Statistical data from Monstat for the first three months of 2024 reveal a staggering 53,139 overnight stays in Podgorica, mirroring the record set in 2023. The Tourism Organization of Podgorica (TOP) expresses satisfaction with these results, highlighting the predominance of regional guests from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, North Macedonia, as well as tourists from China, Russia, the UK, Spain, Austria and Germany.
According to Dragan Grnović, the Director of TOP, preliminary April data indicates a potential increase of four to six percent. He credits this projection to promising forecasts from hoteliers and the resurgence of seasonal flights by low-cost carriers, opening up five new routes to Podgorica in April alone.
Undoubtedly, Podgorica’s appeal as a tourist destination is bolstered by its diverse array of events, a facet that TOP continues to enhance. Among these, the Podgorica Spring Fair, scheduled from May 7th to 21st, holds a significant place in the city’s cultural calendar. Featuring performances by renowned regional acts like ABBA Tribute Band and Amira Medunjanin, the fair promises an enriching cultural experience for visitors and locals alike.
Looking beyond entertainment, TOP is actively promoting Podgorica’s potential for various forms of tourism, including wine, religious, excursion and gastronomic tourism. Through initiatives like the Gastro Guide and the Tradition of Taste event, the organization aims to showcase the city’s culinary offerings and position Podgorica as a gastronomic hotspot.
Furthermore, Podgorica is emerging as an eno destination, thanks to collaboration between TOP and the Association of Winemakers. Events like the Podgorica Wine Salon and Open Cellar Days allow tourists to explore local vineyards and savor unique wine offerings, contributing to the city’s growing reputation as a wine destination.
To complement these efforts, TOP is working on establishing an Information, Tasting, and Presentation Center in the renovated building of the former department store “Podgoričanka.” This center will serve as a hub for showcasing regional products, offering tastings, and providing tourists with valuable information, further enriching their experience in Podgorica.
In addition to these initiatives, TOP is addressing infrastructural needs, such as improving tourist bus stops and installing urban beach amenities to enhance the city’s appeal during the summer season. Brochures highlighting MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), active, excursion, religious, and wine tourism are also in the works to attract a diverse range of visitors interested in Podgorica’s offerings.
Overall, Podgorica’s tourism sector is witnessing unprecedented growth, buoyed by strategic planning, diverse events, and innovative promotional efforts led by the Tourism Organization of Podgorica. With a proactive approach and a commitment to excellence, Podgorica is poised to solidify its position as a premier tourist destination in the region.
