Kotor is a fantastic port for shore excursions because it offers a blend of stunning scenery, well-preserved architecture, and authentic Montenegrin villages—all within easy reach. What makes Kotor especially appealing is its compact Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the diverse landscapes surrounding the bay. Whether you want a quick photo stop or a full-day adventure, there’s something here for everyone. We especially like the Coastal Pearls of Montenegro Tour for its comprehensive experience, including visits to Perast, Sveti Stefan, and Budva, all led by an informative guide. If you prefer a more personalized and relaxing experience, the Private Shore Excursion in Kotor Bay with Organic Lunch offers a tailor-made visit including a farm-to-table lunch.
In this guide, you’ll find an overview of the top four shore excursions in Kotor, each with its own focus—whether it’s cultural sights, scenic drives, or intimate private tours. Our goal is to help you pick the right experience based on your timing, budget, and interests.
1. Kotor Shore Excursion: Coastal Pearls of Montenegro Tour
This full-day tour offers a rich taste of Montenegro’s most iconic sights. Traveling comfortably in an air-conditioned minivan, you’ll visit Perast, a charming baroque town with a storybook setting, and enjoy free time to explore on your own. The guide shares insights into Montenegro’s history as you pass by Sveti Stefan, a small island village known for its luxury resort, and learn about local culture. The highlight is the visit to the Our Lady of the Rocks church, built on a man-made island, with an included 15-minute stop. The tour also features a scenic drive around the Bay of Kotor and a walk through Budva’s Old Town, a city that has been inhabited for over 3,500 years. The guide’s storytelling adds an enriching layer to the experience, making history come alive.
Rated a perfect 5.0/5 with 21 reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics. One reviewer noted, “Our guide Natasa did an amazing job showing us the beauty and sharing the history of Kotor.” This tour is ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day that balances cultural insight with beautiful landscapes. It’s perfect if you prefer an organized experience with plenty of opportunity for independent exploration. At $200 per person for about 5-6 hours, it offers great value for an all-encompassing taste of Montenegro.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, comfortable choice for travelers who want history, scenery, and local flavor without rushing.
2. Private Shore Excursion in Kotor Bay with Organic Lunch
For those seeking a more intimate experience, this private tour around the Bay of Kotor is a perfect fit. Starting just a few hundred meters from the cruise port, the guide takes you in a private vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi. The focus is on enjoying the stunning scenery and authentic local flavors. The tour includes a stop at Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island with a storied church, and then heads to Risan, where a local family farm offers a lunch of fresh, organic seafood prepared right in front of you. This experience is unique because it combines scenic views with a behind-the-scenes look at Montenegrin farm life, plus a delicious meal.
Rated 5.0/5 with 19 reviews, travelers love the flexibility and personalized attention. One reviewer exclaimed, “Fabulous day—visiting Our Lady of the Rocks, then having a homemade lunch at a mussel farm.” The tour costs $88.94 per person for about 2 hours, making it an efficient way to see the bay and enjoy a special meal. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want a customized experience that goes beyond the usual group tour.
Bottom Line: Best for couples or small groups who want a tailored, relaxed visit with authentic culinary delights.
3. Montenegro Shore Excursion from Bar or Kotor
This flexible full-day private tour is perfect if you want to maximize your time in Montenegro. Starting from Kotor, it is designed to suit small groups of up to four people who prefer a personalized itinerary. Highlights include Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO site with narrow streets and medieval charm, and a drive along the Bay of Kotor that offers breathtaking panoramic views. The tour also covers Sveti Stefan, with a viewpoint providing a sweeping vista of this iconic island. Plus, you can visit Budva, a lively coastal town with a vibrant old town and beaches.
Rated 5.0/5 with rave reviews, travelers mention how the guide, Andro, “went above and beyond to show us the most scenic locations” and that the day was “an enjoyable mix of scenery and history.” The cost is $104.18 per person for around 4 to 8 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend at each stop. This tour is suitable for those who want a flexible, in-depth exploration with direct access from port and plenty of personal interaction.
Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a customizable, private experience with a focus on scenic drives and cultural highlights.
4. Kotor: Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
This small-group tour is designed specifically for cruise passengers with limited time. It covers essential sights like Perast, the Our Lady of the Rocks island, and the Old Town of Kotor, with a highlight being the panoramic drive around Trojica for stunning views. Plus, there’s an optional boat ride for a closer look at Our Lady of the Rocks, included for a small additional fee. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours and provides round-trip transportation from the port.
Rated 4.5/5 with 35 reviews, travelers appreciate the efficient schedule, the driver’s knowledge, and the opportunity to see multiple sights without feeling rushed. One reviewer noted, “Our driver was fantastic, and we saw some incredible sights, making the most of our limited time.” It costs $92.52 per person, and the small-group setting ensures a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers who want a well-organized, quick overview of Kotor’s highlights and nearby attractions.
How to Choose Your Kotor Shore Excursion
Picking the right tour depends on your priorities. If you want a comprehensive, guided day with lots of exploration, the Coastal Pearls of Montenegro Tour offers excellent value and depth. If your schedule is tight but you still want a personalized experience, consider the Private Shore Excursion in Kotor Bay with Organic Lunch. For a tailored, scenic drive with fewer stops, the Montenegro shore excursion from Bar or Kotor delivers flexibility. And if you’re on a cruise with limited time, the Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers provides a quick, efficient way to see the highlights.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a group or private experience. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Kotor offers a variety of shore excursions that cater to different interests and schedules. For a full, story-rich day, the Coastal Pearls of Montenegro Tour is hard to beat. If intimacy and cuisine matter most, the private bay tour with organic lunch is an excellent choice. For those seeking a flexible, private experience, the Montenegro tour from either Kotor or Bar hits the mark. And if your time is tight, the Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers will give you a quick but satisfying taste of Montenegro’s highlights.
No matter which tour you choose, these experiences are your chance to explore a region that combines stunning landscapes with centuries of history. Book early, and enjoy your time in this remarkable part of the world.