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The 15 Best Tours in Podgorica
Podgorica might not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of Montenegro, but it’s a treasure trove of interesting experiences waiting to be uncovered. What makes it stand out? Its perfect location means you’re just a short drive from stunning lakes, historic sites, and rugged mountains — all of which can be explored through some truly memorable tours. We especially love the Skadar Lake boat tours for their relaxed pace and wildlife sightings, and the full-day excursions that combine nature and history seamlessly. Plus, with options like private transfers, you can skip the city traffic and go straight to the good stuff.
This list rounds up the best tours in Podgorica, covering everything from guided boat trips to cultural excursions and adventure-packed days. Whether you want to cruise on a scenic lake, explore ancient monasteries, or enjoy Montenegro’s vibrant coastal towns, you’ll find an option that suits your timing, budget, and interests. All these experiences promise authentic moments and a chance to see Montenegro’s diverse beauty firsthand.
1. Skadar Lake: Guided Sightseeing Boat Tour with Refreshments
At number 1 on our list, the Skadar Lake Guided Sightseeing Boat Tour offers an excellent introduction to Montenegro’s largest lake. This 2-hour cruise starts in Virpazar, a small town in the wine-producing region, and takes you through Lake Skadar National Park. The tour includes opportunities for swimming and wildlife spotting, especially for bird lovers who’ll enjoy seeing herons, kingfishers, and possibly some rare pelicans.
A standout feature is the onboard tasting of local wines, which perfectly complements the serene scenery. Tour guide Nickoli is praised for giving lively, informative commentary about the area’s flora, fauna, and history. Guests comment on the great value for the price ($17.29 per person) and highlight the relaxing atmosphere. This trip is perfect for those seeking a quick, authentic taste of Montenegro’s natural beauty.
Bottom Line: An ideal, budget-friendly introduction to Lake Skadar with wildlife, swimming, and local wine in a relaxed setting.
2. Best from our coast (Kotor bay, Budva, Sv Stefan, Skadar lake)
For a full-day experience, the Best from our coast tour covers Montenegro’s best coastal sights along with Lake Skadar. Starting from Podgorica, this private tour unlocks panoramic views of Sveti Stefan, exploration of Budva’s lively old town, and a boat trip in Lake Skadar. The highlight is the seamless combination of natural beauty and historic sites, all with the help of an expert guide.
Guests rave about the personalized experience and detailed commentary from guide Olivera, which makes the trip more meaningful. You’ll see both the Mediterranean coast and lush inland scenery, stopping at viewpoints that are hard to find on your own. This tour is most suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free look at Montenegro’s highlights—ideal if you’re short on time but want to maximize your day.
Bottom Line: The perfect way to see Montenegro’s coast and inland attractions with a private guide, transport, and tailored stops.
3. GREAT MONTENEGRO TOUR Cetinje – Njeguši – Kotor – Budva – Bečići – Saint Stefan
At number 3, the Great Montenegro Tour packs a punch with its full-day itinerary. Starting from Podgorica, this private trip takes you through the old royal capital of Cetinje, the traditional village of Njeguši, and the medieval marvel of Kotor. Along the way, you’ll enjoy local food tastings in Njeguši and panoramic drives that show off Montenegro’s mountain and coastal scenery.
Guests commend guide Stefan for his deep knowledge and friendly attitude, making even busy sightseeing feel relaxed. The flexible itinerary allows you to tailor the experience — a real plus if you love history, architecture, or just a taste of authentic Montenegrin culture. The $185.77 price includes all entrance fees and tastings, offering excellent value for a comprehensive day out.
Bottom Line: A full day of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights—perfect for those who want to see Montenegro’s diverse sides without fuss.
4. Durmitor – Black Lake & Tara River Canyon – North Montenegro tour
Number 4 is the North Montenegro Tour that takes you deep into the north’s stunning wilderness. Over 9 to 11 hours, this private trip explores Durmitor National Park, home to Black Lake, and the Tara River Canyon, with its famous bridge. Expect panoramic views from the Durmitor mountain range and an optional zip line across the canyon, which guests say is a highlight.
Your driver-guide, Andry, shares expert commentary on the area’s geological features and history. The tour includes stops at the Tara Bridge (Europe’s deepest canyon) and Crno Lake, with memorable photo opportunities. For $241.36 per person, this tour offers exceptional value for those craving pristine nature and outdoor adventure without the hassle of self-driving.
Bottom Line: An outdoor lover’s dream—mountain lakes, canyon views, and a zipline, all wrapped into one memorable day.
5. Private transfers from Podgorica Airport and city to Budva
Number 5 provides a simple yet crucial service: Private transfers from Podgorica Airport. For just $86.38 per group (up to 4), you’ll get a comfortable, stress-free ride directly from the airport or city center to your accommodation in Budva, Sveti Stefan, or Becici. The professional drivers are known for their punctuality and friendly service, making your arrival hassle-free.
This is especially valuable if you want to avoid long taxi queues or want to start your trip smoothly. The private vehicle ensures a relaxed, personalized experience, which is perfect after a long flight or an overnight journey. Reviews mention the courteous drivers and clean cars, making this a dependable choice.
Bottom Line: An affordable, efficient way to start your Montenegro adventure without the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads.
6. Private Full-Day Tour in Moraca and Tara Canyons, Durmitor & Biogradska Gora NP
Ranking number 6, this Full-Day Private Tour covers two of Montenegro’s most impressive national parks—Durmitor and Biogradska Gora. It also includes a visit to the Moraca Monastery, a highlight for history lovers. The tour’s flexibility allows you to choose activities like swimming in lakes or ziplining over canyons.
Guests appreciate the driver-guide’s knowledge and the ease of skip-the-line entry to parks and monasteries. The $171.96 price provides great value for a comprehensive day exploring Montenegro’s rugged terrain. The experience is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth day without the distraction of logistics.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, customizable day trip perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
7. Wine and food tasting in the traditional winery
Number 7, the Wine and Food Tasting, provides a delicious pause in your itinerary. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll sample three types of homemade wines paired with Montenegrin snacks at Winery Garnet. The host, a local agronomist, shares stories about regional winemaking traditions in the historic village of Godinje.
Guests love the intimate atmosphere and the chance to enjoy wines that are produced in-house. The $48.72 price tag makes it an excellent value, especially if you’re interested in tasting authentic Montenegrin flavors. The tour is best suited for foodies looking to combine culture and cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a laid-back afternoon, this tour offers a taste of Montenegro’s winemaking heritage with friendly hosts.
8. Ostrog Monastery tour
Number 8, the Ostrog Monastery Tour, is a 3 to 4-hour private trip that takes you to one of Montenegro’s most iconic religious sites. Perched high on a cliff, Ostrog is famous for its miraculous relics of Saint Basil of Ostrog. The tour includes door-to-door transport and plenty of time for reflection or photos.
Guests praise the guide’s engaging commentary and the ease of the private transfer, which eliminates the hassle of public transport. The $137.66 fee offers good value, given the significance of Ostrog in Christian pilgrimage circuits. The site’s dramatic location makes this a must-see, especially if you’re interested in spiritual or architectural marvels.
Bottom Line: A spiritual highlight with a stunning setting, accessible via a comfortable, private day trip.
9. MONASTERY TOUR – Impressive Montenegrin Monasteries
The Montenegro Monastery Tour ranks ninth. Over about 7 hours, you visit four monasteries, including Dajbabe, Zdrebaonik, and Saborni Hram Hristovog Vaskrsenja. This private experience dives into religious architecture, iconography, and the history behind these sacred sites.
Guests appreciate the guide’s passionate storytelling and the opportunity to explore sites often overlooked during standard city tours. The $160.09 fee includes all entrance fees and offers a profound insight into Montenegro’s Orthodox traditions. This tour suits travelers interested in religious art, history, and architecture.
Bottom Line: A meaningful cultural journey into Montenegro’s Orthodox monastic heritage—ideal for history and architecture buffs.
10. 2 Hour Group Boat Trip in Skadar Lake
Number 10, the 2-Hour Group Boat Trip, offers a quick but immersive experience on Lake Skadar. Starting from Virpazar, you’ll cruise past Lesendro fortress and through bird reserves, with plenty of chances to spot herons, pelicans, and water lilies. The boat ride includes drinks like water, juice, or local wine, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.
Reviewers mention the friendly guide and the peaceful experience, with some noting the opportunity for wild swimming. For the price of $18.99 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy Montenegro’s natural beauty and learn a bit about its history.
Bottom Line: A short, scenic boat ride perfect for those who want a taste of lake life without a big time commitment.
11. Ostrog monastery and Niagara waterfalls
The Ostrog Monastery and Niagara Waterfalls combo is a 3 to 6-hour private tour. It combines a visit to the famous cliffside Ostrog Monastery with the Niagara Waterfalls of Montenegro — a stunning natural cascade on the Cijevna River.
Guests enjoy the personalized service and the chance to see two very different scenery types — spiritual and natural. The $154.95 price makes it a good value, especially for travelers with limited time wanting a bit of everything. It’s perfect for those interested in religious sites and natural beauty.
Bottom Line: A compact, diverse day trip blending spirituality and nature’s waterfalls.
12. Podgorica Highlights, Ostrog and Zeta nature park day trip
Number 12 offers a 7-hour trip that uncovers Podgorica’s hidden gems. Tour highlights include a visit to Ostrog Monastery, Zeta Nature Park, and some local rural villages. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to explore Roman ruins, scenic parks, and enjoy peaceful countryside.
Reviewers praise guide Nino’s enthusiasm and knowledge, noting how he shares stories about Montenegrin culture and history. The tour provides a balanced mix of cultural insights and outdoor scenery at a reasonable price, making it ideal for travelers who want a broader sense of the area.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, informative day that combines history, nature, and local life.
13. Podgorica Car Trip – Architecture, History, Wine tasting, Churches, Doclea city
This private 5-hour Podgorica Car Trip is perfect for those wanting an overview of the city’s highlights and surrounding sites. It includes visits to Roman ruins of Doclea, Dajbabe Monastery, and a local vineyard for wine tasting.
Guests appreciate the flexibility of the itinerary and personal guidance, making it suitable for travelers short on time but eager for depth. At $105.54 per person, it offers a good mix of cultural and culinary experiences, especially for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: Compact, personalized, and tasty — ideal for a city-focused day with a touch of wine.
14. Kotor & Budva Old Towns & Panoramic Views from Podgorica
Number 14 combines the best of Montenegro’s coast with a full-day tour that explores Kotor and Budva. Starting from Podgorica, you’ll visit UNESCO-listed Kotor’s historic walls and squares, then stroll through Budva’s charming Old Town. The trip is topped off with panoramic mountain drives, offering postcard-worthy views.
Tourists praise the guide’s storytelling and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Costing around $297.64, it’s a pricier option but offers a complete coastal experience with scenic drives and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: For those who want a comprehensive coastal day, this tour balances scenic drives with immersive town visits.
15. Private Tour in Ostrog Monastery, Doclea and Nature Park Zeta
To wrap up our list, the Private Tour in Ostrog Monastery, Doclea, and Zeta Park offers an efficient 6-hour journey. It visits Ostrog Monastery, Roman ruins of Doclea, and scenic villages along the Zeta River. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of history and nature without overextending their day.
Guests highlight the flexibility and personalized service, with prices at $112.75 per person. It’s ideal for those wanting an intimate experience with expert guides who can adapt based on interests.
Bottom Line: A smart, balanced combination of cultural and scenic highlights, suited for travelers who want a customized Montenegro day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, budget, and time. If you’re after a relaxing introduction, the Skadar Lake boat tour is hard to beat. For those with limited time but a desire to see multiple sites, the Montenegro Highlights or Full-Day Durmitor trips are excellent choices. Want a culinary experience? The wine tasting tours offer authentic flavors and stories.
Consider your fitness level: outdoor adventures like ziplining or hiking require some stamina. If you prefer a luxury experience, private tours ensure a tailored, comfortable journey. And remember, booking early guarantees availability, especially in high season.
Final Thoughts
Podgorica offers a surprising diversity of options, from tranquil lake cruises to full-day explorations of mountains, monasteries, and historic towns. For travelers who love nature, the Skadar Lake cruise and Durmitor adventures are standouts. Culture lovers will appreciate the monastery tours and heritage sites, while food and wine enthusiasts should not miss the local winery tastings.
Whether you’re seeking a quick overview or an in-depth journey, these tours provide a range of ways to experience Montenegro’s vibrant scenery and history. We recommend booking early, especially for private and popular excursions, and tailoring your choice to your specific interests. With such varied options, your trip to Podgorica can be as relaxed or as adventurous as you like.
