Grocery & Food Guide
Navigating the culinary landscape of Montenegro: from hypermarkets to hidden green markets.
Crucial Info: Sunday Closures
In Montenegro, almost all grocery stores and shops are closed on Sundays. Plan your shopping for Saturday!
The Major Supermarkets
Voli
The most widespread and modern chain. Generally cleaner stores, better organization, and a good selection of international products. Their "Naš Diskont" locations are massive hypermarkets.
HDL (Laković)
Known for the best prices and bulk buying. These stores are often huge, busy, and chaotic, but you will save significantly on a weekly shop compared to others.
Idea / Aroma
Mostly smaller neighborhood convenience stores ("markets"). Great for grabbing a few items, but selections can be limited compared to the big hypermarkets.
Franca
Excellent for meat and local produce. Franca started as a meat company, so their butcher sections are widely considered the best in the country.
The Green Markets ("Pijaca")
For the best quality produce, locals skip the supermarket and head to the Pijaca (Pee-ya-tsa). Every town has one. This is where you find fresh seasonal fruit, homemade cheeses (Sir), olive oil, and cured meats.
Gintaš (Podgorica)
The largest market in the country. A massive two-story hall with everything imaginable.
Zelena Pijaca (Budva)
Located near the mall, extremely popular but prices can be higher during tourist season.
Kotor Market
Famous for fish and olives, located right outside the Old Town walls.
Pro Tip: Pijaca vendors prefer cash (small denominations). English is widely spoken in coastal markets, but gestures and smiles work everywhere.
Food Delivery
Don't want to cook? These apps are practically essential in Podgorica and the coast.
Checkout Vocab
Payment
- Cards accepted at all major supermarkets and restaurants.
- Cash is King at markets (Pijaca), bakeries, and small kiosks.