How to Plan Your Kotor Day Trip to Lovcen Skadar Lake

Are you planning a trip to Kotor, Montenegro? Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the stunning Lovcen Skadar Lake with its breathtaking views and cultural heritage. With this day trip, you will have the chance to experience Montenegro’s mountains, culture, and national park all in one day.

Experience

This full-day tour will take you on a journey through Montenegro’s landscapes, with plenty of stops to explore, relax and take some amazing photos. Here are the highlights of this excursion: – Ride over 25 serpentine to reach Njegusi village with two photo breaks and enjoyable views – Stop at the oldest restaurant in Montenegro for breakfast (with a smokehouse visit) – Ride through Lovcen and walk up to the Njegos Mausoleum – Enjoy a walking tour of Cetinje followed by some free time – Visit Rijeka Crnojevic have lunch in a local restaurant, take a boat tour and enjoy Pavlova Strana with a photo break

Full Description

The tour starts early in the morning, where a comfortable van will pick you up from your hotel in Kotor. The driver will be your knowledgeable guide throughout the day, sharing information about the country, its history, and customs. The first stop on this tour is Njegusi, a small village located in the mountains. You will be driving up for around an hour and a half, along the winding and scenic roads of Montenegro. From here, you’ll get amazing views of the countryside and coast below. You will have two photo breaks to capture the panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor. Once you reach Njegusi, you’ll stop at the oldest restaurant in Montenegro, for a tasty traditional breakfast. The highlight of the breakfast is the smoked ham prosciutto and Montenegrin cheese that you can try there. Staff at the restaurant will also introduce you to the smokehouse where they make the prosciutto. After breakfast, the next stop is the Njegos Mausoleum in the heart of Lovcen National Park. From here, you will climb around 400 steps up to the top for some truly breathtaking views of the national park and the coast. The mausoleum is dedicated to Petar II Petrovic-Njegos, a Montenegrin bishop and poet. After this, you will head to the nearby town of Cetinje, which is the former capital of Montenegro. You will enjoy a walking tour of the town, with its historic buildings and cultural sites. You will then have some free time to explore the town and to grab some lunch. Later in the day, the tour will head towards Skadar Lake, which is one of the largest lakes in the Balkans region. You will visit Rijeka Crnojevic, a small village with a rich history and surrounded by mountains. Here, you will embark on a boat tour on the Skadar Lake to explore the crystal clear waters and see its many coves and islands. You’ll even get to go swimming if time allows. The tour also includes a visit to Pavlova Strana, known for its breathtaking views of the lake. Finally, you will head back to Kotor and be dropped off at your hotel.

Booking the Tour

To book your Kotor day trip to Lovcen Skadar Lake, visit GetYourGuide, a trusted online booking platform. Book the tour online before arriving in Kotor to secure your spot and receive all the necessary information.

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This day trip combines stunning landscapes, cultural landmarks, and the magic of the national park into a single, unforgettable tour. With GetYourGuide, you’ll have a dedicated driver and guide, a delicious breakfast, and plenty of stops along the way to rest, explore and experience Montenegro. Don’t hesitate, book the tour here today and get ready for an incredible adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions about Kotor, Montenegro

1. What is Kotor Montenegro?

Kotor is a coastal town located in the southern part of Montenegro, on the Adriatic Sea. It is situated in a secluded bay surrounded by mountains, making it one of the most picturesque towns in the Balkans. Kotor is notable for its medieval architecture, Venetian fortifications, and stunning natural beauty.

2. What are some things to do in Kotor?

Kotor has a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular:

• Explore the Old Town — wander through the narrow streets and alleys, visiting historic landmarks like St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and the Maritime Museum.
• Walk the city walls — Kotor is surrounded by impressive walls that offer stunning views of the town and the bay.
• Climb the fortress of San Giovanni — a steep hike to the top rewards travelers with panoramic views of Kotor and the surrounding mountains.
• Boat tour in the Bay of Kotor — take a boat ride and explore the Bay of Kotor, with its stunning scenery and quaint fishing villages.
• Visit Lovćen National Park — a short drive from Kotor will take you to the mountainous Lovćen National Park, where you can enjoy hiking trails and breathtaking views.

3. When is the best time to visit Kotor?

The best time to visit Kotor is during the spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the crowds are smaller. July and August are the peak tourist season, and the town can get very crowded. However, this is also the time when many events and festivals are held, so it may be worth braving the crowds for the lively atmosphere.

4. What is the currency in Montenegro?

The official currency of Montenegro is the euro (EUR).

5. Is English spoken in Kotor?

English is widely spoken in Kotor, especially in tourist areas and in hotels and restaurants.

6. What is the food like in Kotor?

Kotor has a range of traditional seafood and Mediterranean dishes, as well as international cuisine options. Some local specialties to try include:

• black risotto, made with squid ink
• Kotor-style pašta za vašu (pasta with meat sauce and cheese)
• fresh seafood — try locally caught fish like sea bass or bream
• fried doughnuts called uštipci, often served with local honey or jam

7. How do I get to Kotor?

The closest airport to Kotor is Tivat Airport, which is about 7km away. Many airlines offer direct flights to Tivat from major European cities, such as London, Moscow, and Belgrade. Alternatively, you can fly to Podgorica Airport, which is about 90km from Kotor, and then take a bus, taxi, or private transfer to Kotor. You can also reach Kotor by ferry or bus from other destinations in Montenegro and neighboring countries.

8. Is Kotor safe for tourists?

Kotor is generally considered a safe town for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes.

9. Are there any cultural or religious customs I should be aware of in Kotor?

Montenegro is a primarily Christian country, with the Eastern Orthodox Church being the main religion. Visitors should dress modestly when visiting religious sites, covering shoulders and knees as a sign of respect. Muslims and members of other religions are also respected in Montenegro, and travelers of all faiths are welcome.

10. What are some other places to visit near Kotor?

Montenegro has many other beautiful destinations worth visiting, such as:

• Budva — a coastal town known for its sandy beaches and historic Venetian Old Town.
• Lake Skadar National Park — one of the largest freshwater lakes in Europe, with stunning scenery and wildlife.
• Durmitor National Park — a pristine wilderness area with hiking trails, waterfalls, and impressive mountain peaks.
• Ostrog Monastery — a centuries-old Serbian Orthodox monastery built into a cliff face, with stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

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Kotor Montenegro is a stunning destination that offers a wealth of activities and sights for visitors to enjoy. From exploring ancient architecture to taking in the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains and bay, Kotor has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Kotor is a destination not to be missed.

A Comprehensive Guide on How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kotor, Montenegro

Planning to visit Kotor soon? This charming coastal city in Montenegro has so much to offer, from stunning architecture to breathtaking scenery. If you’re a first-time tourist in Kotor, here are some tips on how to make the most of your time in this amazing city.

1. Take a Walking Tour of the Old Town

Start your Kotor adventure by exploring the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a walking tour to discover the secrets of the town’s history, culture, and architecture. The Old Town is divided into several squares, each with its unique charm. Some of the must-visit places in the Old Town include:

• St. Tryphon Cathedral – a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, built-in 1166
• Maritime Museum – displays the rich maritime history of Kotor
• Square of Arms – the largest square in Kotor, lined with cafes, restaurants, and bars
• Church of St. Luke – one of the oldest churches in Kotor, built-in 1195

2. Hike up to the Fortress of Kotor

For an incredible panoramic view of Kotor Bay and the Old Town, hike up to the Fortress of Kotor. The hike takes approximately 1.5-2 hours and is moderately steep, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. The view from the top is worth the effort.

3. Visit the Island of Our Lady of the Rocks

Take a boat tour to visit the Island of Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a church and museum. According to the legend, the island was created by fishermen who found a painting of the Virgin Mary and decided to build a church in her honor. The church is richly decorated with paintings, frescoes, and silver votive tablets, and the museum features historical artifacts and treasures.

4. Try some Local Cuisine

Taste some local Montenegrin cuisine during your stay in Kotor. The city has an abundance of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering traditional dishes such as:

• Cevapi – grilled minced meat sausages served with onions, ajvar, and fresh bread
• Njeguški pršut – dried smoked ham aged for several months
• Pljeskavica – a grilled meat patty made with beef, pork, or lamb
• Montenegrin wine – try some of the local wines from the Balkan Peninsula

5. Take a Boat Trip around Kotor Bay

One of the best ways to see the beautiful coast of Kotor is by taking a boat trip around Kotor Bay. You can hire a private boat or join a group tour to visit some of the nearby coastal towns and islands. Some of the popular destinations include Perast, Tivat, Budva, and Sveti Stefan.

6. Relax on the Beaches of Kotor Bay

If you’re looking for some relaxation, Kotor Bay has several beaches where you can soak up the sun and swim in the crystal clear water. Some of the best beaches include:

• Jaz Beach – a long sandy beach with crystal-clear water
• Plavi Horizonti Beach – a secluded beach surrounded by pine trees
• Bajova Kula Beach – a small pebble beach near the Old Town

7. Attend a Summer Festival

If you’re visiting Kotor during the summer months, be sure to attend one of the many festivals held in the city. The Kotor International Summer Carnival is a famous event that takes place in August and features street performers, musicians, and dancers. The Bokeska Noć festival is another cultural event that showcases traditional music, dance, and food.

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Kotor is a spectacular city with a rich history and culture. From the picturesque Old Town to the beautiful coastline, there are plenty of things to see and do during your visit. Use this guide to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time as a tourist in Kotor, Montenegro!