Kotor, Perast, Sv.Stefan and Budva – Montenegro Private Tour

Exploring Montenegro from Dubrovnik: A Private Tour Worth Your Time

Our review of the Kotor, Perast, Sv. Stefan, and Budva private tour offers a detailed look at what travelers just like you can expect when venturing beyond Dubrovnik’s borders into Montenegro’s captivating coast. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a picture of an experience that’s both immersive and flexible.

Two standout features truly make this tour appealing: first, the personalized attention you get from a private guide—no rushing through sights or sharing a bus with strangers—and second, the stunning scenery that Montenegro’s rugged mountains and charming towns offer in abundance. One consideration to keep in mind is the weather, as some reviews mention rain affecting certain sights, but overall, the tour’s flexibility often allows for alternative experiences.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate a comfortable, well-organized day with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and leisurely exploring. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of stunning views, or simply curious about Montenegro’s coast, this private day trip offers a balanced mix of culture and coastal beauty.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Enjoy undivided attention from your guide and longer stops at your interests.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Visit Our Lady of the Rocks, Kotor Old Town, Sveti Stefan, and Budva in one day.
• Included boat rides and ferry tickets: Hassle-free crossings and access to key sights.
• Comfortable transportation: Fully air-conditioned vehicle suited for small groups.
• Flexibility in timing: Ample time at each stop, with options for swimming or sightseeing.
• Great reviews: Consistently rated a perfect 5 out of 5 for knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Our Lady of the Rocks: Seafarer’s Treasure and Museum

Your day begins with a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, an iconic man-made island in Kotor Bay. The tour’s inclusion of both the boat ticket and museum entrance makes this a highlight. The island’s church and the museum inside are filled with fascinating artifacts and stories of local legend—like how the island was created by local fishermen who laid rocks from their boats. Expect about 45 minutes here, enough to enjoy the atmosphere and take photos of the quaint island against the backdrop of towering mountains.

One reviewer recalls, “Our boat ride and visit to the church museum on Lady of the Rock were fantastic; the entrance fee and boat ride were included, which added to the value.” While weather can sometimes affect access, most guides are flexible and eager to ensure you experience this highlight.

Kotor Old Town: Medieval Charm and Stunning Views

Next, you’ll explore Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With about 90 minutes to wander, you can soak in the narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and waterfront views. The guide typically offers a walking tour, pointing out key sights and sharing stories about the town’s history.

Travelers praise guides like Ivo for their knowledge and friendliness, making the visit both educational and fun. “Ivo was very accommodating and informative,” one review mentions, emphasizing how a good guide can turn a standard sightseeing stop into a memorable experience.

Sveti Stefan: The Photo-Stop of the Iconic Island

Following Kotor, you’ll make a quick stop at Sveti Stefan, a tiny island turned luxury resort. The short 5-minute photo stop offers views of this famed island, perfect for snapping pictures of its pastel-colored buildings and lush surroundings. While you won’t go onto the island itself, the vantage point from above provides ample opportunities to admire its beauty—many travelers find it a “stunning” sight worth the quick stop.

Budva Old Town and Beaches: Sun, Sea, and Lunch

The last major stop takes you to Budva, where you’ll walk along the city walls and through the lively old town. You’ll have about 90 minutes here, including time for a relaxed lunch or perhaps a quick swim at the beaches. Budva’s lively atmosphere, combined with scenic views from the walls, makes it a favorite for many.

One reviewer shared, “We loved the boat ride to Lady of the Rock and the time in Budva’s old town—perfect mix of history and leisure.” The optional swimming and relaxed pace mean you can customize your experience here.

Return and Drop-off at Dubrovnik

After a full day of exploring, the return ferry across Kotor Bay is included, making the journey back smooth and scenic with stunning bay views. The driver then delivers you comfortably back to your Dubrovnik hotel—an effortless end to a busy day.

The Value and Experience: What Sets This Tour Apart

This private tour is priced at $552.10 for a group of up to one person, which might seem steep compared to group tours, but the personalized service and longer, flexible stops often justify the cost. Several reviews point out the knowledgeable guides—like Elmir and Ivo—who go beyond just pointing out sights, often sharing stories and taking photos for you.

The inclusion of boat rides, museum entrance fees, and ferry tickets adds value, reducing the hassle of arranging these separately. The fully air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially during peak summer months, making the long drive more pleasant.

Travelers rave about the stunning views and the informative guides, with many noting that the experience exceeded expectations despite some minor weather setbacks. The tour’s flexible nature makes it suitable for those wanting to spend more time at specific sights or include a swim at Budva’s beaches.

Considering the Price

While $552.10 might seem high, the all-inclusive nature—private transport, guided visits, boat rides, and entrance fees—means fewer surprises or additional costs. For travelers valuing comfort, flexibility, and expert insights, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for those who:

• Prefer a private, customizable day with a dedicated guide.
• Desire to see both historic towns and scenic coastal sights without the hassle of planning separate tickets or transportation.
• Want a comfortable, stress-free way to explore Montenegro’s highlights from Dubrovnik.
• Appreciate the personal touch that allows more time at their favorite spots or the chance to swim and relax.
• Are traveling in a small group or as a solo traveler seeking a more intimate experience.

This tour is less suitable for travelers looking for a budget alternative, as private services tend to be pricier. Also, if weather disrupts plans, the flexible nature of the tour may still allow you to make the most of your day.

The Sum Up

Travelers searching for a well-organized, personalized day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro will find this private tour highly appealing. Its blend of historical sights, stunning vistas, and the comfort of private transport makes it a worthwhile choice for those eager to explore at their own pace.

The inclusion of boat rides, museum entrances, and ferry crossings adds to the overall value, especially with attentive guides who bring each site to life. The tour’s flexibility and scenic stops make it a fantastic way to experience Montenegro’s coast without the stress of navigating on your own.

Whether you’re a first-timer to the region, a lover of coastal scenery, or someone interested in authentic local towns, this private experience offers a memorable taste of Montenegro’s beauty—done comfortably and thoughtfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, making it a full day of sightseeing with plenty of time at each stop.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Dubrovnik hotel, ensuring convenience from start to finish.

What’s included in the price?
Your price covers a private guide, transport in a fully air-conditioned vehicle, boat rides to Our Lady of the Rocks, entrance to the church museum, ferry tickets across Kotor Bay, and all applicable taxes and fees.

Can I customize the stops or time spent?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the guide; longer visits or additional activities may be possible depending on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is suitable year-round, though weather conditions may impact certain sights, especially outdoor stops.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there will be time for lunch in Budva or nearby, where you can choose from local restaurants.

This private tour strikes a practical, engaging balance between comfort and authentic discovery. It’s perfect if you want to see Montenegro’s best in a relaxed, personalized way, making it a worthwhile addition to your Balkan itinerary.