Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro. It's an undiscovered city for many travelers. Lots of tourists skip it, but there are plenty of sights to see and activities to do here.
The city is easy to navigate on foot, and the people are friendly. Podgorica is not too busy in the summer, for example, so you can enjoy yourself and unwind.
If you would prefer to see more and go around the city, then it is recommended that you rent a car in Podgorica and travel around the nearby areas.
Explore the Old Town
Begin your visit in the historic old town, known as “Stara Varos”. This area is full of history. You can walk along narrow streets and see old Ottoman buildings. The Sahat Kula, a Turkish clock tower, stands tall in a small square. There are also mosques and an old bridge. The Old Ribnica River Bridge is a special spot. It is peaceful and perfect for photos. Many locals come here to relax by the water; this place is also called “Skaline.”
Enjoy Beautiful Parks in Podgorica
City parks in Podgorica are very popular destinations for locals and tourists, especially during spring and fall when the entire city is in bloom.
Gorica Park is just a few minutes from the city center. It is great for walking, jogging, or having a picnic. It’s the most popular place for locals. There is even an adventure park for kids and some coffee bars to enjoy time.
Njegosev Park is another lovely place. It sits by the Moraca River and is full of tall trees. These parks are perfect for a break from city life. In summer, you will see families and friends enjoying the shade and fresh air.
Visit Stunning Churches
Some of the places not to miss in Podgorica are the Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja and the church of St. Georgie. This large Orthodox church is impressive both inside and out. The details on the walls and ceilings are amazing. It is a peaceful place, and many visitors light candles here.
The church is a symbol of the city. There are also smaller, older churches to find, like St. George, at the entrance to Gorica Park, which dates back to the 12th century.
See the Waterfall Niagara
Just outside the city, with a 10-minute drive, you can find the Niagara Waterfall. It is not very big, but it is beautiful and easy to reach. The waterfall is on the Cijevna River, or for locals, “Cemi”.
Locals love to visit, especially on hot days. There is a small restaurant next to the river where you can try local food. If you have a car, it is very easy to get here. This is why many visitors choose car rental at Podgorica airport for their trip, so they can continue their journey smoothly.
Try Local Food and Coffee
Food in Podgorica is tasty and affordable. There are many cafes and restaurants, especially on Bokeska Street. This street is famous for its lively atmosphere. You can try grilled meats, fresh bread, and local cheese in a restaurant like “Gostiona 1928”.
People love to sit and chat over a cup of strong coffee. It is a great way to experience daily life in Montenegro. Don’t forget to try some local wine from Crmnica, as the region is known for its vineyards.
Take Day Trips Around Podgorica
Podgorica is a great starting point for exploring Montenegro. The city is close to many beautiful places. Skadar Lake National Park is only a 25-minute drive away.
It is the largest lake in Southern Europe and perfect for boat trips and bird watching. You can enjoy boat tours for 20 EUR per person during summer.
You can also visit the historic town of Cetinje or the coastal city of Bar. If you rent a car in Podgorica, you can reach these places easily and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace.
Why Rent a Car in Podgorica?
Public transportation in Podgorica is limited. That is why many tourists choose to rent a car at Podgorica airport. With a car, you can visit more places and save time.
Prices at Respecta car are affordable, with some great summer and winter deals if you book in advance. The most popular cars are compact and economy models, which are easy to drive and park in the city; however, if you are planning a mountain visit, we recommend a higher class, like an SUV.
When you rent a car in Podgorica, make sure you have your driver’s license and a credit card. More information you can find in our FAQ section.
You can choose from different car types, including automatic and manual. We offer free cancellation and unlimited mileage with a no-deposit required policy. It is easy to pick up your car at the airport and return it before your flight. Renting a car is the best way to see all that Podgorica and Montenegro have to offer.
Final Thoughts
Podgorica definitely is not the most popular city in Europe, but it has a lot to offer. From historic sites to beautiful parks and tasty food, we are sure you will find something to love in our town. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore both the city and the surrounding countryside. Whether you are here for a few days or a week.