The Djurdjevica Tara bridge spans the Tara Canyon 172 meters above the river in northern Montenegro. This reinforced concrete structure with five arches was built in the late 1930s and connects the villages of Trešnjica and Budečevica on the Žabljak–Pljevlja road. Beyond its dramatic silhouette, the site blends World War II history, views over the world's second-deepest gorge, and adventure activities (zip-lining, rafting, bungee jumping).

Why visit Djurdjevica Tara bridge

The site offers several compelling reasons for a visit, especially if you combine it with the nearby Durmitor National Park:

• A landmark of engineering history: upon completion, it was the most significant concrete structure of its kind on the European continent.
• An exceptional panorama over the Tara Canyon, which plunges to 1,333 m, the world's second-deepest gorge after the Grand Canyon.
• A living memory of World War II, with the story of engineer Lazar Jauković.
• Adventure activities on the bridge and in the gorge: zip-lining, rafting on the Tara, canyoning.

Bridge history

The bridge was constructed between 1937 and 1940 during the Kingdom of Yugoslavia period, designed by engineer Mijat Trojanović. The goal was to open up isolated areas in the Durmitor region by crossing the Tara Gorge. To build the five concrete arches, teams erected a wooden scaffold whose dimensions still hold a world record for this type of construction.

Upon opening, the structure was the most significant concrete work of its kind in Europe. World War II soon caught up with the bridge. In 1942, to slow the advance of Axis forces, Yugoslav command ordered its destruction. The mission fell to civil engineer Lazar Jauković, who had participated in its construction. He demolished the small final arch on the left bank, just enough to render the structure impassable. Captured shortly after by the Italians, who discovered his role, he was executed on the bridge itself.

The structure was restored between 1945 and 1946. A monument to Lazar Jauković's memory was erected near the site. The bridge also served as a film set for The Wild Geese (1978), featuring Edward Fox and Harrison Ford.

What to see and do here

The bridge and its viewpoints

The structure measures approximately 365 meters long and rests on five arches, with the central one spanning the river. Several viewpoints at either end allow you to grasp the true scale of the structure and the depth of the gorge. On the north bank, café terraces offer stunning views over the Tara, nicknamed "the tears of Europe" for the clarity of its waters.

Zip-lining over the Tara

A zip-line crosses the canyon from a platform approximately 170 meters above the river. The cable exceeds 800 meters in length and speed can reach 50 km/h depending on conditions. Several operators offer solo or tandem departures, in seated or horizontal position. Allow a few minutes for the crossing itself, and 30 to 45 minutes total with equipment and return.

Rafting on the Tara

The rafting season runs from May to October, with rapids at their peak in May and June during snowmelt. The most accessible sections suit beginners, while upper sections with more technical difficulty require some experience. Departures typically occur from Šćepan Polje, approximately one hour from the bridge. Several agencies also offer packages combining transfers from Žabljak or the coast.

Practical information

• Location: between Trešnjica and Budečevica, on the Žabljak–Pljevlja road, in northern Montenegro.
• Bridge access: free and open. Parking immediately nearby.
• Paid activities: zip-lining, rafting and bungee jumping managed by private operators, moderate rates payable on site.
• Visit duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour for the bridge and viewpoints; allow a half-day if you add zip-lining, a full day with rafting.
• Equipment: closed-toe shoes, windbreaker (it's always cooler on the bridge than in the valley).

When to visit

Average temperatures in the canyon region range from 3°C in January to approximately 26°C in July. Rainfall is notable in June, September and November. The most favorable period extends from May through September: roads are clear, activities are operational and light flatters the gorge. May and June are ideal for rafting, July and August for swimming in the Tara, September for autumn colors and fewer crowds. In winter, the bridge remains accessible but adventure activities are closed and the road may be snow-covered.

How to get there

The bridge sits on the main axis Žabljak–Pljevlja (road P5/P14 depending on the section).

• From Žabljak: approximately 23 km, 30 to 40 minutes by car via the road descending the canyon.
• From Podgorica: approximately 130 km, 2.5 to 3 hours via Mojkovac.
• From Budva or Kotor: 4 to 5 hours' drive, passing through Podgorica then Mojkovac.
• From Serbia: via the Šćepan Polje border crossing or through Pljevlja.

A rental car remains the most practical option. Organized excursions from Žabljak, Podgorica and the coast often combine the bridge, canyon and Durmitor National Park.

Nearby attractions

• Durmitor National Park: limestone massif listed as UNESCO heritage, Black Lake, hiking trails and peaks exceeding 2,500 m. Žabljak is its main gateway.
• Biogradska Gora National Park: one of Europe's last primary forests, around Biograd Lake, approximately 1.5 hours' drive away.
• Morača Monastery: 13th-century Orthodox monastery with remarkable frescoes, on the route between Podgorica and the canyon.

Frequently asked questions

Planning your trip

Djurdjevica Tara bridge fits naturally into a circuit through northern Montenegro, with Žabljak, Durmitor and Tara Canyon as main axes. To go further, consult our Montenegro travel ideas and build the itinerary that suits you.