Montenegro from Dubrovnik visiting Perast and Kotor

Introducing the Montenegro from Dubrovnik Tour: A Practical Guide for Curious Travelers

If you’re planning a day trip from Dubrovnik to explore Montenegro’s stunning coastline, this tour promises visits to Perast, Kotor, and Budva, with optional boat rides and plenty of photo-worthy scenery. It’s a popular choice for travelers keen to experience a taste of Montenegro’s historic towns and spectacular bay views without overextending their schedule.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the chance to see Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its ancient fortress walls packed with history and charm. Second, the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, often described as one of the most beautiful spots along the Adriatic. However, some travelers note that the bus journey can be lengthy and that coordination and timing might not always be perfect.

This tour works best for those who love quick, scenic excursions with a dose of history and culture. If you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and can handle some potential delays, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Just keep in mind that the experience might feel rushed, especially with limited free time at each stop.

Key Points

• Visit three Montenegrin towns: Perast, Kotor, and Budva, all packed into one day.
• Enjoy scenic bay views: Kotor’s bay scenery is a highlight for most travelers.
• Optional boat trip: To Our Lady of the Rocks, a scenic islet with panoramic views.
• Long bus ride: Expect about 7.5 hours of travel, so comfort and patience are important.
• Crowded sites: Kotor can be very busy, especially when cruise ships are in port.
• Cost analysis: At $88 per person, it offers a fairly affordable way to see Montenegro, but some extras cost extra.
• Timing and flexibility: Entry times are tight, and delays may cause you to miss parts of the schedule.
• Practical tips: Bring your passport and be prepared for border crossings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting early in the morning, the tour begins with passenger pickups from Dubrovnik—be prepared to board between 6:30 and 7:00 am. The drive to Montenegro includes crossing the border, which requires your passport. While border crossings can sometimes slow things down, it’s a small price to pay for access to these historic towns.

The First Stop: Perast

Around 8:30 am, you’ll arrive in Perast, a tiny town entirely built on stone. We loved the way the entire town feels like an open-air monument, with narrow cobblestone streets and baroque architecture lining the waterfront. Perast is famous for its churches and historic buildings, and it’s a perfect spot for a quick stroll and photography.

Here, you have the option to take a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny islet with a church and museum. The boat ride is not included in the $88 price but is recommended for panoramic views. A quick quote from a traveler sums it up: “We thought Budva was included, but apparently, there’s no time.” That highlights how tight the schedule can be.

The Highlight: Kotor

Next, about 20 minutes away by bus, you’ll arrive in Kotor. This UNESCO-listed town is the star of many travelers’ Montenegro visits. You’ll have roughly 3 hours free to explore, which is enough to wander the narrow streets, visit the fortress walls, and soak in the atmosphere.

However, some reviews note that Kotor can be crowded, especially when cruise ships are docked. One traveler commented: “Kotor was very crowded as three cruise ships were in,” so if you prefer quieter, less touristy spots, this might be a challenge.

The guided part of the trip includes a mini bus tour with a guide, but travelers report that some guides are late or hard to understand due to accents. One reviewer said, “The guide at Kotor was late, and it was very hard to understand his accent,” which underscores how important it is to have patience and set expectations.

The Return Journey and Additional Stops

After sightseeing, you’ll head back toward Dubrovnik at around 13:00. About an hour later, you’ll enjoy a ferry ride in the Bay of Kotor, offering stunning views of the coastline and mountains. This is a highlight for many—Images of sailboats, towering cliffs, and colorful settlements make for memorable photos.

Border crossings and border checks are scheduled around 16:00, and the entire trip concludes around 17:00 back in Dubrovnik. While the schedule seems straightforward, some travelers have experienced delays—one reported waiting over two hours due to late pickups and communication issues, which can cut into your sightseeing time.

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The Overall Value

At $88 per person, this tour offers a cost-effective way to visit Montenegro’s iconic towns and enjoy some fantastic scenery. However, the value depends on your expectations. The itinerary is packed, and the free time is limited, which means you won’t get deep dives into each town. If you’re looking to relax and explore at your own pace, this might feel hurried.

The optional boat ride adds a memorable element but costs extra, and if you’re not a fan of long bus rides, the experience could be less enjoyable. Travelers also note that transportation quality varies—sometimes a coach, sometimes a van, depending on the number of participants.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers eager for a quick, scenic glimpse of Montenegro without the hassle of organizing transport and entry themselves. It’s ideal if you’re okay with a long day of travel and want to squeeze in the main highlights, especially Kotor’s breathtaking bay views and heritage sites.

However, if you prefer more relaxed pacing or want to explore each location in depth, you might find this tour rushed or somewhat crowded. It’s best suited for those comfortable with border crossings, busy sites, and short visits.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In the end, this experience offers a practical way to see some of Montenegro’s most famous spots in one day. You’ll enjoy beautiful views of the Bay of Kotor, explore historic towns, and have the opportunity for a scenic boat ride. The tour’s main appeal is its value for money—covering transportation, a guide, and entry to key sites for a reasonable price.

It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that captures the highlights of Montenegro’s coast. Just be prepared for crowds, potential delays, and limited time at each stop. The experience can be very rewarding for those who want a taste of Montenegro’s charm with minimal fuss, especially if you’re comfortable with bus travel and a busy schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my passport to join this tour?
Yes, your passport is required since you’ll cross the border between Croatia and Montenegro.

Is the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks included?
No, the boat trip is an optional extra that costs around 10 euros and is not included in the tour price.

How long is the bus journey?
The total travel time is approximately 7.5 hours, including border crossings and stops, so be prepared for a full day.

What if I miss the ferry or stops?
Delays such as late pickups or border wait times have caused some travelers to miss parts of the schedule, so flexibility and patience are advised.

Can I customize my experience?
The itinerary is fixed, but you may choose to pay for the boat ride or spend your time exploring on your own during the free periods.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, as long as your family is comfortable with long bus rides and busy sites, especially with children who can handle the schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport and some cash or cards for optional extras like the boat ride. Comfortable shoes and some water are also recommended.

Are there language restrictions?
The tour is conducted in English, but guides may have accents that some travelers find challenging to understand.

This Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik offers a snapshot of stunning landscapes and historic towns, perfect for those wanting a taste of the Adriatic’s northern coast. While it’s not the most relaxed or in-depth experience, it delivers a memorable journey through one of Europe’s most beautiful regions—just pack patience and a camera.

You can check availability for your dates here: