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

Exploring Montenegro in a single day might sound ambitious, but this tour makes it seamless and memorable. For just around $85, you’ll visit iconic sights like Kotor’s Old Town, Lovcen National Park, the glamorous Sveti Stefan, and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Crnojevic River. Led by friendly, well-informed guides such as Nina, Slavko, or Egor, it’s a well-packed day that offers a true taste of the country’s natural beauty and cultural gems.

What we love most? First, the stunning vistas of the Bay of Kotor from the cable car and mountain viewpoints—these moments are truly postcard-worthy. Second, the authentic local experiences, like tasting Montenegro’s famous prosciutto in Njegusi and enjoying a traditional RAKIJA shot, bring you closer to the local way of life.

A possible consideration? The tour is quite full on and includes a lot of moving parts—so if you prefer a leisurely pace or detailed visits of fewer sites, this might feel a bit rushed. But for those wanting a rundown in a day, it hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a well-organized, value-packed day with a mix of breathtaking scenery, history, and local flavor. It’s suited for those who don’t mind a long day on the road and want to see many highlights without the hassle of planning individual visits.

Key Points

• Variety of sights: From ancient towns to mountain mausoleums, the tour covers Montenegro’s diverse attractions.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and friendly guides make the experience engaging and informative.
• Stunning views: Expect breathtaking panoramas from the cable car, mountain peaks, and viewpoints over Sveti Stefan.
• Authentic experiences: Sample local prosciutto, enjoy a traditional RAKIJA shot, and cruise the Crnojevic River.
• Convenience: Hassle-free hotel pickup, transportation included, and a well-organized itinerary.
• Value for money: At $85.73, the tour provides a comprehensive snapshot of Montenegro with many memorable moments.

A Deep Dive into the Great Montenegro Tour

Starting the Day: Kotor and the Cable Car

The tour kicks off early, with a pickup from the meeting point in Kotor. The first stop is the Kotor Cable Car, which elevates you to a perch overlooking the Bay of Kotor and Tivat Bays. The views from the top are spectacular—crisp, panoramic scenes of the medieval city walls, shimmering waters, and distant mountains.

However, be aware that the cable car ticket is not included in the price, and weather can influence operation—if winds pick up, the ride may be canceled, and you’ll need to adapt accordingly. One reviewer mentioned that wind could be an issue in July to September, so keep that in mind if visiting during warmer months.

Scenic Drive and Njegusi Village

If the cable car isn’t available, the group instead takes the historic Austro-Hungarian serpentine road to Njegusi, famed for its prosciutto. The winding road offers breathtaking views and passes through dozens of ancient stone houses, cows, and goats grazing freely—an authentic glimpse into rural Montenegro.

Here, the tour pauses for a traditional breakfast or snack at one of the oldest restaurants, dating back to 1881. The guide offers a complimentary shot of RAKIJA—a strong local brandy—giving you a true local flavor to start your day. Reviewers have expressed how much they appreciated these small, genuine touches, adding flavor to the trip.

Mount Lovcen and the Mausoleum

Next, the group heads into Lovcen National Park, crossing through lush forests and rugged terrain. You’ll ascend to the Lake Peak at 1,660 meters—an ideal vantage point for soaking in the “sea of rocks” and panoramic views.

The highlight here is the Njegos Mausoleum, where the poet and ruler Petar II Petrovi Njego is laid to rest atop the second-highest peak. The mausoleum is the highest in the world, perched dramatically at 1,650 meters. The climb involves about 460 steps, but many travelers find the effort worthwhile for the awe-inspiring scenery and the sense of history. One reviewer praised the views at the mausoleum, saying they were “incredible” after the climb.

Cetinje: Montenegro’s Historical Heart

Descending into Cetinje, the former royal capital, you’ll enjoy a walking tour of its key monuments: the Cetinje Monastery, King Nikola’s Palace, and the Biljarda, the residence of Njego. The guide points out the significance of each site and offers insights into Montenegro’s past.

Most travelers find Cetinje a charming, historically rich town that’s well worth the short stop—it’s a chance to walk narrow streets lined with old stone buildings and soak up the atmosphere. Reviewers note the guide’s ability to bring these locations alive, adding context and local stories.

Scenic Boat Ride on the Crnojevic River and Lake Skadar

After exploring Cetinje, the tour moves to the Crnojevic River, where a scenic boat cruise awaits. This part of the trip is especially praised for its lush vegetation, water lilies, and birdlife—making it feel like being at Lake Skadar, even if you’re on the river.

The boat ride lasts about 1.5 hours, and depending on the season, there’s the possibility to swim. The boat trip is a relaxing, natural highlight that many reviews mention as a favorite, with comments like “wonderful” and “beautiful scenery”. Keep in mind that the boat ride and any associated costs are paid separately.

Sveti Stefan: The Glamorous Island

The final stop is the famous Sveti Stefan, a tiny island turned luxury resort. While non-guests can’t enter, the tour allows a quick photo opportunity from a viewpoint above the island. It’s a postcard scene—cliffside, with quaint stone buildings and azure waters.

For many, it’s the perfect way to end the day, capturing that iconic Montenegro image. Some reviews note that visiting the viewpoint can be tricky in July-September due to traffic jams, so timing might affect your experience.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $85.73 per person, which covers transportation, guide services, and the boat ride. Entrance fees for parks and mausoleum (€16 total) are paid separately and in cash. Food, drinks, and cable car tickets are also additional costs, but the tour’s reviews point out that these extras are clearly communicated beforehand.

The group size is capped at 21 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours. Pickup is offered from select locations, making logistics easier for travelers staying in Kotor.

A standout aspect noted in reviews is the professionalism and knowledge of the guides—many travelers praise guides like Nina, Milej, and Egor for their friendliness, humor, and expertise. Their ability to share stories, answer questions, and keep the group engaged is a big part of the tour’s appeal.

Summary of the Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded view of Montenegro—combining natural beauty, history, and local culture. The itinerary is full but thoughtfully organized, with plenty of photo stops and opportunities to learn about the country’s rich heritage. The transportation is comfortable, and the guides’ local knowledge ensures you get authentic insights that you wouldn’t find in a guidebook.

The major downside for some might be the long hours and the weather-dependent activities like the cable car and mausoleum climb. If you’re not comfortable with heights or a packed schedule, some stops might feel rushed. However, if you enjoy a dynamic, scenic day with a friendly group and knowledgeable guides, this tour hits most marks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers eager to see the highlights of Montenegro without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal if you want a rundown, stunning vistas, and authentic local touches in one day. It’s also well-suited for those who enjoy a bit of history, nature, and scenic cruising—plus, you’ll come away with plenty of photos and memories.

If you’re on a tight schedule but want to maximize your time in Montenegro, this tour offers excellent value. Just prepare for a full day, and bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hassle-free hotel pickup from select locations, making logistics straightforward.

What’s the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, so expect a full day on the road with many stops.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for parks and the mausoleum (€16 in total) are paid separately in cash at the agency office.

What about food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included. You can buy breakfast, lunch, and snacks during the day. The tour mentions a traditional restaurant in Njegusi and a scenic lunch break.

Is the cable car ride guaranteed?
Not necessarily. Due to weather conditions, especially wind, the cable car ride may be canceled, and an alternative route is taken.

Can I swim during the boat ride?
Depending on the weather and season, swimming may be possible, but it’s not guaranteed. The boat ride is also a fantastic photo opportunity.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 21 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera or smartphone for photos, and some cash for entrance fees and extras are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers participate comfortably, but consider the climb to the mausoleum and the full day’s length when planning with children.

Final Thoughts

The Great Montenegro Tour offers a rich, hassle-free way to see a broad swath of this beautiful country in one day. From stunning mountain vistas and historic towns to luxury island views and serene river cruises, it covers a lot of ground and delivers authentic moments along the way.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a guided experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and fun. If you’re looking for a value-packed, well-organized tour with friendly guides and stunning photo opportunities, this trip deserves serious consideration. Just remember, it’s a long day — so pack your patience and your camera, and get ready for a memorable taste of Montenegro.