Kotor: Walking tour, car trip to Perast, boat to the island

If you’re dreaming of a scenic day in Montenegro, this tour offers a well-rounded experience blending history, picturesque views, and authentic local flavors. While I haven’t taken this exact trip myself, I’ve reviewed multiple travelers’ insights and the detailed itinerary to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What truly shines about this tour is the perfect mix of guided exploration of UNESCO-protected Kotor, a charming waterfront stroll through Perast, and the unique boat trip to Our Lady of the Rock. Plus, the included lunch at a highly-rated fish restaurant adds a delicious touch to the day.

But, as with all tours, there are a few considerations—such as the extra cost of boat tickets and entry fees—and some may find the moderate walking a bit tiring. This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate a blend of sightseeing, authentic local culture, and scenic boat rides in a small, intimate group.

Good To Know

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Kotor’s ancient walls and squares offer a step back in time.
• Picturesque Perast: A quiet, sun-drenched town with beautiful views and history.
• Island Visit: Our Lady of the Rock is an artificial island with a fascinating love story legend.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a popular local restaurant.
• Boat Ride: Short water taxi trips make the journey between towns more scenic and relaxed.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to four participants, ensuring a personalized, flexible tour.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting With Kotor’s Old Town

The adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup, a real plus for making your day seamless. Once in Kotor, you’ll get an introduction to the town’s history from your guide—someone well-versed in local stories and details. You’ll walk through the main gates, Marine gates, and meander around the 9 squares that give the town its character.

The Square of Arms is a focal point, bustling with cafes and historical buildings, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere. The streets are cobbled and slightly uphill, so wearing comfortable shoes is a must. As one reviewer pointed out, the guide’s storytelling adds depth to the sights, making the ancient walls and churches come alive.

Exploring Perast’s Charm

After about an hour in Kotor, you’ll hop into a car for a short drive to Perast—famous for being the warmest, sunniest spot in the bay. This small fishing village feels like a step back in time with its quiet charm and stunning views across the water.

You’ll get around 30 minutes of free time here to walk along the waterfront, peek into some of the historic buildings, and imagine what life was like when it flourished in the 17th century thanks to maritime trade. Many find Perast to be a peaceful, photogenic stop that offers a calming contrast to the busier Kotor.

The Iconic Water Taxi & Our Lady of the Rock

Next comes a short boat ride—around 5 minutes—to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rock. This is a highlight, especially for those interested in legends and stories. The island itself is a product of a love story, which your guide will share, making the visit more meaningful.

Inside the church, a museum displays priceless embroidery from the 19th century and religious artifacts. Visitors have noted that the story behind the island is captivating, adding depth to the visit beyond just a quick photo op. The boat rides are quick but charming, giving you a different perspective of the bay’s beauty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Savoring Fresh Seafood

After exploring the island, you’ll return to Perast for a delicious lunch at a well-rated fish restaurant. Reviews consistently mention the quality of the seafood, with some praising the local dishes and tapas-style offerings. While drinks and additional extras aren’t included, the meal provides a satisfying break and a chance to savor Montenegro’s coastal flavors.

Wrapping Up the Day

Post-lunch, you’ll be taken back to Kotor, completing the round trip. The entire day lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a perfect half-day (or relaxed full-day) outing. The small group size ensures plenty of personalized attention and flexibility, which many travelers appreciate.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour uses a comfortable car, which makes the short drives between locations smooth and hassle-free. The brief water taxi rides are included, but keep in mind that boat tickets (around 5 per person) aren’t included in the tour price, so you should budget accordingly. Entry tickets to the church on Our Lady of the Rock are 2 per person.

Group Size & Guides: Limited to just four participants, this tour feels more like an acquaintance-led adventure than a large bus trip. The guides speak multiple languages—including English, German, Italian, Russian, and Polish—adding to its appeal for international travelers.

Price & Value: While the tour price doesn’t include all expenses, the combination of local guides, transportation, sightseeing, and a quality lunch offers good value. You’re paying for a curated experience with personalized attention, especially in a small group setting.

What to Wear & Bring: Pack comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera. Weather can vary, so bring a light rain jacket if needed. Flash photography inside the church isn’t permitted, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who want a manageable and immersive way to explore Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor without the hassle of planning every detail. It suits travelers who appreciate history, picturesque scenery, and authentic local cuisine—all in a small group for a more intimate experience. It’s a great choice for first-timers to Montenegro or those short on time but eager to soak up the region’s highlights.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or anyone prone to seasickness, given the boat rides and walking involved. If you’re someone who loves story-driven sightseeing combined with delicious food, this could be your ideal day out.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour provider will pick you up from your hotel, apartment, harbor, or similar location in Kotor.

Do I need to pay for water taxi rides? Water taxi transfers are included in the tour, but boat tickets to the island are an additional cost of 5 per person.

Are there any entry fees? Yes, entry to the church on Our Lady of the Rock costs 2 per person, payable on site.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts around 6 hours, including sightseeing, travel, and lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour involves walking and some boat rides, so it’s best for older children who can handle moderate activity.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for photos.

Are meals included? No, but a delicious seafood lunch is included at a well-rated restaurant, with drinks available for purchase.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in? Guides speak English, German, Italian, Russian, and Polish.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues? No, it isn’t recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and uneven surfaces.

This tour offers a well-balanced glimpse into Montenegro’s coastal charm, combining history, scenic beauty, and culinary delights. The small-group format makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience, and the inclusion of boat rides and a traditional lunch adds extra value.

It’s particularly suited for those interested in culture and scenery but who want to avoid long, strenuous excursions. While the extra costs for boat tickets and entry fees are something to consider, the overall experience is rich with stories, views, and flavors that make it a worthwhile addition to any Balkan itinerary.

Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore UNESCO sites or a foodie keen on fresh seafood, this tour promises a memorable day along Montenegro’s stunning bay.

You can check if your dates are available here: