If you’re contemplating a day trip from Kotor to see more of Montenegro’s stunning landscapes and charming towns, this private excursion offers a well-rounded glimpse of the country’s highlights. While it’s not a guided tour per se—your driver acts more as a local chauffeur—this experience provides a personalized way to visit some of Montenegro’s most picturesque spots.
What we love about this tour:
- The chance to see Skadar Lake’s unique freshwater beauty up close.
- The picturesque fishing village of Virpazar, with its historic stone bridges and lively atmosphere.
- The panoramic views of Cetinje and the Bay of Kotor, especially from over 3900 feet altitude.
But, a word of caution: the tour can feel quite packed, and some travelers might find the cost of optional extras a bit steep.
This trip is best suited for those who value flexibility, authentic scenery, and a relaxed pace. If you’re happy to skip some sights for a more personal experience, or if you’re keen on photos of Montenegro’s landscapes, this is worth considering.
Good To Know
- Private, flexible experience: Tailor your day with a private driver who shows you the sights at your pace.
- Stunning views: From Skadar Lake to the Bay of Kotor, the vistas are a major highlight.
- Cultural charm: Explore the historic town of Virpazar and Montenegro’s royal capital, Cetinje.
- Additional costs: Optional boat rides and park entry fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly.
- Comfortable transport: Round-trip in a private car ensures a smooth and personal journey.
- Limited guide interaction: The driver is not a professional guide, so information is limited but friendly.
Overview of the Itinerary and What to Expect
Starting from Kotor, the journey kicks off with a scenic drive through Montenegro’s rugged landscapes, heading toward Skadar Lake. The lake itself is a focal point, especially if you opt for the boat tour—an hour spent with the boat owners, searching for local bird species and enjoying the peaceful water. However, this isn’t included in the base price, and the fee can be quite significant (around 110 euros or more). One reviewer noted that the boat trip was “lovely,” but the extra cost was not made very clear upfront.
As you approach Virpazar, the real charm begins. This tiny fishing village, with its three historic stone bridges, feels like a step back in time. The bridges date back thousands of years and are a favorite spot for photos. Reviewers appreciated the authentic feel of Virpazar, describing it as “quaint” and “rustic,” perfect for wandering and soaking in local life.
Next, the tour takes you to Budva, a city famous for its old town, fortress, and lively Slovenian boulevard along the coast. You can stroll through narrow streets, explore historic sites, or stop for a quick taste of Montenegro’s famed fish dishes—an area travelers loved, with some noting it’s ideal for both sightseeing and shopping for souvenirs.
The final highlight before returning to Kotor is Cetinje, Montenegro’s former royal capital. The town is small but packed with museums, monasteries, and historical sights. Here, you’ll get a quick taste of Montenegro’s royal past and its cultural heritage.
On the way back, the driver takes you along the Boka Bay, offering spectacular views of the rugged coastline and rustic villages. The ascent over 3900 feet to overlook the Bay of Kotor provides spectacular photo opportunities—something most travelers find memorable.
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Detailed Breakdown of Each Stop
Skadar Lake
This massive freshwater body is a highlight, especially for nature lovers. Formed by collapsed caves, it’s unique among European lakes. You can choose to buy a boat ticket here, which offers a peaceful hour on the water, perfect for birdwatching and photography. One reviewer shared that the boat ride was “just us and the boat owners,” which sounds intimate and special—though it’s an extra expense.
Virpazar
A fishing village with a history stretching back centuries, Virpazar is beloved for its authenticity. The three stone bridges span the town and date back to different eras, providing both historical context and great photo backgrounds. Reviewers mention that it’s a “quaint” spot to experience local life and enjoy fresh fish from the lake.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBudva
This seaside town is a lively contrast to the tranquil lakes and villages. Its old town is compact but packed with charm—narrow lanes, fortress walls, and cozy cafes. The Slovenian boulevard along the coast is perfect for a seaside stroll, and many enjoy sampling local seafood. The view of St. Stephen Island adds a postcard-worthy backdrop, making for a memorable photo stop.
Cetinje
Known as the royal capital, Cetinje is a small but culturally rich town. The visit typically includes a quick look at the monastery and some local museums, giving insight into Montenegro’s royal history. Reviewers appreciated the brief but meaningful stop here to appreciate Montenegro’s heritage.
The Return Drive
The journey back offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, with the road winding along the coast. Over 3900 feet above sea level, you get a sweeping view of the bay’s fjord-like landscape, offering plenty of opportunities for scenic photos and a moment of reflection on Montenegro’s natural beauty.
Practical Details and Considerations
Transportation and Duration
The tour lasts approximately six hours, starting from Kotor. Your private transfer means no bouncing around in a large group, and the driver is an English speaker, making communication easier—although some reviews noted limited English, which might affect commentary or explanations. The convenience of door-to-door service helps maximize your sightseeing time.
Cost and Value
While the base price covers transportation, insurance, and your driver, extras like the boat trip on Skadar Lake and entrance fees to the national park are additional. One reviewer pointed out that the boat trip was “expensive,” and not included in the initial fee, so budget accordingly if you want to include it. For many, the value lies in the flexibility and personalized experience, especially considering the scenic drives and authentic stops.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be walking in Old Towns and the villages. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are also recommended—this tour offers many photo-worthy moments. Don’t forget your passport or ID, especially if you plan to explore museums or monasteries.
Limitations
This tour isn’t suitable for children under two, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years old, mainly because of the nature of the driving and walking involved. Pets are not allowed, and the tour is conducted in English.
Real Travelers’ Experiences
One traveler mentioned arriving late due to difficulty finding the meeting point, which underscores the importance of clear directions or arriving early. Another reviewer appreciated the personalized, relaxed style of the tour, especially because the driver was showing curiosities about the towns, even if not a professional guide. They noted that Dino, their driver, was “showing us the cities and telling us curiosities,” which added a friendly, tailored touch.
Conversely, some found that the schedule was tight, and not everything could be covered thoroughly. The boat trip cost was a surprise for some, emphasizing the need to clarify what’s included beforehand. Still, many appreciated the intimate, scenic experience, especially the views of Kotor Bay at the end of the day.
The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?
This private excursion from Kotor offers a wonderful way to see Montenegro’s diverse landscapes, from lakes and historic villages to coastal towns and mountain vistas. Its value lies in the flexibility and comfort of private transport combined with the chance to explore at your own pace, especially if you’re keen on photography or just want a relaxing day out of the busy town.
It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, authentic local experiences, and picturesque views. If you’re comfortable with some optional expenses and understand the schedule might be busy, this tour will reward you with some of Montenegro’s most memorable sights.
It may not be the best choice if your priority is a comprehensive guided experience or if time is very tight—particularly around boat trips and park entries. Still, for a personalized, scenic day that combines natural beauty with cultural highlights, it’s a solid way to explore Montenegro’s treasures.
FAQ
Is this a guided tour with a guide?
No, it’s a private car excursion with an English-speaking driver who shows you the sights but isn’t a professional guide. You’ll get some commentary, but it’s more of a driver and local host than a full guided tour.
What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, insurance, and your driver. Extras like the boat tour on Skadar Lake and entrance fees to parks are paid separately on site.
Can I do the boat trip on Skadar Lake?
Yes, you can purchase a boat ticket directly at Skadar Lake. The boat trip is optional and costs extra, with some reviews noting it’s quite expensive and not included in the base price.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately six hours, starting from Kotor and ending back at the original meeting point. Starting times vary, so check availability.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Not really. It’s not suitable for children under 2, wheelchair users, or those over 95, mainly due to walking in towns and the nature of the driving.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, and your passport or ID. Be prepared for some walking and outdoor sightseeing.
This private car excursion from Kotor provides a flexible, scenic way to experience Montenegro’s highlights, balancing natural beauty with cultural charm. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking stunning views, this trip offers a personalized taste of Montenegro’s diverse landscapes—just keep an eye on optional costs and schedule to make the most of it.
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