Dubrovnik:Day Trip to Montenegro

Exploring Montenegro from Dubrovnik: A Private Day Trip to Kotor and Perast

Travelers craving a taste of Montenegro’s captivating scenery and charming towns often find themselves choosing a day trip from Dubrovnik. This particular tour provides a seamless and personalized way to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Bay of Kotor, without the hassle of large group tours or long border queues. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a memorable journey that balances comfort, authenticity, and scenic wonder.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the private driver and guide make it easy to customize your day and avoid the crowds. Second, the avoiding of long border lines means more time exploring and less waiting. Third, the scenic drives along the bay deliver some of the best views that Montenegro has to offer. That said, it’s worth noting that some optional activities, such as a boat ride to Lady of the Rocks, aren’t included in the price but can be added if desired. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a flexible, intimate experience that combines sightseeing with leisurely exploration.

Good To Know

• Private tour with personalized service offers flexibility and comfort
• Includes visits to Perast and Kotor, two must-see coastal towns
• Avoids border delays, saving time for sightseeing and photos
• Scenic drive along the Bay of Kotor offers some of the most stunning landscapes
• All taxes and parking included, ensuring a hassle-free day
• Optionally hire local guides in Kotor for more in-depth history and culture

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with a pickup at your Dubrovnik accommodation. The driver, a professional English speaker, welcomes you into a modern, air-conditioned vehicle—a small but significant detail that enhances comfort on what can be an 8-hour adventure. From the start, the focus on a private setup means you won’t be sharing the experience with strangers, allowing for a more relaxed atmosphere and potential for customization.

The drive to the border takes approximately 45 minutes. What’s notable here is the strategic choice of a smaller border crossing, which travelers tell us helps avoid the often long lines typical of larger crossing points. This can make all the difference in your overall enjoyment, especially if you’re pressed for time or just dislike waiting around. Along the way, expect to enjoy stunning coastal vistas and learn a bit about the area’s history from your guide.

The Scenic Drive and Border Crossing

The first leg of the journey is arguably one of the most beautiful parts of the trip. The drive along the coast is filled with sweeping views of the rugged mountains and shimmering waters of the bay. The small border crossing, shared by reviewers, is described as quick and smooth, which is a real boon—especially compared to larger border posts notorious for delays.

Perast: A Serene Waterfront Town

Your first stop is Perast, a town renowned for its baroque architecture and calm waterfront. Once you arrive, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore and take photos. The town’s peaceful ambiance makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, with plenty of charming cafes and historic buildings lining the street. One reviewer mentioned enjoying free time and sightseeing, highlighting how this stop offers a peaceful break and a chance to breathe in the sea air.

While guided tours are available in Perast, this particular package does not include a guide there, giving you the flexibility to wander at your own pace. Many visitors find that simply soaking in the views, or snapping photos of the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks island from the shore, makes for a memorable experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Kotor: The UNESCO Heritage Treasure

Next, you head to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its old town’s maze of narrow streets, historic squares, and fortified walls. The tour allocates around 3 hours here, which is ample time to explore the winding side streets, take panoramic photos from the city walls, or simply enjoy a coffee in a bustling piazza.

One reviewer notes that “the driver was excellent, no complaints,” which emphasizes the overall smoothness of the experience, and many mention the breathtaking views along the scenic drive into Kotor’s mountainous backdrop. You can choose to hire a local guide in Kotor for deeper insights into the town’s history and architecture—something that many visitors find worthwhile if they’re keen to learn more.

Optional Extras and Flexibility

While the tour includes visits to both towns and the scenic drives, certain activities like a boat ride to Lady of the Rocks are optional and are not included in the base price. This flexibility allows you to customize your day further, whether you want to add a boat trip or spend more time in one location.

Returning to Dubrovnik

The trip concludes with your driver returning you to your Dubrovnik accommodation, typically around 8 hours after departure. The convenience of a private vehicle, combined with the avoidance of border queues, makes for a relaxed end to a busy day of sightseeing.

Value and Practical Considerations

Price Point and What It Offers

At $397 for a group of up to three people, this tour offers a private, tailored experience that many larger group tours can’t match. When you consider the cost of hiring a private guide and transport in the region, this price is quite reasonable—especially since all taxes and parking fees are included. The exclusivity and comfort of a private vehicle mean you’re not sharing the journey with strangers, which can significantly enhance your overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for couples, small groups, or friends who value comfort, flexibility, and a personalized touch. If you’re eager to explore Montenegro’s coast without the crowds and enjoy stunning views at your own pace, this trip offers tremendous value.

Potential Drawbacks

Some travelers might wish for more included activities, like a guided tour at Kotor or a boat ride to Lady of the Rocks, but these can be added on the spot. Also, the 8-hour duration means you’ll need to be comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and personalized service. The ability to skip long border lines, enjoy the comfort of your own vehicle, and spend quality time in the picturesque towns of Perast and Kotor makes it a compelling choice for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Montenegro without the fuss.

The stunning views along the Bay of Kotor, combined with the relaxed pace and flexibility, create a memorable experience that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance or a small group of friends eager for adventure, this tour delivers a convenient, scenic, and thoughtfully curated day out.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to Montenegro?
The drive takes about 45 minutes to reach the border, with scenic views along the coast during the journey.

Is border crossing included in the tour price?
The tour avoids the long queues at larger crossings by choosing a smaller border, making the crossing quick and smooth.

Can I hire a guide in Kotor?
Yes, you have the option to hire a local guide in Kotor for more detailed historical and cultural insights.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a professional English-speaking driver, visits to Perast and Kotor, and all taxes and parking fees.

Are there optional activities?
Yes, a boat ride to Lady of the Rocks is available as an add-on, but it is not included in the base price.

How flexible is this tour?
As a private experience, you can customize your time in each town and choose to add activities or extend your stay.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card is necessary for border crossing. Comfortable shoes and camera are also recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families or only adults?
While primarily designed for adults or small groups, families with older children who enjoy sightseeing and scenic drives will find it suitable.

This private day trip to Montenegro from Dubrovnik delivers a comfortable, scenic, and flexible way to explore one of the most beautiful corners of the Balkans. With stunning coastal views, charming towns, and the ease of a private guide, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Adriatic itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: