Podgorica, the bustling capital of Montenegro, might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but it’s surprisingly rich in vinicultural experiences. Thanks to its proximity to historic villages, lush national parks, and centuries-old wineries, Podgorica offers a variety of wine tours that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you’re after a quick tasting in a family-run winery or an immersive day exploring ancient ruins, the city’s wine tours deliver authentic Montenegrin flavors paired with unforgettable sights. One of our favorites is the Wine and food tasting in a traditional winery, which combines a warm family atmosphere with tasting homemade wines and local snacks.
If you’re looking to combine wine tasting with sightseeing, the Podgorica Car Trip — Architecture, History, Wine tasting, Churches, Doclea city offers an excellent private experience, exploring ruins, churches, and the famous Dajbabe Monastery. For those with a day to spare, the National parks and wine tasting takes you into Montenegro’s stunning national parks along with a wine tasting in a village where vineyards date back over 14 generations. Whatever your preference, these tours showcase Montenegro’s deep roots in wine and history, all within easy reach of Podgorica.
1. Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery
At number 1 on our list, the Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery tours the Garnet Winery, a family-run operation with a history spanning 14 generations. The tour includes sampling three homemade wines, spirits, and Montenegrin snacks, all while listening to stories from the family that produces them. The small group setting allows for personal attention from the agronomist and wine producer, who speaks fluent English and shares detailed insights into Montenegrin winemaking traditions. Located in the historic part of Godinje, this experience also offers sweeping views of the nearby village and its stone houses—an authentic glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage. The tour lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with multiple times available throughout the day. Visitors love the warm hospitality, flavorful wines, and the chance to hear stories about the village’s royal connections from the 14th century. The value for money is excellent, given the personalized attention and the chance to taste traditional Montenegrin cuisine. Perfect for wine lovers seeking an intimate, authentic experience. Bottom Line: A charming, educational introduction to Montenegro’s winemaking that’s perfect for small groups and lovers of tradition.
2. Podgorica Car Trip – Architecture, History, Wine tasting, Churches, Doclea city
Number 2 on our list is the Podgorica Car Trip, a 5-hour private journey that offers a balanced mix of history, architecture, and wine tasting. This tour is ideal if you want a comfortable, personalized experience exploring some of Montenegro’s key sights. Starting with the ancient ruins of Doclea, you’ll get a brief glimpse into the city’s long history—though mostly in ruins, it’s still worth the visit. Your guide then takes you to the Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja, the largest Orthodox church in Montenegro, admired for its modern design and interior beauty. The visit to Dajbabe Monastery introduces you to one of Montenegro’s unique religious sites, with a church built inside a cave. The highlight for wine lovers is the stop at the 13. Jul Plantaže winery, where you’ll taste some of the best Montenegrin wines and learn about the region’s viticulture. The tour wraps up with a visit to Nijagara Waterfalls, where you can relax and take photos. The private setup ensures you get tailored attention, making it a good choice for those who want a flexible, educational trip. Bottom Line: A well-rounded, private introduction to Montenegro’s sights and wine, tailored to your interests.
3. National parks and wine tasting (NP Lovcen, NP Skadar lake, Cetinje, Njegusi)
Number 3 offers an ambitious 6-hour adventure through Montenegro’s stunning landscapes combined with wine tasting. This tour visits Lovcen National Park, Skadar Lake, and the historic town of Cetinje, making it perfect for nature and history enthusiasts. The journey includes a scenic drive with panoramic viewpoints, such as the Rvasji village for wine tasting. The highlight is the stop at Rvasji, where you’ll sample six kinds of wine, along with liquors and brandies, paired with local Montenegrin dishes. The highlight for many is the boat ride on Skadar Lake, Europe’s largest freshwater reserve, where you can see diverse birdlife and enjoy the tranquility of the water. The tour is highly praised for its passionate guide, Tanja, who shares insights into the region’s natural beauty and wine traditions. The tour is quite comprehensive and offers great value considering the multiple attractions and tastings. Best suited for travelers with a full day to enjoy Montenegro’s scenery and wine culture. Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a mix of nature, culture, and wine with a knowledgeable guide.
4. Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour – Skadar lake and River Crnojevica
Position number 4 provides a full-day exploration of Montenegro’s countryside, combining history, nature, and wine. It includes visits to the Zabljak Crnojevića, the Bisevina savanna with wild horses, and the historic Virpazar. The Mrkan Winery stop offers a taste of organic Montenegrin wines, making it ideal for wine enthusiasts interested in small-scale, organic production. The tour also features an impressive river cruise on Skadar Lake, where you’ll pass bird reserves and scenic views. The Pavlova viewpoint provides a stunning panorama of the lake and surrounding mountains. The tour’s value lies in its diverse itinerary—covering historical sites, local wildlife, and authentic wineries—making it suitable for travelers who want a broad experience of Montenegro’s rural charm. The reviews highlight the tour’s friendly guide and the memorable wine tasting at Mrkan winery. Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a comprehensive day in the countryside with a focus on authentic wines and scenic landscapes.
5. Wine tour – Family winery visit, food tasting & Skadar Lake boat cruise
Number 5 is a private, full-day experience combining a family winery visit with a boat cruise on Skadar Lake. The tour’s standout feature is the visit to a family-run winery with a history spanning over 14 generations, where you’ll sample six types of wine, liquors, and Montenegrin specialties. The boat ride on Skadar Lake offers a chance to see diverse birdlife and enjoy nature from the water, making it ideal for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike. The winery visit is especially personalized, with stories about local traditions and the region’s viticultural history. Guests rave about the hospitality and the quality of the wines, with some calling it the best Montenegro experience. Practical and relaxed, this tour is perfect for those who want a deep dive into local wine culture paired with scenic lake views. Bottom Line: A top choice for wine lovers who want a relaxed, intimate experience with nature and excellent local wines.
6. Private Wine Tasting Activity at Lipovac Winery
Number 6 introduces you to the largest private winery in Montenegro, Lipovac, located on the slopes of Skadar Lake. The tour includes an in-depth visit to the vineyards, where you can learn about autochthonous grape varieties and see traditional winemaking methods, including ancient amphoras. The underground cellar houses barriques and bottles, offering a true behind-the-scenes look at Montenegrin wine production. The tasting includes four wines paired with local cold cuts like prosciutto, Montenegrin cheese, and olives. This tour is particularly good for those fascinated by wine production techniques and history, with archaeological remnants from the 3rd century B.C. adding a historical touch. The personalized experience and high-quality tasting make it a great value. The informal yet detailed approach suits wine aficionados who want to deepen their understanding. Bottom Line: An immersive, educational wine tasting at Montenegro’s largest private winery, ideal for serious wine lovers.
7. Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour – Skadar lake
Number 7 offers a condensed version of the countryside exploration, focusing on Zabljak Crnojevica, Virpazar, and Skadar Lake with a visit to Mrkan Winery. The tour emphasizes scenic views, local wildlife, and wine tasting from a private, small-scale producer. It’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience Montenegro’s rural heritage. The guide, Ivan, is praised for his storytelling and ability to tailor the experience, making it personable and informative. The tour’s strength lies in its combination of scenery and wine, especially the organic wines from Mrkan Winery. Reviewers note that it’s a memorable day with a friendly guide who shares both cultural and natural insights. Bottom Line: A compact, engaging countryside tour for those wanting a taste of Montenegro’s nature and wine in a half-day.
8. Podgorica Car Trip, Doclea city, Wine tasting, Niagara falls
Number 8 combines historic sites with wine tasting in a well-rounded 6-hour tour. It features visits to Doclea ruins, the Orthodox Temple of Christ’s Resurrection, and the natural spectacle of Niagara Falls, plus a wine tasting at a local winery. The itineraries are flexible and well-organized, with reviewers appreciating the guide’s storytelling and attentiveness. It’s a good pick if you want to see diverse aspects of Podgorica—history, religion, nature, and wine—all in one day. The combination of cultural and natural highlights makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors. Bottom Line: A convenient, all-in-one day tour that balances history and wine with scenic stops.
9. Montenegro: Nature, Locals & Wine Tour
Number 9 takes you from Cetinje to the Skadar Lake area with a focus on local wine and spectacular landscapes. The tour includes a walk through Cetinje’s historic streets, a boat ride on Skadar Lake (optional), and a visit to a family-run winery. It’s suited for travelers who want a mix of nature, cultural sights, and genuine local interaction. The guide emphasizes meeting locals and sampling authentic wines, with a special focus on panoramic views. Customers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the authentic experience at the winery. This tour works well if you prefer a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and a deep dive into Montenegro’s rural life. Bottom Line: A scenic, intimate tour ideal for travelers seeking cultural authenticity paired with excellent local wines.
10. Skadar Lake Private Boat Tour with Wine Tasting
Our final pick is the Skadar Lake Private Boat Tour with wine tasting, perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the water. Starting from Virpazar, the boat passes through channels leading to the open lake, with stops at Lesendro Fortress and Vranjina village. The highlight is the opportunity to enjoy wine and local snacks on board, plus birdwatching and swimming. The tour is ideal for nature lovers who want to combine a leisurely cruise with wine tasting in an intimate setting. Reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful scenery, making it a memorable way to experience Montenegro’s largest lake. The short duration and relaxed vibe make it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Bottom Line: A charming, low-key way to enjoy Skadar Lake with wine in hand and nature all around.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Podgorica
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and pace. For a deep dive into traditional Montenegrin wines paired with cultural stories, the Wine and food tasting in a traditional winery is unbeatable. If you prefer a broader day with scenic drives, historic sites, and wine in a private setting, look at the Podgorica Car Trip. For nature lovers, the National parks and wine tasting offers a mix of landscapes and vineyard visits, while those seeking a relaxed boat cruise will appreciate the Skadar Lake Private Boat Tour.
Budget-wise, tours range from around $34 for the private Lipovac Winery tasting to over $270 for a full-day tour of parks and wine, so plan according to how much time and money you want to invest. If you’re short on time, the half-day Podgorica Historic, Safari and Winery tour offers a quick yet diverse experience. Remember to check available times and book early in peak season to secure your spot.
Podgorica’s wine tours range from intimate tastings at historic family wineries to scenic exploration of national parks and lakes, making it possible to tailor your experience. Whether you want to sip wines with a view, walk through ancient ruins, or cruise on the lake, Montenegro’s variety of options guarantees an authentic, memorable trip. For the best experience, consider your interests, budget, and available time, and don’t hesitate to book early—these tours fill up fast in the warm months. Cheers to discovering Montenegro’s rich wine culture!