Podgorica is an often overlooked, inexpensive gem in the Balkans, where the sheer variety of experiences on offer makes it a must-visit destination on your Montenegro itinerary. Situated inland, this vibrant city is an excellent base for access the surrounding mountains of the north, the lake districts to the south and the Adriatic coast to the west.
Priority Pass with Wizz Air is essentially first class for budget airlines, and it saved me a lot of time on an early morning flight to Podgorica. Sadly, there are no public transport links aside from a train station just over 1km from the terminal building.
Upstairs, you can view a permanent collection of pieces; downstairs, you can see contemporary masterpieces, including notable works by the celebrated artist Peter Lubarda. Originally built as a hammam during Ottoman rule, the building underwent significant transformations, including the removal of its two domes to make way for the bridge construction you now see overhead.
Today, you can browse through collections of both old and new literature in the former-hammam-now-bookstore and enjoy a wonderful coffee outside along the river. If you plan on taking lots of dips, bringing some aqua shoes is a good idea, as broken glass can be found on the shoreline. Remarkably, this house was one of the few structures that remained unscathed during the bombings of World War II — still to this day, no one knows why it was spared.
The square edges are also filled with bars and cafes — perfect for people-watching! The festival has food stalls, live performances and the chance to try over 50 kinds of craft beers and meet passionate brewers through interactive workshops where you can learn about the beer-making process.
