Culture & Cuisine of Montenegro

Fly to either of Montenegro’s airports, Tivat or Podgorica. On arrival you will be met by your driver and taken to the Šipčanik Winery for a tasting. The iconic Šipčanik Wine Cellar - a former Yugoslav-era aircraft hangar converted into a wine cellar- produces 95% of the country’s wine. Walking through the vast tunnels filled with oak barrels and thousands of bottles creates an awe-inspiring setting to discover their diverse range of wines, with the bold, fruity Vranac taking centre stage. Afterwards, continue to your hotel in Podgorica. The evening is at leisure to sample the restaurants of the nation’s capital.

After breakfast, travel to the remarkable Ostrog Monastery, Montenegro’s most important pilgrimage site, dramatically carved into a sheer cliff face. Explore this extraordinary spiritual landmark and learn about its enduring significance, which draws visitors and pilgrims from across the world. Continue to the ancient Roman settlement of Duklja, where traces of Montenegro’s classical past are still visible among the ruins. Later, visit the Radević Estate Winery, a family-run vineyard renowned for its award-winning wines and beautiful rural setting. Enjoy a guided tasting of local varietals before returning to Podgorica for a leisurely afternoon stroll and dinner at your leisure. (B)

Today, journey towards the picturesque village of Rijeka Crnojevića, pausing at the stunning Pavlova Strana viewpoint to take in one of Montenegro’s most iconic views. Continue with a leisurely boat cruise along the tranquil river to the lakeside town of Virpazar, enjoying light refreshments on board as you glide through the scenic waterways. Explore Virpazar and stop for coffee at the beautifully restored Besac Fortress. Later, travel to the nearby village of Balabani for a traditional hands-on pie-making experience in a rural household. Return to Podgorica for an evening at leisure. (B)

After breakfast, travel to Cetinje, Montenegro’s historic former royal capital, for a guided tour exploring its elegant architecture, grand monasteries and cultural landmarks. Continue onto the dramatic landscapes of Lovćen National Park to visit the striking Mausoleum of Petar II Petrović Njegoš, perched high above the Adriatic. Stop in the traditional mountain village of Njeguši to sample the region’s renowned cheese and prosciutto, produced using age-old methods. Later, descend towards the coast via the spectacular old Austro-Hungarian 25 serpentines road, enjoying breathtaking views over Boka Bay, before arriving in Kotor for a four-night stay. (B)

• Hotel Description

This morning, you will be met and transferred to the cable car station for a ride on the newly opened Kotor Cable Car. Ascend to the upper platform, where sweeping panoramic views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains await. Pause to enjoy a coffee and to pick up supplies before beginning a scenic hike from Nevjesta Jadrana down towards Kotor’s Old Town. The walk is approximately four miles and takes two to three hours. On arrival, take a walk through its atmospheric streets and medieval landmarks. Return to your hotel and evening at leisure. (B) 

• Hotel Description

After breakfast, set out to explore the delightful Old Town of Budva, wandering through its narrow cobbled streets and lively squares, with free time to enjoy a coffee or light lunch. Continue on to the Luštica Peninsula to visit a family-owned olive farm for an authentic and immersive olive oil experience. Learn about the cultivation and harvesting of olives, see both the traditional stone mill and modern press in operation, and sample a selection of artisan oils accompanied by homemade bread, local brandy, and seasonal produce. Return to Kotor in the afternoon to relax and unwind at leisure. (B)

• Hotel Description

After breakfast, meet your guide and embark on a scenic journey around the spectacular Boka Bay (Bay of Kotor). Begin with a visit to the elegant baroque town of Perast, followed by a short boat trip to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks, home to an iconic church and rich maritime legends. Enjoy some free time for lunch overlooking the bay before continuing to the coastal town of Herceg Novi for a guided tour of its historic old quarter and seaside promenade. Round off the day with a visit to the boutique Savina Winery, where you’ll sample fine local wines paired with traditional Montenegrin bites, before returning to your hotel in Kotor. (B)

• Hotel Description

Transfer to the airport today, or opt to extend your time by adding in a relaxing few days on the coast. (B)