Introduction:
Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, is a hidden gem in the Balkans. This city, located at the confluence of two rivers, has a rich history and culture, making it a popular destination for travelers. However, as with any unfamiliar place, visitors may have concerns about safety. This article will address the question “Is Podgorica safe?” and provide you with tips and advice to help you stay safe during your visit.
Crime in Podgorica
Podgorica is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it has its share of crime. According to Numbeo, a user-generated database of information on cities and countries worldwide, Podgorica has a crime index of 38.77 as of March 2023. This puts Podgorica in 8th place out of 13 European cities in a comparison of crime rates. The table below summarizes the crime index of Podgorica and 12 other European capitals, ranked from most dangerous to least.
| City | Crime Index |
|---|---|
| Brussels | 64.10 |
| Paris | 57.94 |
| London | 53.22 |
| Madrid | 48.42 |
| Berlin | 50.57 |
| Rome | 50.45 |
| Stockholm | 47.44 |
| Podgorica | 38.77 |
| Amsterdam | 32.57 |
| Copenhagen | 24.45 |
| Oslo | 25.25 |
| Vienna | 27.63 |
| Helsinki | 20.85 |
While Podgorica’s crime index is lower than many other European capitals, visitors should still be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions.
Areas to avoid which have been mentioned are Zabjelo, Stari Aerodrom, and Konik.
Read Also: How to Travel from London to Podgorica?
Terrorism and Political Violence
Montenegro has a low risk of terrorism, and incidents are rare. The country is politically stable, and there is little political violence. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity.
Per the UK Government,
“Terrorist attacks in Montenegro cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Terrorists may target religious sites, including churches.
There is a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. You should be vigilant at this time.”
Natural Disasters
Podgorica is located in a seismic zone, and earthquakes can occur. Visitors should familiarize themselves with emergency procedures in case of an earthquake. Additionally, floods can occur during heavy rainfall, so it is important to monitor weather conditions and follow instructions from local authorities.
Health and Medical Care
The capital city of Montenegro has good medical facilities, and visitors can access medical care if needed. However, visitors should be aware of the following:
- Vaccinations: Some vaccines, such as hepatitis A and B and rabies, are recommended for travelers to Montenegro.
- Air Quality: Podgorica can experience high levels of air pollution, particularly during the winter months. Visitors with respiratory issues should take this into consideration.
- Water Quality: The tap water in Podgorica is safe to drink, but visitors may prefer bottled water.
Travel Safety
When traveling in Podgorica, visitors should take the following precautions:
- Public Transport: Public transport in Podgorica is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of pickpocketing on buses and trains.
- Taxis: Only use registered taxis with visible identification.
- Driving: Montenegro has a high rate of road accidents, and visitors should exercise caution when driving.
FAQs:
Q: Is Podgorica safe for solo travelers?
A: Podgorica is generally safe for solo travelers, but visitors should take precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night.
Q: Are there any areas of Podgorica that visitors should avoid?
A: Areas to avoid which have been flagged are Zabjelo, Stari Aerodrom, and Konik.
Q: What should visitors do in case of an emergency?
A: Visitors should dial 112 in case of an emergency, and contact their embassy or consulate for assistance.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Podgorica is a safe city for visitors, with a relatively low crime rate compared to other European capitals. By following the tips and advice provided in this article, you can stay safe and enjoy your visit to Montenegro’s capital. However, visitors should still take necessary precautions to stay safe while traveling, as crime rates can vary within a city.
