Montenegro might be small in size, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to wine tourism. The country’s diverse landscape—from lush lakes to rugged mountains—creates perfect conditions for growing grapes. Plus, Montenegrin wine is steadily gaining recognition for its quality and authenticity. Whether you’re after a scenic boat cruise paired with wine, a private vineyard visit, or a rooftop tasting with panoramic views, Montenegro offers something for every wine enthusiast.
Our favorite experience is the Virpazar: Lake Skadar Sunset Boat Cruise with Wine Tasting. It combines a relaxed boat ride with stunning sunset views over Lake Skadar—Montenegro’s largest freshwater lake—and a chance to sample local wines while soaking in the scenery. This tour perfectly blends nature, history, and wine, making it ideal for travelers who want a memorable, laid-back experience.
Quick Overview
The list below highlights four of the best wine tours in Montenegro, each offering a different way to explore the country’s wine scene:
– A scenic sunset boat cruise with wine tasting on Lake Skadar
– An exclusive private tour of Montenegro’s largest winery, Plantaže
– A panoramic rooftop wine tasting with local snacks in Podgorica
– An immersive visit to Montenegro’s biggest wine cellar with tastings of five wines
Now, let’s take a closer look at each one to help you decide which fits your taste and schedule best.
1. Virpazar: Lake Skadar Sunset Boat Cruise with Wine Tasting
This sunset boat cruise on Lake Skadar is a charming way to experience Montenegro’s natural beauty. Starting from Virpazar, you’ll board a traditional wooden boat and glide across the lake during the ‘golden hour,’ when the light is at its best. As you cruise, you’ll pass by the fortress of Lesendro—often called the “Eternal Sorrow of Njegoš”—and watch for birdlife in the marshes. The highlight is the wine tasting, featuring some of the best local varieties, paired with stories from your friendly guide.
What makes this tour special is the combination of scenic views, cultural sights, and authentic flavors. The itinerary includes multiple stops, like the scenic pass-by of Fort Lesendro and Kamenik, and even a swim break. It’s ideal for nature lovers and those wanting a relaxed, social atmosphere. The reviews are excellent, with many praising the friendly crew and the well-organized schedule. One reviewer noted, “Relaxing boat cruise on Skadar Lake during picturesque sunset time. Perfect for bird watching and drinking local Montenegrin wine.”
Bottom line: If you want a memorable mix of landscape, history, and wine in a laid-back setting, this cruise should be at the top of your list.
2. The largest winery in Montenegro: private tour & transport
For those interested in understanding the wine-making process firsthand, the private tour of Montenegro’s largest winery, Plantaže, fits the bill perfectly. Located just 10 km from Podgorica, this expansive vineyard offers a guided walk through its cellars and vineyards, culminating in a tasting of some of the best wines Montenegro produces. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, with transportation included, making it a hassle-free experience.
What makes this tour standout is its focus on Montenegro’s wine heritage and tradition. The guides are knowledgeable, sharing insights into the local grape varieties and the wine-making process. Guests will sample both the wine and homemade Montenegrin food, adding to the authentic experience. The reviews praise the tour for its educational value and the quality of the tastings, with one reviewer commenting, “Simona was in contact the whole time. The tour was very educational, and the wine and food tasting was fantastic.”
Bottom line: This private visit is perfect for wine lovers wanting a deeper dive into Montenegro’s wine production, especially if they enjoy guided tours with food pairings.
3. Podgorica: Panoramic Wine Tasting & Snack
For a more relaxing, city-based experience, check out the Panoramic Wine Tasting & Snack in Podgorica. Held on a rooftop with sweeping views of nearby vineyards and hills, this tour offers a taste of Montenegro’s wine culture in a picturesque setting. Over two hours, you’ll sample local wines that tell stories of the region, paired with traditional snacks, all while enjoying the peaceful surrounds.
What sets this apart is the spectacular view and intimacy of the setting, making it a great choice for romantic evenings or intimate gatherings. The guide provides insights into the wines’ origins and production methods, adding depth to the tasting. With a single review rating it a perfect 5/5, it’s clear this experience hits the right notes for many visitors.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a cozy, scenic spot for wine and snacks without leaving the city.
$24 per person
4. WINE TOUR: Recommended for hedonists!
If you want to indulge in Montenegro’s finest wines in a more immersive setting, the wine cellar Šipčanik is the top choice. This experience, designed for lovers of good food and drink, includes a tasting of five different wines from Montenegro’s largest cellar. Located conveniently from Podgorica, this tour offers a rich sampling experience for around two hours.
What makes this tour special is its focus on quality and variety, with the cellar hosting some of the best wines in the country. You spend time exploring the cellar’s caves and learning about the wine aging process, then sampling a curated selection. The reviews note the tour’s value for money and the friendly atmosphere. One reviewer exclaimed, “The best Montenegrin wine experience—perfect for food lovers and those wanting to taste the top wines.”
Bottom line: Best suited for wine connoisseurs or anyone looking for a full-bodied tasting session in Montenegro’s biggest wine cellar.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour
When deciding between these options, think about what kind of experience appeals most. If scenic views and a relaxed vibe are your priority, the Lake Skadar sunset cruise is perfect. For a deeper dive into wine production and local food, the private Plantaže winery tour offers a more educational experience. If you prefer something in the city with great views and snacks, the panoramic rooftop tasting suits well. Lastly, for those who want to indulge thoroughly, the Šipčanik wine cellar offers a comprehensive tasting of Montenegro’s best wines.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer outdoor scenery or indoor comfort. Booking early is a good idea, especially for popular tours like the winery visit, to ensure availability during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a romantic sunset cruise, an educational winery tour, or a luxurious wine tasting in a cellar, Montenegro has a variety of options that promise memorable experiences. For travelers who want a relaxed, scenic outing, the Lake Skadar cruise is a top pick. If you’re into learning about wine production, the private winery tour is unbeatable. For a more casual, city-based experience, the rooftop tasting offers excellent views and local flavors.
Each of these tours provides a unique perspective on Montenegro’s wine scene, so choose one that best fits your taste and schedule. Remember to book early to secure your spot—Montenegro’s wine experiences are popular and tend to fill quickly. Cheers to discovering Montenegro’s wonderful wines!