s natural heritage. The area surrounding the lake is dotted with old monasteries, vast forested areas, lakeside beaches and scenic viewpoints.
If you’re travelling with the family, you can arrange a spacious car or van hire in Podgorica and go on day trips to Montenegro’s most famous coastal towns. Bar, Budva and Kotor are all within a 1.5-hour drive from Podgorica. Don’t forget to include Lovcen National Park in your itinerary. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea.
Montenegro has a strong cafe culture, and there’s nowhere better than its capital city to experience it first-hand. There’s a good selection of cafes and restaurants near Independence Square.
Slobode and Njegoseva streets are the city’s prime shopping area, and if you don’t find what you’re looking for here, you’ll find it in Podgorica’s largest shopping centres, Big City, Mall of Montenegro and City Mall.
In terms of cultural events, regular concerts and theatre performances are held at Montenegro’s National Theatre and at the Musical Centre of Montenegro.