Montenegro Shopping and nightlife
Shopping in Montenegro
Montenegro offers a mix of modern shopping experiences and traditional markets, giving visitors the opportunity to find both international brands and unique local products. In cities like Podgorica and Budva, modern shopping centres feature a range of international retailers, fashion boutiques, and electronics stores. These malls also include entertainment options, such as cinemas and cafés, providing a well-rounded shopping experience.
For a more authentic Montenegrin experience, local markets are the place to go. Green markets (pijacas) in cities like Kotor and Herceg Novi offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and regional delicacies, including cheeses, cured meats, and honey. You'll also find bundles of Mountain Tea (Sideritis), a traditional herbal tea known for its soothing properties and distinctive earthy flavour. These bustling markets are also great spots to pick up traditional crafts, from handwoven textiles to artisanal pottery. Bargaining is not a common practice in Montenegro, but friendly negotiation is generally acceptable in local markets.
A visit to the Bay of Kotor region presents opportunities to purchase locally produced olive oil, wines, and liqueurs, particularly from family-run shops and roadside stands. The town of Cetinje is known for its handcrafted souvenirs, including wood carvings and decorative items that reflect the country's cultural heritage.
Shopping hours
Mon-Sat 08:00 to 20:00 (some may shut for siesta between 13:00 to 17:00).
Nightlife in Montenegro
The coastal town of Budva is the undisputed epicentre of the party scene, known for its vibrant beach clubs, open-air discos, and the iconic Top Hill, a hilltop nightclub where international DJs play to crowds under the stars. During the summer months, Budva's coastline comes alive with festivals and beach parties, drawing visitors from across Europe.
In contrast, Kotor offers a more laid-back experience, where cosy bars in the Old Town provide an atmospheric setting for enjoying cocktails amid centuries-old stone walls. Herceg Novi, further along the coast, strikes a balance between lively and relaxed, with its waterfront cafés and charming wine bars perfect for unwinding as the sun sets over Boka Bay.
Inland, Podgorica is steadily building a nightlife scene of its own, with a mix of trendy bars, craft breweries, and live music venues adding a fresh, urban flavour to the capital.
