From Podgorica: Kotor & Budva Old Towns Tour and Skadar Lake

If you’re looking to get a true taste of Montenegro’s most iconic spots without spending days on it, this private tour from Podgorica could be just the ticket. It offers a flexible, personalized way to explore the highlights — think stunning coastal towns, UNESCO-protected old cities, and breathtaking panoramas — all in about six and a half hours.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it balances guided exploration with free time, plus its customizability. Whether you’re into history, scenic drives, or just want some great photo ops, there’s a lot packed into this day. The other big win is the knowledgeable guides — several reviews praise the guides’ ability to make the experience both fun and informative. On the flip side, be aware that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or wheelchairs, and it’s a fairly tight schedule, so if you prefer relaxed, less structured days, this might feel rushed.

This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive Montenegrin experience without having to plan each detail yourself. Perfect for first-timers, solo travelers, or couples eager to see a lot in a single day, it also works well for those who appreciate guided insights and scenic drives. If deep dives into local history aren’t your priority, but striking views and a taste of authentic towns are, this tour could be just right.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your interests
• Includes guided tours of Kotor and Budva, some free time
• Stunning scenic drives, including the old road with switchbacks
• Options to include Skadar Lake or Cetinje for more variety
• Excellent guides praised for personable, knowledgeable service
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Montenegro’s Coastal Charm: What This Tour Offers

This six-and-a-half-hour journey kicks off in Podgorica, where pickup from your accommodation is included. From there, the trip unfolds as a curated introduction to some of Montenegro’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites.

Starting Point: Podgorica

Your adventure begins with a pickup directly from your hotel or designated address in Podgorica. It’s nice to have this included, especially for those arriving into the city and not wanting to fuss with transportation. Once on the road, the first destination is Budva Old Town — the lively hub of Montenegro’s coastline, packed with history, narrow streets, and a bustling atmosphere.

The Charm of Budva Old Town

We loved the way the tour takes you straight into the heart of Budva’s old town. With around 45 minutes for a guided walk, you’ll get a snapshot of its history, walls, and the lively streets that have been around for centuries. As one reviewer put it, “Activities were good and places included in the tour were lovely,” which reflects how well this part is curated.

While you won’t have hours to explore every alley, the guided tour, combined with some free time, allows for a feel of the town’s vibe. Plus, since Budva is famous for its 35-kilometer-long coastline, if you’re into beach scenes or seaside cafes, you’ll find plenty of options to soak it all in afterward.

Next Stop: Kotor’s Old Town

From Budva, it’s a scenic drive along Montenegro’s winding coast to Kotor. This UNESCO World Heritage site is often the star of Montenegrin tours — and for good reason. The old town, built like a maze, is packed with tiny squares, churches, and fortress walls that tell stories of centuries past.

Your guide will lead you through the narrow streets, pointing out key sights and sharing insights. Then, you’ll have around 45 minutes of free time — enough to stroll, snap photos, or buy a quick coffee. Several visitors, like Grecia, have raved: “Vlado was an amazing tour guide! My brother and I had a great time with him. If you want to learn about the history of Kotor and Budva, I highly recommend this tour.” It’s clear that knowledgeable guides can really make or break this experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Culinary Stop at Njegusi Village

After soaking in Kotor’s charm, you’ll head inland to Njegusi Village, famous for its smoked prosciutto and cheese. The ride to this spot is part of the fun — a winding road with 25 switchbacks offering spectacular views. We loved the photos from reviews of this scenic drive, with travelers describing it as “breathtaking.”

In Njegusi, you’ll visit a local family restaurant, where regional specialties like prosciutto and cheese are served fresh and authentic. For food lovers, this is a highlight — the chance to taste Montenegro’s culinary pride in a charming setting.

Optional: Visiting Cetinje or Skadar Lake

The tour provides options to expand your experience. You can visit Cetinje, Montenegro’s old royal capital, home to historic monasteries and regal history. Alternatively, there’s an option to include a visit to Skadar Lake, the largest lake in the Balkans and part of a national park.

If you choose the Skadar Lake route, expect to see a photo stop above Karuc, with stunning views over the lake and the Crnojevic River, as well as a short drive over Boka Bay, with a scenic stop near Sveti Stefan island. Several reviews mention the beauty of these panoramic views, making it worth considering if your schedule allows.

Final Leg: Back to Podgorica

After all the sightseeing and tasting, the tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Podgorica, arriving approximately 6.5 hours after departure. The return trip is a good time to unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The Experience on the Ground: What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers have spoken highly of their guides, emphasizing their friendliness and knowledge. For example, Grecia shared, “Vlado was an amazing tour guide… I highly recommend to take this tour if you want to learn about the history about Kotor and Budva.” This shows that engaging guides are a big part of what makes this tour memorable.

Others appreciated the scenic drives and photo opportunities. One comment noted, “The old road built at the end of the 19th century, with its switchbacks, offers one of the most magnificent views Montenegro has to offer.” Such views are a big part of why many travelers choose this tour.

A common theme in reviews is the value of the included experiences — visiting historic towns, enjoying regional dishes, and capturing stunning vistas. The tour is also flexible; the provider is happy to customize or combine stops based on your preferences, which adds a personalized touch.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that last-minute bookings can be a bit pricier, but many feel the experience offers good value considering the guided insights, transportation, and access to top sights. Since it’s a private tour, you get a tailored experience, which is often worth the premium compared to group tours.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers wanting a rundown of Montenegro’s coast and inland in a single day. Family travelers might find the pace a bit tight, but most solo, couple, or small group travelers will appreciate the flexibility and personal attention. If you’re into stunning views, historic towns, and regional food, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s also great if you prefer guided commentary and don’t want to worry about navigating or planning each stop yourself. Keep in mind the tour is not wheelchair-friendly and involves some walking, so pack accordingly.

The Sum Up

All in all, this private tour from Podgorica offers a well-rounded introduction to Montenegro’s key sights with the benefit of a knowledgeable guide and flexible options. You’ll enjoy scenic drives, charming towns, and some of the most iconic views Montenegro has to offer — all packed into one action-packed day.

It’s especially good for first-timers or those who want a curated experience without the hassle of independent planning. The combination of guided tours, free time, and optional add-ons makes this a versatile choice for travelers wanting a solid overview without feeling rushed.

If you’re after stunning landscapes, historic towns, and regional flavors, this tour can be a real highlight of your Montenegro trip. Just be prepared for a full day and limited mobility options, and you’ll likely come away with a memorable taste of this beautiful country.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
It depends on your kids’ walking stamina and interest level. The tour involves some walking in old towns and scenic drives, so small children might find it a bit tiring, but older kids and teenagers who enjoy history and views could have a good time.

How long is the total tour?
Approximately 6.5 hours, including travel, guided visits, and free time.

What’s included in the tour price?
You’ll get a private guide, pickup and drop-off from your Podgorica address, and a flexible itinerary. Food, drinks, and optional boat tours are extra.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the provider is happy to tailor the experience to your preferences, combining different sites or adding extra stops like Rijaka Crnojevica or Sveti Stefan.

What’s the best way to see Kotor and Budva?
This tour offers guided walks with free time, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for wheelchair users or those with mobility concerns due to walking and walking on uneven surfaces.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, and some cash for optional extras like food or souvenirs.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is open to all ages, but keep in mind the physical aspects. Children should be supervised, especially in busy old towns.

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

How do I book?
You can reserve online, secure your spot, and pay later if preferred. Once booked, the guide will contact you with pickup details.

This tour strikes a good balance between guided exploration and freedom to enjoy Montenegro’s highlights. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting a memorable, hassle-free day in this stunning country.

You can check availability for your dates here: