Rijeka Crnojevica offers more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s a hub for memorable tours that reveal Montenegro’s beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and flavorful wines. From private car excursions exploring ancient bridges and lakes to intimate boat trips on Skadar Lake, each experience provides a distinct way to connect with the region’s natural beauty and local culture. We especially love the Lake Skadar Wine and Culinary Tour for its focus on Montenegro’s flavors, and the Skadar Lake Boat Tour with Transfer from Podgorica for a quick, immersive water experience. These tours balance sightseeing with authentic local encounters, perfect for travelers seeking memorable, well-rounded experiences.
Below, you’ll find three top-rated tours that showcase the variety available around Rijeka Crnojevica, from cultural explorations to scenic boat rides and private excursions. Whether you prefer tasting regional wines, cruising on Skadar Lake, or discovering historic towns, this list helps you choose the best way to enjoy this stunning part of Montenegro.
1. From Kotor: Private Car Excursion to Virpazar & Skadar Lake
This private car excursion is a flexible way to explore Montenegro’s inland highlights with a local driver who acts more like a guide than just a chauffeur. It’s perfect if you want a personalized experience without the rigidity of large bus tours. The journey includes visits to Virpazar, a quaint fishing village known for its old stone bridges that date back centuries, and the expansive Skadar Lake, which was formed by collapsed caves and remains the largest freshwater body in the Balkans.
The tour also stops in Cetinje, the former royal capital, offering sweeping views of the Bay of Kotor from over 3,900 feet above sea level. The driver shares interesting tidbits about the history and landscape, making it more engaging than a simple sightseeing drive. Guests love the flexibility, as shown by a reviewer who said, “It was a private tour with a driver for us,” noting how their guide Dino tailored the experience to their interests.
This tour provides a balanced mix of nature, history, and local charm, making it ideal for travelers who want to see the country at their own pace without sacrificing depth. Bottom line: a private, customizable day trip packed with highlights and personal attention.
2. From Kotor: Lake Skadar Wine and Culinary Tour
For those interested in Montenegro’s flavors and traditions, this wine and culinary tour is an excellent choice. It combines scenic drives with tastings of natural wines and farm-to-table meals. The tour starts from Kotor and explores the largest lake in the Balkans, Lake Skadar, along with Cetinje, Montenegro’s historic royal capital.
The highlight is meeting local winemakers who craft organic wines from indigenous grape varieties, offering a genuine taste of regional craftsmanship. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a slow food meal at a local farm, paired with autochthonous wines— a terrific way to experience Montenegro’s culinary soul. A key stop is Pavlova Strana, offering breathtaking views of the winding rivers and lush landscapes of Lake Skadar.
During the 6-hour journey, you’ll also pass by Budva, but the focus remains on the local flavors and scenery. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating, emphasizing the tour’s authenticity and immersive quality. It’s best suited for foodies and wine lovers who want a deeper dive into Montenegro’s regional products.
Bottom line: this tour offers a perfect combination of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and delicious food, making it a standout for those wanting a taste of Montenegro’s culinary scene.
3. Skadar Lake Boat Tour with Transfer from Podgorica
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Skadar Lake’s beauty, this one-hour boat tour from Podgorica is an excellent option. The tour includes transfer from Podgorica, making logistics simple, and ticket prices include access to the National Park, ensuring you’re contributing to conservation efforts.
The boat ride itself is a relaxing way to see the lake’s swampy shores and birdlife, with a knowledgeable guide sharing insights about the local flora and fauna. This tour is less about extensive sightseeing and more about a quick, scenic boat ride that still highlights the lake’s importance and scenic charm. The high rating of 4.8/5 reflects satisfied travelers who appreciated the ease and quality of the experience.
While it’s a shorter option, it’s perfect for cruise enthusiasts or those limited on time but eager to get a glimpse of Skadar Lake’s natural beauty. It also offers a good introduction before exploring further on your own or with other tours.
Bottom line: a quick, scenic boat ride that provides a peaceful escape on one of Montenegro’s most impressive lakes, with the convenience of included park tickets and transfer.
How to Choose
Picking between these tours depends on your interests and travel style. If you want a personalized, flexible day exploring historic towns and lakes with a private driver, the Private Car Excursion is ideal. For food and wine lovers, the Wine and Culinary Tour offers an authentic taste of Montenegro’s flavors, perfect for a more relaxed, immersive experience. If your time is limited but you still want to enjoy Skadar Lake’s scenery without a full-day commitment, the Boat Tour from Podgorica is a quick, enjoyable option.
Consider your budget, how much sightseeing you want to do, and whether you prefer land, water, or food-focused experiences. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to ensure availability for these popular tours.
Final thoughts
Rijeka Crnojevica and its surrounding area offer a range of engaging tours that highlight Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and local flavors. Whether you opt for a private custom trip, a wine and food tasting, or a scenic boat ride, each experience brings something unique. For travelers who love personalized adventures, the private excursion is a standout. If your priority is tasting Montenegro’s autochthonous wines and enjoying leisurely meals, the culinary tour is perfect. And for a quick splash of lake life, the boat tour is unbeatable.
No matter your choice, these tours are a great way to deepen your understanding of this beautiful region. Be sure to plan ahead and book early, especially if you’re traveling during the busy months. With the right tour, Rijeka Crnojevica will surely become one of your favorite Montenegro memories.