About this experience
Just half an hour drive from Budva - and you are in the ancient, cozy Cetinje, the main symbol of the Montenegrin people. During the walk, you will trace the stages that the historical capital and all of Montenegro have gone through. Visit one of the most important monasteries in the country 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 tour will start with a climb along a mountain serpentine. Along the way, there will be several stops at the most spectacular panoramic platforms offering beautiful 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, inseparably linked to the establishment of the state and the struggle for independence from the Ottoman and other invaders. Also, if desired, you can visit the palace of Nikola I, the first and last king of Montenegro, where you will see items from the reign of the Petrović-Njegoš dynasty.
Cetinje Monastery - a 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 several times to the ground. I will tell you how such significant Orthodox relics as the Right Hand of John the Baptist, a piece of the Holy Cross, and other important artifacts appeared here. We will talk about the valuable library with ancient manuscripts and rare books. And in the historical museum, you will hear about the relics of the Order 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 46 AD.
The largest cave in ex-Yugoslavia
In the second part of the program, you will set off to explore the world of the karst Lipska cave. You will learn about the history of its discovery and visits by high guests at the invitation of King Nikola. Accompanied by a local guide, you will walk through the corridors of the renovated, splendidly equipped, and illuminated cave. You will examine interesting samples of stalactites and stalagmites. And you will hear about the research that is still being conducted in the long system of labyrinths stretching for 3.5 km.
Finally, if you wish, 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 by car 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 tour.
- Entrance ticket to the cave is not included (10 euros/adult and 8 euros/child from 12 years old); lunch at the restaurant, optional visit to the palace of King Nikola (5 euros per person) and the historical museum (3 euros per person) are not included in the tour price.
- The temperature in the caves fluctuates between 8 and 12 degrees. Therefore, it is necessary to bring warm clothes. If needed, ponchos can be rented on-site.
- Also, make sure to dress appropriately for visiting the monastery (standard requirements).
