Montenegro’s small size might suggest limited wine options, but this Balkan country punches well above its weight when it comes to wine tourism. Thanks to its varied terrain—mountains, lakes, and lush valleys—Montenegro produces some truly interesting wines that range from crisp whites to bold reds. What we particularly like is the way many tours combine authentic tasting with scenic views and cultural stories, making each experience memorable. For instance, the Virpazar Lake Skadar Sunset Boat Cruise with Wine Tasting offers a relaxing way to see the lake at sunset while sampling local varieties, topped with a visit to the historic fortress of Lesendro.
Our list covers a variety of experiences—some focus on scenic boat rides combined with wine, others on exploring Montenegro’s largest wineries, and a few offer panoramic tastings with spectacular views. Whether you’re after a romantic sunset, a deep dive into Montenegrin wine traditions, or a casual rooftop sip, you’ll find options here. Let’s explore each in detail.
1. Virpazar: Lake Skadar Sunset Boat Cruise with Wine Tasting
This tour starts in Virpazar and offers a delightful sunset cruise on Lake Skadar with a focus on enjoying Montenegro’s natural beauty and its wines. Over approximately two hours, you’ll board a charming wooden boat and drift during the “golden hour,” when the lake’s calm waters reflect the sunset’s warm glow. The highlights include glimpses of the fortress Lesendro, a site steeped in history and symbolic of Montenegro’s resilience.
The wine tasting features local varieties, paired with stories from a friendly guide who shares insights into the region’s winemaking traditions. This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience with a touch of cultural history. The boat cruise also offers opportunities for wildlife watching, birding, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Montenegro’s largest lake.
Bottom line: This tour combines natural beauty with local wine, making it ideal for a romantic evening or a gentle introduction to Montenegro’s landscape. It’s well-loved, with a 4.7/5 rating from 59 reviews, praised for its organization and friendly crew. Usually, it’s best to check availability in advance since sunset times vary through the year.
2. The largest winery in Montenegro: private tour & transport
The highlight for wine connoisseurs is the visit to Montenegro’s biggest winery, Plantaže, located just 10 km from Podgorica. This private tour lasts around 2.5 hours and includes guided exploration of the vineyards, production areas, and a generous tasting of Montenegrin wines paired with homemade food.
What makes this tour stand out is the scale—the winery is vast and produces an array of wines that reflect Montenegro’s traditional methods. Visitors can sample varieties like Vranac and Krstač, gaining insight into the country’s wine roots. The guide, Simona, is praised for her knowledge and personal touch, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. Guests often remark on how the tasting feels authentic, with a chance to learn about the wine-making process and Montenegrin culinary pairings.
The value here lies in the comprehensive experience—transport, a guided tour, and a tasting in a setting that showcases Montenegro’s wine heritage. Perfect for those who want to deepen their understanding of local wines beyond the bottle.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in Montenegro’s wine industry and want a private, intimate experience, this tour offers excellent value and insight. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for wine lovers looking for a deeper dive into traditional wine-making.
3. Podgorica: Panoramic Wine Tasting & Snack
This tour offers a different flavor—tasting wine in a scenic rooftop setting at Purple Eye Estate Camp & Winery. For just $24, you get two hours of relaxing wine sampling with spectacular views over a vineyard that often feels like a slice of Tuscany right in Montenegro. The experience includes a guided tour of the vineyard, where you learn about local grape varieties, followed by a self-guided walk, a photo stop, and a selection of local snacks.
The emphasis here is on the story behind each wine—not just drinking but understanding what makes Montenegrin wines unique. Visitors enjoy the peaceful ambiance, with local wine paired with snacks in a setting that feels private and intimate. This is less about formal tastings and more about enjoying a scenic, informal atmosphere with a bit of education thrown in.
The reviews are glowing—one reviewer called it “a magnificent view with delicious wine,” praising the relaxed vibe and the chance to unwind. The setting is perfect for those who want a quick, scenic escape with good wine and a chance to enjoy Montenegro’s natural beauty.
Bottom line: Ideal for a casual, scenic experience that combines wine with stunning views. It’s especially suited for travelers seeking a relaxed vibe and a taste of local culture.
4. WINE TOUR: Recommended for hedonists!
For those who see wine as an indulgence, this wine cellar tour is a must. It takes you to the largest wine cellar in Montenegro, the 13. Jul Plantaže, where you’ll taste five different Montenegrin wines. The tour lasts about two hours and is designed for lovers of rich, flavorful reds and whites.
The cellar itself is impressive, and the tasting includes some of Montenegro’s best wines. The guide shares stories about the wine-making process and what makes Montenegrin wines so distinctive. This tour is highly rated, with many reviews emphasizing how much they enjoyed the diversity of the tastings and the warmth of the experience. If you’re a food lover or someone who appreciates a good glass of wine, this tour will satisfy your craving for quality and depth.
It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense experience—perfect for those who want to focus on the wine without extra frills. The tour also makes for a comfortable indoor activity, especially in cooler weather.
Bottom line: A great choice for wine enthusiasts looking to sample Montenegro’s best reds and whites in a relaxed, educational setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Montenegro Wine Tour
When selecting a wine tour in Montenegro, consider your interests and priorities. If you love scenic views combined with wine and a peaceful boat ride, the Lake Skadar sunset cruise offers an unforgettable experience. For those wanting a deeper understanding of wine making, the private Plantaže winery tour provides inside access and tastings of Montenegro’s top wines. If you prefer a casual, scenic sip with amazing vistas, the Podgorica panoramic tasting is perfect.
Budget, time, and your interest level are key. The sunset cruise is best for romantic evenings, while the winery tour suits serious wine fans. The rooftop tasting is great for a quick scenic escape, and the cellar visit appeals to those seeking rich, full-bodied wines.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular sunset cruises and private winery visits, which can fill up quickly during high season. Consider the season you’re visiting—spring and fall often provide the best weather and vineyard views.
Montenegro offers a surprising array of wine experiences, from tranquil lake cruises to deep cellar tastings. If you’re a lover of good wine and beautiful scenery, this country won’t disappoint. For a romantic sunset, go for the Lake Skadar cruise. For a deeper dive into Montenegro’s wine offerings, the winery tour is hard to beat. And if you want a quick, scenic sip, the rooftop tasting hits the spot.
No matter your choice, be sure to book early, and enjoy every sip and view along the way. Cheers to discovering Montenegro’s vibrant wine scene!