Northern Montenegroโs Bijelo Polje is quietly becoming a standout inland destination. According to a recent Pobjeda report, the town recorded 15 percent more overnight stays this summer than last year. This growth is striking for a region better known for serene rivers and rugged mountains than for crowded beaches.
Why Visitor Numbers Are Growing
Several factors are helping Bijelo Polje emerge as a must-see stop in Montenegro:
- Improved accommodation โ New boutique hotels and welcoming family-run guesthouses give travelers more comfort and choice.
- Cultural and outdoor appeal โ From traditional summer festivals to hiking in the Bjelasica and Sinjajevina mountains, plus rafting on the Lim River, the town offers plenty of activities.
- Better connections โ Upgraded roads and more frequent bus and rail links from Podgorica and the coast make access easier than ever.
Together, these upgrades create the perfect conditions for travelers to linger longerโreflected in that impressive 15 % jump in overnight stays.
Suggested 3-Day Itinerary
If youโre planning a trip, hereโs how to make the most of a long weekend in Bijelo Polje.
Day 1 โ Old Town and Local Flavors
Start your visit in the heart of town:
- Morning: Wander through the Old Town, where St. Nicholas Church and centuries-old mosques tell the story of Ottoman influences.
- Lunch: Taste local specialties such as cicvara (a creamy cornmeal and cheese dish) or slow-roasted lamb under the bell at a traditional konoba (tavern).
- Afternoon: Enjoy a riverside walk along the Lim, or relax in one of the small city parks.
- Evening: End your day with Montenegrin wines or a glass of homemade rakija at a cafรฉ overlooking the river.
Day 2 โ Nature and Adventure
Get out into the mountains:
- Morning: Take a guided hike or mountain bike ride through the wildflower meadows of Bjelasica Mountain.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic of local cheeses and village-cured prosciutto.
- Afternoon: Raft or kayak on the gentle stretches of the Lim River, suitable even for families.
- Evening: Back in town, enjoy live folk music or catch an open-air summer concert if youโre visiting in July or August.
Day 3 โ Culture and Scenic Day Trips
Immerse yourself in the regionโs rich heritage:
- Morning: Explore the ฤaloviฤa Cave complex (new sections are opening to visitors) or browse exhibits at the Bijelo Polje Museum.
- Afternoon: Take a short drive to the peaceful monasteries of ฤurฤevi Stupovi or Podvrh, known for their centuries-old frescoes.
- Evening: Savor a relaxed dinner back in town, finishing with traditional desserts such as baklava or tulumba.
Why Visit Now
With visitor numbers climbing, Bijelo Polje is on the cusp of wider recognition. Yet it still offers authentic Montenegrin charmโunhurried streets, hearty cuisine, and crisp mountain airโat prices far lower than the Adriatic coast. Visiting soon means you can experience this hidden gem before the crowds arrive.