Geographically speaking, Montenegro's capital enjoys a privileged position nestled between rivers, lake, sea, and mountain. The Ribnica and Moraca rivers flow through Podgorica, and the renowned Lake Skadar lies just fifteen kilometres from the city. To the south, the Adriatic Sea offers beautiful beaches, while inland, the peaks of the Dinaric Alps beckon hikers.

Podgorica's architecture is as varied as its turbulent past. Ultimately, travelers of all types will find something here, whether seeking seaside pleasures, a city break, or a mountain retreat.

History

The settlement was a caravan stop during Roman times, recorded under the name Birziminium. Becoming a feudal capital in the early Middle Ages, it was called Ribnica, then Podgorica from 1326 onwards. The Ottomans captured the city in 1474 and left an indelible architectural imprint throughout their rule. Montenegro reclaimed Podgorica only in 1878.

Between 1916 and 1943, Podgorica passed into the hands of the Austrians, Italians, and Germans. World War II combat destroyed much of the city, leaving standing only a few monuments including a mosque and the Clock Tower erected by the Turks at the end of the eighteenth century. Podgorica during the post-war communist period was renamed Titograd, in honour of Josip Broz Tito, President of the Federal Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia. It regained its former name only in 1992, when communism collapsed across Europe.

Following the dissolution of Yugoslavia, Montenegro and Serbia formed an ephemeral state with Belgrade as its capital. Podgorica was somewhat sidelined until Montenegro's declaration of independence in 2006, from which point it assumed the title of capital.

Discovering Podgorica

While not Montenegro's top tourist destination, Podgorica is certainly worth visiting for its privileged location and history. The city is in the process of forging its identity, and its former occupants have left it with a melting pot of architectural styles, sometimes charming, sometimes ambivalent.

In the old town, buildings of Turkish inspiration dominate the views. Visit the two mosques, then wander through the narrow streets laid out during the Ottoman period. When Montenegro joined Tito's Yugoslavia, Podgorica—heavily damaged by the Second World War—underwent an architectural renaissance. The brutalist style took hold. Built in 1969, the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the Konik district is a striking example. A few modern projects are emerging, and glass and steel increasingly feature in construction throughout the 1990s.

The epicentre of hype in Podgorica is today Capital Plaza, very recent, opened in 2015. A relaxation destination with an extensive collection of shops, restaurants, and sports facilities, it's also a business hub. Here and there, green spaces bring freshness to the capital's landscape. The old Ribnica bridge is a lovely place to catch your breath, while Gorica Park in the north of the city offers a multitude of activities (tree-top courses, zip-lines, climbing, etc.).

Going Out in Podgorica

Whether you're looking for a bar to unwind at the end of the day or a clubbing atmosphere at night, Podgorica has plenty of options. Note, however, that music is limited until 1am in outdoor establishments. If you wish to extend your night beyond this hour, head towards the underground clubs. Among other popular spots, you have Skaline, Tantra, and Switch Cafe.

The performance halls and theatres offer regular and eclectic programming. Crnogorsko Narodno, Dodest, and Gradsko are the main meeting points. Within and around the city, cultural and historical monuments offer an enchanted break: Sahat-kula Adzi-pasa, Stara Varos, Osmanagica, the Nemanjica ruins...

Shopping Moment

Podgorica's residents have refined taste when it comes to fashion, and the city's shopping centres know how to match it. From shoes to evening wear, via everyday casual clothing, the catalogue is extensive in the shops of Mall of Montenegro, Bazar, or Delta City Mall.

For groceries and provisions, you'll find everything you need at the main green market. You'll have every opportunity to fill your basket with local products: cheeses, fruits and vegetables, fish... and at prices far more affordable than in supermarkets.

Practical Information

Climate in Podgorica

Montenegro generally enjoys hot and sunny weather, alternating with mild winters on the coast and harsh winters in mountainous areas. The capital inherits a slightly more humid and subtropical climate. Summer lasts just one month. Despite its location some thirty kilometres from the Adriatic Sea, Podgorica is little influenced by the coastal climate, being protected by the natural barrier formed by Mount Rumija.

By train

Train travel to Podgorica is an exciting experience, with breathtaking views, whether via Belgrade, Budapest, or Munich.

By air

Flight is the most convenient option for reaching Podgorica from France. The local airport regularly welcomes flights from Montenegro's national airline Montenegro Airlines. From Paris, two direct flights serve the Montenegrin capital weekly during low season. In summer, there are at least six departures. Montenegro Airlines also operates a connection from Lyon during the summer season. To enhance your journey, choose a flight with a stopover via Vienna or Belgrade.

For getting around Podgorica, you have shuttles available that function like public transport across the neighbourhoods. Taxis are also plentiful in the capital.

What to Do in Podgorica?

• Stroll through the old town and admire Ottoman architecture
• Visit Capital Plaza, the city's trendiest destination
• Attend a play or musical at Crnogorsko Narodno
• Hunt for fashionable clothing or souvenir items in Delta City Mall's shops
• Organize an excursion to Lake Skadar, and more.