A Detailed Look at the Montenegro Train Tour: What You Need to Know
When considering a tour of Montenegro’s breathtaking scenery, this private Montenegro Train Tour offers a compelling mix of scenic train rides, cultural exploration, and natural beauty. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s an experience worth considering.
What we love most about this journey is how it combines spectacular landscapes with cultural sights, all bundled into a manageable six-hour window. The train ride from Podgorica to Kolasin offers panoramic views of cliffs and canyon scenery, which are perfect for photography. We also appreciate the visit to Biogradska Gora National Park, especially for the chance to see Biogradsko Lake – a true highlight for nature lovers. Lastly, the stop at Moraa Monastery promises insight into Montenegro’s spiritual heritage amid peaceful surroundings.
However, one thing to keep in mind is the timing—since the tour depends heavily on weather conditions, it might be canceled if the weather turns bad. For travelers who prefer a flexible, private experience that can be tailored to their interests, this tour seems like a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy scenic train rides paired with cultural and natural highlights.
You can check if your dates are available here:Good To Know
- Scenic Train Ride: Traverse high above the canyon cliffs with sweeping views of the Moraa River and Platije Canyon.
- Cultural and Natural Highlights: Visit an ancient monastery and Montenegro’s first national park, rich in flora and serene lakes.
- Private Tour Flexibility: Designed for private groups with customizable options, including pickup from multiple locations.
- Authentic Experiences: Enjoy culturally meaningful visits and the chance to walk around charming towns and landscapes.
- Value for Money: Includes all transportation, entrance fees, and a licensed English guide, making it an all-in-one experience.
- Seasonal Availability: Operates from March to December, depending on weather – a good idea to confirm availability before booking.
An In-Depth Review of the Montenegro Private Train Tour
Starting Point and Pickup Options
The tour begins with convenient pickup options in several key Montenegrin locations, including Podgorica, Cetinje, Budva, Kotor, Tivat, and Bar. If you’re staying elsewhere, the providers can accommodate you for an additional fee. The flexibility here is appreciated, especially since it eliminates the hassle of public transport. Expect your driver to arrive roughly 1 to 1.5 hours before the scheduled departure, depending on your location.
The Scenic Train Journey
The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the train ride from Podgorica to Kolasin. Lasting about 1.5 hours, it’s a leisurely trip that offers constant visual rewards. You’ll sit comfortably as the train climbs high into the mountains, passing cliffs and steep canyon walls. Many reviews mention how stunning the views are, with some describing it as “a photographer’s dream.”
One traveler remarked, “The scenery from the train is just unbeatable—high above the Moraa River, with the canyon stretching below.” The train crosses the Mala Rijeka Bridge, which is notably one of the highest bridges in Europe (measuring 498 meters long and 200 meters high). This provides a heart-stopping perspective of the valley below, making it an ideal spot for photos and awe.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExploring Kolasin
Upon arriving in Kolasin, you’ll have a guided tour of this small mountain town perched at 954 meters above sea level. Known for its clean air and outdoor activities, Kolasin itself is a peaceful place to stretch your legs and get a sense of local life. The guides tend to emphasize the town’s role as a hub for winter sports and summer hikes, but even in summer, it’s a cool mountain retreat.
Visiting Biogradska Gora National Park
Next, the group heads to Biogradska Gora National Park, Montenegro’s first protected area, established to conserve its pristine forests and lakes. We love that the entrance fee to the park is included, which saves you additional costs and hassle.
The star of this visit is the Biogradsko Lake, a tranquil body of water surrounded by ancient forests. The guided tour around the lake lasts about an hour, and it’s a perfect opportunity to appreciate Montenegro’s untouched wilderness. The lush greenery, combined with the reflective surface of the lake, creates a picture-perfect scene. Reviewers commend the peacefulness of the area and the knowledgeable guides, who provide insights into the park’s flora and fauna.
City Center Walk and Optional Lunch
Back in Kolasin’s town center, you’ll have around one hour to explore at your own pace. This is an ideal time for a short walk, to browse local shops, or to enjoy a traditional Montenegrin meal—if you prefer, there’s an option to dine at a local restaurant. Some reviewers mention savoring local specialties like smoked ham, cheese, and hearty stews, which add flavor to the experience.
Visiting Moraa Monastery
The final cultural stop is the Moraa Monastery, founded in 1252. It’s known for its monumental architecture and serene atmosphere. The monastery’s peaceful setting provides a glimpse into Montenegro’s spiritual life, where monks live harmoniously with nature.
The visit lasts about 30 minutes, giving you enough time to appreciate the architecture and reflect in tranquil surroundings. Many travelers say it’s a modest yet powerful experience that feels authentic and uncommercialized. As one reviewer put it, “You can really feel the monks’ way of life here—simple, peaceful, and deeply rooted in tradition.”
Return Journey
From Moraa, the guide takes you back via a 40-minute drive to your accommodation, completing a smoothly run, well-paced day. The entire experience, including transfers, sightseeing, and breaks, lasts about 6 hours, making it a manageable daytrip.
Transportation and Logistics
This tour’s strength lies in its seamless transportation arrangements. All roads, parking, and train expenses are covered, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the scenery. The private group setting offers the advantage of personalized attention and flexibility. The train ride itself is comfortable, with clear safety and hygiene standards, according to reviews.
Practical Considerations
- The tour operates from March to December, but weather conditions can lead to cancellations—so it’s wise to check availability beforehand.
- Since the tour is private, you can potentially customize parts of the day, such as adding more time at specific stops or adjusting the schedule.
- The duration is approximately 6 hours, but expect some variability depending on traffic and weather.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s price covers transportation, entrance fees to the park and monastery, a licensed English-speaking guide, and the train ticket—delivering excellent value for what’s included.
Extras like food and drinks are not included, giving you the chance to choose a meal that suits your taste and budget. Many travelers find that sampling local Montenegrin dishes enhances the experience, but it’s optional.
Who’s This Tour Best Suited For?
This private Montenegro train tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes and cultural sights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed pace, with plenty of photo opportunities and time for reflection. Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting authentic Montenegrin experiences will find this trip rewarding.
If you prefer adventure-heavy activities or luxury accommodations, this might not be the perfect fit. But if your goal is to enjoy Montenegro’s natural beauty, history, and tranquilly in a manageable, thoughtfully curated package, this tour is worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, this tour is appropriate for most age groups, especially since it involves a relaxed train ride and scenic walks. Always mention any mobility concerns when booking.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and some snacks or water, especially if you want to extend your time at stops.
Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s flexibility to tailor parts of your day according to your interests and pace.
What’s the typical start time?
Tours usually begin between 8:00 and 10:00 AM, depending on the season. Confirm your start time when booking.
Is the train ride scenic?
Absolutely. Travelers consistently mention the stunning views, especially as the train climbs high into the mountains.
Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included, but there is an optional time for lunch in Kolasin or nearby.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the fee for Biogradska Gora National Park and Moraa Monastery are covered.
What weather should I expect?
The tour runs from March to December; weather can vary from mild to cool, especially at higher altitudes. Check local forecasts before your trip.
How long is the total travel time?
Including transfers and sightseeing, expect about 6 hours, but this can vary slightly depending on your pickup location and pace.
Final Thoughts
This Montenegro private train tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and cultural sites in a relaxed, manageable day. The combination of a scenic train ride, serene lakes, mountain town charm, and historic monastery makes it a well-rounded experience that appeals to travelers wanting a taste of Montenegro’s natural and cultural beauty.
The carefully curated itinerary, combined with private transportation and expert guides, ensures a smooth and enriching adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic scenery and meaningful cultural stops without the stress of navigating public transport or crowded group tours.
Overall, if you’re looking for a day of scenic views, peaceful nature, and gentle cultural exploration, this tour provides excellent value and an authentic taste of Montenegro.
You can check if your dates are available here: