You can read about my previous trip to Tirana in Albania here.
Traveling from Tirana in Albania to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, takes about five hours by bus.
Since this route crosses a national border in the Balkan Peninsula, there is a passport check along the way. It can take some time depending on the situation, but overall the journey is relatively smooth and stress free.
The trip itself takes around five hours, and at this point in the journey I started to feel travel fatigue building up.
Along the way, I was able to catch a glimpse of Rozafa Castle from the bus window. If you sit on the right side, you can see it clearly. This castle is located in Shkoder and is said to have over two thousand years of history, making it a great spot to feel the depth of Balkan history.
Eventually, I arrived at the bus terminal in Podgorica.
However, Podgorica is sometimes referred to as the ugliest capital in Europe, and it is known for being quite plain as a tourist destination.
Heading to the Accommodation
For this trip, I booked a place called Milena on booking.com and stayed for five nights.
The total cost was about fifty euros for five nights, which is extremely affordable.
The goal of this stay was to leave my suitcase in one place and take short trips to Budva and Kotor. I was traveling with a twenty kilogram suitcase, and I wanted to temporarily store it somewhere so I could move around more easily.
One mistake I made was choosing a place that was too far from the bus terminal.
Public transportation in Podgorica can be a bit confusing, and payment is usually made in cash, around one dollar per ride. If you are not used to it, it can be slightly stressful.
To reach this accommodation, you need to take bus number twenty one.
👉 Conclusion
Unless you have a specific reason, it is better to stay near the bus terminal.
When I arrived at the accommodation, several cats welcomed me. The Balkans are full of cats, and they are one of the small but memorable joys of walking around the city.
Exploring Podgorica
Podgorica is surprisingly spread out, so walking around can be tiring. However, the main attractions can be covered in just one day.
Ribnica Bridge
A historic stone bridge located in the old town area called Stara Varos. It is believed to have been built during the Ottoman period, and the surrounding area is peaceful and perfect for a walk.
View on Google Maps
Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ
One of the largest Orthodox churches in Montenegro. The exterior is impressive, and the interior features stunning golden decorations. It is a must visit for anyone interested in religious architecture.
View on Google Maps
Millennium Bridge
A modern bridge completed in 2005 and one of the few iconic landmarks in Podgorica.
View on Google Maps
Church of St George
One of the oldest churches in Podgorica, located at the foot of Gorica Hill. It is said to have been built over one thousand years ago, and inside you can find beautiful medieval frescoes.
This is one of the must visit spots in the city.
View on Google Maps
Mall of Montenegro
A large shopping complex in the city. It feels less like a typical mall and more like a local market experience, where you can get a sense of everyday life.
It is also a great place for souvenir hunting.
View on Google Maps
Podgorica Clock Tower
A historical structure from the Ottoman period built in 1667. It is about nineteen meters tall and serves as a landmark in the old town area.
View on Google Maps
Food in Podgorica
I had dinner at a restaurant called Corto Maltese.
It is known for pizza, but I ordered Karadjordjeva schnitzel, which I had previously tried in Serbia and loved.
This dish is like a breaded meat cutlet wrapped with cheese, and it is one of the signature dishes of the Balkans. I liked it so much that I kept craving it.
I also ordered a local Montenegrin lager beer called Niksicko.
View on Google Maps
The combination of the food and local beer was excellent, making it one of the best dining experiences in Montenegro.
Final Thoughts
Podgorica is often described as a capital with nothing to see, but after visiting, I found that it has its own quiet charm.
Calm and relaxed atmosphere
Low cost of living, ideal for longer stays
Great access to other Balkan destinations
While it may not be flashy as a tourist destination, its value as a transit hub is very high.
In particular, it is a perfect base for short trips to:
Budva
Kotor
If you are traveling slowly through the Balkans, it is actually worth staying here for a few days.
Next, I will be heading to Budva and Kotor.
