Podgorica on the Brink of a Nightlife Collapse!
The city of Podgorica has drafted a new decision on the working hours of hospitality venues that threatens thousands of jobs and could destroy the nightlife of Montenegro’s capital. The Association of Hospitality Workers has raised its voice against this decision, warning that the entire process was non-transparent and that none of them were consulted.
What’s changing?
According to the draft decision, music on terraces must be turned off at midnight, not at 1 AM as before. The working hours for cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and other hospitality venues in residential buildings with up to 15 apartments will be from 7 AM to 2 AM, while those in buildings with more than 15 apartments must close by midnight.
Why is this a problem?
The Association questions why venues are divided based on the number of apartments in a building, as the difference between 14 and 16 apartments is completely arbitrary and not defined by law. This measure opens the door for abuse and selective enforcement. Fines for non-compliance are steep — up to 10,000 euros for legal entities, which could be devastating for small hospitality businesses.
Who loses?
Not only will hospitality workers suffer, but also tourism and the nightlife of Podgorica. Tourists come not just for sun and sea, but also for culture, music, and vibrant nightlife. Reduced working hours mean fewer guests, less revenue, fewer tips, less tax, fewer taxi rides, and less overall spending. All this in the heart of the tourist season, while other countries are actively promoting nightlife as an economic sector.
No public debate or consultation
The city made this decision without public debate and without involving the tourist organization, hospitality workers, residents, or guests. It’s unclear who formally proposed these measures. The Association clearly states it disagrees with the decision and was not consulted.
What’s next?
This decision could destroy Podgorica’s image as a lively and urban destination. Is this the end of nightlife in Montenegro’s capital? Will thousands of jobs be at risk because of one bad and thoughtless decision?
If you have your own take on this, or maybe you’re a hospitality worker already feeling the impact, drop a comment below. Let’s see who else thinks this is a total disaster or maybe someone has a different view. Nightlife is ours, right?
