Kotor, with its dramatic mountains, historic Old Town, and stunning coastline, is a natural hub for memorable drinking tours that combine scenic views and local flavors. While the city itself offers plenty of bars and cafes, joining a guided tour elevates the experience—especially when you want to combine sightseeing with a taste of Montenegro’s culture and history. Our favorites include private shore excursions with customized itineraries, immersive day trips exploring medieval towns, and scenic viewpoints overlooking the Adriatic. For example, the Montenegro shore excursion from Bar or Kotor offers a tailored private experience that hits all the highlights, from UNESCO-listed Kotor to Sveti Stefan []. Each tour is designed to give you a genuine feel for Montenegro beyond the tourist crowds, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy local drinks and stunning scenery.
If you’re looking to combine a bit of history with your drink, or just want a relaxing cruise stop that’s rich in photo ops, the options below are some of the best available in Kotor. Whether you prefer a private tour, a full-day exploration, or a quick visit to a glamorous island, you’ll find something that suits your style.
Quick Overview
This list features three top-rated drinking tours in Kotor, each offering a different pace and focus. The first is a private shore excursion perfect for travelers arriving by cruise ship who want a flexible, personalized experience. The second is an immersive full-day tour exploring Montenegro’s medieval towns and coastal history. The third is a short, scenic tour centered on the iconic Budva Riviera and Sveti Stefan’s stunning viewpoint. All tours include local sights, opportunities for a drink or two, and insights into Montenegro’s rich past—making each a worthwhile choice depending on your schedule and interests.
Now, let’s look at each in detail.
1. Montenegro shore excursion from Bar or Kotor
At number 1 on our list is the Montenegro shore excursion from Bar or Kotor, which stands out for its flexibility and personalized touch. For around $104.18 per person, this private tour lasts approximately 4 to 8 hours, making it ideal for cruise passengers who want to maximize their time ashore. The tour includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle and a dedicated guide who customizes the itinerary to match your interests.
What makes this tour special is the chance to explore multiple sights without feeling rushed. You’ll start in Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, wandering its narrow streets and historic squares. Then, you’ll visit Jaz Beach, with its panoramic viewpoints perfect for photos and, perhaps, a quick refreshment. The journey continues to Budva Old Town, where the lively atmosphere and historic charm are palpable. Along the way, scenic stops at the Bay of Kotor and Sveti Stefan viewpoints offer spectacular photo ops and a chance to savor local drinks while soaking in the views.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and personalized attention. One reviewer mentioned, “Maria was absolutely amazing… her car was comfortable, and she shared great local experiences.” The tour hits a perfect balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural insight, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a tailored Montenegro experience without the hassle of navigating alone.
Bottom Line: This private shore tour offers a flexible, intimate look at Montenegro’s most iconic sights, making it perfect for cruise visitors wanting a personalized day out.
2. Dawn Of The City-state: Budva, Sveti Stefan, Bar, Petrovac 1 Day Tour
Second on our list is the Dawn Of The City-state day tour, which takes you to several of Montenegro’s historic coastal towns. For approximately $150.49 per person, this full-day adventure lasts about 7 to 9 hours and is ideal for those eager to learn about Montenegro’s medieval past while enjoying its scenic coast.
This tour is packed with highlights. You’ll start at Sveti Stefan, a tiny island turned luxury resort that once was a fishing village. Standing at the viewpoint, you can snap iconic photos and imagine the stories of the villagers who called it home. Next, you’ll visit Petrovac, a charming seaside town with a relaxed vibe. Then, the journey takes you to the Old Fortress of Bar, where you’ll feel the weight of Montenegro’s changing fortunes under the mottled stone walls. Your final stop is Budva’s Old Town, wandering through streets defined by centuries of history, with plenty of spots for a local drink or snack.
This tour has received praise for its engaging guide and scenic stops. One review notes, “Slavko is such a warm personality and highly motivated guide… we enjoyed the fortress and the scenery.” It’s a great choice for history buffs or anyone wanting a comprehensive coastal adventure that combines stories of old Montenegro with stunning seaside views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to enjoy Montenegro’s medieval history while sipping local drinks in scenic towns.
3. Port of Bar private tour – Budva old town and St. Stefan viewpoint
Our third pick is the Port of Bar private tour focused on exploring the vibrant Budva Riviera and Sveti Stefan. Costing about $211.38 per person, this 3 to 4-hour tour is best suited for travelers short on time but eager to see Montenegro’s most photographed sights.
This tour centers on Budva’s Old Town, surrounded by ancient walls and filled with lively squares, churches, and shops. You’ll enjoy a guided walk through the narrow streets, with insights into the city’s long history. Afterwards, you’ll head to Sveti Stefan, where a quick stop at the viewpoint offers a postcard-perfect scene of the island-turned-resort. The tour emphasizes scenic views and photo opportunities, making it ideal for those who want a quick taste of Montenegro’s coast with a few drinks and photo breaks in between.
While it’s a shorter experience, guests find it offers “a wonderful sightseeing overview of the riviera,” with plenty of chances to enjoy the atmosphere of this iconic stretch of coast. It’s an excellent option if your time is limited but you want a taste of Montenegro’s glamorous seaside spots.
Bottom Line: A brisk, scenic private tour focusing on major highlights of the Budva Riviera and Sveti Stefan, perfect for travelers on a tight schedule.
$211.38 per person
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Kotor
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. If you love personalized experiences and want a flexible itinerary, the Montenegro shore excursion (link) is hard to beat. For history enthusiasts who want to explore medieval towns and learn stories of Montenegro’s past, the Dawn of the City-state tour (link) offers rich insights and scenic stops. For a quick, scenic overview especially suited for short stays, the Port of Bar private tour (link) provides a compact taste of the coast.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season (May to September), when these tours fill quickly. Think about your fitness level—these tours involve walking through historic towns and some uphill viewpoints, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Kotor and its surroundings provide an excellent variety of drinking and sightseeing experiences that can suit most travelers. Whether you prefer a tailored private tour, an immersive historical journey, or a quick scenic snapshot, there’s something waiting for you. Consider what kind of experience will make your trip memorable, and don’t hesitate to book early—these tours are popular for a reason.