Great Tour Of Coastal Monasteries Of Budva – Private Tour

Planning a trip to Montenegro and looking to explore beyond the beaches? This private tour of the coastal monasteries of Budva promises a peaceful escape into history and stunning scenery. It’s ideal if you enjoy a mix of cultural insights and relaxed sightseeing, all with the comfort of having a personalized guide.

What really draws us in about this experience is how it combines beautiful, historic monasteries with breathtaking views of the coast—offering a quiet, contemplative side of Montenegro that’s often overlooked. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you can set the pace, ask all your questions, and enjoy a more intimate experience.

One thing to consider is the relatively short duration of two hours; if you’re after a deep dive into Montenegrin history, this might be more of a taste than a full immersion. However, it’s perfectly suited for travelers with limited time or those wanting a gentle introduction to the region’s spiritual sites.

This tour is especially good for history enthusiasts, those interested in religious sites, or travelers who appreciate stunning vantage points and scenic drives. If you prefer large group tours or are looking for a highly active adventure, you might want to explore other options, but for a peaceful, informative experience, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: This is a private tour, so you get the guide’s full attention and flexibility.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Visit two monasteries with deep roots in Montenegrin history and enjoy panoramic coastal views.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are well-versed in local history, adding meaningful context to each site.
• Beautiful Photo Opportunities: The tour includes stops at stunning viewpoints, perfect for pictures.
• Taste of Local Art: You can buy products made by nuns, supporting local artisans.
• Short and Sweet: The 2-hour duration makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Coastal Monasteries of Budva

We love how this tour combines cultural heritage with spectacular scenery. It’s a gentle, contemplative experience that allows you to step outside the bustling beach scene and into the calm of sacred spaces. Here’s what you can expect at each step.

Starting with Praskvica Monastery

Your adventure begins with a drive along the sandy shores of the Budva Riviera, heading towards the Praskvica Monastery, perched above Sveti Stefan. This site is a real highlight because of its deep historical roots—dating back to 1051, making it older than many modern countries. That’s quite a legacy for a small church on a hill.

We loved the way the guide brought the place to life, sharing stories about the old local tribe, Patrovii, and how the monastery played a role in local traditions. The church itself is modest but full of character. Notably, tennis star Novak Djokovic’s wedding took place here in 2014—giving the site a modern touch of celebrity lore.

The visit lasts around 45 minutes, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. We found this part of the tour to be quite peaceful, with the view of Sveti Stefan providing an iconic backdrop. It’s a place that feels untouched by time, where you can quietly reflect or snap some impressive photos.

Moving Up to Rustovo Monastery

Next up is the Rustovo Monastery, a women’s monastery dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It’s situated higher on the mountain, offering a different perspective of the area. What sets Rustovo apart is its serenity and the opportunity to buy local products made by nuns—a nice way to support the community and take home a unique souvenir.

The guide will explain the monastery’s history and significance, making the visit both educational and spiritual. The green gardens are a perfect spot to sit and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, away from the crowds. We appreciated the chance to pause and take in the peaceful vibe while browsing the souvenir shop, which offers handcrafted items.

While this part of the tour is relatively short, it’s a meaningful stop that adds depth to the overall experience.

The Viewpoint at Elobrdo

No scenic tour would be complete without a panoramic viewpoint, and Elobrdo delivers just that. From this vantage point, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the Budva Riviera, stretching out to the horizon. It’s an ideal spot for photos or simply to take a moment and appreciate the natural beauty of Montenegro.

Our group spent a few moments here just soaking in the vista, and it’s a reminder of how diverse the Montenegrin landscape is—combining mountains, coast, and lush greenery all in one sweep.

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Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour runs from two pickup locations: Podgorica and Budva, with drop-offs available at either. The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, making it a manageable add-on or a light morning activity. The transportation is by comfortable car, and your guide is fluent in English, ensuring smooth communication.

What’s included?
– Pickup in Budva (or Podgorica)
– Guided visits to Praskvica and Rustovo monasteries
– Entrance fees to the churches
– Opportunity to purchase local products made by nuns
– Photography service during the tour

What’s not included?
– Meals or drinks
– Personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.)

What you should bring:
– Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the sites
– A camera, since the views are spectacular (and your guide can help capture the moments if you forget yours)
– Water, especially if it’s warm
– Remember, smoking is not allowed in the vehicle during the tour

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly if that applies.

What’s the Experience Really Like?

From the reviews and our own impressions, the guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. They bring history alive with stories, making what could be just a sightseeing stop into a richer experience. Multiple reviews mention the “stunning views” and the peaceful atmosphere of the monasteries, which really do stand out as the highlights.

Some travelers note that the short duration is perfect for those with limited time, while others say it’s a gentle introduction rather than an exhaustive exploration. The opportunity to shop made-by-nuns adds a nice touch, giving you something meaningful to bring home.

The scenic drives along the coast and to the mountain monasteries are often highlighted as a relaxing way to see the countryside, with many noting how the guide’s local insights made the experience more engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is an excellent choice if you’re seeking peaceful, scenic, and culturally enriching experiences. It’s perfect for history buffs, spiritual seekers, or anyone who loves a combination of coastal views and historic sites. The private aspect means you can enjoy a more personalized experience, ideal if you prefer a quieter, more tailored tour.

If you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Montenegro’s spiritual side, this is a great option. It’s not a tour for those looking for a physical challenge or extensive sightseeing, but rather a relaxed visit to some of the area’s most notable monasteries with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection.

Final Thoughts

This Great Tour of Coastal Monasteries of Budva offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and peacefulness. The guides are knowledgeable, and the sites visited are full of character and significance. You’ll enjoy beautiful vistas, learn about local traditions, and support local artisans through the nuns’ products.

While it’s brief in duration, it punches above its weight in terms of cultural and visual richness. If you’re looking for a tranquil outing that offers a glimpse into Montenegro’s spiritual heritage, this private tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate calm, scenic environments over fast-paced sightseeing.

If you’re in the Budva area and want a taste of its historic soul combined with spectacular coastal views, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically designed for families, children who enjoy quiet sightseeing and scenic views will likely find it pleasant. However, the sites involve some walking and may not have many interactive elements for kids.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a good short activity. Be sure to check availability for specific starting times.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, at Rustovo Monastery, there is a shop where you can purchase local products made by nuns.

Is transportation included?
Yes, your guide will pick you up and drop you off in a comfortable car.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the monasteries and viewpoints. Dress modestly if you plan to enter the churches.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not part of the package. You might want to plan for that separately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for spontaneous plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: