From Dubrovnik: Montenegro Coast Full-Day Trip

Exploring Montenegro’s Coast from Dubrovnik: A Full-Day Tour Worth Considering

For those of us who love discovering new corners of the Mediterranean, a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro’s coast is often top of the list. This Montenegro Coast Full-Day Trip, offered by Select Dubrovnik, has garnered quite a bit of praise—an overall rating of 4.5 from 229 reviews suggests it’s a popular choice. With a price tag of around $65 per person, it offers a reasonable way to see some of the most captivating sights along the Bay of Kotor, especially if time is limited.

What really draws us in are its main highlights: exploring the historic old town of Kotor, marveling at the picturesque Perast, and enjoying breathtaking views of the bay’s fjord-like landscape. Plus, the optional boat cruise in Kotor Bay adds an extra layer of charm for those keen to see even more from the water. Yet, a few folks have pointed out that the border crossing delays can be a bit of a drag, so patience is key.

This tour is ideal if you’re after an efficient overview of Montenegro’s coast with knowledgeable guides and scenic stops, but it’s probably not suited for those wanting to linger longer or explore in depth. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or a small group, it’s a good way to get a taste of what Montenegro has to offer without the hassle of organizing separate transport.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: The tour uses air-conditioned buses, making the long drive more pleasant.
• Expert Guides: Guides are generally knowledgeable, providing insightful commentary and history.
• Flexible Options: Includes a boat cruise (optional) for an added scenic experience.
• Good Value: At $65, it’s a balanced price for a full day of sightseeing, with the opportunity to see multiple towns.
• Border Crossing: Expect a quick crossing, but be prepared for some queuing on the return trip.
• Time Management: You get a few hours at each stop—enough to explore, but not to fully immerse.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect to See and Do

Crossing the Border and Scenic Drive

Once you’re booked, you’ll be picked up from your Dubrovnik accommodation or the nearest point, and then the adventure begins. The journey starts with crossing the border into Montenegro—a process that most reviews say is quick, especially if you go at the right time. Expect some queuing on the way back, but most travelers say it’s manageable, often not longer than 30 minutes.

As you travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned van or bus, you’ll get a chance to enjoy the scenery — rolling hills, coastal views, and glimpses of the Adriatic. The driver is generally praised for careful driving, which keeps the whole experience relaxing.

Kotor Old Town

Your first big stop is the UNESCO-protected Old Town of Kotor. This medieval gem was once a key Venetian port and still retains much of its charm. You’ll have about three hours here, giving plenty of time to explore the narrow streets, open squares, and impressive fortifications.

Many reviews highlight the value of the local guide in Kotor, who provides a 30-minute guided tour, sharing stories about the city’s history and architecture. This adds context that makes wandering around more meaningful. The old town has plenty of cafes and shops, so you can take a break, soak in the atmosphere, and snap some photos of the fortress walls that climb up the hillside.

Some travelers mention that the walk up to the fortress is a highlight, with incredible views, though it does cost around 8 euros for entry. If you’re active, you might enjoy hiking up, but be mindful of the time constraints.

Perast: A Picturesque Stop

Next, the tour takes you to Perast, a tiny town famed for its baroque architecture and quaint atmosphere. With about 1.5 hours allocated, it’s enough to walk through the streets, see the little churches, and perhaps visit the nearby Our Lady of the Rocks island if you’ve organized a boat trip (some reviews note the boat ride is a real highlight).

However, some visitors felt the time in Perast was a bit short, especially if the weather is rainy or if few attractions are open. Still, most agree that Perast’s charm makes it a worthwhile stop, and many reviews mention enjoying the beautiful views and the relaxing vibe.

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Optional Boat Cruise

The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks and other small islands is often included in the package, adding a scenic element that many travelers find memorable. From the water, you’ll get a different perspective of the bay’s rugged coastline and historic sites. Just note that entry tickets for some attractions like the island might need cash, which caught some travelers off guard.

Return Journey and Border Queues

The trip wraps up with a drive back to Dubrovnik. Travelers mention that border queues can be the most time-consuming part, especially on the return, but most find the experience overall smooth. The trip duration is about 12 hours, with plenty of time spent at each location.

The Value and Practicalities

Is it Worth the Price?

At $65, this tour offers a lot—transport, guides, and scenic stops—making it good value for those wanting to see Montenegro’s coast without the hassle of independent planning. Many reviews appreciate the well-organized nature of the trip, with pickups happening on time and clear communication about meeting points.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

Your fee covers hotel pick-up and drop-off (or the closest point), a local guide in Kotor, and a tour guide on the bus. However, you’ll need to budget for entry tickets (about €3 in Montenegro), as well as food and drinks, which are not included.

Who Is This Trip Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a hassle-free day of sightseeing with knowledgeable guides and manageable group sizes. It’s especially good for first-timers, solo travelers, or couples who enjoy exploring charming towns and scenic landscapes without the stress of self-driving.

Limitations and Considerations

• Time in each location is limited—roughly 3 hours in Kotor and 1.5 hours in Perast.
• Not suitable if you have mobility issues, as there’s some walking and uphill climbing.
• Border queues, while usually brief, can extend the day, so patience is essential.
• If you’re particularly interested in exploring in depth or hiking, this may feel a bit rushed.

What Do Travelers Say?

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and scenery—one reviewer mentions how the guide Sandra was “fantastic”, making the trip memorable. Others loved the views of Kotor Bay, calling it “amazing” and “breathtaking.”

A few mention that the short time in Kotor makes it hard to see everything, especially if you want to hike the fortress or explore every alley. Still, most agree that the value for money and beautiful scenery outweigh minor inconveniences.

Regarding the boat cruise, some say it’s a bonus, while others suggest skipping it if you want more time in Kotor. The border crossing, a common concern, is generally quick, but travelers advise being prepared with cash for entry fees and patience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to Montenegro’s coast, this full-day trip hits many highlights. The scenic drives, historic towns, and stunning views make it an appealing choice. The guided commentary adds depth that solo exploring might lack, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with the area.

However, if you’re craving more time in each spot, or want to hike up to the fortress and explore at a leisurely pace, you might find this tour a little rushed. Also, keep in mind that border queues can add to the travel time, so patience and some flexibility are helpful.

Overall, it’s a well-rated experience with lots of positive feedback—a solid option for travelers eager to check Montenegro off their list without the complexity of independent planning.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Montenegro Day Trip

How early does the tour start?
Pickup times are communicated via email; most travelers find the pickup prompt and smooth. Expect the full day to run about 12 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is there enough time to explore Kotor and Perast?
Yes, most travelers say the allocated time is enough for a quick exploration and sightseeing, but it’s not enough to see everything in detail or hike the fortress in Kotor.

Do I need cash for anything?
Yes, some attractions like the fortress and the island require entry fees (around €3), and the boat trip might also need cash.

Is this trip suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly designed for children, the tour is generally family-friendly, provided your kids are comfortable with a long day of travel and walking.

Can I book this trip with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility if your plans change.

What’s the guide like?
Reviews praise guides for being knowledgeable, friendly, and humorous, making the long day more enjoyable.

What if I don’t speak English?
The tour is conducted in English, so some language barriers might exist, but guides are generally clear and engaging.

If Montenegro’s stunning bay and charming towns are calling your name but a full independent trip feels daunting, this tour might be your best route. It offers a comfortable, scenic, and well-organized way to see some of the most beautiful parts of the Balkan coast. Just remember to bring patience, cash for entry, and your sense of adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: