If you’re keen on exploring the wilder side of Montenegro, Lipa Cave promises an unforgettable adventure for a one day trip outside Budva. This natural wonder is definitely one of the most interesting among the 3000 caves in the country!
Just a half-hour drive from Budva, it’s the perfect escape on a rainy day or a sunny adventure into Montenegro’s beauty.
Surrounded by majestic mountain cliffs and lush greenery, including the linden trees from which it takes its name (Lipa means Linden in Montenegrin), Lipa Cave offers a mesmerizing experience.
Top tip: Don’t miss trying the local linden tea, known for its mild flavor and digestive benefits.
Inside, you’ll see some of the most interesting formations such as the altar, snake’s head, gusle (traditional Montenegrin instrument) and many more. Guided by the soft glow of gentle lighting, you venture deeper into the cave, each step revealing new formations sculpted by nature’s hand.
Guided tours, available in Montenegrin and English, run every 1.5 to 2 hours, offering insights into the cave’s history and secrets (see table for exact hours). There are also individual ‘extreme’ tours available which include more in depth exploration off the beaten path. If you’re into these kind of more intense experience, be mindful to book a tour a few days in advance.
If you arrive early, you can wait for the next available slot in a convenient, simple and very clean café with the most amazing panoramic view! After that, you can enjoy a scenic train ride from the parking lot to the cave entrance—a delight for both children and adults alike (the ride is included in the price)!
As you wander, your guide shares tales of the cave’s rich history. Dating back to the 17th century, Lipa Cave holds tales of discovery and utility. You learn of Lucky, the intrepid shepherd dog whose curiosity led to the cave’s discovery, and its use as a natural refrigerator during World War I.
The temperature inside the cave is between 10 and 12 degrees Celsius so the best time to visit would in April/May or in the end of September and in October because the temperature difference is the smallest. However, this pleasant temperature makes it an ideal destination during the warm summer months too.
After your exploration, you can have lunch at the nearby traditional Montenegrin restaurant ‘Belvedere’ equipped by a small but very functional playground for children and the breathtaking view over the mountains and Skadarsko lake from the restaurant terrace.
Near the cave is the former royal capital Cetinje which can be a convenient choice to spend the other half of the day. This small and cute little town host 4 interesting museums and charming squares where you can enjoy coffee or lunch.
Distance from Budva: 33 km
Distance from Cetinje: 5.6 km
Working hours: 9.40 – 14.00h
Addmission: Adults: €13.99 EUR, Children under 5: 1 EUR (includes accident insurance)
Best time to visit: April, May, September, October
What to bring: light jacket, walking shoes, small bottle of water
