The best markets in Montenegro

Markets in Montenegro aren’t just places to buy food, but they’re an experience which gives insight into the local culture and traditions. Each city in the country has some sort of marketplace, or a spot where vendors gather and sell their produce. The offer is versatile, particularly as this is why these spots attract numerous visitors.

What is important to note is that historically, markets played a central role in Montenegrin life. This is the reason why many are located in city centres. They are the most important locations where people engage in conversation and maintain social ties. Meanwhile, they are curating the spirit of tradition through home-made goods and locally sourced products. Besides the city centre, the markets were also established along the coast and lake shores, making them bustling hubs.

In these lively spots, which are locals’ favourites, you can find fresh fruit and vegetables, but also you can find anything from homemade olive oil and herbal teas. Some vendors take pride in their smoked prosciutto, figs and fresh cheese, which are particularly popular among tourists. Besides food, markets are also a place to sell clothing, household items, plastic goods and many more.

The prices on the market are known to be higher than in supermarkets, but this is because the products are locally produced and organic, ensuring high quality. Unfortunately, many of these places still don’t accept card, so prepare cash. Also, our advice is not to be shy and try to bargain a price if you’re buying in bulk. 

To help you discover this incredible part of Montenegrin tradition, we bring you the 5 best markets you shouldn’t miss. Some of these are well known, others tucked far off the tourist trail. Therefore, keep reading and discover which market should be on your bucket list.

Top 5 Markets in Montenegro

Gintas market in Podgorica

Gintaš Market, officially known as the City Market or Gradska Pijaca, is the largest and most dynamic market in Podgorica. It is located near the Mall of Montenegro, and it’s one of the best-stocked markets in the country. 

You can find here all kinds of fresh, daily products such as fruits and vegetables, meat, fish and dairy goods. If you seek to buy a not-so-typical souvenir, then take a look at the prosciutto and various rakijas, which are locals’ favourites.

Many vendors also sell honey, olive oil and nut products together with herbal teas and other products in this category. In special sections, you can also find household goods as well as flowers. The majority of these products are often sold directly by small-scale producers. Items are available by the piece, by kilogram, or in bulk packs. On the second floor, you can also find clothes, car appliances, household items and more.

Gintas is open all days except Sunday from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, when most vendors close their market stalls. Around you can find plenty of parking spots, which add convenience to visiting Gintas. With its versatile offer and bustling atmosphere, the market becomes more than a shopping spot, but a part of the local experience. 

Kotor City Market

Kotor City Market, located just outside the walls of the Old Town, is one of the most atmospheric and charming markets in Montenegro. Due to its incredible setting, the market is well known amongst locals and the visitors who seek to explore this traditional side of Kotor.

The market is smaller than similar ones in other coastal cities, but it features all essential daily products. You can find fresh fruit and vegetables, locally made cheeses, smoked meats, and fresh fish brought in from the bay. Seasonal herbs and handpicked wild greens are also common finds, together with locally sourced honey, fig jam and dried fruits. Some vendors specialise in home-made crafts, which can be interesting for tourists. The items are either home-made and knitted, which is why they are often chosen as a souvenir.

You can visit the Kotor market every day from 07 AM to 4 PM, though we suggest arriving on foot, as parking in this part of the city is limited. Due to its versatility and special charm, the Kotor market rightfully made it to our list, as it is also a cultural experience.

Tuzi Market

Tuzi Market is a very special and unique market that truly provides an authentic experience. Set in the periphery of the town that is bustling with multiculturalism and deeply rooted tradition, the market reflects this atmosphere. You can find vendors as early as 6:00 AM, and you can browse through the offers until 2:00 PM each day.

Unlike traditional green markets, Tuzi Market is renowned for its extensive selection of textiles. Here, you can find a variety of clothing, household and gardening tools. You can also check out traditional fabrics and handmade garments. Despite the domination of other produce, local vendors also proudly display a variety of goods, such as juicy melons, locally grown tomatoes, potatoes, as well as dried fruits and artisanal cheeses. These are located at the entrance of the market.

To gain the best possible experience, our recommendation is to go to Tuzi on the weekend. It is a bit far from Podgorica, so the most convenient option is to use a car, as there is plenty of parking space. Don’t be shy to bargain in the process, especially when buying in bulk, but learn a few Montenegrin phrases as they rarely speak English at the market.

Bar Old Town Market

Another unique and very traditional market that provides an incredible new experience is Bar’s Old Town Market. It is a vibrant and culturally rich marketplace set within the historic walls of Stari Bar. It is open every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, while local vendors might retire early. Unlike the larger urban markets, this market offers a more intimate shopping experience, reflecting the town’s diverse heritage.

You will be captivated by the colourful display of products that include handcrafted textiles, local cheeses, cured meats, and an array of spices and herbs. Its most iconic product is pomegranate-based items, which you shouldn’t miss.

The market’s unique charm lies in its blend of Ottoman, Venetian, and local influences, evident in the architecture and the goods offered. You can also find artisans’ handmade garments and accessories, as well as traditional household items.

With ancient ruins and cobblestone streets adding to its allure, Old Town is rightfully a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic Montenegrin culture and craftsmanship.

Herceg – Novi Market

The Herceg Novi Green Market, locally known as Gradska Pijaca, has garnered international acclaim by being recognised as one of the world’s top 30 markets by the Financial Times in December 2024. Set in the heart of the town, this market features all the typical traditional products. It is well known for its local sellers who maintain the quality of their products.

You can find all the typical fruits and vegetables, including tropical fortunella, oranges, pomegranates, lemons, and kiwis, cultivated in the coastal villages surrounding the Bay of Kotor. You can also buy fresh fish and seafood, caught early in the morning. Additionally, farmers from the mountainous areas bring traditional products such as Kruševice potatoes, goat cheese, wild asparagus, and wild garlic. Ask vendors to try the produce, as this will give you insight into the quality of produce.

The market is open every day except Sunday, from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Due to its location, we recommend walking to the market and experiencing the early morning atmosphere. So, if you want to enjoy a traditional, Mediterranean, bustling market, then Herceg Novi is the place to be.