Great Montenegro Tour-Lovcen NP,Mausoleum Lovcen,River of Crnojevic,Sveti Stefan

Key Points

• Comprehensive Montenegro experience in approximately 11 hours, covering Kotor, Lovcen National Park, Cetinje, Sveti Stefan, and more.
• Comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide leading the way.
• Unique activities include a boat ride on the Crnojevic River and a cable car or serpentine road to Mount Lovcen.
• Entry fees are not included in the ticket price, totaling around 16 EUR for parks and mausoleum.
• Highlights the scenic beauty with views from Mount Lovcen and the picturesque Sveti Stefan island.
• A well-rated tour with a 5.0/5 rating from over 600 reviews, praised for guides, views, and organization.

Exploring Montenegro in a Day: The Perfect Balance of Sightseeing and Comfort

This full-day group tour from Kotor offers an efficient way to see many of Montenegro’s most iconic sights for $85.73 per person. Spanning approximately 11 hours, the trip takes travelers through breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and coastal villages, all with the ease of hotel pickup and comfortable transportation. One of the tour’s major strengths is the chance to visit Lovcen National Park, Sveti Stefan, and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Crnojevic River—all in a single day.

With a 5.0-star rating from over 600 reviews, it’s clear that the tour consistently delivers memorable experiences. The tour is especially suitable for those who want to maximize their time in Montenegro with a guided, organized process. However, potential travelers should be prepared for some additional costs, including entry fees and optional activities like the cable car ride.

From the Old Town to Mount Lovcen: An Adventure Begins with Spectacular Views

The tour begins at 9:00 am at the meeting point in Kotor, where travelers are greeted with hassle-free hotel pickup. The first stop is either the Kotor Cable Car or the Serpentine Road if weather conditions cancel the ride. The cable car offers stunning views of the Bay of Kotor and Tivat Bays, taking passengers up Loven Mountain to enjoy panoramic vistas. This aerial perspective is often described as unforgettable, setting a perfect tone for the day.

If the cable car is unavailable, the group takes an old Austro-Hungarian serpentine road instead, winding through scenic landscapes to reach Njegusi. This flexibility ensures the tour stays on schedule, regardless of weather, and still offers fantastic scenery and photo opportunities of the coast and mountains. The views from the top are consistently praised for their breathtaking beauty.

Visiting Njegusi: Montenegro’s Famous Smokehouse Village

Njegusi stands out as a highlight for outdoor lovers and foodies alike. Known for producing Montenegro’s best prosciutto, this village is reached after a winding journey through stone houses over 300 years old. Visitors can expect to see herds of cows and goats grazing in the surrounding fields, adding to the authentic rural charm.

The tour includes a short breakfast/snack at Montenegro’s oldest restaurant, opened in 1881. Here, you’ll enjoy a free shot of RAKIJA, the local strong brandy, which is a lively way to start the day. The focus on local cuisine and traditional flavors is often appreciated, with many reviews mentioning the delightful taste of prosciutto and the warm hospitality.

Conquering Mount Lovcen and the Njegos Mausoleum

The journey continues into Lovcen National Park, where the landscape transforms into a sea of rocks and lush vegetation. Travelers ascend to Lake Peak at 1,660 meters, enjoying the scenic drive through the park. The highlight at this stop is the Njegos Mausoleum, perched atop the second-highest peak of Lovcen.

The mausoleum is the resting place of Petar II Petrovi Njego, Montenegro’s renowned ruler and poet. Its world’s highest mausoleum offers remarkable views from 1650 meters high, complemented by the surrounding rugged mountain scenery. The hour-long visit involves a climb of around 460 steps, but the sweeping vistas and historical significance make the effort worthwhile.

The Historic Charm of Cetinje: Montenegro’s Old Royal Capital

The tour then takes visitors to Cetinje, a town filled with monuments and historical sites. The guide leads a walking tour through notable landmarks such as the Monastery of Cetinje, King Nikola’s Palace, and Biljarda, the residence of Petar II Petrovi Njego. The Court Church is also a key stop, offering insight into Montenegro’s religious and cultural heritage.

This one-hour exploration allows for appreciation of the town’s architectural beauty and historical importance, with free entry to key sites. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor photography and learning about Montenegro’s royal past.

Scenic Boat Ride and Lunch by Lake Skadar

Next, the tour moves toward the Crnojevic River, where travelers can enjoy a scenic boat ride that contributes to the atmosphere of Lake Skadar. The boat cruise lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes and offers the chance to see water lilies, birdlife, and lush vegetation. This peaceful trip is often praised for its relaxing pace and beautiful scenery.

Following the boat ride, a lunch break provides an opportunity to sample local flavors again. The boat ride’s proximity to Skadar Lake offers a taste of the water-rich landscape that defines Montenegro’s natural beauty. Some reviews note that additional costs for the boat ride and entry fees are not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

Sveti Stefan: A Photo Worthy Coastal Icon

The final scenic stop is Sveti Stefan, the famous peninsula with a luxury hotel that once was a fishing village. The viewpoint above the island offers stunning photos of its iconic medieval architecture and crystal-clear waters. Although non-guests are not allowed inside, the view alone makes it a worthwhile part of the tour.

The tour’s 10-minute stop at Sveti Stefan allows for quick photos and admiration of this world-famous coastal landmark. Its picture-perfect setting often leaves visitors with a sense of awe, making it one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

Practical Details: Logistics, Pricing, and Additional Costs

This tour includes an English-speaking driver/guide, transportation, and the boat ride on the Crnojevic River—which may include swimming depending on the weather. The admission fees for parks and the mausoleum, totaling around 16 EUR, are paid separately in the agency’s office.

Additional expenses include lunch (from 15 EUR), cable car tickets (13 EUR), and entry fees. Many reviews praise the organization and guide expertise, with guides like Milos, Nadja, and Egor receiving specific commendations for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out: Highlights and Considerations

The tour’s most praised aspects are the knowledgeable guides, stunning views from mountain peaks, and the scenic boat ride. Many reviews highlight guide Nina’s exceptional leadership and the quality of the photo spots along the route. The flexibility with weather, offering alternative routes, ensures a reliable experience regardless of conditions.

A notable limitation is the additional costs for entrance fees, cable cars, and the boat ride, which are not included in the initial price. Some mention that the long journey and multiple stops require a good level of physical fitness, especially for the steps at the mausoleum. Yet, most agree that the well-paced itinerary and spectacular scenery make it a worthwhile investment.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Montenegro Day Trip for Curious Travelers

This full-day Montenegro tour offers an excellent overview of the country’s natural and historic treasures. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience that combines mountain peaks, coastal views, and cultural sites without the hassle of organizing each stop themselves. The expert guides and scenic highlights deliver an engaging and relaxing day.

While the additional costs for entrance fees and activities should be considered, the value for money remains high given the diversity of experiences packed into 11 hours. The stunning vistas, historic sites, and charming villages make this tour a comprehensive introduction to Montenegro’s beauty and character.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, and the boat ride on the Crnojevic River. Entrance fees and meals are not included.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, visiting the Njegos Mausoleum involves climbing around 460 steps, so some physical effort is needed. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should be aware.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start. Full refunds are available if canceled in time.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Most travelers find it suitable, though the long day and steps at the mausoleum may require consideration for young children or older adults.

What is the best time to book?
The tour is most often booked around 22 days in advance. Booking early is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak season.

Are meals included?
No, meals are additional expenses, with lunch starting at 15 EUR. There’s also a short snack included at Njegusi.

What are the weather considerations?
The cable car ride is weather-dependent and may be canceled due to wind. The tour can proceed with an alternative route if needed.

Is there any dress code or packing tip?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the mausoleum climb. Bring layers, as weather can vary with altitude.

How do I pay for entrance fees and optional activities?
Entry fees totaling around 16 EUR are paid cash at the agency before the tour begins.

Would you recommend this tour?
Definitely for those seeking a full-day adventure that captures the essence of Montenegro’s mountains, coast, and history with the guidance of knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.