Heart of Old Montenegro private tour

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide
• Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Site Kotor and other top locations
• Includes scenic viewpoints, such as Pavlova Strana and Lake Skadar
• Optional entrance fees and activities, like the Mausoleum and boat ride
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and bottled water provided
• A full-day adventure that offers both cultural insights and natural beauty

Discover the Heart of Old Montenegro in a Private Tour

This private tour costs $317.80 per person and lasts about 5 to 7 hours, making it a comprehensive way to explore Montenegro’s most iconic sites. The tour starts in Kotor, with pickup included, and is designed for those who want a personalized experience guided by an expert. The group size is limited to your party, ensuring a tailored journey through Montenegro’s scenic and historic highlights.

While the tour does not include entrance fees or meals, it offers Wi-Fi on board, bottled water, and the flexibility to customize your day with optional activities. Booking generally occurs about 75 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among travelers seeking an in-depth look at Montenegro.

From Kotor to Lovcen National Park

The adventure begins with pickup in Kotor and a drive along the Old Austro-Hungarian road, famous for its 25 serpentines offering sweeping views of Boka Bay. This route is ideal for panoramic photos and enjoying a leisurely ascent to Lovcen National Park.

The drive features stunning vistas of the bay and the surrounding mountains. As you approach the park, you’ll pass through the charming village of Njegusi, known for its traditional Montenegrin snacks. The scenic drive sets a relaxed pace, perfect for soaking in the landscape.

Visiting Njegusi for Local Flavors

Njegusi is a highlight for its authentic Montenegrin snacks. Here, visitors have the option to sample local delicacies such as smoked ham (Prosciutto), mountain honey, homemade cheese, and traditional rakija brandy. This is a great chance to enjoy a tasty break while appreciating the local flavors.

The visit to Njegusi lasts around 30 minutes, with no entrance fee, offering a glimpse into the region’s culinary traditions. The optional snack experience is highly recommended for those interested in authentic Montenegrin cuisine.

Exploring the Mausoleum of Njegos atop Lovcen

Following the snack stop, the tour continues to the Njegos Mausoleum, situated at 1,660 meters (5,446 feet) above sea level. The mausoleum is a prominent site honoring Montenegro’s national poet and ruler, Petar II Petrović Njegoš.

Visitors can opt to pay a small entrance fee of 8 euros to access the mausoleum and enjoy spectacular views of the “Sea of Rocks” from the summit. The journey along the forest road to the top offers picturesque scenery, making for memorable photos.

Discovering Cetinje, Montenegro’s Old Royal Capital

Next, the tour heads to Cetinje, often called Montenegro’s cultural heart. The town appears quiet but holds layers of history dating back to the 15th century. A brief city walk reveals the historic city center, where you can explore notable museums and galleries.

An optional visit to the Orthodox monastery provides further insight into Montenegro’s religious heritage. The town’s tranquil ambiance invites visitors to stroll, relax in a local café, or explore the remnants of old embassies, all within about 45 minutes.

Capturing Panoramas from Pavlova Strana Viewpoint

A brief stop at the Pavlova Strana Viewpoint offers some of the most breathtaking vistas along Montenegro’s coast. This 15-minute stop is perfect for photos of the coast, Lake Skadar, and the surrounding mountains.

The viewpoint is known for its mesmerizing landscape, giving travelers an ideal opportunity to take in the natural beauty of Montenegro and capture memorable images. It’s a highlight for panoramic photography and appreciating the country’s diverse scenery.

Skadar Lake and Rijeka Crnojevia

The tour continues to the Skadar Lake National Park, specifically to the Rijeka Crnojevia area, located along the Crnojevi River. This area is celebrated for its stunning natural setting and ecological significance.

Here, visitors can opt for lunch at a traditional restaurant, enjoy a boat ride lasting 45 minutes to an hour, or simply stroll around the scenic surroundings. The lake, the largest in the Balkans, offers spectacular views and numerous photo opportunities. This part of the tour is about one hour long and is a highlight for lovers of nature and serenity.

Exploring Old Town Budva and Coastal Views

On the return journey, the tour features a viewpoint overlooking St. Stefan, the former fishing island now transformed into a luxury hotel destination. This 15-minute stop offers a chance to photograph one of Montenegro’s most iconic sites along the coast.

The Old Town of Budva is the final stop, where visitors experience the laid-back coastal charm and historic architecture. The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Kotor, having covered both cultural and natural highlights of Montenegro.

Practical Details and Booking Considerations

This private tour includes air-conditioned transportation, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and parking fees. It does not include entrance tickets for national parks or boat rides, which are paid on-site. Meals can be arranged in advance, but are not included in the base price.

The tour offers flexibility for customization and special requests, making it suitable for guests who want a tailored experience. The meeting point is at 420 Trg od Oruja in Kotor, with pickup and drop-off included.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits travelers looking for a comprehensive, private exploration of Montenegro’s key sites in a single day. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and natural parks, all with the convenience of a private vehicle and guide. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and nature fans alike.

While the tour does not include entrance fees, the flexibility to choose optional activities makes it adaptable to different interests and pacing preferences. It’s well-suited to guests who prefer a relaxed, personalized experience over group tours.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Montenegro Journey

The Heart of Old Montenegro private tour offers a rich blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, all within a carefully curated day. The private guide ensures a flexible and personalized experience, highlighting notable sites like Kotor, Lovcen, Cetinje, Skadar Lake, and Budva.

While some may find the cost higher than self-guided options, the comfort, convenience, and expert insights justify the price for many. The tour’s focus on viewpoints and natural beauty makes it especially appealing to those who want memorable photos and immersive landscapes.

This tour provides a meaningful and well-structured overview of Montenegro, perfect for visitors who want to see the highlights without rushing. It’s an engaging way to experience Montenegro’s diverse landscapes and history in one memorable day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of this tour?
The price covers private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi onboard, bottled water, fuel surcharge, and parking fees. Entrance tickets for parks and attractions, boat rides, and meals are not included.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 5 to 7 hours, depending on the pace and optional activities chosen.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but those with limited mobility should consider the walking involved at stops like Cetinje and Pavlova Strana.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, travelers are encouraged to contact the tour provider for customizations or specific requests. The tour is private, so flexibility is available.

Are entrance fees paid on the spot?
Yes, entrance fees such as 8 euros for the Njegos Mausoleum are paid directly at the site, and boat rides or park tickets are paid on location as well.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, meals are not included but can be arranged in advance at local restaurants or in combination with the tour.

How do I book the tour?
Bookings are typically made about 75 days in advance, through the provided platform or directly with the service provider.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 420 Trg od Oruja in Kotor and concludes back at the same meeting point, after exploring all the stops.

What should I bring on this tour?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, camera for viewpoints, and any personal items needed for a full day of exploration.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi on board helps you stay connected throughout the day.