Montenegro's second largest city at 630m above sea level
Nikšić, with 72,443 inhabitants and a municipal area of 2,065 km², is territorially the largest municipality in Montenegro and the former Yugoslavia. The city lies in a spacious karst field at 630m above sea level, just 30 km as the crow flies from the Adriatic Sea and 43 km from Durmitor. The city's history stretches from ancient Anagastum and medieval Onogošt to a modern industrial and cultural centre that introduced Montenegro's first brewery, first bank, first ironworks and first theatre. Visitors can look forward to the Cathedral Church of St. Vasilije Ostroski, Carev most, King Nikola's Palace, the archaeological site of Crvena stijena and Lake Krupac — a favourite bathing spot for locals.
Location
Western Montenegro
Municipal Population
72,443
Elevation
630 m
Municipal Area
2,065 km²
Distance to the Sea
30 km
Historical Name
Onogošt / Anagastum
Highlights
Built in 1900 at the initiative of King Nikola, this cathedral church is dedicated to St. Vasilije Ostroski and was erected in memory of Montenegrins and Herzegovinians who fell in the battles for liberation from the Turks in the 19th century. In its immediate vicinity stands the considerably older church of St. Peter and Paul from the 15th century, and around it are preserved stećci — medieval stone tombstones decorated with Cyrillic inscriptions, rosettes and hunting scenes. The complex is set in a parkland setting at the foot of Trebjesa, from where walking trails lead to the hilltop.
King Nikola's Palace was built in 1895 in the Renaissance Revival style and is one of the most important historical buildings in the interior of Montenegro. Today the building houses a museum whose permanent exhibition on the upper floors takes visitors through the entire history of Nikšić — from the Illyrians and Romans, through the Middle Ages and the period of Ottoman rule, right up to the modern era. The building is located next to a park near the main bus station, in the immediate vicinity of the so-called Turkish Bath built in the European style after the Turks departed.
Carev most is 269 metres long and spans 18 arches — it was built in the late 19th century during the reign of King Nikola, with a contribution from the Russian imperial family, on the old Nikšić–Podgorica road. It originally bridged a large reservoir on the Zeta River, which was drained in the 20th century, so the bridge today largely towers over dry ground — giving it a distinctive visual character. It represents one of the most impressive feats of engineering of its era in Montenegro and is an unmissable photo stop on any journey through Nikšić.
Lake Krupac was created in the 1950s as an artificial reservoir and is today the favourite recreational destination of Nikšić residents — locally nicknamed 'Nikšićko more' (Nikšić's Sea). It is just 5 km from the city centre, reachable by car in about 10 minutes via Ulica Partizanskog puta through Kočane. The lake has a well-maintained beach, volleyball courts, promenades and seasonal cafés. In summer visitors swim, ride pedal boats and play volleyball, while the peaceful surroundings of the karst field provide a contrast to the city bustle. Taxi operators are available in the city: AS Taxi +382 67 336 919, Lucky Taxi +382 69 072 888.
Trg slobode (Freedom Square) is the central city square paved with Nikšić stone, ceremonially opened on 13 July 2018 on Statehood Day. The square features a fountain, four reconstructed old water fountains and a statue of King Nikola I on horseback, erected in 2006. From the square there are views of the Cathedral Church and a panorama of the city. At the other end of Nikšić stand the ruins of Bedem — old Ottoman fortifications dating from the 4th century, which were a key defensive stronghold of the city during centuries of Ottoman rule.
What to do
Walking and cycling trails lead to the summit of Trebjesa with panoramic views over the city.
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Swimming, pedal boating and volleyball on a well-maintained beach, just 5 km from the city centre.
tap to closeLake Slano and Lake Krupac offer excellent fishing conditions in a peaceful karst setting.
tap to closeCarev most, Bedem and King Nikola's Palace provide attractive subjects for photographers.
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A 35 km drive through the Zeta Valley to one of the most important Orthodox shrines in the Balkans.
tap to closeDid You Know?
Nikšić introduced Montenegro's first brewery, first bank, first ironworks and first theatre, earning it the title of pioneer of Montenegrin modernity. pioneer of Montenegrin modernity
Plan Your Visit
Phone
+382 40 212-511Website
www.niksic.travelGrad je dostupan tokom cijele godine. Turistička organizacija Nikšić: radnim danima 08:00–16:00.
Besplatan ulaz u grad i većinu javnih prostora. Dvorac kralja Nikole (muzej): provjerite aktuelne cijene na licu mjesta.
Parking dostupan u centru grada. Lokalni taksi: AS Taxi +382 67 336 919, Lucky Taxi +382 69 072 888, Lux Taxi +382 69 670 660.
Centar grada i Trg slobode su uglavnom ravničarski i dostupni osobama sa smanjenom pokretljivošću. Planinski tereni oko grada zahtijevaju dobru fizičku kondiciju.
FAQ
