A CALM CITY WITHOUT MUCH TO OFFER TOURISTS

Podgorica is sometimes called the most boring capital in Europe; based on my sample, that seems like a fair assessment. Mostly destroyed during WW2, Podgorica was rebuilt largely during communist Yugoslavia. The result is a city of brutalist architecture that feels uninspired - livable but dull.

If you find yourself in Podgorica, it’s most likely as the entry point into Montenegro on your way to its coast. Unless you’re looking to do some shopping, my best advice is to just head right to your next destination. If you do find yourself in the city for a while, check out the outpost around Old Ribinica River Bridge - one of the few preserved historical areas of the city and, in my opinion, the most charmed. There are also a few things just outside of the city to keep yourself busy.

CHECK OUT DOCLEA RUINS

A few miles outside of Podgorica, you can walk through ruins of a 2,000 year old Roman town - Doclea (or Dukjla in Montenegrin). While not particularly impressive and stripped of its artifacts (which are on display in the Podgorica Museum), it offers a unique opportunity to freely walk around Roman ruins alone and unguarded. That, itself, is pretty cool.

HEAD TO THEIR NIAGARA FALLS

About six miles out of the city, you can find several swimming nooks and a unique waterfall along the Cemi River. While called Niagara Falls - it’s not nearly as impressive as the one in the United States and Canada. It’s cool, though - with the water plunging underneath the rocks you can stand on - and a stream above the river sending small cascades down along the river’s side for about 200 feet. Plus, if you’re a flea market person, you can stop at Stocna Pijaca Podgorica about halfway to the waterfall.