This is one of the easiest of these posts I have written. And that is because everything I have seen here has been free! With so few places to visit, I have not encountered one single entrance fee into any of them. Imagine that! A European capital city that has so few tourists, there are no queues or entrance fees. Here are 5 free things to do in Podgorica Montenegro that are not the typical ones you will see on a google search.
Jusovaca Prison
Named after the commander of the Turkish Police Force, this prison has a very silent history. It began life as a field space for drill training by the Turkish soldiers in the 19th century.
At one time it was housing 1500-2000 inmates both male and female. Conditions inside are said to have been horrific. Depending on the ruling party, at times it was used as a holding place until the prisoners were removed and shot. The prison eventually closed in the 1980’s after a new one was constructed just outside of the city. To see Jusovaca, simply head into Old Town, it is on the way and very close to the train and bus stations.
I remained on the outside of the complex and suggest visitors do the same. There is a way to get in, however there are people squatting inside some of the buildings and hazardous walking conditions.
Gorica Hill
A beautiful park located right in the centre of the city. This large green space is a haven for recreation lovers of all types. Find a series of paved paths and even hiking trails through the pine forest.
Even in this most driest of summer months, I regularly see flowers, wild fruit trees and even local wild tortoises! Whether you are an avid walker, enjoy a good run or even a bike ride, this park is the perfect respite from the city.
National Museum & Gallery
Completely free to enter, this large building located next to the Ribnica River showcases the history of the city and some beautiful pieces of art. Divided into two sections, the large museum space will take visitors from prehistoric times through to more recent events. Included is an ethnographic section too.
The Art Gallery has a great representation from Montenegrin artists. Many pieces are thought provoking and reflect the countries turbulent and recent past.
Market
The perfect place to get a feel for any destination will be its markets. The large one in Podgorica, called Trznice i Pijace, is the place to be to see what is available and in season. Find all sorts of local eats including the home-made alcoholic drink called Rakija and beautiful fresh olive oil.
Watch as the locals purchase fresh cheese made in wooden barrels, cured meats and all sorts of dried nuts and fruits. A special sight is at the bakery where the burek is created right in front of your eyes.
Karver Bookstore
Located at an underpass at the Ribnica River, the building used to be a Turkish bathhouse used during the Ottoman Era. Today it has been repurposed in to a bookstore on one side and a café/bar on the other.
Head inside the store and see the domed ceiling and architecture of this lovely old building. Back outside now, enjoy a heavy dose of the local street art and graffiti. Walk down to the river and take in the peaceful surrounds.
For a place that is often dubbed Europe’s most boring capital city, there are a few things to do here and all are free! I have spent considerable time this summer, exploring the streets and burbs. I can count on two hands, the number of tourists I have seen. For this reason alone, Podgorica is marvelous, untouched, authentic.
