Wine tasting and magical tour from Kotor, Budva, Tivat (Lovcen,Skadar lake)

Discover Montenegro on a Scenic and Tasty Day Trip

Traveling through Montenegro offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. This wine tasting and sightseeing tour from Kotor takes you along historic roads, through charming villages, and to a family-run winery, giving you a well-rounded taste of what this Balkan gem has to offer.

We love that this experience combines scenic drives with authentic local flavors, providing an immersive way to get to know Montenegro’s history and culture. The views around Lake Skadar are spectacular, and the chance to sample a variety of Montenegrin wines adds a delightful culinary dimension. Plus, the ease of hotel or port pickup makes it accessible and hassle-free.

A possible consideration is the tour’s duration; with around 7 hours packed full, it’s a full day that leaves little room for downtime. However, for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and tasting, this balance hits the mark.

Ideal for cruise travelers with limited time or anyone wanting a taste of Montenegro’s scenic and vinicultural highlights, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Rich Scenic Routes: Travel through the historic Austro-Hungarian road with stunning views.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a family-owned winery with six different wines and homemade Montenegrin snacks.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore the Old Royal Capital of Cetinje and the village of Njegusi.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Skadar and the famous Pavlova Strana viewpoint.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotel or port pickup, private transportation, and guided commentary.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample local wines, sweet liquors, and brandies, paired with traditional snacks.

An In-Depth Look at the Montenegro Experience

This tour is a thoughtfully curated journey that combines history, culture, and gastronomy—perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Montenegro in one day. It begins with a drive along a historic 19th-century Austro-Hungarian road, a route built with 25 serpentines winding through lush landscapes. The road connects Kotor to Cetinje, and every turn offers spectacular views of the bay and surrounding mountains.

The Scenic Drive and Njegusi Village

As you cruise along, your guide will share stories about the road’s historical significance and the villages it passes through. One notable stop is Njegusi, a traditional village that’s famous for its smoked ham and local cheese. Here, you can get a sense of village life that has persisted for centuries, and if time permits, you might even see farmers in their fields or local artisans at work. Travelers have commented on how the guide’s insights make the scenery come alive—”we could picture how Montenegrins lived here centuries ago,” one reviewer noted.

Cetinje, the Old Royal Capital

Depending on the schedule, you’ll visit Cetinje, Montenegro’s former royal capital. This city is packed with historic buildings, museums, and spiritual sites. Many travelers appreciate the chance to walk its old streets and learn about Montenegrin history from a knowledgeable guide. The tour gives a quick but meaningful glimpse into the country’s cultural roots, with some reviewers describing it as a “cultural highlight” that adds depth to the trip.

Lake Skadar and Pavlova Strana

Next, the journey takes you to Lake Skadar National Park. Known for its impressive size and fjord-like appearance, the lake is a must-see. From Pavlova Strana, a well-known viewpoint, you’ll gaze out over the lake’s shimmering waters and the river that flows into it. The views here are described as “breathtaking,” with one reviewer saying it looks like a mini fjord, and the scenery is truly photogenic. It’s an excellent spot for a quick photo break or just to soak in the natural beauty.

The Highlight: Family Winery Visit

The final stop is at a small family-run winery that produces six types of wine, along with eight sweet liquors and six brandies. Here, the tasting is a true highlight. The wines are well-regarded, and reviewers have specifically praised the selection, noting that the guide’s explanation of each variety adds to the experience.

Guests can enjoy a tasting of the wines paired with traditional Montenegrin snacks like prosciutto, cheese, salads, and priganice (small fried dough balls). The tasting is described as authentic and generous, with one guest mentioning that the winery visit exceeded their expectations. The owner’s friendliness and passion for their craft shine through, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Practical Details and Comfort

Transport is private, with a van for groups of four or more, ensuring a comfortable ride through the scenic countryside. The tour starts at 10:00 AM, fitting well into a cruise schedule or a day trip from your accommodation. The total duration is about 7 hours, which some might find a bit packed but allows for a thorough exploration without feeling rushed.

The price of around $289 per person reflects the value of a full day’s sightseeing, tastings, and expert guiding. It’s worth noting that the tour’s reviews highlight how well-organized and informative the experience is, with many commenting on the knowledgeable guides—like Tanja, who was praised for her friendly demeanor and insider knowledge.

What’s Not Included

While the tour features plenty of tasting, it does not include a full lunch option. Instead, you’ll sample Montenegrin snacks and wines, so if you’re hungry, you might want to plan for a meal afterward. The tour also offers the convenience of hotel or port pickup, making logistics straightforward, especially for cruise travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re looking for a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and wine tasting, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s particularly suited for those with limited time in Kotor or nearby, who want a rundown of Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of organizing separate experiences.

Wine lovers will appreciate the carefully curated tasting at the family winery, discovering local varieties that pair beautifully with traditional snacks. History buffs will enjoy the stops at Cetinje and Njegusi, gaining a glimpse into Montenegro’s past.

Travelers seeking picturesque views and authentic local flavors will find this tour to be a memorable way to spend a day, with the added bonus of learning from engaging guides who share stories and insights beyond standard attractions.

The Sum Up

This full-day Montenegro tour offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and wine tasting—ideal for curious travelers wanting a well-rounded experience. The carefully selected stops provide meaningful glimpses into Montenegrin life, from historic villages to panoramic lakeshores.

The small winery visit is a standout, giving guests the chance to taste a diverse array of wines and homemade liquors, all served with genuine hospitality. The knowledgeable guides, like Tanja, make the experience engaging and informative, enhancing every moment.

While it’s a full day of exploration, the comfort of private transportation and the inclusive nature of the tour make it feel effortless. It’s especially suited for those arriving by cruise or staying nearby, who want a memorable, authentic taste of Montenegro in just one day.

Overall, if you enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and delicious wines, this tour offers fantastic value and a true taste of Montenegro’s charm.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day of sightseeing and tasting.

Is hotel or port pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise port are included, providing a hassle-free experience.

What does the wine tasting include?
You will sample 6 different types of wine, along with 8 sweet liquors and 6 brandies, paired with traditional Montenegrin snacks.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include a full lunch, but it offers traditional snacks and tastings. You might want to plan for a meal afterward.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, wine tastings are primarily for adults.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
Yes, for groups of 4 or more, a van is used, ensuring comfort and space.

What is the cost per person?
The price is around $288.78 per person, offering a full day of guided sightseeing, tastings, and scenic views.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, especially as some stops involve walking or short explorations.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked 83 days ahead, so early planning is advised, especially in peak seasons.

What makes this tour stand out?
Guests consistently mention the knowledgeable guides, the stunning views, and the excellent wine selection as highlights that make this experience memorable.

This detailed review should give you a clear sense of whether this Montenegro experience aligns with your travel style. Whether you’re a curious explorer, a wine enthusiast, or simply craving scenic beauty, it delivers genuine value and authentic moments.