Nikšić: The Hidden Gem of Montenegro

• HelloZdravo
  [zdrah-voh]
• GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [doh-vee-jeh-nyah]
• YesDa
  [dah]
• NoNe
  [neh]
• Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [moh-leem]
• Thank youHvala
  [hvah-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryIzvinite
  [eez-vee-nee-teh]
• How are you?Kako si?
  [kah-koh see]
• Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [doh-broh. ah tee]
• Do you speak English?Govorite li engleski?
  [goh-voh-ree-teh lee ehn-glehs-kee]
• I don't understandNe razumijem
  [neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMogu li vidjeti meni, molim
  [moh-goo lee vee-dyeh-tee meh-nee, moh-leem]
• I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [neh yeh-dehm meh-soh]
• Cheers!Živjeli!
  [zhee-vyeh-lee]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMogu li platiti, molim
  [moh-goo lee plah-tee-tee, moh-leem]

• Help!Pomoć!
  [poh-moh-ch]
• Go away!Otiđi!
  [oh-tee-jee]
• Call the Police!Pozovite policiju!
  [poh-zoh-vee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
• Call a doctor!Pozovite doktora!
  [poh-zoh-vee-teh dohk-toh-rah]
• I'm lostIzgubio/la sam se
  [eez-goo-byoh/lah sahm seh]
• I'm illBolestan/sna sam
  [boh-leh-stahn/snah sahm]

• I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
• I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [sah-moh gleh-dahm]
• How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [koh-lee-koh koh-shta]
• That's too expensiveTo je preškupo
  [toh yeh preh-shkoo-poh]
• Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee spoo-stee-tee tsee-yeh-noo]

• What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee]
• It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [yeh-dahn yeh saht]
• Half past (10)Pola (deset)
  [poh-lah (deh-seht)]
• MorningJutro
  [yoo-troh]
• AfternoonPopodne
  [poh-pohd-neh]
• EveningVeče
  [veh-cheh]
• YesterdayJuče
  [yoo-cheh]
• TodayDanas
  [dah-nahs]
• TomorrowSutra
  [soo-trah]
• 1Jedan
  [yeh-dahn]
• 2Dva
  [dvah]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Četiri
  [cheh-tee-ree]
• 5Pet
  [peht]
• 6Šest
  [shehst]
• 7Sedam
  [seh-dahm]
• 8Osam
  [oh-sahm]
• 9Devet
  [deh-veht]
• 10Deset
  [deh-seht]

• Where's a/the...?Gdje je...?
  [gd-yeh yeh]
• What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [koh-yah yeh ah-deh-srah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na karti)?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee nah kahr-tee]
• When's the next (bus)?Kada je sledeći (autobus)?
  [kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Jedna karta (za ....)
  [yeh-dnah kahr-tah zah]

The area around Nikšić has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence suggesting the presence of the Illyrian tribe called the Docleatae. During the Roman Empire, the region was integrated into the province of Dalmatia. The Romans established a settlement known as Anderba, which served as a strategic point for controlling the surrounding area.

In the medieval period, Nikšić was known as Onogošt, a significant stronghold and trading post in the region. The town played a pivotal role in the defense against various incursions and conflicts, including battles against the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Turks. The Onogošt Fortress, remnants of which can still be seen today, served as a critical defense structure during this time.

Nikšić fell under Ottoman control in the late 15th century, which brought significant changes to the region's cultural and social landscape. The Ottomans introduced Islamic culture and architecture, evident in the mosques and hamams that were built during this period. Despite the long period of Ottoman rule, local resistance and uprisings were common as the people of Nikšić strived to preserve their identity and autonomy.

The 19th century was a period of significant upheaval and change for Nikšić. The town was liberated from Ottoman rule during the Montenegrin-Ottoman War (1876-1878). Following the Berlin Congress in 1878, Nikšić was officially recognized as part of the Principality of Montenegro. During this period, the town began to modernize and expand, with the construction of new public buildings, schools, and infrastructure.

Nikšić experienced significant turmoil during the 20th century, particularly during the World Wars. During World War I, the town was occupied by Austro-Hungarian forces. In World War II, Nikšić became a focal point of resistance against Axis occupation, with numerous battles and significant destruction. After the war, Nikšić became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, leading to a period of industrialization and growth. The construction of the Nikšić Steel Plant and other industrial facilities marked a new era of economic development.

Following the breakup of Yugoslavia in the early 1990s, Nikšić became part of the newly independent Montenegro. The town has since focused on rebuilding and modernizing its infrastructure. Today, Nikšić is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including the famous Lake Krupac, which hosts numerous festivals and events. The town balances its rich historical heritage with modern development, making it a unique destination for visitors.

Nikšić is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest international airport is Podgorica Airport, which is about 55 kilometers away. From Podgorica, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to reach Nikšić. Buses run frequently between Podgorica and Nikšić, and the journey usually takes around 1.5 hours. There is also a train service from Podgorica to Nikšić, offering a scenic route through the Montenegrin countryside.

Nikšić has a reliable public transport system, including buses and taxis. Buses cover most parts of the city and are an affordable way to get around. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For those who prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a good option. There are several car rental agencies in the city. Nikšić is also a bike-friendly city, and renting a bicycle can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.

The official currency in Montenegro is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Nikšić. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are widely available throughout the city for cash withdrawals.

Nikšić is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets and public transport. It's also wise to use hotel safes for storing valuables.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical emergency services. Nikšić has several medical facilities and pharmacies where you can get help for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For any non-urgent assistance, you can visit the local police station.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and remove hats. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers. Don’t be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. A simple 'Zdravo' (Hello) is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Nikšić like a local, visit the city's markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Montenegrin goods. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city’s history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Trebjesa Hill for its beautiful views and serene atmosphere. Also, try the local beer, Nikšićko Pivo, which is very popular among residents.