About this experience
Just an hour's drive from Tivat, and you are in the ancient, soulful Cetinje, the main symbol of the Montenegrin people. During the tour, you will trace the stages that not only the historical capital went through, but also the whole of Montenegro. Visit one of the country's most important monasteries and explore the labyrinths of Lipska Cave – the largest in ex-Yugoslavia.
What to Expect
Cetinje - the Spirit of Antiquity and the History of the Royal Capital
The excursion will start with a drive up a mountainous serpentine road. Along the way, there will be several stops at the most spectacular panoramic viewpoints, offering magnificent views of the sea and the Budva Riviera. And in just an hour, you will arrive in Cetinje – the historical and cultural capital of Montenegro. On a walk through the ancient atmospheric streets, I will tell you about the emergence of the city and its rich 5-century history, closely linked to the formation of the state and the struggle for independence from the Ottomans and other conquerors. If desired, you can also visit the palace of Nicholas I, the first and last king of Montenegro, where you will see artifacts from the time of the Njegoš rule.
Cetinje Monastery – Symbol of Orthodox Montenegro
In one of the most important spiritual centers of the country, you will learn about the difficult fate of the monastery, which has been destroyed to the ground several times. I will tell you about how significant Orthodox relics such as the Right Hand of John the Baptist, a piece of the Holy Cross, and other important artifacts appeared here. We will discuss the valuable library with ancient manuscripts and rare books. And at the historical museum, you will hear about the relics of the Knights of Malta, gifts from Russian tsars and grand dukes, and see the Philermos Icon of the Mother of God, painted by the Apostle Luke in the year 46.
The Largest Cave in Former Yugoslavia
In the second part of the program, you will explore the world of the karst Lipska Cave. You will learn about the history of its discovery and visits by high-ranking guests at the invitation of King Nicholas. Accompanied by a local guide, you will walk through the corridors of the restored, superbly equipped, and illuminated cave. You will observe interesting samples of stalactites and stalagmites. And you will hear about the research that is still being conducted in the long labyrinth system stretching over 3.5 km.
Finally, upon your request, I will take you to a charming restaurant where you can taste traditional dishes of the local cuisine.
Organizational Details
- I will pick you up from your hotel or apartment in Tivat or Budva. If you are staying in other cities, I can pick you up for an additional fee based on the distance from the starting point of the excursion.
- The excursion price does not include the entrance ticket to the cave (10 euros/adult and 8 euros/child from 12 years old); lunch at the restaurant, optional visit to the palace of King Nicholas (5 euros per person), and historical museum (3 euros per person).
- The temperature in the caves fluctuates between 8 and 12 degrees. Therefore, warm clothing is necessary. If needed, ponchos can be rented on-site.
- Also, make sure to dress appropriately for visiting the monastery (standard requirements).
