Podgorica might not be the first city that comes to mind when planning a trip to Montenegro, but it’s a surprisingly rewarding place to explore. Unlike more tourist-heavy destinations, this capital offers a genuine look at local life, a mix of modern architecture, historic sites, and scenic landscapes. Whether you’re arriving and need a smooth transfer to the coast or want to learn about Montenegro’s past on a guided walk, Podgorica has something to offer. One of our favorite experiences is the Private transfers from Podgorica Airport and city to Budva, which makes getting to the coast hassle-free and comfortable.
Podgorica’s city tours are diverse—they include private transfers, detailed walking explorations, cultural and historic excursions, and scenic day trips to nearby lakes and ruins. This list showcases the variety, from quick city walks to full-day adventures, helping you find the perfect way to see Montenegro’s capital and beyond.
Below, you’ll find a selection of the best city tours in Podgorica, each offering unique ways to experience the city’s flavor, history, and scenery. Whether you’re interested in a brief city introduction or a full-day journey to the nearby Skadar Lake or ancient ruins, there’s a tour here for you.
1. Private transfers from Podgorica Airport and city to Budva
Traveling from Podgorica to the Montenegran coast doesn’t have to be stressful. At number 1 on our list, the Private transfers from Podgorica Airport and city to Budva offers a smooth, reliable ride. For around $86.38 per group, you get a private car that picks you up directly from the airport or your hotel, saving you the hassle of waiting in long taxi lines or negotiating fares.
This service is ideal if you want to start your seaside holiday without fuss. The drivers are friendly, punctual, and help with luggage, giving you peace of mind. The journey takes about an hour to an hour and twenty minutes, depending on traffic, and includes most hours of the day, making it flexible for your arrival time. The reviews highlight exceptional service and cleanliness—”Great customer service from start to finish” and “Car was clean, driver friendly and safe” are common sentiments.
Bottom Line: If you value convenience and comfort upon arrival, this private transfer is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for travelers with early or late flights, or those who prefer a personalized experience over shared shuttles.
2. Podgorica Car Trip – Architecture, History, Wine tasting, Churches, Doclea city
For about $105.54 per person, this 5-hour Podgorica Car Trip offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and local flavors. Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle and experience highlights like the ancient ruins of Doclea, the spectacular Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja (Montenegro’s largest Orthodox church), and the Dajbabe Monastery, which is built inside a cave in the shape of a cross.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexible, personalized approach—your guide can tailor the itinerary and share in-depth insights about each site. The trip culminates with wine tasting at the 13. Jul Plantaža, a vineyard famous for European vines and a story-rich old military air base. Visitors often comment on the engaging guide and the opportunity to learn about Montenegro’s ancient past alongside its modern wine culture.
Best suited for: history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and those wanting a rundown of Podgorica’s surroundings without the hassle of driving themselves.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a well-rounded day combining history, spiritual sites, and wine tasting, all with the comfort of private transport and guide attention.
3. Skadar Lake & Virpazar return trip from Podgorica city
Number 3 on our list, the Skadar Lake & Virpazar journey offers a scenic escape about 3-4 hours long, priced at $85.38 per person. This trip is perfect for travelers who want to see Montenegro’s largest lake and enjoy some peaceful water views without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.
The tour includes a visit to the charming town of Virpazar, with options for a boat trip on Lake Skadar—either a quick 1-hour cruise or more if you ask. The boat ride through lush wetlands, lily fields, and fishing villages is a highlight, giving you ample opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting. The guide shares insights into the lake’s ecology and local life, making the experience both relaxing and informative.
Guests consistently praise how easy and immersive this trip is, especially with the round-trip private transport included. It’s suitable for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone seeking a quiet day outside the city.
Bottom Line: This tour balances scenic beauty, cultural interest, and comfort—an easy choice for a half-day retreat into Montenegro’s natural beauty.
4. Private Podgorica City Walking Tour
If you prefer discovering the city on foot, the Private Podgorica City Walking Tour offers an intimate look at the capital’s highlights. For about $43.21 per person, you’ll stroll through the city’s core for roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, visiting sites like Trg Republike (Independence Square), the Montenegrin National Theatre, and the Millennium Bridge.
The tour is customizable and perfect if you want to see key landmarks like the Vladimir Vysotsky Monument or learn about the city’s evolution from a small settlement to a vibrant center. The guide’s local knowledge makes the history come alive, and the walk is manageable even for those with limited mobility.
Guests note the tour’s friendly pace and the opportunity to ask questions, making it a great primer for first-time visitors. A quick stop at a local restaurant can also be arranged if you want to sample Montenegrin cuisine afterward.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, personal introduction to Podgorica’s main sights and stories in a compact timeframe.
5. Private transfer from Podgorica Airport and city to Kotor
Number 5 is the Private transfer from Podgorica Airport and city to Kotor. For $141.34 per group, this service ensures your trip from Montenegro’s capital to one of its most iconic coastal towns is smooth and fuss-free.
The drivers are professional, speaking English, and the vehicles are clean and comfortable. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. This transfer is perfect if you want to avoid the unpredictability of taxis or shared shuttles, and it offers a direct, reliable route.
Guests mention the driver being friendly and careful—”Mirko provided a brilliant service”—which makes all the difference when traveling with luggage or after a long flight. It’s a straightforward choice for those heading to Kotor, whether for a short stay or as a starting point for exploring the Bay of Kotor.
Bottom Line: This is the go-to option for hassle-free, private transportation to Kotor, especially if you value reliability and ease.
6. Transfer from Podgorica Airport and city to Tivat
Similarly, the Transfer from Podgorica Airport and city to Tivat offers private, direct transportation at $142.58 for your vehicle. Tivat, known for its luxury marinas and golf courses, is just about 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours away.
This option is perfect if Tivat is your destination or a gateway to the Lustica Peninsula. The service guarantees meet-and-greet at the airport and a comfortable ride with a friendly driver, such as Nikola, who is praised for his professionalism. It’s a good way to start your Tivat adventure without dealing with shared shuttles or taxis.
Bottom Line: Choose this transfer if your Tivat plans start immediately after arrival, and reliability matters for your Montenegro journey.
7. Podgorica Car Trip, Doclea city, Wine tasting, Niagara falls
For a full 6-hour exploration priced at a flexible rate, the Podgorica Car Trip covers ancient ruins, religious sites, and natural wonders. It’s perfect for travelers who want an in-depth look at Montenegro’s history and natural beauty in one day.
This tour includes visits to the ruins of Doclea, the Orthodox Temple of Christ’s Resurrection, and the Niagara Falls. Plus, there’s a highlight in wine tasting at the local Sipcanik winery, where you can enjoy Montenegrin wines in a relaxed setting. The itinerary combines cultural insights with scenic landscapes, making it suitable for history buffs and wine lovers alike.
Guests find the guide’s storytelling engaging and appreciate the flexibility, as the guide is willing to adapt to your interests. The tour’s length and variety make it a comprehensive option for those with a day to spare.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a thorough, multi-faceted day combining history, nature, and wine in Montenegro.
8. Podgorica Meet The Soul of The City Guided Walking Tour
For an immersive cultural experience, the Podgorica Meet The Soul of The City is a 2-3 hour stroll through the city’s most iconic spots. Priced at $96.31 for groups up to 15, this tour is perfect for those wanting a deeper understanding of how the city’s past and present intertwine.
Your guide, a local with lifelong knowledge, takes you along the Moraca River, through Bokeška Street, and past the Old Town, revealing stories behind each site. The tour provides a balanced mix of history, local lifestyle, and scenic viewpoints, making it suitable for travelers interested in a meaningful city overview.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the ability to ask questions, and many say it’s a great way to get acquainted with Montenegro’s capital beyond just the main sights. You can even extend the experience with a local meal afterward.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers seeking an authentic, personal introduction to Podgorica’s character.
9. Podgorica: City Highlights Guided Tour
Finally, the Podgorica: City Highlights Guided Tour offers a quick, one-hour overview of the city’s main sites. It’s perfect if your time is limited but you still want to see the core sights like Independence Square, the Millennium Bridge, and the Church of St. George.
This tour is great for first-timers who want a concise introduction, providing enough context to appreciate the city’s main landmarks. The guided walk is easy to join and includes the essential sights in a short time frame.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with limited time who want a quick snapshot of Podgorica’s key locations.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Podgorica
Picking the best city tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If arriving and wanting a quick, comfortable ride to the coast, the private transfer to Budva or Kotor (see here) makes sense. For a comprehensive day exploring history, wine, and landscapes, the Podgorica Car Trip or the full-day Podgorica Car Trip, Doclea city, Wine tasting, Niagara falls are excellent options.
Prefer to walk and soak in the city? The Private Podgorica City Walking Tour and Meet The Soul of The City Guided Walking Tour give you a personal, relaxed experience. Those short on time should consider the City Highlights Guided Tour.
Think about your interests and how much time you want to spend. For outdoor lovers, the Skadar Lake & Virpazar offers a peaceful escape. For logistical ease, private transfers are unbeatable.
Final Thoughts
Podgorica may be Montenegro’s administrative heart, but it’s also a place full of character and surprises. From scenic day trips to cultural walks and hassle-free airport transfers, there’s a tour to suit every traveler. For first-timers, a city walk combined with a scenic trip outside the city offers a well-rounded experience. If time is tight, the quick city highlights tour delivers a solid overview.
To make sure you don’t miss out, book your preferred tour early, especially during peak season, and tailor your choice to match your interests—whether it’s history, scenery, or simply a comfortable transfer. With these options, your visit to Podgorica will be smooth, informative, and memorable.