From Dubrovnik: Perast, Kotor & Budva Small-Group Day Trip

Exploring Montenegro on a Small-Group Day Trip from Dubrovnik: An Honest Review

If you’re considering a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, this small-group tour promises a well-organized, scenic, and culturally engaging experience. It covers the charming towns of Kotor, Perast, and Budva, giving you a taste of Montenegro’s stunning coast and historic centers—all within a single day. We’ve gone through the reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect, along with some insights that can help you decide if this is the right adventure for you.

What truly stands out about this tour are the scenic views of the Bay of Kotor—serene, dramatic, and perfect for photos—and the knowledgeable guides who make the history and culture of Montenegro come alive. Also, the early start means you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy popular sights with fewer travelers around. On the flip side, some may find the day long and the bumpy ride a bit tiring. Still, if you’re after a comprehensive, efficient way to see a slice of Montenegro, this trip hits many of the right notes.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a stress-free, all-in-one exploration of Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or worrying about border crossings. If you enjoy small groups, personalized attention, and a guided experience that covers multiple locations, this could be a perfect fit. It’s especially useful if your time is limited but you want to maximize your sightseeing.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and drop-off from Dubrovnik hotels.
• Visits to Perast, Kotor, and Budva with flexible free time at each spot.
• Boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks included in the time allocation.
• Expert guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Early departure helps avoid crowds and border delays.
• Price around $100 offers good value considering the destinations covered and the guided experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

If you decide to book this tour, your adventure begins early in the morning, with pickup between 6:40 and 7:20 am. The early start might feel a bit daunting, but it’s a smart move—arriving early at each stop means fewer travelers and more space for your photos. Plus, it allows you to beat the afternoon rush, especially in popular spots like Kotor.

Border Crossing: Smooth and Well-Managed

One aspect that many travelers praise is the border crossing process. The trip’s timing is designed to avoid long waits, with the guide handling the paperwork efficiently. Multiple reviews mention how smooth and quick the border check was, with some guides even taking alternative routes to dodge delays. You’ll need your passport ready—especially if you’re an Indian passport holder or require a visa, make sure to have your documentation sorted beforehand.

Perast and the Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first stop is Perast, around 8 am. This tiny coastal town is a picture-perfect spot, with its charming houses and seaside views. You’ll have about an hour here, which some reviews say is enough time to enjoy a coffee, a stroll, and perhaps the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks. The boat ride isn’t included in the tour price but is available for an additional fee, and many travelers highly recommend it.

Guests have described Perast as “a very photogenic spot,” and the boat ride adds a special touch to the visit. The views from the islet are captivating, with some reviewers mentioning they got there early to beat the crowds. If you’re keen on history and local stories, your guide will likely share fascinating details about the island and the town.

Kotor: The Historic Marvel

Around 10 am, you arrive in Kotor, which most consider the highlight of the trip. The town’s 4-kilometer-long city walls and medieval Old Town are renowned; winding streets, ancient buildings, and a fortress looming above make it a captivating place to explore. You’ll have about 2 hours of free time here, giving you a chance to walk the walls, visit the cathedral, or just soak in the atmosphere.

Several reviews emphasize how well-organized the time is, with guides ensuring you see the key sights without feeling rushed. A few mention that two hours might feel tight for everything Kotor has to offer, with some suggesting slightly more time would be ideal. Still, most agree that the early start allows for a more relaxed visit, free from large tour groups.

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Lunch and the Beaches in Budva

At around 12:30 pm, the bus heads to Budva—a lively seaside town famous for its beaches and narrow streets. Here, you’ll have a recommendation for a local restaurant for lunch, but note that lunch isn’t included in the tour price. The reviews suggest going for fresh seafood or local specialties, and plenty of options are available.

After lunch, many travelers take a walk through the Old Town or head to the beach. The town has a relaxed vibe, and some reviews mention it’s a great place to unwind, dip your toes in the sea, or just enjoy the lively atmosphere. The free time here varies but generally lasts until about 2:30 pm.

Return Journey and the Bay of Kotor Ferry

The trip back to Dubrovnik begins around 2:30 pm, with a ferry ride across the Bay of Kotor at around 3:10 pm—another scenic highlight. The crossing offers stunning views and a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty of this coast. Afterward, expect a border check around 4 pm, and then it’s about an hour drive back to Dubrovnik, arriving around 5 pm.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is by a comfortable 8-seater minivan, making for a cozy yet manageable group size. This smaller group setup gets praise from many travelers in reviews, who say it’s easier to ask questions and enjoy the experience without feeling lost in a crowd.

Cost and Value

At around $100 per person, the price seems reasonable given the inclusive nature and the destinations covered. You get guided sightseeing, the boat ride at Perast (extra fee), and the flexibility of free time to explore. Several reviews point out that the guide’s knowledge adds significantly to the experience, making the tour more than just a bus ride.

However, some mention that lunch isn’t included, and there are additional fees—like the tourist tax in Kotor and the boat ride—that you should budget for separately. Considering the convenience of hotel pickup, small group size, and expert guidance, most travelers felt it was good value, especially as it offered a stress-free way to see Montenegro’s highlights.

What Travelers Are Saying

Feedback from hundreds of reviewers paints a clear picture: guides like Darko and Andrew are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Guests love their ability to keep things engaging and smooth, even during border crossings or bumpy rides. Several mention that these guides made the trip memorable, sharing stories and recommendations along the way.

The scenery is frequently highlighted—the views of the Bay of Kotor are described as breathtaking, and many note that visiting early helps avoid crowds, making the experience more intimate. The small group setting means you can get closer to the sights and ask questions freely.

Some reviewers mention the long day—starting early and returning around 5 pm—but most agree it’s worth it to see three diverse towns in one trip. A few note that the ride can be bumpy, so travelers prone to motion sickness might want to prepare accordingly.

In Who This Tour Excels

This trip is perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of organizing transport or dealing with border queues. It suits travelers who appreciate small groups and guided insights, and those interested in combining scenic views with cultural sightseeing. If you’re short on time but eager to see Montenegro’s coast and historic centers, this tour offers a practical, well-organized option.

The experience is also highly recommended for those who enjoy good storytelling, as guides like Darko and Andrew are praised for their engaging commentary. If you’re a fan of scenic ferry rides, historic towns, and seaside charm, this trip hits many of those marks.

The Sum Up

All in all, this From Dubrovnik: Perast, Kotor & Budva Small-Group Day Trip offers a comprehensive snapshot of Montenegro’s coastal treasures. The combination of scenic views, charming towns, and the expertise of local guides makes it a compelling choice for travelers eager to explore without the fuss. The early start, small group size, and well-paced itinerary create an experience that’s both relaxed and enriching.

While the day is full—covering three towns in one go—it’s designed to give you the highlights and some free time to soak in each place’s unique atmosphere. The price reflects the convenience, guided commentary, and included experiences (like the boat ride), making it a solid value for those wanting a stress-free Montenegro introduction.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, scenic, and culturally engaging day trip from Dubrovnik, this tour is likely to meet your expectations. It’s particularly ideal if you value friendly guides, scenic vistas, and the chance to explore multiple towns in one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small-group setting (around eight people) makes it easy to meet others and enjoy a more personal experience. It’s perfect for anyone traveling alone who appreciates guided tours and social interaction.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, you definitely need your passport for the border crossing. It’s a key part of the process, and some reviews mention how smoothly the guide manages it.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included. The guide recommends a local restaurant in Budva, but travelers are responsible for their own meals. Budget extra for food and drinks.

Are there any extra fees I should know about?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a 3 tax to enter Kotor, payable on-site. The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is optional and costs extra. Keep some cash handy for these expenses.

How long is the total tour?
The trip runs from early morning (boarding starts around 6:40 am) and returns to Dubrovnik around 5 pm. Expect a full, long day of sightseeing and travel.

Would this tour be good for families or children?
The reviews don’t specifically mention children, but given the itinerary and the duration, it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers who can handle a long day and a bumpy ride. Always consider your child’s comfort and patience with long travel days.

Planning a trip to Montenegro from Dubrovnik? This tour offers a solid, guided way to explore some of the country’s most beautiful spots—perfect for those who want a relaxed, well-paced day with expert insights.

You can check availability for your dates here: