From Kotor: Private Car Excursion to Virpazar & Skadar Lake

A Closer Look at the Private Car Excursion to Virpazar & Skadar Lake in Montenegro

This private tour from Kotor offers a flexible way to explore some of Montenegro’s most beautiful sights. While it’s not a guided tour in the traditional sense, it combines scenic drives, authentic villages, and panoramic views that give you a genuine taste of this stunning country.

What draws travelers most are the beautiful Skadar Lake, the charm of Virpazar, the historic streets of Cetinje, and the lively atmosphere of Budva. We love the chance to see these diverse locations in one day, without the hassle of navigating on your own.

A potential downside? The tour’s duration can make it a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping to do everything listed in the itinerary. Plus, the additional cost for boat rides and park entry can catch some visitors off guard. Still, it’s a flexible experience that suits those eager to see a lot without sacrificing comfort.

This tour works best for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, authentic villages, and iconic views, especially if you prefer the comfort of private transportation over group tours. It’s ideal for those with limited time in Montenegro or anyone wanting a personalized day trip with the flexibility to customize a bit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible private experience with a dedicated driver and no guide
• Stunning views of Kotor Bay, Skadar Lake, and the surrounding landscapes
• Visit authentic spots like Virpazar, Budva’s Old Town, and Cetinje’s royal history
• Optional boat trip on Skadar Lake can be booked on-site but at an extra cost
• Long drive, short stops — perfect if you love scenic routes but expect a quick overview
• Includes insurance and driver but not park entrance or boat tickets

The Full Details: What to Expect from This Montenegro Day Trip

Starting in Kotor, the journey begins with a scenic drive through rustic landscapes and coastal views that already hint at Montenegro’s natural beauty. The driver, who speaks English and is there for your convenience, will transport you comfortably for about 6 hours, taking you from the medieval streets of Kotor to the lush waters of Skadar Lake and further inland to historic Cetinje.

The First Stop: Virpazar

About six miles from the sea, Virpazar is your gateway into Montenegro’s tranquil fishing culture. Here, you’ll see the charming three stone bridges—remarkably old structures that have watched over the town for centuries. The town’s unique location at the confluence of rivers flowing into Skadar Lake makes it a lively hub for local fishermen and birdwatchers alike.

One traveler noted that the boat trip on Skadar Lake was a highlight—”just us and the boat owners for an hour”—offering a peaceful encounter with the local birdlife. However, this experience isn’t included in the base price and can cost around 110 euros, so be prepared for that extra expense if you want to explore the water.

Exploring Skadar Lake

The lake itself is a marvel: a freshwater body formed by collapsed caves, stretching across the region and offering sweeping views. We loved the way the lake’s calm surface reflects the sky, especially when viewed from the shores of Virpazar. You can purchase a boat ticket on the day, which many travelers find worthwhile for bird photography or simply soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Charm of Budva

Next, the tour heads to Budva, a lively town on the Adriatic coast. Its Old Town is a compact maze of narrow alleys, historic citadel, and bustling squares. Here, you’ll get a taste of Montenegro’s seaside vibe, with the chance to walk along the Slovenian boulevard, enjoy fresh fish specialties, and do some souvenir shopping.

One reviewer appreciated the opportunity to see the St. Stephen Island from a panoramic viewpoint—”which ensures a magnificent visual experience.” You’ll also have some free time to explore or relax, depending on your interests.

The Historic Royal City: Cetinje

From Budva, the journey continues inland to Cetinje, once the royal capital of Montenegro. This city offers a glimpse into the country’s past, with notable sites like the monastery, museums, and old streets lined with traditional architecture. It’s a stop that appeals to history buffs or those wanting a deeper cultural context.

Scenic Return via Kotor Bay

On your way back, the driver will take you along the Austro-Hungarian Boka Bay, offering panoramic views that make for perfect photo opportunities. The final highlight is the breathtaking view of Kotor Bay from over 3900 feet above sea level, a fitting end to a day packed with natural and historic beauty.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel in a private, air-conditioned car, perfect for comfort and flexibility. The tour is strictly private, meaning your group can customize timings or ask your driver to linger longer at certain spots. Since the driver is not a guide, the experience is more about scenic touring and personal exploration than guided commentary.

How the Pricing Works

The price covers transportation, insurance, and an English-speaking driver. However, entrance fees for Skadar Lake National Park and any boat tours are not included and paid on-site. This gives you the option to choose whether to participate, but it’s worth noting that these extras can add up.

Meeting Points and Practicalities

Meet your driver just outside the MontenegroGlobe travel agency near the Kamelija shopping center—a short walk from Kotor’s Old Town and port. The tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics straightforward.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, and your passport or ID. Keep in mind, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, wheelchair users, or those over 95, due to the nature of the itinerary and mobility considerations.

What the Reviews Reveal: Honest Traveler Insights

While most travelers enjoyed the tour’s scenic highlights and relaxed pace, some noted logistical hiccups. One guest found it challenging to locate the meeting point in Kotor, which led to a late start—so arriving early and having accurate directions is advisable.

Another reviewer appreciated the personalized service and the driver’s friendly attitude, despite not being a professional guide—”showing us the cities and telling us curiosities” was a big plus. The stunning views of Kotor Bay and Skadar Lake repeatedly earned praise, with many describing the scenery as “beautiful” or “magnificent.”

One critical note was the additional cost of boat trips and park entry, which was not always clear upfront. If birdwatching or water exploration is your priority, budget accordingly.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a personalized, scenic day that mixes nature, history, and coastal charm. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer private transportation and a flexible schedule. The opportunity to see Skadar Lake’s serene waters and Budva’s Old Town makes for memorable photographs and stories.

However, if your main focus is a guided experience with detailed commentary, or if you’re tight on time, you might find this tour a bit rushed. The long drive means you’ll spend considerable time in transit, so prioritize what interests you most.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits travelers eager to explore Montenegro’s highlights at their own pace. It’s perfect for those who value comfort and flexibility over a large group setting or guided narration. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see birdlife and lake scenery, while history enthusiasts will enjoy Cetinje’s monuments.

Final Thoughts

This private car excursion from Kotor offers a versatile and scenic way to get a taste of Montenegro’s top sights. The combination of authentic villages, stunning views, and historic towns makes it a well-rounded day out. While it’s not a guided tour, the flexibility and personal approach allow you to customize your experience as needed.

Most travelers will find this a worthwhile way to see the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural gems without feeling rushed. Just be prepared for some optional costs on the side and a long day of driving—although that’s often what creates the best views.

If you’re after an easy, private way to tick off Montenegro’s most iconic spots, this tour offers a practical, scenic, and memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour with a guide?
No, this is a private transportation service with an English-speaking driver. You won’t have a guide providing commentary but can ask your driver questions.

Can I customize the stops or duration?
Since it’s a private tour, you have some flexibility to ask your driver to linger longer at certain spots or skip others, depending on your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, and your passport or ID are recommended. You might also want to bring some cash for optional extras like boat rides and park entrance fees.

Is the boat trip included?
No, the boat tour on Skadar Lake is optional and paid separately, usually on-site. The cost is around 110 euros, so plan accordingly.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance to Skadar Lake National Park and other sites are not included in the base price.

Is this tour suitable for children or wheelchairs?
It’s not suitable for young children under 2, wheelchair users, or those over 95 due to the nature of the stops and transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, but actual times may vary depending on stops and traffic.

Where do I meet the driver?
At the MontenegroGlobe travel agency near Kamelija shopping center, close to Kotor Old Town and the port.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

In summary, this private Montenegro tour is an excellent option for travelers who want a comfortable, scenic overview of key sights, with the freedom to explore at their own pace. It’s ideal if you prioritize natural beauty and authentic village scenes over guided commentary, and you’re happy to handle some additional costs for boat trips and park fees.

You can check availability for your dates here: