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

If you’re planning a visit to Montenegro and want a taste of the country’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and flavorful cuisine, this tour offers quite a bit. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and an iconic cable car ride, all wrapped into about four and a half hours of adventure. While it has a few considerations, many travelers find it to be a worthwhile way to get a snapshot of Montenegro’s diverse appeal.

What really stands out for us are the spectacular views of Boka Bay from the cable car and the opportunity to taste authentic Montenegrin food in Njegusi. Plus, the visit to the mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš—an important cultural figure—adds depth to the trip. That said, it’s a relatively packed schedule, so if you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or are traveling with very young kids, you’ll want to weigh those factors. For those who love a mix of history, nature, and culture, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic drives along historic roads offer panoramic views and a sense of adventure.
• Cultural immersion in Njegusi with local food tastings provides authentic flavors and insights.
• The Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš is a highlight for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.
• The Kotor cable car delivers quick, breathtaking views of the bay, perfect for picture takers.
• The tour is well-organized and informative, with an engaging guide leading the way.
• It’s a private experience, allowing for a more personalized pace and attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup options from four major locations—Herceg Novi, Tivat, Kotor, and Budva—making it fairly flexible depending on where you’re staying. The transportation is via an air-conditioned private vehicle, which makes for a comfortable ride through Montenegro’s stunning scenery. The entire journey is smooth, and the guide/driver is usually multilingual, speaking English or Russian, adding a layer of ease for international travelers.

The Old Road from Kotor: A Historic Drive

Your adventure kicks off on what’s called the “serpentine road,” an old mountain route dating back to the time of the Kingdom of Montenegro. It’s a winding, exciting drive with 25 switchbacks, offering spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor from different angles. An interesting tidbit from reviews is that this historic road wasn’t just functional; it’s steeped in local stories, including the legend of the engineer Josip Slade-Ilovi, who supposedly designed the road with a secret love in mind. Travelers often comment on how this drive feels like stepping back in time, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way, especially during a brief stop at the “M-shaped moat” section.

Njegusi: Authentic Montenegrin Culture and Cuisine

Next, you arrive at Njegusi, a village famous for its traditional Montenegrin food. Here, visitors typically get around 30 minutes to wander freely, sample local products like prosciutto, cheese, olives, wine, or brandy, and soak in the rural ambiance. It’s a fantastic spot for those who enjoy tasting genuine regional flavors and perhaps picking up some souvenirs. The reviews praise the food tasting as “authentic,” with many saying it’s a highlight that adds a personal touch to the experience.

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Visiting Petar II Petrović Njegoš’s Mausoleum

The journey continues to the mausoleum, an architectural marvel perched high on the mountain. To reach it, you’ll climb 441 steps—a good workout but worth it for the views and history. The mausoleum’s centerpiece is a beautifully crafted statue of Njegoš, carved from a single granite block weighing around 50 tons. The statue, created by Ivan Metrovi, is a stunning piece of art, with a height of 4 meters and an intricate gold mosaic ceiling composed of 200,000 gold pieces. Many visitors are struck by the blend of art, history, and panoramic views from this vantage point—offering a bird’s-eye perspective over 70% of Montenegro’s mountainous terrain.

Panoramic Views and the Kotor Cable Car

After the mausoleum, a short drive takes you to the base of the Kotor cable car station. This is where many find the highlight—an 11-minute ride that carries you from about 65 meters to 1350 meters above sea level. The views during this ascent are simply unforgettable: the shimmering Kotor Bay, the medieval town, and the surrounding rugged mountains unfold before your eyes. It’s a swift ride but packed with photo opportunities, and many reviews note how impressive the scenery is from the cable car.

Relaxing at the Top

Once at the top, you’re free to enjoy the stunning vistas, sip coffee, or take a walk around the area. The atmosphere is peaceful, with a sense of being on top of the world, and many travelers find it a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day’s sights.

Return Journey and Drop-Offs

The return is equally scenic, with a 30-minute drive back to your pickup point. The tour wraps up with drop-offs at your chosen location, making it a seamless experience.

Practical Considerations

Duration and Pacing

The full itinerary takes about four and a half hours, which is quite efficient considering how much ground and history you cover. The schedule is tight but manageable, especially with the private transport, allowing for flexibility and a personalized experience.

Cost and Value

For the price—covering transportation, guide, entrance fees, food tastings, and the cable car—it generally offers good value. The inclusion of local food samples and the mausoleum entry adds cultural depth that you might pay extra for independently.

Group Size and Comfort

Being a private tour, it’s suited for small groups or individual travelers, which means more direct interaction and less rushing. However, note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 due to the physical activity involved, like climbing stairs.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes for the mausoleum and the steps are a must, and don’t forget your camera—views are spectacular. Also, some cash for optional purchases or additional snacks might come in handy.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who appreciates a good mix of scenery, history, and local culture without a long day in the bus, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Montenegro’s highlights in a short period. It’s also ideal if you enjoy photo opportunities, scenic drives, and trying local food. However, if you prefer slow, relaxed sightseeing or are traveling with very young children or people with mobility issues, you might find it a bit rushed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling snapshot of Montenegro’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The combination of historic roads, authentic food, and stunning vistas makes it a well-rounded experience. It’s not just about ticking off sights; it’s about feeling connected to the landscape and history of this fascinating country.

You’ll love the views from the mausoleum and the cable car, and the food tasting in Njegusi delivers genuine flavors you won’t forget. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor often get praised, helping to elevate the experience further. It’s a tour that balances adventure, culture, and relaxation—perfect for those who want to see a lot in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children and teenagers might enjoy the scenic drive, cable car ride, and the opportunity to explore Njegusi. Kids over 95 years or those with mobility issues might find the stairs at the mausoleum challenging.

How long is the cable car ride?
The cable car lasts approximately 11 minutes, transporting you from 65 meters to 1350 meters above sea level, offering incredible views during the ascent.

What can I expect at Njegusi?
You’ll get about 30 minutes to explore, sample authentic Montenegrin prosciutto, cheese, olives, wine, or brandy, and enjoy the village’s rural atmosphere.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour covers entrance to the mausoleum and the national park, making the experience smooth without additional costs.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The tour lasts around 4.5 hours, including transportation, sightseeing stops, and free time at the top of the cable car.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

What languages are available for guides and audio?
Guides speak English and Russian, and audio guides are available in English and Sesotho.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, your camera, some cash for souvenirs or extra snacks, and perhaps a light jacket if it’s chilly at higher elevations.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it isn’t recommended for wheelchair users or those over 95 years due to the physical activities involved, like staircase climbing.

If you’re aiming for a day of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and tasty local treats, this tour offers a memorable taste of Montenegro’s charm—just be prepared for an active, adventure-filled few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: