Just outside the capital, and in the immediate vicinity of one of Montenegro’s most beautiful natural treasures, Lake Skadar, lies the Municipality of Tuzi.
With its warm and welcoming people, deeply attached to their homeland and heritage, an abundance of natural beauty, and dynamic development, Tuzi has preserved its authenticity and tradition while opening its doors to progress. In doing so, it has become a symbol of peaceful, family-oriented living, with all the essential amenities of a major city close at hand.
South of Podgorica, between Mount Dečić, Lake Skadar, and the Cijevna River, across the 246 square kilometres that make up this municipality, you can experience it all: the bustle of the urban centre, the hum of the well-known local market, the laughter of children in schools and playgrounds, the murmur of the waters at local Niagara Falls, the scent of gardens and family courtyards, and the quiet calm of the surrounding villages.
Tuzi became an independent municipality on September 1, 2018. This small municipality, known for its multiethnic character, is home to around 13,000 people, with steady population growth evident in recent years.
The majority of residents are Albanian, though Montenegrins, Bosniaks, Muslims, and Serbs are also represented. Islamic, Catholic, and Orthodox communities all coexist here. This harmonious life among different peoples and faiths is reflected in the municipality’s rich cultural offering, numerous events and programmes, and the diversity of religious buildings found throughout the area.
In recent years, the town has seen clear economic and infrastructural growth, with particular emphasis on agriculture, industry, tourism, and services.
As the land in Tuzi is well suited to cultivating a wide range of crops, including vegetables, fruit, and grains, agriculture remains the municipality’s key economic sector. The local government supports farmers through various incentive measures. Malesia and the plain surrounding the Cijevna River are particularly suitable for growing vegetables, fruit, and grapevines, as well as for livestock farming. Vineyards and family-run wineries have become a recognizable hallmark of the region.
Retail trade is also widespread, while two factories stand out among the municipality’s most important industrial facilities, with plans underway for the construction of another. Tuzi’s tourism potential is equally evident, thanks both to its natural beauty and its proximity to other destinations: the airport in Golubovci is only around fifteen minutes away by car, while the coast can be reached in less than forty minutes.
The development of tourism facilities along the Cijevna River, together with growing demand for local produce, continues to open up new opportunities.
The municipality’s dynamic development and population growth have been matched by increasing investment in educational facilities. In addition to four primary schools, a mixed secondary school, and a madrasa, new projects have also been announced, including the construction of a new school in Karabuško Polje.
Teaching in Tuzi is conducted in both Albanian and Montenegrin. The educational network reflects the needs of the local population, while the town’s proximity to Podgorica gives students easy access to universities. Tuzi also offers active cultural and sports programmes for young people.
Cultural life is rich in traditional events. The Days of Malesia, folklore gatherings, religious celebrations, and local festivals bring together residents from all settlements across the municipality. Hospitality, music, dance, and home-cooked cuisine form an essential part of the town’s identity. Family gatherings and village celebrations help preserve its strong communal spirit.
One of the area’s most important natural attractions is Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans and one of Europe’s richest regions in terms of biodiversity. The lakeshore in and around Tuzi offers ideal conditions for fishing, boating, and birdwatching, making it especially attractive to ecotourists and nature enthusiasts.
The Morača and Cijevna rivers also draw special attention, offering excellent settings for recreation, fishing, and relaxation during the warmer months.
Nearby are the Niagara Falls, a well-known excursion site not only for the people of Tuzi and its visitors, but also for those arriving from other towns.
For lovers of hiking and adventure, Mount Dečić is an essential destination. It offers unspoilt nature, beautiful viewpoints, and trails that lead through forested areas and meadows, while also providing spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, including a panoramic vista of Lake Skadar.
Tuzi enjoys excellent transport links. Podgorica can be reached in around ten minutes, and the airport is only a few kilometres away. The road to Albania makes the municipality an important transit point. Regular bus lines connect the town with Podgorica, the Zeta plain, and the coast.
Sport is an active part of local life. FK Dečić is the best-known club and a source of pride for the municipality. There are facilities for football, basketball, and recreational sports. The plain is ideal for running and cycling, while the Cijevna River offers space for swimming, walking, and spending time in nature.
Tuzi has strong investment potential based on its geographical position and agricultural strength. High demand for greenhouse production, vineyards, and food processing creates room for further investment. Its proximity to Podgorica makes residential projects especially attractive. Business zones and sites along the main road are well suited to trade and logistics. Property prices remain lower than in Podgorica, while demand continues to grow steadily.
Tuzi is a place worth visiting for the Cijevna River, Lake Skadar, and the authentic culture of Malesia. Here you can enjoy homemade food, local wines, swimming in the river’s natural pools, and walks through villages where tradition remains deeply rooted. Tuzi brings together nature, culture, and hospitality in a distinctive and memorable way.
Life here is peaceful and family-oriented. People know one another, the surrounding nature is captivating, and Podgorica is close enough to make everyday life practical and convenient. The houses are spacious, the courtyards large, and tradition remains firmly woven into daily life. Tuzi is an ideal place for those seeking a calm environment with quick access to the city.
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