Podgorica might not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about food tours, but this capital offers some surprisingly authentic and intimate experiences. Its proximity to legendary wine regions, scenic lakes, and centuries-old villages makes it an excellent base for exploring Montenegro’s rich culinary heritage. Among the options, we especially like the Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery for its hands-on approach and family stories, and the Wine tour–Family winery visit, food tasting & Skadar Lake boat cruise for a full-day deep dive into local wine, food, and stunning scenery. These tours give you a flavor of the region that’s both educational and delicious, with opportunities to meet local producers and enjoy breathtaking views.
What we’ve included below are two distinct kinds of food and wine experiences. One is a short, intimate visit to a historic winery (perfect for a quick taste of Montenegrin tradition), while the other offers a comprehensive day combining scenic lake cruising, village visits, and wine tasting. Both are highly rated and showcase Montenegro’s rich flavors, but they cater to different schedules and interests. For more ideas on wine and food adventures, check out Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery, a compact experience with a focus on family stories and homemade wines.
1. Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery
This tour is ideal for those wanting a personalized, intimate experience with Montenegrin wine and snacks. It lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes and takes place in the Garnet Winery in the village of Godinje, a place recognized for its cultural importance. The tour includes sampling three different homemade wines, spirits, and traditional snacks, all paired with stories shared by the family who runs the winery. It’s clear the focus is on authenticity—the family owner, an agronomist and wine producer, speaks fluent English and is eager to share their traditions.
What makes this tour special is the chance to learn about Montenegro’s winemaking traditions in a setting that has been operating for 14 generations. The panoramic views of Godinje and its stone houses add a picturesque backdrop to each tasting. The visit also includes a walk through the village, which is recognized as Montenegro’s first heritage settlement, with remains from the 14th century, including the summer house of the royal family.
Guests often comment on the warm hospitality and delicious wines, with one reviewer praising the “super moment passed en amoureux.” Its small-group setting makes it easy to ask questions and get personal attention. The tour is quite affordable at just under $50 per person, making it excellent value given the quality of experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a genuine, intimate introduction to Montenegrin wines with historical context, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for wine lovers short on time but eager to explore local flavors in a friendly setting.
2. Wine tour–Family winery visit, food tasting & Skadar Lake boat cruise
For travelers looking for a full-day experience, this private tour offers a blend of scenic beauty, culture, and wine. It runs about 6 to 8 hours and includes multiple stops, starting with the spectacular Skadar Lake National Park, Montenegro’s largest freshwater reserve. Here, you’ll enjoy a scenic 1-hour boat ride that showcases the lake’s diverse flora and fauna, a highlight for nature lovers.
Next, you’ll visit an award-winning family-run winery in Virpazar, where you’ll taste some of Montenegro’s best wines paired with local produce. The tour then takes you to Rijeka Crnojevica, a charming town with a historic old stone bridge and ties to the Petrovic dynasty. The final stop offers an incredible viewpoint over Skadar Lake, perfect for photos and relaxing before heading back.
This tour is unique because of its comprehensive itinerary, combining scenic lake cruising, cultural sights, and wine tasting all in one day. The guide shares stories about the region’s 14+ generations of families, adding depth to each experience. It’s priced at $162, reflecting its inclusiveness and the private, personalized service.
Guests have praised this tour for its well-balanced mix of activities and the opportunity to interact with local winemakers. It’s best suited for travelers with a full day to spare, interested in nature, culture, and wine, and comfortable with some walking and boat rides.
Bottom Line: If you want to combine Montenegro’s stunning scenery with authentic wine and cultural insights in one seamless day, this tour offers excellent value and variety.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Podgorica
Picking the right tour depends on your schedule, interests, and what kind of experience you’re after. If a quick, authentic taste of Montenegrin wine and family stories appeals, the Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery is a perfect choice. For those who want a full immersion into Montenegro’s landscapes, villages, and wine heritage, the full-day tour with Skadar Lake cruise is hard to beat.
Consider your budget as well — the shorter tour is very affordable, while the full-day experience offers more variety at a higher price. If you love nature and scenic views, the lake cruise combined with village visits will satisfy that craving, whereas if history and small-batch wines are your thing, the intimate winery tour fits best. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Podgorica offers a surprising range of food and wine tours that cater to different interests and schedules. For a quick, authentic experience, the traditional winery tasting delivers a warm, family-led insight into Montenegrin wine-making. If you have a full day and want to combine scenic beauty with excellent wine and local culture, the comprehensive tour with Skadar Lake is perfect. Both provide an authentic taste of Montenegro—just pick what fits your style, book early, and enjoy your journey through flavor and scenery.