Montenegro, Bosnia & Croatia

9 nights / 10 days

Montenegro, Bosnia & Croatia

Richness in diversity

Tour highlights

Relish in traditional wines from Skadar Lake NP region, Korčula island, and Monastery Tvrdoš
Experience hidden Boka Bay, the southernmost fjord of Europe
Visit the worldwide famous Old Town of Dubrovnik
Enjoy hearty lunch in front of The Old Bridge in Mostar, where glorious jumps from the bridge take place
Step inside the Diocletian’s Palace in Split

Itinerary

For more details, please expand each day
DAY ONE - Arriving to Montenegro
Upon arrival at the airport of your choice, an enjoyable ride with staggering viewpoints waits for you. Accompanied by your guide, you will get the first glimpse at this Mediterranean country during a scenic ride to your hotel. The intervening landscapes of old-times’ architecture and contemporary lifestyle will introduce you to the diversity of this small, yet imposing country. Overnight: Budva or Tivat.
DAY TWO - Traditional Wine Tasting – Virpazar - NP Skadar Lake with Boat Ride – Besac Fortress
For the first full day here, we have prepared an experience to remember during which you will have the opportunity to taste some of the finest wines of Montenegro and enjoy the picturesque nature of Skadar Lake National Park. First, we will visit a family-owned winery in the heart of the Montenegrin signature wine region of Crmnica. This adventure will be rounded off by enjoying a wine tasting, comparing different types of wine aged in large barrels, and benefitting from the expertise and knowledge of the resident winemaker. The fishing village of Virpazar is a departure point for a boat ride on Skadar Lake. As you glide through the mirroring water, the numerous lake attractions reveal extraordinary birds, the water lilies in full bloom, and wild, secluded beaches. Skadar Lake has an area ranging from 370 to 530 square kilometers, depending on the water level, and it is the biggest lake in the Balkans. You will be given an opportunity to reflect on the day behind at the recently reconstructed 15th-century fortress. The stunning ambiance of Besac Fortress is the place where you can learn more about the history of this region and have a tasty lunch break. Here, your wine journey continues, as you can also enjoy a selection of wines produced in this region with a unique microclimate. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a short stop above the charming St. Stefan islet, where you will have the opportunity to take the best photo of your stay in Montenegro. Overnight: Budva or Tivat.
DAY THREE - NP Lovćen Mountain: Gastronomy, History & Culture
Right there, high above and behind those hills, Montenegrin history begins and ends in the very same place. The first stop for the day is the Old Royal Town of Cetinje, in which you will learn about the Petrović Njegoš dynasty and the history of our country. The National Park Lovćen encompasses the central and the highest part of the Lovćen massif, covering an area of 6.400 hectares. On top of one of the mountain’s two imposing peaks, lies a magnificent mausoleum – the tomb of Montenegro’s greatest person in history: Petar II Petrović Njegoš. It takes 461 steps to climb to reach but it is a steep journey well worth the effort. At the very top, you will be rewarded with a spectacular viewpoint from the world’s highest mausoleum. Afterward, we continue to Njeguši, the village known as the birthplace of the royal dynasty Petrović and a ‘guardian’ of the authentic architecture and cuisine in the region. Njeguški sir and pršut (cheese and prosciutto of Njeguši), a real treat for true foodies, are both genuine contributions to Montenegrin cuisine, produced only in this area, following the traditional recipe for smoking and curing meat. Finally, the stunning view of Boka Bay will leave you in awe, while driving down the old, Austro-Hungarian 25-serpentine road. At first very rough and steep, but they actually symbolize a loving tribute to the former Queen of Montenegro – Queen Milena, as they form the first letter of her name – ’’M’’. Use the free evening and try out some of the finest Montenegrin wines, made from the authentic red grape variety Vranac, as well as some organic honey, figs, and a homemade spirit called rakija. It is highly recommended to enjoy these delicacies at the konoba – a small, traditional restaurants owned by local families, a true essence of Montenegrin’s warm hospitality and friendship. Overnight: Boka Bay.
DAY FOUR - The Bay of Kotor: Perast – Boat Ride to The Our Lady of the Rocks Isle – UNESCO’S City of Kotor – Oysters or Wine Tasting
This day is devoted to the Bay of Kotor with its unique scenery. The first stop is at the town of Perast, a little settlement baroque in style, where a relaxing boat ride to the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks starts. This artificial islet is home to a church known for its mystifying story and valuable artifacts like paintings by local artist, votive silver tablets, and a hair-made tapestry. After a short boat tour, marvelous Kotor kept in the medieval wall-frame welcoming us. A walking tour through the capital of Europe’s southernmost bay shows multicultural richness through the churches of Saint Nicholas and Saint Luka, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and all the glory of this UNESCO site. Use your free time to continue wandering around the stone-paved town, or enjoy the offer of the fish restaurant at one of the romantic squares. For the end of this day, you are welcome to choose an optional excursion:
Optional 1: A visit to the family-owned and operated shellfish farm. Here you will learn about oyster production and sample some fresh catches amid the charming atmosphere of Boka Bay.
Optional 2: Try one of the most famous wines from Boka Bay, and enjoy a wine tasting with a stunning view over Herceg Novi.
Overnight: Boka Bay.
DAY FIVE - Boka Bay: Leisure day or Optional experiences
Leisure Day. Create your own plan for the day, enjoy the beautiful scenery of a coastal town, spend the day at the beach, or book one of the Optional experiences:
Optional 1: Speedboat tour – Blue cave with swimming break. This private tour with a high-class speedboat will reveal to you the most beautiful places located at the entrance to Boka Bay. Our professional skipper-guide will let you know everything about Mamula and Arza forts, Miriste lagoon, and the charming village of Rose. Besides swimming in the amazing Blue cave and snorkeling near Zanjic island, you will enjoy the sounds and smells of nature, as well as the taste of homemade wine made especially for you.
Optional 2: Feel & Taste Luštica tour. For this tour, we will also use a speedboat to get to the location of the day – Klinci Village Resort, a family-owned and operated estate, settled in Luštica Bay. It brings you an exquisite opportunity to feel the spirit and explore the rich heritage of the authentic household, taste the organic extra virgin olive oil of premium quality, try local food and simply enjoy the ambiance of one of Montenegro’s most famed olive growing areas. Overnight: Boka Bay.
DAY SIX - Dubrovnik Old Town: Sightseeing & Free time
We say goodbye to Montenegro until the next time and head across the border to get to know Croatia. Start a sightseeing tour of Dubrovnik, one of the most significant monuments in the world and one of Europe’s best-preserved walled cities, known since the 7th century. The old town is surrounded by a 2 km long wall that gives a great opportunity to see old Dubrovnik from above during a one-hour relaxing walk; the city’s churches, fortifications and monuments are a real must-see. Dubrovnik has enchanted a lot of famous people to devote their pieces of art to the city, thus in this city of marble and light-coloured stone, you will find numerous art galleries and unique shops. In the historical center of Dubrovnik, you will visit the main street Stradun, the main square Placa, Pile Gate, the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, the walls of the Old Town, the church of Saint Blaise, the cathedral, the Jesuit church, Orlando’s Column, Big Onofrio’s Fountain, the city port and other hidden gems. At the end of the tour, you will have time to sit and enjoy a coffee at one of the charming piazzas or explore Dubrovnik on your own. Overnight: Dubrovnik.
DAY SEVEN - Dubrovnik: Leisure day or Optional experience
Leisure Day. Create your own plan for the day, enjoy the beautiful scenery of a coastal town, spend the day at the beach, or book the Optional experience: Optional: Wine Duet: Korčula Island & Pelješac Peninsula – Walls of Ston. Korčula Island got its name from the Greeks due to its dense pine forest – Korkyra Melaina (Black Corfu). Korčula Town is also known as Little Dubrovnik for its mighty city walls, medieval squares, churches, palaces, and houses. Locals say it still keeps secrets about the life of one of the most famous explorers in history – Marco Polo. The Mediterranean climate, soil quality, and the terrain’s morphology provide the perfect conditions for wine growing. In Lumbarda village, the heart of Korčula’s wine making, you will have the opportunity to taste various sorts of wine, as well as the most authentic ones, pošip, and grk. The perfect ending to your visit to Korčula is tasting some of the most known Croatian wines and snacks at the local family winery. Upon your return to continental Croatia, enjoy the ride through the Pelješac peninsula. The largest Croatian peninsula, covered with macchia, is widely known by two trademarks: wine and oyster. This region, Dingač, with its famous symbol – the donkey, is the first protected wine region in Croatia. On your way back to Dubrovnik, along the coast of the Adriatic, there will be a short photo stop by the impressive old city walls above the town of Ston. Overnight: Dubrovnik.
DAY EIGHT - Dubrovnik – Mostar – Međugorje – Split
Drive along the beautiful Makarska coast – with wonderful views of Croatian islands, wine & olive plantations, and stone-made villages towards Mostar. A walking tour around Mostar starts with a visit to the symbol of this city, Balkan TOP 10, and the most photographed sight in the country – the Old Bridge (a UNESCO-protected landmark). You will then proceed to Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Crooked Bridge and the old tanner’s quarter Tabhana. Free time in Mostar for getting lunch on the banks of the Neretva river, with an amazing view of the bridge that rises above you. On the way to Split, you will stop for a visit to the famous pilgrimage site of Međugorje. Since 1981, alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary have been reported in the town and it has become a must-see destination for many travelers to the Balkans. In Međugorje, you will visit the Church of Saint James with the outer altar and statue of Christ. Drive to Split. Check-in at the hotel. Overnight: Split.
DAY NINE - Split sightseeing – Trogir – Split
Start the sightseeing tour of Split, the largest Dalmatian city, founded 1700 years ago, with a well-preserved, enormously rich history. Your guide will lead you through the narrow streets of Diocletian’s Palace (a UNESCO Heritage Site), built in the 4th century for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, and show you the former Temple of Jupiter in the central square of the imperial complex. Today, the temple is now the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, regarded as the oldest Catholic cathedral that remains in use in its original structure. You will also pass through the Golden and Silver Gates and walk around lively markets and Riva, the city’s shopping zone. The afternoon will be devoted to the beautiful town of Trogir, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are a lover of photography, this is the perfect spot for you. Located on a tiny island, it boasts beautiful architecture, stunning sea views and palm trees that spread along its pleasant waterfront promenade. Watch out, or you will find yourself lost in medieval times. Walking its charming streets, you will find yourself immersed in the blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Look out for the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, the Clock Tower the Loggia, the Land Gate, Kamerlengo Castle and Saint Mark’s Tower. Return to Split. In the evening, relax in the charming Mediterranean atmosphere and while your free time enjoy dinner in a restaurant by the sea. Overnight: Split.
DAY TEN - Departure
Breakfast and hotel check-out. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organization, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Boccato DMC Montenegro to organize a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.

Does this tour look like your next choice?

Comments are closed.