Podgorica
Podgorica, Montenegroβs capital, is located in the south of the country, a mere 30 kilometres from the Albanian border. Itβs not a city renowned for its architecture or atmosphere. Streets are lined with brutalist tower blocks and new mall developments. But scratch beneath the surface and youβll discover a buzzing nightlife, interesting art galleries and a rich culinary and cultural history.
Stara Varos, the cityβs old town, was built by Ottoman Turks and still maintains traces of its architecture. The recently restored OsmanagiΔ Mosque is one of the areaβs most picturesque buildings. PetroviΔ Palace β the former home of Montenegroβs ruling family β is also worth a trip. The pink mansion is set within landscaped gardens and houses an art gallery showcasing art from Yugoslavia and beyond. Head down to the Ribnica River to check out the remains of a fifth century Roman settlement, with a bridge renovated under Ottoman rule.
A popular outing is to Plantazeβs Cemovsko Polije Vineyard (Montenegroβs largest wine producer). Visitors can tour the vineyard on a miniature train and taste wines with local canapes of marinated carp and prosciutto from Njegusi village.
The city is also an ideal base to explore Montenegro, with plenty of stunning natural scenery within easy reach. The dreamy Lake Skadar is just a 20-minute drive away. This vast body of water is surrounded by forested hills, the shores dotted with quiet beaches and timeworn villages. As a protected area, itβs one of Europeβs top habitats for birds.