Ride the Kotor Cable Car ( Njegusi, Lovcen and Kotor Cable car)

Experience the Best of Montenegro’s Bay and Mountain on a Scenic Tour

This 5-hour guided tour in Kotor, Montenegro, offers a beautifully balanced glimpse into the country’s natural and cultural treasures. For around $232 per person, you’ll journey through the serpentine road from Kotor, visit the historic village of Njegusi, ascend Lovcen National Park, and finish with a ride on one of the world’s most breathtaking cable cars. Guided by knowledgeable drivers and local guides, this experience promises a blend of stunning vistas, authentic tastes, and memorable moments—all in a compact schedule that’s perfect for travelers short on time but eager for depth.

What we particularly love about this tour is the combination of natural beauty and culture. First, the drive along the winding, historic serpentine road offers some of the most breathtaking views of Kotor Bay — and a story to match. Second, sampling local delicacies in Njegusi, from prosciutto to cheese and wine, makes the visit feel authentic rather than touristy. The cable car ride up Lovcen is stunning, with panoramic vistas stretching across the bay, making it the highlight for many.

A potential consideration is the tour’s modest duration—just 5 hours—which means some stops are brief, and it might feel rushed if you’re keen to linger in each location. That said, for travelers wanting an overview with key highlights, it offers great value. This tour suits those who appreciate scenic drives, cultural experiences, and panoramic views without the hassle of planning each detail independently.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking panoramas of Kotor Bay from the serpentine road, Lovcen, and the cable car.
• Cultural Insights: The visit to Njegusi offers a taste of authentic Montenegrin village life and cuisine.
• Historical Significance: The mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš reveals Montenegro’s deep-rooted cultural history.
• Convenient and Comfortable: Private, air-conditioned transportation ensures a relaxed experience.
• Authentic Food Tasting: Enjoy local prosciutto, cheese, olives, and wine in Njegusi, adding flavor to your journey.
• Unbeatable Views from the Cable Car: In just 11 minutes, ascend from 65m to 1350m, with vistas of the bay, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi.

A Deep Dive into the Montenegro Scenic Tour

This tour starts in Kotor, a beautifully preserved medieval port town that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the outset, the journey is marked by the serpentine road, a historic mountain pass with 25 switchbacks. You’ll feel the thrill of winding through mountain curves while enjoying views that have inspired local legends — including the story of the young engineer Josip Slade-Ilovi, whose curved road design supposedly symbolizes his secret love.

This part of the drive is not just about getting from point A to B, but about soaking in the scenery. The M-shaped moat along the route is a visual highlight and a reminder of Montenegro’s clever engineering and compelling stories. The road’s narrow, winding nature might seem daunting, especially if you’re prone to vertigo or simply prefer straight highways, but it’s part of what makes this a memorable ride.

On reaching Njegusi, you step into a village that’s as much a living museum as a community. Known historically for powering old Montenegro, Njegusi was home to powerful clans and notable figures like Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, the revered bishop, poet, and ruler. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to taste local prosciutto, cheese, and wine—a true highlight for food lovers.

Travellers who have visited this spot mention how authentic and delicious the food is, with one reviewer noting, “You can try and buy local products such as prosciutto, cheese, wine and more.” The village’s traditional atmosphere makes it a perfect stop to experience Montenegro’s culinary culture firsthand.

Afterward, the journey continues to Lovcen National Park, a place of striking natural beauty and national pride. The highlight here is the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović-Njegoš, a towering monument and a symbol of Montenegrin identity. The mausoleum’s construction features a six-sided chapel and a statue carved from a 50-ton granite block, a feat of artistry and engineering. You’ll climb 441 steps to reach it, but the view from the top is worth every step. It offers sweeping vistas of the region, framed by the mountains and the bay below.

According to reviews, the guide (such as Marko Milovic, mentioned by a traveler) enhances the experience with detailed stories and local knowledge, making the visit more meaningful. The entrance fee to the mausoleum is included in the tour, eliminating any surprises, and allowing you to focus on the stunning surroundings.

Finally, the journey brings you back to Kotor, where the old town’s labyrinth of cobbled streets and historic sites beckons. But what most travelers are excited about is the cable car ride up Mount Lovcen. In just 11 minutes, you ascend from 65 meters to 1350 meters, enjoying panoramic views that encompass the Bay of Kotor, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi.

The cable car is often described as an unforgettable experience, offering “fabulous views” and a chance to appreciate Montenegro’s diverse landscape from above. You can enjoy a coffee or simply soak in the scenery, making it the perfect way to cap the tour.

What Travelers Say

The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the stunning scenery as standout aspects. One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guide Marko and the trip from Tivat to Skadar Lake, noting how the guide’s insights made the experience especially enjoyable. Another reviewer called Kotor “a beautiful old town with lots of flair,” emphasizing that while cruise travelers visit in large numbers, a multi-day stay provides a different, more personal perspective.

The overall rating of 4.7 (from 3 reviews) suggests consistency in quality, and travelers seem especially taken with the authentic food tasting and spectacular views from the cable car.

Value for Money and Practical Tips

At about $232, this tour offers a well-rounded experience, especially considering the included transport, cable car ride, and mausoleum entry. You’re paying for convenience, expert guidance, and memorable scenery, making it a good value for those interested in Montenegro’s culture and natural beauty.

Booking in advance—typically around 32 days—is recommended to secure your spot, particularly during the busy summer months. The tour operates daily, with a flexible schedule from noon to late evening, so you can choose a time that suits your plans.

Remember, the tour is private, so it’s tailored to your group, which allows for a more relaxed, personalized experience. Keep in mind that drinks and meals outside the tasting in Njegusi are not included, so budget accordingly if you plan to explore local restaurants afterward.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a richly visual introduction to Montenegro’s iconic sights—mountains, bays, historic villages, and scenic cable cars—without feeling rushed. It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and stunning views. The guided element enhances the experience, making each stop more meaningful, especially with stories that bring the landscape to life.

Ideal for those who want an efficient yet immersive taste of Montenegro, this tour balances natural beauty with authentic culture, all within a manageable timeframe. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or simply chasing spectacular views, this trip provides a memorable snapshot of what makes Montenegro special.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 5 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are snacks and meals included?
Yes, you’ll get a tasting of prosciutto, cheese, olives, and wine or brandy in Njegusi, but additional drinks or meals are not included.

Is the cable car ride worth it?
Most travelers find the 11-minute cable car ride a highlight, offering incredible panoramic views from 65 meters to 1350 meters above sea level.

Do I need to book in advance?
Booking about 32 days ahead is recommended, especially in peak season, to ensure availability and secure your preferred time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are advisable, especially for the steps at the mausoleum and the mountain elevation.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience for your group, allowing for a more personalized and flexible schedule.

This tour strikes a fine balance between natural splendor, cultural insight, and ease of access. It’s perfect for those who want a well-organized taste of Montenegro’s most stunning sights, with enough free time to savor each moment.