Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip by Bus and Boat

Travelers craving a day of natural beauty combined with cultural treasures will find this Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik offers plenty to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the Balkans, this tour promises a blend of scenic cruising, historic sights, and a taste of local charm. We’ve gathered the details to help you decide if this experience fits your travel style.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to experience Montenegro’s stunning coastline and quaint towns without the hassle of planning—the logistics are handled, and the scenery makes every moment worthwhile. Plus, the knowledgeable guides often earn rave reviews, making the journey both enjoyable and informative. On the flip side, one consideration is the border crossing, which can cause delays, especially during busy times. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate cultural sights, scenic boat rides, and are comfortable spending several hours traveling by bus.

If you’re looking for a manageable day trip that offers a mix of history, scenery, and relaxed cruising, this tour could be a great pick. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t mind a longer day on the road and want a taste of Montenegro’s coastal charm without committing to an overnight stay.

Key Points

• Scenic Cruise: Cruise along Montenegro’s fjord and enjoy views of the tiny islands and rugged coastlines.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the historic Our Lady of the Rocks church and explore the medieval city of Kotor.
• Comfort & Amenities: The boat features a restaurant, café/bar, and sun terrace for relaxation.
• Guide & Info: Expect knowledgeable guides providing insights in fluent English and French.
• Border Delays: Be prepared for potential queues at the border crossing, which can extend the day.
• Value: At $119, the tour offers a solid mix of transportation, sightseeing, and a meal—good value for a full-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You’ll Experience

This tour starts early, with a pickup from Dubrovnik, usually from the port area or designated meeting points. From there, you’ll hop on a bus for approximately two hours, passing through the border into Montenegro. The journey itself offers a chance to see how the landscape shifts from Croatian to Montenegrin territory, with some reviews indicating the border queues can take up to four hours—so patience is key.

Once in Montenegro, your adventure transitions to a boat cruise along the famous Bay of Kotor, often described as a fjord—a rare feature in this part of the world. The boat ride is a relaxing highlight, with plenty of space to sit back on the terrace with sun loungers or enjoy a drink from the onboard café. Many travelers appreciate the friendly crew and the chance to take in the views from the water.

Your first stop on the boat is the Our Lady of the Rocks island, an artificial island created centuries ago with a church perched on top. The church’s interior is decorated with 68 murals by Tripo Kokolja, which many find impressive. Visitors often mention that this stop is picturesque and culturally meaningful, providing a peaceful break and fantastic photo opportunities.

Next, the group heads to Kotor’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you’ll typically have around 45 minutes to explore the narrow streets, visit the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, and perhaps browse the Maritime Museum. While some reviews note this is a brief visit, most agree it is enough to get a taste of Kotor’s medieval architecture and lively atmosphere. As one reviewer said, “Kotor was lovely and the guides were all great,” emphasizing the value of the guided narration.

Finally, the return is by boat and bus, bringing you back to Dubrovnik in the evening. Many travelers mention the majestic arrival into Kotor’s bay as a highlight, but also note the long day on the road—expect about 6 hours of bus travel, and be prepared for border delays.

The Meal & Amenities

One of the tour’s appealing features is the lunch served aboard the boat. Participants frequently describe it as good value, with options to suit different tastes. While the food’s quality varies depending on expectations, many reviewers enjoy the three-course menu served during the cruise, which includes local and international choices. The boat’s café/bar adds to the relaxed vibe, letting you sip a drink and enjoy the view.

The terrace with sun loungers is another appreciated feature, allowing travelers to unwind while taking in the scenery. It’s a simple pleasure that makes the cruise a more laid-back experience, especially if you prefer a scenic lounge rather than wandering around onshore.

Transportation & Timing

Travelers should be aware that the bus journey is about two hours each way, with stops and border crossings potentially adding time. Reviewers note that the border queues can be lengthy, sometimes extending the total travel time and reducing time in Kotor. This is a common aspect of border-crossing tours in this region and worth considering if you prefer a more flexible schedule.

The cruise itself typically lasts a few hours, with stops on Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor, plus time on the boat for lunch and relaxation. The return usually sees the group back in Dubrovnik by late evening, around 8:30 p.m., depending on border delays.

Review Highlights & Honest Critiques

The majority of reviews praise the well-organized guides and breathtaking scenery. Several describe the guides as very knowledgeable, fluent in English and French, and engaging in their storytelling. One reviewer stated, “Our guide Ines was perfect,” highlighting the importance of a good guide in enriching the experience.

However, the tour isn’t without its drawbacks. Some travelers express disappointment about short stays in Kotor—about 45 minutes, which can feel rushed. One person noted, “Too much time wasted on swimming and visiting Our Lady of the Rocks,” suggesting that some might prefer more time exploring Kotor itself rather than the other activities.

Border crossings also come with unpredictability; reviews mention queues that can stretch for hours, which could seriously cut into sightseeing time. One traveler shared, “Queues at the border really spoil the day,” emphasizing the importance of patience.

Pricing at $119 per person is considered reasonable for what’s included—transport, cruise, guide, and lunch—but some reviews hint at the possibility of additional costs if things change at the last minute, as some travelers experienced.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits those interested in combining scenic boat rides with cultural sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with a full day of travel, enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides, and appreciate picturesque water views, you’ll likely find this tour satisfying. It’s especially attractive for travelers who want a cost-effective way to see Montenegro’s coast without overnight accommodation.

However, it’s less ideal for anyone with mobility impairments or those who dislike long border queues. The short sightseeing window in Kotor might frustrate those wanting a more thorough exploration. If you’re a flexible traveler who can handle a busy schedule and some border delays, this trip offers a good snapshot of Montenegro’s charm.

The Sum Up

This Dubrovnik to Montenegro day trip offers a balanced mix of scenic cruising, historical sights, and cultural experiences. Its strength lies in the stunning views from the water, the friendly guides, and the chance to visit both a unique island church and a medieval coastal town—all in one day. While border delays can be a downside, most travelers find the experience worth the effort.

For those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day, and who don’t mind a bit of travel fatigue, this tour provides excellent value. It’s particularly suitable for travelers eager to see Montenegro’s coast and historic towns without the hassle of planning transport or accommodations. If you’re looking for a taste of the Balkans that combines nature, history, and leisure, this trip hits the mark.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, keep in mind the long bus rides and border crossings may be tiring for younger children. It’s best suited for families with older children comfortable with travel.

Do I need a visa to join this trip?
You should check if you need a visa to enter Montenegro. The tour also requires that your passport or ID card be presented before crossing the border.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for border crossing. Avoid large luggage or big bags, as they are not allowed on the tour.

How long is the bus travel?
The bus ride from Dubrovnik to Montenegro is approximately two hours each way. Expect some additional time for border procedures and delays.

Will I have enough time in Kotor?
Most travelers get about 45 minutes in Kotor, which is enough for a quick look around but may feel rushed for those wanting an in-depth exploration.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers pickup and drop-off, the boat cruise, a guide, and lunch aboard the boat.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the nature of the stops and walking involved.

What is the condition of the boat?
The boat features a restaurant, café/bar, and sun terrace, and is described as friendly and helpful by travelers, making for a comfortable cruise experience.

How do reviews rate this tour overall?
With a 3.9 out of 5, reviews are generally positive, praising the scenery and guides but noting some issues like border queues and limited time in Kotor.

In essence, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Montenegro’s coast, perfect for those wanting scenic views and cultural highlights packed into a single day. While border delays and brief sightseeing windows are considerations, the overall value, guided insights, and beautiful boat ride make it a solid choice for curious travelers eager for a taste of Montenegro’s maritime charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: