Things To Do
in Šavnik

Šavnik is a picturesque town located in the heart of Montenegro, surrounded by stunning mountains and lush greenery. It serves as a gateway to the Durmitor National Park, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. The town itself is rich in history, with traditional stone houses and charming streets that reflect the local culture.

Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while exploring the beautiful landscapes that characterize this part of Montenegro.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Šavnik
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce. Then, take a leisurely walk around the town to admire its traditional architecture.

afternoon
:

Hike to the nearby Crno Jezero (Black Lake) for breathtaking views and a picnic lunch by the water. Enjoy the serene environment while taking photographs of the stunning scenery.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, trying traditional Montenegrin dishes, followed by a relaxing evening walk under the stars.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

After breakfast, head out for a guided tour of Durmitor National Park. Explore the park's diverse flora and fauna, and take in the impressive landscapes.

afternoon
:

Participate in an outdoor activity such as zip-lining or horseback riding, which are popular in the area. Enjoy lunch at a mountain lodge.

evening
:

Return to Šavnik for dinner at a popular local eatery, followed by a visit to a local pub to experience the nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚍Bus ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Friendly and hospitable locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Some areas may lack English-speaking services
  • Public transportation can be infrequent
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim vas" - Please
  • "Gde je toalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Koliko to košta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Šavnik

Visit one of these nice places.

Crno Jezero

The stunning Black Lake in Durmitor National Park is a must-visit for photographers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and crystal-clear water.

Šavnik Old Town

The charming streets of Šavnik, with its traditional stone buildings and local life, provide an authentic backdrop for photography.

Durmitor Peaks

The dramatic peaks of the Durmitor mountain range offer incredible panoramic views, perfect for capturing the beauty of Montenegro's natural landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Šavnik

Šavnik offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Montenegrin cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy hearty dishes that reflect the region's culture and hospitality.

Šavnik Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Njeguški pršut

A type of smoked ham from the nearby Njeguši village, known for its rich flavor and traditionally made methods.

Must-Try!

Cheese from the mountains

Locally produced cheese, often served as a delicious appetizer, made from sheep or cow milk.

Sarma

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, often seasoned with herbs and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Šavnik Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade specialties, perfect for a quick snack or picnic supplies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Šavnik experiences a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winter can drop to -5°C (23°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and occasional rainfall. The region receives moderate precipitation throughout the year, with winter snow covering the mountains.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is the standard form of greeting, and it's polite to maintain eye contact during the greeting.

Hospitality

Montenegrins are known for their hospitality; it’s customary to accept offers of food and drink when visiting someone's home.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Smart casual attire is acceptable in most public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Šavnik is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken—avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious in less populated areas at night. When hiking, ensure you are well-prepared and informed about the trails, as weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tipping in Šavnik

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included. In bars, rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in urban areas. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Expect occasional rain showers.

Summer

Summer is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the national parks. Be prepared for larger crowds, especially in popular tourist spots.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall foliage, creating a picturesque landscape. The temperatures start to cool, and the tourist crowds thin out.

Winter

Winter can be cold and snowy, ideal for winter sports like skiing in nearby resorts. Expect fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Šavnik at Night

Šavnik's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities but offers a few cozy bars and taverns where locals gather. Popular spots often feature live music and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying local drinks and mingling with residents. During the summer, some outdoor events and cultural festivities may take place, adding to the lively ambiance.

Hiking in Šavnik

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bobotov Kuk

The highest peak in Durmitor National Park, Bobotov Kuk offers challenging hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Tara Canyon

This trail leads to the stunning Tara Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Europe, with breathtaking views and opportunities for photography.

Airports

How to reach Šavnik by plane.

Podgorica Airport (TGD)

Located about 90 km from Šavnik, Podgorica Airport is the main international airport in Montenegro, offering flights to various European destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Šavnik is a small town, making it highly walkable. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. The streets are relatively flat and pedestrian-friendly, allowing for easy exploration of the town’s charm.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Montenegrin Ethnic Group

The majority of Šavnik's population is ethnically Montenegrin, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions that are reflected in their daily lives.

Serbian Minority

There is also a Serbian minority in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity and shared history among the communities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Šavnik, with local teams competing in regional leagues, and many residents passionately support their clubs.

Basketball

Basketball is also widely played, with local courts available and community events often showcasing local talent.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Šavnik is generally light, with most visitors traveling by foot or bike due to the town's small size. Public transportation primarily consists of buses that connect Šavnik to larger towns and cities, but schedules can be irregular. Renting a car can be a good option for exploring surrounding areas more freely.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Šavnik.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While Montenegrin cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants can accommodate vegetarians with options like grilled vegetables and local cheese.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited; however, fresh salads and grilled meats without bread are usually available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Šavnik are limited, with a small local clinic available for basic medical needs. For more serious health issues, patients may need to travel to larger towns like Nikšić or Podgorica. It is advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment.

Discover Montenegro

Read more in our Montenegro 2025 Travel Guide.

Montenegro Travel Guide