Things to do in Cetinje: 15 Remarkable Experiences in Montenegro's Old Royal Capital

06 April 2023

Author - Jonathan Howe

Step into the vibrant world of Cetinje, Montenegro's old royal capital, where history and culture intertwine to create a uniquely enchanting experience. In this immersive guide, we'll unveil 15 unforgettable things to do in Cetinje that showcase the town's rich heritage, artistic charm, and breathtaking natural surroundings. As you wander through its atmospheric streets, you'll encounter majestic palaces, intriguing museums, and lively local traditions that celebrate Montenegro's storied past. Cetinje invites you to delve into its captivating essence and promises to reward every curious traveler with a treasure trove of memories to cherish.
Cetinje is the former royal capital of Montenegro, so it's not surprising that there is so much to see and do in this city. If you want to know more about this place, then check out our list of the best things to do in Cetinje, Montenegro.

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Venture into the majestic Lovcen National Park, a breathtaking expanse of pristine nature and home to an array of endemic plant and animal species. The park offers various trails for hiking and cycling, immersing visitors in Montenegro's diverse landscapes, from dense forests to dramatic mountain peaks.

Perched atop Lovcen Mountain, the Njegos Mausoleum honors Montenegrin poet and ruler Petar II Petrovic Njegos. Designed by renowned sculptor Ivan Mestrovic, the mausoleum showcases exquisite artwork and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
In Montenegro, almost all attractions are closed during the off-season. Njegos mausoleum is no exception. An extraordinary structure on one of the peaks of Mount Lovcen. The last refuge of the revered in Montenegro, Metropolitan and ruler Peter II Petrovic Njegos, who bequeathed to bury himself here. The place itself is delightfully beautiful, a mountain serpentine leads to it. For tourists who are not used to narrow roads and sharp turns, it will be scary at first, but you’d quickly get used to it. The mausoleum is such a wonderful place, the beauty is mesmerizing and definitely worth visiting.

Discover the historic Monastery of Saint Peter, a sacred site that houses the relics of St. Peter of Cetinje. Founded in the 15th century, the monastery also contains significant Montenegrin cultural treasures, including ancient manuscripts and artwork.
The Cetinje Monastery is located in the very center of the ancient capital of Montenegro - Cetinje. It fits very nicely into the surrounding greenery. It also has a very pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. The area of the monastery is relatively small, but it contains very great Orthodox holy relics such as the right hand of John the Baptist and a piece of the Lord's cross. Just imagine, the hand that baptized Jesus Christ is in this monastery, and you can see it and kiss it. Of course, the hand is in a special casket, and the casket is in a shrine with the relics of another saint, revered in Montenegro, Peter Cetinje is located.

Witness the stunning beauty of Montenegro from the Mountain Lovcen Observation Deck. The panoramic vista encompasses the Bay of Kotor, the Adriatic Sea, and the mesmerizing countryside, making it a must-visit spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
One of the most beautiful and atmospheric places in Montenegro! The view is breathtaking, surrounded by mountains, painted in different shades of green, gray, and blue. Haze and light clouds do not hide but only complement the landscape. It requires lots of steps, but the view from there is worth it!

Explore the fascinating life of King Nikola, Montenegro's last sovereign ruler, at his eponymous museum. Housed within the former royal palace, the museum showcases a captivating collection of personal items, artwork, and historical documents that provide insights into the nation's past.
Since Cetinje is the old capital of Montenegro, the royal palace is located here. The museum is small but interesting to see. This building was built in the form of a fortress house in the 19th century; the Russian military Yakov Ozertsovsky developed the project. Inside, you’ll find beautiful furniture, and walls are decorated with silk fabrics.

Delve into Montenegro's rich cultural heritage at the National Museum, which comprises several institutions, including the historical, ethnographic, and art museums. Discover the country's multifaceted history and artistic expression through a diverse range of exhibits.
A small museum in the town of Cetinje will briefly and clearly tell you about the history of this amazing country and all the difficulties that the country had to face. The former government house of Montenegro was turned into a museum of history, archeology, and culture. Many interesting exhibits including a large collection of Montenegrin icons painted by Russian and Italian icon painters. The most valuable exhibit in the museum is undoubtedly the icon of the Virgin of Filermosa. The museum is rarely visited during the low season.

Experience the serene beauty of River Crnojevica and Lake Skadar, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Take a scenic boat tour, admire the diverse flora and fauna, or indulge in the region's traditional cuisine at a local restaurant.
Crnojevica river in Montenegro flows a little higher and through the city of the same name near the northeastern shores of Lake Skadar. so before you get to Lake Skadar, you can admire the green banks and clear water of this river anyway. A very picturesque place, it is definitely worth going if you want to see the real Montenegro. The river is the main highlight of the landscape, the bridges, the village itself, in which the houses seem to hang over the water is a sight you shouldn’t miss!

Step back in time at the Njegos Museum Biljarda, once the residence of Montenegrin ruler Petar II Petrovic Njegos. Named after its impressive billiards room, the museum showcases historical artifacts, traditional Montenegrin costumes, and an intriguing collection of Njegos's personal belongings.
For history lovers and just people who are interested in Montenegro and have heard the name of Petr Negus, this museum will be the answer to many questions. It is located next to the monastery. There are many halls, a booklet in the language of the guests' country. In the museum, you can see weapons, national costumes, pieces of furniture, etc. And, of course, learn about the life and work of Petr Negus, the most important figure in Montenegro. An interesting atmospheric place for those interested in history.

Embark on a subterranean adventure in Lipa Cave, Lovcen's mesmerizing natural wonder. Explore the cave's intricate passages and marvel at the awe-inspiring stalactite and stalagmite formations during a guided tour.
You can have a very interesting trip to Lipa Cave since it is large, deep, with different types of stalactites and stalagmites. However, remember that it is really cold inside, so you need to put on all the warm clothes that you have. Furthermore, you will also see very beautiful views on the way to the cave, the road is narrow but not scary. It is recommended to get a tour, it’s in English so it’s very convenient.

Visit the historic Court Church on Chipur, a fascinating example of Montenegrin ecclesiastical architecture. The church, adorned with beautiful frescoes, also serves as the final resting place of several Montenegrin rulers and bishops.
One of the most remarkable places in Cetinje is this church - the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary on Chipur, built in the 15th century on the ruins of the old Cetinje Monastery. Inside, an amazingly beautiful altar rises, where events such as christenings and weddings are held. There are also three tombs, where King Nicholas I, his wife Milena, and the founder of the city Ivan Crnoevich rest.

Immerse yourself in the world of Montenegrin art at the Art Museum, showcasing a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and prints by local and international artists. The museum also features temporary exhibits that highlight contemporary artistic talent.
This museum is not included in the usual excursion program. It is located not far from the city center, and there are very interesting exhibitions of contemporary arts. It's beautiful inside, you even can see the Miraculous Icon of the Mother of God, painted by the Apostle Luke himself.

The monument is located in a small park not far from the bus station. This bronze statue was erected in 1939 to commemorate the 350 American Montenegrins who died when their ship was sunk near Albania. The statue really depicts a female figure with a sword in one hand and a laurel wreath in the other. A symbol of the emotional impulse of emigrants who returned to save their native country. And they died before they could join the battle.

Mausoleum at Eagle Hill is located on a mountain overlooking the Cetinje Monastery. It was erected at the end of the 19th century. Vladyka Danilo, metropolitan and ruler in one person, very revered in the country, is buried in it. A modest sarcophagus in a beautiful place, from which you can see almost the whole of Cetinje.

Discover the intriguing history of Montenegro's currency at the Money Museum, a unique institution showcasing a vast collection of coins, banknotes, and other monetary artefacts. Learn about the evolution of Montenegrin currency and its influence on the country's culture and economy.
The Money Museum is located in the building of the former Montenegrin Bank, which is interesting from the point of view of the opportunity to imagine how the employees of the banking sector worked in these premises. Of course, many of the exhibits are much older than the first currency of Montenegro. Here, you can see coins from the ancient period and money from the Middle Ages, as well as machines for minting coins and printing banknotes.

Honor the legacy of Ivan Crnojevic, a revered Montenegrin ruler, at his towering monument in Cetinje. The striking bronze statue serves as a symbol of Montenegrin national pride and commemorates Crnojevic's contributions to the country's history and culture.
This monument is located in the center of Cetinje, in a park opposite the palace of King Nikola I and the State Archives of Montenegro. The founder of the city of Cetinje is Ivan Chernoevich. The monument to Ivan Chernoevich was sculpted by the sculptor Anta Grzhetich in 1982.

In conclusion, Cetinje is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Montenegro. From the breathtaking landscapes of Lovcen National Park to the rich historical experiences at the numerous museums and monuments, Cetinje offers a diverse array of attractions that cater to every traveler's interests. Whether you're seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deep dive into Montenegrin heritage, you'll find it all in this enchanting city. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of Cetinje and create memories that will last a lifetime.
And that’s it for the 15 best things to do in Cetinje, Montenegro. This old capital of Montenegro really is something you should explore for its rich history and stunning nature. Every visit here is truly worthwhile!

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