When is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Podgorica?
The most popular (and therefore most expensive) time to visit Montenegro is in spring, so for the cheapest return flights to Podgorica it is best to avoid this peak season in favour of the winter when the temperatures drop and the crowds disperse. For a compromise between price and weather, visit during autumn before the cold sets in but after the majority of sun-seeking tourists have left.
When is the Best Time to Book your Flight to Podgorica?
We recommend you book your Podgorica flights about three months before departure to ensure the cheapest deals for your desired travel dates. If you’re more flexible, it may be worth holding out for cheap last-minute flights. To achieve full immersion into Montenegrin culture, it’s great to visit during summer or in December, to take advantage of the city’s biggest cultural events, the Podgorica Cultural Summer and the December Arts Scene (DEUS).
Flying to Podgorica Airport (TDG)
Podgorica Airport (TDG), known locally as Golubovci Airport, is one of two international airports serving Montenegro. Located just south of the Montenegrin capital, TDG serves Podgorica and the surrounding region, and is able to handle up to one million passengers per year.
Return flights to Podgorica from the UK are fairly limited and currently only depart from a few major UK airports. The only direct flights are operated by TUI and depart from London Gatwick, Manchester and Birmingham. Turkish Airlines flies from Heathrow, Gatwick and Birmingham, making one stop in Istanbul, while Austrian Airlines and Air Serbia only operate from London Heathrow and stop in Vienna or Belgrade. Ryanair flies to Podgorica from London-Stansted.
On Arrival and Getting Around the Airport
Upon arrival at TDG you’ll be welcomed by a fairly small yet modern airport that is suitably equipped to cater to all kinds of travellers. The old passenger terminal was fully refurbished and an entirely new terminal was built in the early 2000s, resulting in TDG being named the best airport under 1 million passengers in 2007. Within the main passenger terminal you’ll have access to a number of duty-free shops, a cafe, several newsagents, business and VIP lounges and a currency exchange office. There are also ATMs, car rental companies and access to free Wi-Fi.
Getting to the City from Podgorica Airport (TDG)
Podgorica Airport (TDG) is located 11 kilometres south of the city of Podgorica and usually takes no more than 15 minutes to reach by car. When travelling to and from TDG, you have the option of driving, taking the bus or getting a taxi. Several car rental facilities are located within the Arrivals hall, all of which offer a large range of vehicles. There is also a rail route from the airport to the centre of town, although it is seldom used as it is located over one kilometre from the terminal building. With inconsistent bus route information, your best choice is probably to take a taxi or rent a car directly at the airport.
Why Visit Podgorica?
There’s no better word to describe Podgorica than ‘eclectic’- the city is a huge mix of architectural, cultural and historical elements, which is no surprise given the turbulent and unstable history of both the city and the country it is part of. Constantly changing hands from one civilisation to another dating as far back as Stone Age, various parts of Podgorica display trademarks of the Roman, Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and, most recently, Yugoslavian cultures, all of which have helped to shape this hodgepodge capital city.
Its Ottoman roots are clearly visible when visiting Stara Varoš, a neighbourhood that dates back over 400 years and displays some of the city’s Islamic influence. Although heavily bombed during World War II, the charm of this war-torn part of town still radiates. If you prefer to explore beyond the city then make sure to take a day trip out to Niagara Falls, a stunning waterfall on the outskirts of town. Perfect for taking a dip in summertime, relaxing and appreciating some peace and quiet surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Don't Forget Before you Fly
As a UK national it is not necessary to obtain a visa before travelling to Montenegro, unless you plan to stay longer than 90 days. Longer visits will require a visa or temporary residence permit. Either way, your passport only needs to be valid for the duration of your stay, but make sure the border police stamp your passport on arrival to avoid any complications upon your departure.
As an EU member state, Montenegro has the Euro (€) as its official currency. Euros are easily obtainable before arrival or during your stay. Credit cards are also widely accepted.
