From Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip with Cruise in Kotor Bay

Planning a day trip from Dubrovnik into Montenegro sounds tempting for those craving a change of scenery and a taste of Balkan charm. This tour, offered by Select Dubrovnik, promises a blend of history, stunning landscapes, and a boat cruise that promises memorable views. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 from over 600 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this excursion worth their while — but as with any tour, it’s good to know what you’re signing up for.

What we love about this experience? First, the diverse itinerary that combines both scenic drives and walkable towns. Second, the insightful guides who bring history and local stories alive, making the day more than just a sightseeing checklist. Third, the breathtaking boat cruise (if you opt for it), providing memorable views of Our Lady of the Rocks and the Montenegrin coast. But, a potential consideration? Border waits can be unpredictable, so patience is needed.

This trip suits travelers who want a guided, hassle-free day exploring Montenegro’s highlights, especially those short on time but eager for authentic sights and scenic moments. Whether you’re into history, stunning landscapes, or charming towns, this tour offers plenty of value, especially when considering the cost of just $68 per person.

Good To Know

• Concise border crossing with experienced guides helps minimize waits.
• Flexible options including a scenic boat cruise around Kotor Bay.
• Time in Perast and Kotor allows for ample sightseeing and shopping.
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with local insights.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned coaches makes for a relaxing day.
• Good value considering the sights, cruise, and guided commentary included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Look at the Kotor Bay Experience

The tour kicks off early in the morning with pick-up from your Dubrovnik hotel, making the start smooth and convenient. The air-conditioned coach ensures that even on hot days, you’ll stay comfortable for the approximate 2.5-hour journey to the border. Here’s where some patience may be needed — reviews note border crossing times can vary, but the guides, like Luca and Ivana, typically keep travelers informed and ensure the process is swift.

Crossing into Montenegro

Traveling into Montenegro means crossing a border that can sometimes slow down the flow of traffic, but most reviews highlight how efficiently the guides handle it. As Gina noted, “they got through the borders quick and easily with no holdups,” which is a huge plus. You’ll stop for a quick coffee break on the way, giving everyone a chance to stretch and grab a snack before arriving at the first stop: Perast.

Exploring Perast

Perast is a charming town, small enough to explore in about 15 minutes with a guide, yet packed with Baroque architecture and lush hillside views. The guided walk here is short but informative, helping you appreciate the historical significance and local charm. Many travelers, like Gauravi, mention how relaxing it is to stroll its narrow streets and snap photos of the orange rooftops and pastel-colored buildings.

You’ll have approximately 45 minutes of free time for lunch, shopping, or just soaking in the scenery. Reviewers like Gina appreciated the balance of guided and free time, noting it allowed for a relaxed experience without feeling rushed.

The Scenic Boat Cruise and Our Lady of the Rocks

The highlight of many trips is the boat cruise (available if you choose the cruise option). The ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is described as “beautiful” by travelers like Neeraj and Sarah. Disembarking on this man-made island, you step inside the iconic blue-domed church, often accompanied by a small museum. Visiting the church, as one reviewer pointed out, offers a look into local traditions, and the views from the island are truly picturesque — perfect for photo enthusiasts.

The boat cruise also offers a chance to see the coastline from a different perspective, with many reviews mentioning how the views of sloping hillsides, orange roofs, and the glittering bay make the journey worthwhile. If you skip the cruise, don’t worry — the bus ride along the coast to Kotor still offers plenty of scenic photo opportunities.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Discovering Kotor

Once in Kotor, the UNESCO-listed old town awaits. The guided 30-minute tour provides insight into its history, architecture, and role in the Venetian empire. Narrow cobblestone streets, historic churches, and lively plazas give you the chance to explore at your own pace during the two and a half hours of free time.

Many reviewers mention how easy it is to wander the city walls, browse local shops, or find a cozy restaurant. Notably, the city walls stretch 4.5 kilometers, offering impressive views if you’re up for a short hike or just want to admire the fortress from below. The town’s natural fjord setting makes it visually stunning, and the atmosphere is lively yet relaxed.

Practical Details and Value

The tour costs $68, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, and the guided tour of Kotor. The boat cruise is an optional extra, but many find it well worth the additional fee for the views and experience. There’s a small entrance fee of €3 for Our Lady of the Rocks, and a €1 museum fee if you choose to visit.

Reviewers appreciate the balance of guided and free time, with some noting how well-organized the day is. However, border delays can extend the day, with one review mentioning a three-hour wait on return — so patience is key.

The trip is designed for those who enjoy scenic drives, historic towns, and a relaxed pace. It’s not suited for travelers with mobility impairments, given the cobbled streets and walking involved. Also, to fully enjoy the boat cruise, dress appropriately for the weather and bring a camera.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro offers a compact yet comprehensive look at the stunning Bay of Kotor, blending scenic drives, charming towns, and a boat cruise. The guides, like Patricia and Luca, are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the day both educational and fun.

The value lies not only in the sights but also in the relaxed pacing and well-organized itinerary. It’s especially suitable for those who want a hassle-free way to see Montenegro’s highlights without the stress of arranging transport or navigating borders.

While border waits can be unpredictable, most travelers find the journey’s scenic rewards and cultural insights more than compensate. If you’re short on time but eager to experience one of Europe’s most picturesque coastlines, this trip is a solid choice.

FAQs

How long is the total trip?
The tour typically lasts around 11 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time. Expect to spend about 2.5 hours in transit each way, with the rest dedicated to exploring towns and taking the cruise.

Is the boat cruise included in the price?
The cruise is an optional add-on. If you select it, it’s included in the overall price. Many reviews praise the cruise for the views of Our Lady of the Rocks and the scenic coast.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a valid passport or ID card is required to cross the border into Montenegro. Some reviews mention that travelers with EU passports should bring their ID, while others have noted the importance of having a passport for a smooth process.

Can I visit the museums on Our Lady of the Rocks?
Entrance to the museum on the island costs €1, and the church itself has a small entry fee of €3. Not all travelers choose to visit but many find it adds a cultural layer to the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, the walking involved and border crossing logistics may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes for walking, some cash for entrance fees, and maybe a bottle of water. Also, consider bringing a hat or sunscreen for sunny days, especially during the boat cruise.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, and reviews mention guides like Maria and Ivana as knowledgeable and easy to understand.

What happens if border delays cause the trip to run late?
Border waits can extend travel time, but guides usually manage the schedule to maximize your time in towns. Be patient and flexible — reviewers often say the scenic views and historic towns make it worthwhile despite delays.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxed exploration, making it a worthwhile experience for those visiting Dubrovnik who want to see Montenegro’s remarkable coastline.

You can check if your dates are available here: