Montenegro: Lovcen Cable Car, Njegusi & Cetinje Day Tour

Travelers considering a day trip in Montenegro often find themselves torn between the stunning coastlines and the rugged mountains. This Montenegro: Lovcen Cable Car, Njegusi & Cetinje Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the country’s natural beauty, history, and local flavors. While it’s a long day — approximately 7.5 hours — the experience promises incredible views, engaging guides, and a taste of authentic Montenegrin culture.

What makes this tour particularly enjoyable is the combination of scenic transportation, historic sites, and delicious local food. We love the way it maximizes sightseeing without feeling rushed, especially with the cable car ride that provides panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains. The friendly guides’ knowledge adds richness to each stop, making history and culture come alive. However, potential travelers should be aware that it is quite a full day, and some might prefer a more relaxed pace.

This experience suits those who want an immersive day out that balances scenery, history, and culinary delights. It’s especially good for travelers who love natural landscapes, cultural insights, and don’t mind a bit of a bus journey. If you’re after a comprehensive Montenegro day trip that offers both adventure and education, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Good To Know

• Breathtaking Views: The cable car ascent offers excellent vistas of Kotor Bay and Mount Loven’s slopes.
• Rich Cultural Stops: Visiting Cetinje and the Njego Mausoleum provides insight into Montenegro’s royal and religious history.
• Authentic Local Experience: Enjoying homemade Montenegrin lunch in Njegusi and sampling prosciutto and cheese is a highlight.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: The tour covers multiple key sites efficiently, with guided commentary throughout.
• Value for Money: For around $590 per group, you get transportation, guiding, and cable car tickets — making it a good deal.
• Physical Considerations: The tour involves some walking and winding mountain roads, so comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey kicks off with a short bus ride from your chosen pickup location, typically in or near Budva, lasting about 40 minutes. This initial leg is straightforward and sets a relaxed tone for the day. The buses are comfortable, and the professional guides tend to keep the mood light with interesting tidbits about Montenegro’s geography and history.

The highlight of the transportation segment is the cable car ride from Dub (“Oak”) to Mount Loven. Taking just 11 minutes, this cable car climb takes you from near sea level to a dizzying 1,350 meters. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Bay of Kotor, the rugged coastline, and the lush slopes of Mount Loven. Many reviews mention how spectacular the scenery is and how worth the trip is just for the ride itself.

The Cable Car Experience

Once at the Kuk station, you’ll have about an hour to explore various viewing platforms. These spots are perfect for photos, especially given how the sunlight enhances the landscape. Plus, the station offers some medieval-themed activities, and for the adrenaline junkies, rides like mountain coasters and trimmers are offered, although these are optional and require a small extra fee.

Reviewers note that the views from the cable car are truly stunning, with some describing the journey as a highlight of the day. Be aware that the ascent can be a little windy, so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to bring some medication or consider your comfort level.

Visiting the Njego Mausoleum

Next, the tour continues higher up to the Njego Mausoleum. Perched atop Mount Loven, this monument to Montenegro’s revered prince-bishop and poet, Petar II Petrovi-Njego, is a must-see. The mausoleum’s architecture is impressive, and the location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and bay.

Walking around the mausoleum area, you’ll get a sense of Montenegro’s spiritual and royal heritage. Many visitors mention the cool mountain air and serenity as a contrast to the coastal crowds. The entrance fee here is modest, but it’s worth noting that it’s not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lunch in Njegusi Village

Descending into the traditional village of Njegusi, you’re welcomed by local hosts serving a homemade Montenegrin lunch. This is a real highlight for food lovers. The meal typically includes famous Njegusi prosciutto (prut), cheese, and other local specialties, all enjoyed in a cozy setting. Reviewers often mention how delicious and authentic the food is, with some saying the prosciutto has a “famous flavor” they can’t find elsewhere.

The village itself is small but packed with character, giving you a taste of rural Montenegro. This part of the tour provides a delightful break from the mountainous sightseeing and adds a culinary dimension that many find memorable.

Exploring Cetinje

After lunch, the tour takes you to Cetinje, the historic and former royal capital. Here, you’ll visit the Cetinje Monastery, which houses relics like the right hand of Saint John the Baptist and pieces of the Holy Cross. Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides like Katja made the history come alive with engaging stories and interesting facts.

Cetinje’s streets are lined with historic buildings and museums, offering a glimpse into Montenegro’s royal past. The town’s relaxed pace and charming atmosphere make it an easy place to wander during your free time. Some visitors feel they would have liked more time here, but the tour balances it well with other stops.

Return Journey and Final Views

The return to Budva takes about an hour, with scenic views along the coast. Many travelers mention how the drive back reinforces the tour’s value, showcasing more of Montenegro’s diverse landscapes, from mountains to coastal cliffs.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing and Value: The tour costs around $590 per group, which includes transportation, a professional guide, and cable car tickets. While the entrance fees to the Mausoleum and monastery are not included, the overall package offers a comprehensive experience for a reasonable price considering the number of sites visited and the scenic rides.

Duration & Pacing: At 7.5 hours, it’s a full day, so bring snacks and water — the tour doesn’t include lunch, but you’ll get a hearty meal in Njegusi. Be prepared for a fair amount of walking, especially around the mausoleum and Cetinje.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, layers for mountain weather, and a camera are must-haves. Remember to cover shoulders and knees when visiting holy sites, and take some cash for entrance fees and souvenirs.

Group & Language: Tours are private, and conducted in English and Russian, accommodating different language needs.

Accessibility & Restrictions: This tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and stairs at some sites.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies who want a well-rounded glimpse of Montenegro beyond the coast. It’s perfect for those comfortable with a busy schedule and a bit of altitude, given the cable car ride and mountain walks.

If you’re short on time but want to sample multiple facets of Montenegro — from its mountains and mausoleums to local cuisine — this tour is a great choice. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility constraints, you might want to consider alternative options.

The Sum Up

This Montenegro: Lovcen Cable Car, Njegusi & Cetinje Day Tour offers a fantastic balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and tasty food. The combination of a cable car ride, historical sites, and traditional village life makes it an enriching way to spend a day. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary ensure you’ll get the most out of your time on this small but impactful journey.

It’s best suited for travelers eager to combine natural landscapes with cultural stories and delicious local flavors. While it’s a long day, the views, history, and authenticity make it a rewarding experience that leaves you with plenty of memories and photo opportunities.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included in the price. However, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a homemade Montenegrin meal in Njegusi village as part of the experience.

Are entrance fees to the Mausoleum and Cetinje Monastery included?
No, they are not included. Expect to pay a small fee for the Mausoleum (around 8 euros) and the monastery (about 1 euro).

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car takes approximately 11 minutes to ascend from Dub to Mount Loven, offering spectacular views during the short ride.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for mountain weather are recommended. Remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites—cover shoulders and knees.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, mainly due to uneven terrain and stairs at some sites.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about 1-1.5 hours at each main site, but reviews suggest some wish for more time in Kotor and less in Cetinje.

Is the tour conducted in English and Russian?
Yes, the tour runs simultaneously in both languages, making it accessible for a broader range of travelers.

What is the duration of the full trip?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, from pickup through to return in the late afternoon.

Can I customize the experience?
Since this is a private group tour, there may be some flexibility to tailor certain aspects, but the itinerary is generally fixed.

What is the overall value of this tour?
Considering transportation, guide service, cable car tickets, and authentic experiences, many find it a good value for exploring Montenegro’s highlights efficiently.

In summary, if you’re looking for a day that combines mountain vistas, historical depth, and local flavors — all wrapped in a comfortable guided package — this tour is a smart pick. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see Montenegro’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

You can check if your dates are available here: