From Kotor: Great Montenegro Full Day Tour

Traveling through Montenegro is like flipping through a picture book filled with dramatic landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant coastal towns. This Great Montenegro Full Day Tour from Kotor promises a whirlwind of culture, history, and breathtaking scenery packed into one day. Based on traveler insights and detailed itineraries, this experience can truly deepen your appreciation for this underrated Balkan gem.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the spectacular drive along the 25 serpentine road offers some of the most jaw-dropping views of Boka Bay. Second, the chance to visit the Njegos Mausoleum—Europe’s highest grave—gives a tangible link to Montenegro’s royal past. Third, the stop in Budva, a lively seaside city, offers a perfect blend of history and beach vibes. That said, a few guests noted that the climb to the mausoleum involves 400 stairs, which might be a consideration for those with limited mobility or altitude sickness.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day of Montenegrin culture, history, and coastal scenery. If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Montenegro with knowledgeable guides and stunning photo opportunities, this experience is likely to satisfy. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have specific mobility needs, some parts might require extra planning.

Good To Know

• Scenic Drive: The 25 serpentine road offers some of the most spectacular views of Boka Bay.
• Cultural Highlights: Visiting Njegos Mausoleum provides insight into Montenegrin history and enjoys panoramic mountain scenery.
• Coastal Charm: Stops at Budva and Sveti Stefan showcase Montenegro’s vibrant seaside culture and luxury resorts.
• Local Flavor: Tasting traditional Montenegrin food and drinks in Njegusi Village adds authentic flavor.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Active Elements: Climbing stairs to the mausoleum offers a bit of exercise, but can be skipped if preferred.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Scenic Drive and Breathtaking Views

The journey begins with a drive through the famous 25 serpentine road—a highlight in its own right. This winding route offers incredible vantage points over Boka Bay, revealing views that make your camera work feel inadequate. Travelers frequently mention that “the views left us breathless,” and it’s easy to see why. The road’s twists and turns are not just thrilling but also serve as a vantage point for capturing Montenegro’s rugged coastline and lush islands.

A stop at the 25th serpentine offers a perfect photo opportunity before heading to the next leg of the adventure. Many visitors find this part of the tour to be the highlight for its spectacular scenery—a must-see for landscape enthusiasts.

Exploring National Park Lovcen and Njegos Mausoleum

The tour’s visit to National Park Lovcen marks a significant cultural highlight. Nestled in the mountains, the park boasts stunning vistas and a chance to experience Montenegro’s rugged natural beauty. The climb up to the Njegos Mausoleum involves 400 stairs—an energetic activity that many reviews say is worth the effort for the reward of panoramic views covering nearly two-thirds of Montenegro.

Some travelers mention that the stairs can be challenging, especially in hot weather or for those with limited mobility, but the spectacular scenery from the mausoleum makes it worthwhile. The mausoleum itself is Europe’s highest grave, adding a distinctive historical and cultural element to the day. As one guest noted, “The view from Njegos Mausoleum is absolutely breathtaking, and it gives a real sense of connection to Montenegro’s royal past.”

A note for travelers: If the stairs seem daunting, the tour typically offers an alternative activity—so you can choose to enjoy the views without the climb.

Tasting Montenegrin Flavors in Njegusi Village

After the mausoleum, the tour takes you to the charming Njegusi Village, famous for its traditional Montenegrin cuisine. Here, you’ll sample local dishes and drinks—think smoked ham, cheese, and perhaps some homemade wine or brandy. Many reviews highlight this as a genuine taste of Montenegro’s culinary heritage, with local hosts providing warm hospitality.

Guests often mention the quality of the food and the authentic atmosphere, making it more than just a quick stop. It’s a chance to unwind from the sightseeing and enjoy hearty flavors in a rustic setting that feels a world away from tourist crowds.

Coastal Beauty and Iconic Photo Stops

Next, the tour shifts gears from mountain scenery to the sea. The first photo stop over the Budva Riviera gives travelers a glimpse of Montenegro’s lively coastal strip, with its stunning beaches and clear waters. Then, the visit to Sveti Stefan, a luxury island-resort, provides a perfect backdrop for photos and a sense of Montenegro’s upscale seaside allure.

The old town of Budva rounds out the day with a walking tour that introduces its narrow streets, ancient walls, and vibrant atmosphere. Travelers appreciate the chance to explore at their own pace, soaking in the history and checking out local shops and cafes.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Final Scenic Stops and Return to Kotor

Before heading back, the group makes an additional stop above Jaz Beach, renowned for its long stretch of sand and popularity among locals and travelers alike. The views from above offer a perfect farewell shot of Montenegro’s beautiful coastline.

The journey concludes with a comfortable drive back to Kotor, with many guests feeling they’ve experienced the essence of Montenegro—from mountain peaks to seaside resorts—in just one day.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll travel in a small group, limited to 8 participants, which enhances comfort and allows for more personalized interaction. The vehicle provides WiFi and bottled water, making the journey more enjoyable. Pickup and drop-off from designated locations like Perast, Sveti Stefan, Budva, and Kotor make logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying in those towns.

The tour lasts approximately one day, with the start times varying based on availability. The pace is generally brisk but flexible enough for guests to savor each stop.

Cost and Value

The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all tickets and fees for the old towns, and a local lunch with drinks. It’s a comprehensive package, especially considering the variety of sites visited and the small group setting.

However, note that tickets for National Park Lovcen and Njegos Mausoleum are not included and need to be purchased separately. Guests say that the value is good given the diversity of experiences packed into one day, combined with expert guides who know how to weave the story of Montenegro seamlessly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring passport or ID for national park entries.
• Wear comfortable shoes—climbing stairs is involved, and walking through old towns can be uneven.
• Carry cash for personal purchases or additional snacks.
• Prepare for altitude changes—parts of the tour reach 1850 meters above sea level.
• If you’re concerned about stairs or altitude, ask your guide about alternatives.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a full day of diverse Montenegrin sights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. It suits those interested in history, scenic drives, and coastal scenery, with some active elements included. Families with children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy small group tours will find this particularly enjoyable.

Active travelers should note the stairs and altitude considerations, but these are manageable for most. If you’re after an in-depth introduction to Montenegro’s culture, natural beauty, and coastal charm, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

The From Kotor: Great Montenegro Full Day Tour offers an excellent mix of spectacular landscapes, historic sites, and seaside charm. Its carefully curated stops provide a well-rounded glimpse of Montenegro’s diverse appeal, all with the benefit of small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides.

While it’s a relatively full schedule, the variety ensures you leave feeling like you’ve truly experienced different facets of this beautiful country. The views alone—whether from the serpentine road, the mausoleum, or Sveti Stefan—make it a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to see Montenegro’s highlights in one day.

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic, and visually stunning introduction to Montenegro, this tour is a fantastic choice. It combines cultural insights with incredible scenery and offers just enough activity to keep things engaging without feeling rushed.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, WiFi on board, bottled water, a local lunch with drinks at Njegusi, and tickets for the old towns.

Are tickets for National Park Lovcen and Njegos Mausoleum included?
No, these tickets are not included and need to be purchased separately.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and stairs, and dress appropriately for the weather, especially if visiting at higher altitudes.

How long is the drive?
The tour lasts about a full day, with scenic drives and multiple stops, returning to Kotor at the end.

Can I skip the stairs at the mausoleum?
Yes, the tour offers an alternative activity if you prefer not to climb the 400 stairs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but consider the stairs and altitude; younger children or those with mobility issues may find some parts challenging.

How big are the groups?
The tour is limited to a small group of 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Spring through early fall offers the best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Do I need cash for anything?
It’s advisable to carry cash for additional personal expenses or souvenirs; all main expenses are covered in the tour price.

In sum, this tour provides a well-balanced snapshot of Montenegro’s natural beauty, cultural depth, and seaside allure. It’s especially rewarding for those eager to experience multiple facets of this stunning Balkan country in just one day.

You can check if your dates are available here: