The first chapter of Montenegro - Private Tour

Podgorica , Montenegro

The first chapter of Montenegro - Private Tour

Active

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The first chapter of Montenegro - something that all tourists should see first when they come to Montenegro.

From Podgorica, the first stop will be the Ostrog Monastery, where you will get to know this holy place.

The monastery is situated against an almost vertical background, high up in the large rock. It is dedicated to Saint Basil of Ostrog (Sveti Vasilije Ostroški), who was buried here.
Here are recorded the healings of people who prayed to the saint for their health.

Then we will continue to Virpazar, starting point for cruising, from where the cruise lasts two hours.

Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. Two-thirds of it belongs to Montenegro, the rest to Albania.

You will enjoy the nature that adorns Lake Skadar.

*Optional*

After the cruise, you can have lunch in Virpazar and try traditional dishes and wine.

Note: Tour lasts 5-6 hours + time for transfer depending of the traffic jam.

Return to the hotel.

Available options

The first chapter of Montenegro - Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

Boat cruising for two hours at Skadar Lake

Fuel

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Pick up at Podgorica at 9 am.

Arriving at The Monastery of Ostrog around one hour/one and 30 mins, depending of the traffic jam.

When we arrive at the parking lot, it's an easy walk to the Monastery.
(When it's not crowded, they let us get to the Monastery by car, but that's not always the case).

The Monastery of Ostrog is a holy place visited by believers of various religions from all over the world.
It was built in the 17th century and is located in the area of Bjelopavlić.

It is placed in a vertical rock, which offers a view of the Bjelopavlic Plain. It was founded by Metropolitan Basil of Herzegovina, (Saint Basil of Ostrog) who was buried there and later canonized. He is a holy miracle worker.

Here you will see beautiful view from the Monastery. From the 17th century, the most valuable preserved antiquities are the frescoes in the cave church of the Holy Cross at the top of the Upper Monastery.

Duration: 2 hours

After Monastery Ostrog we come at Virpazar which is starting point for boat cruise.
Lake Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans.
Two-thirds of it belongs to Montenegro, the rest to Albania.

You will see amazingly clear water, rocky shores, celebrated islands, historic homes, scenic mountain views, and remarkable wildlife.

The boat trip on Lake Skadar lasts for 2 hours.

Return to the hotel in Podgorica.

Note: Tour lasts 5-6 hours + time for transfer depending of the traffic jam during season.

*** Optional - You can choose where you would like to have a lunch time, at the Virpazar or near Monastery. We will help you to decide :)
(Lunch is not included in the price)

Need to bring:
Comfortable shoes, sneakers. Cardigan/light jacket for cruising on the lake - to make it more comfortable ride, and good mood :)

What's not included

Food and drink during the tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Podgorica

Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, is a vibrant city blending modern life with rich history. It offers a mix of ancient architecture, lively markets, and a gateway to Montenegro's stunning natural landscapes.

Top Attractions

Millennium Bridge

A modern cable-stayed bridge over the Morača River, offering beautiful views and a symbol of the city.

Architecture 30 minutes Free

Old Bridge (Stari Most)

A historic bridge over the Ribnica River, originally built by the Ottomans in the 16th century.

Historical 1 hour Free

Podgorica City Museum

A museum showcasing the history and culture of Podgorica and Montenegro.

Museum 1-2 hours €2-3

Lovćen National Park

A stunning national park offering hiking trails, scenic views, and the Mausoleum of Petrovic Njegoš.

Nature Full day Free entry to the park, €2 for the mausoleum

Must-Try Local Dishes

Njeguški pršut

A traditional smoked ham from the Njeguši region, often served with cheese and rakiya.

Appetizer Contains pork

Black risotto (Crni rižot)

A unique risotto made with cuttlefish, giving it a distinctive black color.

Main Course Contains seafood

Kačamak

A traditional dish made from cornmeal, potatoes, and cheese, often served with sour cream.

Main Course Vegetarian

Rakija

A traditional fruit brandy, often made from plums or grapes.

Drink Alcoholic

Popular Activities

Hiking in Lovćen National Park Canyoning in Tara River Canyon Skiing in Durmitor National Park Sunbathing at Mogren Beach Strolling through Old Town Enjoying a coffee at a city center café Visiting the Podgorica City Museum Exploring the Old Bridge

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Podgorica for warm weather and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

18°C to 35°C 64°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Montenegrin
Widely spoken: Serbian, English, Italian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (UTC +1), CST (UTC +2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Podgorica is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use official taxis or app-based services
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

Podgorica Airport • 11 km from city center

By train

Podgorica Railway Station

By bus

Podgorica Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and frequent, but can be crowded during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Yandex.Taxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Stara Varoš (Old Town) Novo Naselje Blokovi

Day trips

Kotor

90 km from Podgorica • Full day

A UNESCO-listed medieval town with stunning architecture, historic churches, and a well-preserved city wall.

Durmitor National Park

150 km from Podgorica • Full day or overnight

A stunning national park offering hiking, skiing, and breathtaking views of mountains and lakes.

Budva

60 km from Podgorica • Half day or full day

A popular coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic Old Town.

Festivals

Podgorica Summer Festival • July City Day (Dan grada) • December 17 Winter Fest • December to February

Pro tips

Visit the Millennium Bridge at night to see it beautifully illuminated
Explore the local markets for authentic Montenegrin products and souvenirs
Try traditional Montenegrin dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience
Take a day trip to Lovćen National Park for stunning hiking trails and scenic views
Use public transportation or walk to get a better feel for the city and its local culture