Montenegro has a typical Mediterranean climate. The best time to visit Podgorica is during the spring and autumn months, as summers are particularly hot and dry and the country is swamped with tourists. Going there in the winter may also be worthwhile as the weather during that time of the year is much milder compared to the other Balkan capitals.
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By Air
Podgorica’s airport, Golubovici, is located 12 kilometres from the city. The Montenegro Airlines connect Podgorica with some major Western European destinations and Belgrade and Skopje. Other airlines also fly to and from the city, linking it to Moscow and European capitals. During the tourist season, there are numerous charter flights to Podgorica.
By Rail
Podgorica’s train station is in the centre of town. The city is connected by rail to other towns in Montenegro and to Belgrade and from there to other destinations in the Balkans and Western Europe. Despite the habitual lateness of trains, the ride from Podgorica to Belgrade offers stunning views. Train fares are quite cheap but keep in mind that there is little difference between first and second class carriages apart from the price. The so-called business trains are a bit pricier but also of better quality than normal trains.
By Road
The roads in Montenegro are not in very good shape, similarly to most of the Balkans, though plans to construct modern highways are in place. The E-65 and E-80 roads connect Podgorica to Belgrade and Central Europe and the Adriatic Coast via extremely difficult mountainous terrain. The E-762 connects the town with Bosnia, Albania and Western Europe. The city is linked to other towns in Montenegro and throughout the Balkans by a relatively well-developed and reliable bus network.
Where to stay
Podgorica offers different types of accommodation. There are still some state-owned hotels in the city but also many private ones have sprung up in recent years. Some of the big, businessmen-oriented hotels in Montenegro’s capital are quite pricey, but decent accommodation could also be found at more reasonable prices.
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Where to eat
Montenegrin cuisine can be divided into two basic types: Mediterranean and continental.
Though not directly located on the coast, Podgorica’s proximity to the Adriaric Sea means that fresh and tasty seafood is served in many of the city’s restaurants. In addition, the nearby Skadar Lake offers access to sweet water fish as well. Be sure to try kajmak – a favorite among Montenegrins and keep in mind that meat is almost a staple. Podgorica’s numerous cafés serve pizza, which is a good and cheap options if you’re on a budget or in a hurry.
