Ride the Kotor Cable Car ( Njegusi, Lovcen and Kotor Cable car)

Planning a trip to Montenegro? If so, a tour that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and panoramic views might be exactly what you need. The “Ride the Kotor Cable Car” experience offers a balanced mix of adventure, heritage, and breathtaking scenery, all wrapped into roughly five hours. While we’ve not personally booked this tour, based on detailed reviews and its itinerary, it promises an engaging journey that captures the essence of Montenegro’s natural beauty and rich history.

What we love about this experience is the way it blends multiple highlights into a compact package: the thrill of a cable car ride, the charm of a traditional village, and the awe-inspiring views from Loven. The inclusion of local food tastings adds a delicious cultural touch, making it more than just sightseeing. It’s also a private tour, which means a more personalized experience — a real bonus for those who dislike large crowds or hurried schedules.

One aspect to consider is the price tag of around $232 per person. While this might seem steep at first glance, the comprehensive nature of the tour, including transportation, guide service, entry fees, and food tastings, provides significant value. The main potential drawback? The tour’s duration might feel a bit rushed for those wanting to linger longer at each stop. But overall, this experience is perfect for travelers craving authentic Montenegro, stunning vistas, and a touch of adventure, all in one go.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Taste local prosciutto, cheese, and wine in Njegusi, giving insight into Montenegrin traditions.
• Stunning Panoramic Views: Witness breathtaking vistas from the cable car, covering Kotor Bay, Perast, Tivat, and Herceg Novi.
• Historical Significance: Visit the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, a beloved Montenegrin leader and poet.
• Scenic Drive: The serpentine road from Kotor to Njegusi offers incredible photo opportunities and a story-rich adventure.
• Private Transport & Guides: Enjoy personalized service with air-conditioned vehicles and guides fluent in English or Russian.
• Value through Inclusion: Food tastings, park entry fees, and the cable car ride are all included, enhancing the overall value.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Serpentine Road from Kotor

The tour kicks off with a drive along the historic Kotor serpentine road, which snakes through the mountains with 25 switchbacks. This route, dating from Montenegro’s time as a kingdom, is visually stunning and offers a sense of adventure. The story behind the road adds a charming layer of history — it’s said that the M-shaped moat along the route was designed by Josip Slade-Ilovi, a Trogir-born engineer who secretly loved Montenegro. As you navigate this winding path, expect a series of spectacular viewpoints over Kotor Bay, making it a favorite for photographers.

Njegusi Village & Culinary Delights

After about an hour of scenic driving, you’ll arrive in Njegusi, a village famous for its historical importance and authentic Montenegrin culture. Here, the tour offers a food tasting of prosciutto, cheese, olives, wine, or brandy — all produced locally and representing Montenegro’s culinary heritage. Reviewers highlight this part as a special highlight, especially noting the opportunity to try and buy local products directly from the producers.

Njegusi was once a power hub in Montenegro, governed by prominent families passing down roles like prince-bishop or serdar. The village’s rich history adds context to its cultural significance. One reviewer fondly mentions that this stop showcased “authentic Montenegrin cuisine and culture” and appreciated the chance to explore in a relaxed setting.

Loven National Park & Njegoš Mausoleum

Next, you’ll venture into Loven National Park for a visit to the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, a key figure in Montenegrin history. The mausoleum’s design is striking — a six-sided chapel with a statue of Njegoš carved from granite, weighing around 29 tons, and crafted by Ivan Metrovi. The climb of 441 steps might be demanding for some, but the views from the top are impressive. The mausoleum is more than a monument; it’s a tribute to a poet, philosopher, and political leader revered in Montenegro.

Reviewers mention that the sculpture is a remarkable piece of art, and the atmosphere inside offers a contemplative pause. While the entrance fee isn’t included, it’s well worth the visit for its cultural and aesthetic significance.

Kotor & the Cable Car Experience

From the mausoleum, the tour continues with a scenic drive back toward Kotor. Here, you’ll get a chance to absorb the magnificent bay views, and then the highlight: the cable car ride. In just 11 minutes, you’ll ascend from 65m to 1350m, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Kotor, Tivat, Perast, and Herceg Novi.

Multiple reviewers have praised this cable car for its “fabulous views” and the fact that it’s a quick but deeply rewarding experience. One reviewer described it as “an unforgettable 11 minutes,” emphasizing the panoramic vistas that unfold during the ascent. Many say that the view from above is worth the price of the tour alone, providing a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of perspective about Montenegro’s rugged coastline.

The Return & Flexibility

After soaking in the sights, the tour concludes with some free time to enjoy a coffee or simply relax at the top station. The entire experience, from pickup to drop-off, spans about five hours, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

While the price includes many components — transportation, guide, food tastings, and park fees — what truly elevates this tour is the combination of authentic cultural experiences and stunning natural scenery.

The guides are often praised for their professionalism and knowledge, with one reviewer noting a guide named Marko Milovic who knew “a lot about the country and the region.” This personalized touch can make the journey more engaging and educational.

The food tastings in Njegusi are a delightful way to connect with local traditions, and many reviewers highlight how much they enjoyed sampling prosciutto, cheese, and local wine. These are authentic, high-quality products, giving visitors a taste of Montenegro’s gastronomic pride.

The views from the cable car are frequently described as “breathtaking” and “fabulous,” with the quick ascent providing a true sense of elevation and landscape. It’s a picture-perfect moment that’s hard to beat.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance: The tour is popular and typically booked 32 days ahead, so plan early if you want a spot.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Climbing the Njegoš mausoleum involves 441 steps, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
• Bring a camera: The panoramic views are stunning, and you’ll want to capture every moment.
• Consider the weather: The cable car ride and outdoor stops are weather-dependent; clear days will give the best views.
• Allocate time for the food samples: Sampling local prosciutto and cheese can be a highlight, so allow space in your schedule.
• Expect a private experience: Since it’s a private tour, interactions with guides tend to be more personalized and informative.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Montenegro’s natural beauty and cultural heritage in a manageable timeframe. The trip’s varied stops — scenic drives, historical sites, food tastings, and panoramic cable car rides — offer good value, especially considering the inclusive price. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed yet enriching experience, with enough time to savor each aspect without feeling rushed.

However, if you prefer to linger longer at each site, or explore more in-depth, you might find it a touch quick. Also, the price might seem high for budget travelers, but when you factor in transportation, entry fees, and food, it’s quite reasonable for an guided, all-inclusive day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience works best for travelers who appreciate a mix of culture, nature, and comfort. It’s suitable for those who want a structured yet personalized day with expert guides, stunning views, and local flavors. Families, couples, or solo adventurers will find this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Montenegro’s highlights in just a few hours.

If you’re a photo enthusiast or someone eager to see Montenegro’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning multiple excursions, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also a good pick for travelers who want an engaging, scenic day with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and cultural insights.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup, making it convenient for travelers staying in Kotor or nearby areas.

How long does the cable car ride take? The cable car ride lasts about 11 minutes, ascending from 65m up to 1350m above sea level.

What is included in the price? The tour includes private transportation, an air-conditioned vehicle, a guide fluent in English or Russian, the cable car ride, local food tastings in Njegusi, a national park entrance fee, and entrance to the Njegoš mausoleum.

Are drinks and additional food included? No, any extra drinks or snacks purchased during the tour are not included. You can enjoy local wine and brandy during the tastings, but additional purchases are at your expense.

What is the duration of the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, from pickup to drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children? Most travelers can participate, but consider the walk up the mausoleum if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear for the mausoleum visit? Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking up 441 steps, and dress appropriately for a respectful visit.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Will the weather affect the tour? Since the experience is weather-dependent, poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled due to weather.

Is this a group or private tour? It’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

To sum it up, riding the Kotor cable car combined with a scenic drive and cultural stops offers a well-balanced, memorable day in Montenegro. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize authentic experiences, stunning vistas, and cultural insights, all wrapped into a manageable, guided package. While the price might seem high for some, the value delivered through personalized service, diverse highlights, and breathtaking views makes this tour a worthwhile choice for most visitors eager to explore Montenegro’s best.