Things To Do
in Žabljak

Žabljak is a picturesque mountain town located in the Durmitor National Park of Montenegro. Surrounded by stunning peaks and glacial lakes, it serves as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty of the region. The town is renowned for its skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer, making it a year-round destination.

With a charming alpine atmosphere, Žabljak offers visitors a mix of adventure and relaxation in a breathtaking setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, then head to the Durmitor National Park for a guided hiking tour to Black Lake.

afternoon
:

After lunch by the lake, take a scenic drive to the Tara River Canyon for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

evening
:

Return to Žabljak for dinner at a traditional Montenegrin restaurant, followed by a stroll in the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the nearby monastery of St. George, exploring its rich history and beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic in the park, then spend the afternoon shopping for local crafts and souvenirs in Žabljak's artisan shops.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a night out at one of the local bars, enjoying live music and mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🚍Local bus fare$1
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities available year-round.
  • Friendly locals and vibrant culture.
  • Affordable costs compared to other European destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Public transportation can be sparse and infrequent.
  • More remote location may require longer travel times.
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Gde je toalet?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Molim vas" - Please
  • "Kako ste?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Žabljak

Visit one of these nice places.

Black Lake

A stunning glacial lake surrounded by pine forests and mountains, ideal for landscape photography.

Durmitor Peaks

Capture the dramatic jagged peaks of the Durmitor mountain range, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Tara River Canyon

One of the deepest canyons in Europe, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for dramatic shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Žabljak

Žabljak offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases the flavors of Montenegro's mountainous region.

Žabljak Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Njeguški pršut

Cured ham from the Njeguši region, known for its unique flavor and served as an appetizer.

Must-Try!

Kačamak

A hearty dish made from cornmeal and potatoes, often served with cheese and sour cream.

Grilled trout

Freshly caught trout from the nearby rivers, grilled to perfection and often accompanied by seasonal vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Žabljak Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, homemade jams, and traditional Montenegrin snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Žabljak experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making it ideal for snow sports, while summers average around 20-25°C (68-77°F), perfect for hiking and exploring. Spring and autumn transition between these extremes, offering mild weather with occasional rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and casual attire is acceptable in most other places.

Hospitality

Montenegrins are known for their hospitality; accepting food or drink offered by a host is considered polite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Žabljak is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially in secluded areas. When hiking, it's advisable to stick to marked trails and inform someone of your plans.

Tipping in Žabljak

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring sees blooming flowers and melting snow, making it a beautiful time for hiking and photography.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, and mountain biking.

Autumn

Autumn brings vibrant foliage, ideal for scenic walks and capturing the changing colors of nature.

Winter

Winter transforms Žabljak into a snowy paradise, perfect for skiing and snowboarding at the nearby slopes.

Nightlife Guide

Žabljak at Night

Žabljak offers a laid-back nightlife scene with several bars and cafes where locals and tourists gather. While the town is not known for wild parties, you can enjoy live music, local wines, and a friendly atmosphere. Some bars host themed nights and events, providing a cozy spot to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures.

Hiking in Žabljak

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tara Canyon Trail

A stunning trail that offers views of the Tara River Canyon, perfect for hikers seeking both beauty and challenge.

Black Lake Loop

An easy, scenic loop around Black Lake, suitable for families and casual walkers looking to enjoy nature.

Airports

How to reach Žabljak by plane.

Podgorica Airport

Located about 130 km from Žabljak, Podgorica Airport is the main international gateway to Montenegro, offering connections to various European cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Žabljak is very walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance from each other. The town's compact size allows visitors to explore on foot, soaking in the fresh mountain air and scenic views. Well-maintained paths and sidewalks make it easy to navigate the area, though some hiking trails may require more rugged footwear.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Montenegrins

The majority of Žabljak's population consists of ethnic Montenegrins who are known for their hospitality and traditional values.

Tourists

Žabljak attracts visitors from around the world, especially during the summer and winter seasons, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Montenegro, with many locals supporting local teams and enjoying games.

Skiing

Given Žabljak's location, skiing is a favored winter sport, attracting both locals and tourists to the slopes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Žabljak is minimal, given its small size. Most visitors prefer walking or biking to get around, and parking is generally available near attractions. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses, which can be infrequent, so it's best to plan ahead when using this option.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Žabljak.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Žabljak offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific options.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited, so it's best to communicate your needs to the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Žabljak is basic, with a small hospital and a few clinics available for minor injuries and illnesses. For more serious medical issues, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Nikšić or Podgorica. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and know the nearest medical facilities.

Discover Montenegro

Read more in our Montenegro 2025 Travel Guide.

Montenegro Travel Guide