Podgorica

Podgorica is the largest city and capital of Montenegro. It lies at the confluence of the Morača and Ribnica rivers and is located 40 kilometres from the sea. The city centre includes the Old Town – Stara Varoš, where you can find many historic buildings from the time when Montenegro was part of the powerful Ottoman Empire. The city also attracts visitors with its pleasant atmosphere, restaurants and cafés. From Podgorica, you can also travel to well-known seaside resorts. The most famous include Budva, Bar, Kotor, Petrovac and others. Each of them is different, but they will surprise you with beautiful beaches, favourable prices and an unmistakable Balkan atmosphere.

Flights from Bratislava

You can fly to Podgorica with direct flights from Bratislava. The air connection to the capital of Montenegro is operated by Wizz Air as well as Air Montenegro. The flight from Bratislava to Podgorica takes less than 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Podgorica Airport is located approximately 11 km from the city centre.

Transport from the airport

• Taxi / private transport – from Podgorica Airport, you can reach the city centre comfortably by taxi or private transfer. The journey takes approximately 12–20 minutes and the taxi fare is usually around €15.
• Train – it is also possible to use the train connection from the airport. The railway stop is located near the airport and the train will take you to Podgorica, from where the centre is accessible on foot or by local transport. This is a budget-friendly option, with tickets costing approximately €1.20–2.
• Bus – bus transport is also available, although services may run less frequently. The bus is among the cheaper transport options from the airport to the city.
• Transfer / shuttle – you can also use pre-booked private or shared transfers directly to your hotel, which is practical especially when arriving later, travelling with larger luggage or continuing to other cities in Montenegro.
• Car rental – you can rent a car directly at the airport. This is an ideal option if you plan to visit the coast, Lake Skadar, Budva, Kotor, Bar, Petrovac or the mountain areas of Montenegro.

What not to miss in Podgorica and the surrounding area

When visiting Podgorica and the surrounding area, you should definitely not miss these places and experiences:

• Stara Varoš Old Town – the historic part of Podgorica with an Ottoman atmosphere, narrow streets and traditional architecture.
• Millennium Bridge – a modern symbol of the city over the Morača River.
• Morača River and Morača Canyon – a natural landmark of the city and its surroundings, suitable for walks and trips.
• Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ – an impressive Orthodox cathedral and one of the most striking buildings in Podgorica.
• Ribnica and the old stone bridge – a romantic historic site at the confluence of the Ribnica and Morača rivers.
• Lake Skadar – the largest lake in the Balkans, ideal for a boat trip, birdwatching and discovering nature.
• Budva – a popular seaside resort with a historic centre, beaches and a lively holiday atmosphere.
• Kotor – a beautiful town in the Bay of Kotor, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Montenegrin gastronomy – taste ćevapi, burek, pljeskavica, cheeses, prosciutto, fresh fish, local wines and traditional Balkan coffee.

Did you know?

Podgorica is an excellent starting point for discovering the whole of Montenegro – you can reach the mountains, the lake and the sea within a single trip. When planning journeys outside the city, it is worth renting a car, as many of the country’s most beautiful places, such as Lake Skadar, Budva and Kotor, are easily accessible from Podgorica.