Montenegro: Lovcen Cable Car, Njegusi & Cetinje Day Tour

Planning a day trip around Montenegro can feel overwhelming with so many incredible spots to choose from. Luckily, this Lovcen Cable Car, Njegusi & Cetinje tour offers a well-balanced mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and local flavors, all packed into about 8–9 hours. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary give a clear picture of what to expect and why it could be a fantastic addition to your Montenegrin adventure.

What we love about this experience are the spectacular views from the cable car, the chance to taste authentic Montenegrin cuisine, and the insightful guidance from knowledgeable locals. It’s a great way to see various landscapes—from mountains and coastlines to charming villages—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. A minor consideration is that the day is quite full, so travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might find it a bit rushed. This tour suits those eager to tick off multiple highlights in one go, especially if you’re short on time but want to soak up the essence of Montenegro’s natural beauty and history.

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Key Points

Stunning views from the cable car over Kotor Bay and Mt. Lovcen
Cultural visits to Cetinje Monastery and Njego Mausoleum
Authentic Montenegrin food in Njegusi village, including prosciutto and cheese
Expert guides provide engaging stories and historical context
Efficient transportation with round-trip bus service
Flexible booking options including pay later and cancellations

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You’ll Love This Tour

This day trip hits many of the highlights Montenegro is known for—amazing scenery, rich history, and hearty local cuisine—all without the stress of organizing transportation or guides yourself. The tour’s structure ensures you get a broad taste of the country’s mountains, coast, and cultural landmarks, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

Plus, the guided commentary—which is delivered in both English and Russian (and optionally Montenegrin)—means you’ll gain insights into Montenegro’s past and present while enjoying the sights. Reviewers have praised guides like Jelena, who make the experience engaging and informative. One traveler described the guide as “awesome,” noting they learned a lot about Montenegro’s stories and history, especially about the significance of the Njego Mausoleum.

However, be prepared for a long day. The itinerary involves about 8.5 hours, with plenty of moving and sightseeing, so pack comfortable shoes and be ready for a full schedule. The drive along the windy mountain roads is also noted—good news if you love scenic drives, but a heads-up if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Looking for more options in Kotor? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour begins with a short bus ride from Kotor, heading toward Dub (“Oak”), near the Bay of Kotor. The friendly driver, Nikola, is often praised for his skill navigating Montenegro’s twisting mountain roads, which can be a little intense but add to the adventure. This part of the trip sets the tone, offering glimpses of Kotor’s stunning coastline and rugged terrain.

The Cable Car & Kuk Station

The highlight is the cable car ride to Mount Loven, ascending to 1,350 meters in just 11 minutes. From the cable car, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains—a picture-perfect moment that reviewers describe as “amazing” and “breathtaking.” The cable car’s platforms at the Kuk station offer plenty of time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and, for the more adventurous, try medieval-themed activities or rides like mountain coasters and trimmers.

One reviewer mentioned, “The views on the way up to Lovcen are amazing,” capturing just how memorable this part of the tour is. The Kuk station’s combination of natural beauty and fun attractions makes it more than just a quick stop.

More Great Tours Nearby

Njego Mausoleum

Continuing higher up, you’ll reach the Njego Mausoleum, a striking monument dedicated to Montenegro’s revered ruler-poet, Petar II Petrovi-Njego. From here, visitors get truly impressive vistas of the mountains and valleys below. This stop is often highlighted as the most iconic photo opportunity, and reviewers note how “most amazing trip” it is because of the history and stories shared about Njego, who played a crucial role in Montenegrin identity.

There's plenty more to explore in Kotor

Njegusi Village & Lunch

Descending into the traditional village of Njegusi, you’ll be welcomed by local hosts eager to serve homemade Montenegrin specialties. The meal typically features Njegusi prosciutto (prut) and local cheese, celebrated for their distinct flavors. Reviewers frequently mention how delicious and authentic the food is, elevating the cultural experience beyond just sightseeing.

While lunch isn’t included in the base price, many consider paying for this local feast to be well worth it, as it offers a taste of genuine Montenegrin hospitality. Be prepared, however, as the tour does not specify a fixed duration for lunch—it’s a flexible part of your day, so some travelers might find it rushed if they’re eager to explore more.

Cetinje and Its Landmarks

Next, you’ll head to Cetinje, the old royal capital, rich with history. The Cetinje Monastery is a must-see, housing relics like the right hand of Saint John the Baptist and bits of the Holy Cross. Visitors often find the religious artifacts fascinating, and the town itself has a quaint charm with historical buildings and museums.

One review pointed out that they wished for more time in Kotor and less in Cetinje, hinting that some may prefer extra hours exploring the coastal town. Still, the guided visit to Cetinje provides a solid overview of Montenegro’s royal past, making it a meaningful stop.

Return & Scenic Drive Back

As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy the scenic drive back to Budva, with more impressive views of Montenegro’s coastline and mountains. Many reviews highlight the beautiful scenery along the route, making the long drive part of the appeal.

What’s Included & What to Consider

The tour covers round-trip bus transportation, a professional guide, and cable car tickets. Entrance fees to the Mausoleum (€8) and Cetinje Monastery (€1), along with some taxes, are paid separately, so budget accordingly. Meals and drinks are not included, but the optional lunch in Njegusi is highly recommended for an authentic experience.

The tour runs in two languages, English and Russian, which is helpful for diverse groups. Though the itinerary is well scheduled, it’s subject to change due to weather or traffic, so flexibility and patience are advised.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Based on reviews and the itinerary, this tour offers excellent value for the price of $81. You get a mix of nature, history, culture, and local cuisine—all in one day—making it a practical choice for travelers who want a comprehensive Montenegro experience without the hassle of planning each detail.

The quality of guides like Jelena and Katja is frequently praised, adding storytelling and context that enrich the visit. For those who want to see the best of Montenegro in a single trip, this day tour provides a solid overview, especially for first-timers.

However, if you’re someone who prefers more relaxed, unhurried exploration or plans to spend longer in Kotor or Cetinje, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Still, for travelers eager to tick multiple boxes on a tight schedule, it hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

First-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to Montenegro’s highlights
Travelers short on time but eager to see mountains, coast, and cultural sites
Those who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic views, and guided stories
Food lovers ready to sample authentic local dishes in Njegusi
Anyone comfortable with a full, lively day involving some walking and bus rides

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a slow-paced experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the long hours and mountain drive might not be ideal for very young children or those sensitive to heights and windy roads.

Do I need to prepare anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suited for mountain weather. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting holy sites, as modest attire is required.

How much does the entrance fee to the Mausoleum cost?
The ticket is approximately €8, paid on-site—remember to budget for this separate fee.

What languages are the guides speaking?
The tour is conducted in both English and Russian, often simultaneously, making it accessible for a diverse group.

Will I have free time at each stop?
Yes, generally about an hour at each location, but some reviews suggest that more time in Kotor might be preferable.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking flexibility is offered, which is convenient if your plans change.

This Montenegro: Lovcen Cable Car, Njegusi & Cetinje Day Tour provides a great way to see some of the country’s most stunning scenery and historical sites in one well-organized day. The combination of spectacular views, cultural insights, and local flavors makes it a worthwhile outing, especially for those new to Montenegro or with limited time.

While the day is packed and a bit fast-paced, the expert guiding, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes make it a worthwhile adventure. For travelers looking to combine nature, history, and authentic Montenegrin hospitality, this tour offers a memorable and practical experience—giving you a genuine taste of Montenegro’s soul.

In summary, if you’re after an efficient, informative, and scenic day out that covers Montenegro’s highlights with a friendly guide, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to bring your camera, your appetite for local flavors, and a sense of adventure.