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

If you’re staying in Dubrovnik and itching to see a bit more of the stunning Balkans, a private tour of Montenegro might be just what you need. This specific experience promises a personalized day exploring some of Montenegro’s most picturesque towns—Kotor, Perast, Sv. Stefan, and Budva—with the added bonus of boat rides, scenic lookout points, and plenty of free time to soak in the views or take a swim.

What really caught our eye about this tour? First, the flexibility that comes with a private guide and vehicle, meaning you get to spend more time at the spots that catch your interest rather than rushing through. Second, the inclusion of boat rides and entrance fees, which cut down on unexpected expenses and logistical worries.

That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite packed into around 11 hours, which might feel a little rushed if you’re someone who prefers a leisurely pace. Also, weather can impact some highlights—like the boat to Our Lady of the Rocks—so it’s good to stay flexible.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and visually stunning day trip from Dubrovnik. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided experiences that combine culture, scenery, and a bit of adventure.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience offers more time at favorite sights.
• Includes boat rides and entrance fees, helping you avoid extra costs.
• Comfortable transport with round-trip hotel pickup from Dubrovnik.
• Well-reviewed guides who are knowledgeable and accommodating.
• Multiple scenic stops with stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Weather considerations can impact some activities, like boat trips.

Why You Might Love This Tour

Traveling in style and comfort is one of the biggest perks here. The transport is fully air-conditioned, and the private guide ensures your trip is tailored to your interests, not a rigid schedule. You’ll start with the boat to Our Lady of the Rocks, a charming island museum with a unique history, and then move on to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor, which is a maze of narrow streets, historic squares, and impressive fortifications.

The tour also takes you to Sveti Stefan, a picture-perfect islet known for its luxurious resort, with a quick photo stop that guarantees some great shots. Afterward, you’ll visit Budva’s old town, which boasts a lively atmosphere, beautiful city walls, and plenty of options for a relaxed lunch or a quick snack.

What really stands out in reviews is the quality of the guides and the views. Multiple travelers mention how knowledgeable and friendly their guides are, making the experience informative and enjoyable. The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is often highlighted as a memorable highlight, with many appreciating the entrance fee being included.

Potential Downsides

The main consideration is the pace. With around 11 hours packed with activities, some travelers might find it a little rushed, especially if you prefer to linger longer at each site. Also, weather can be unpredictable—if it rains, the boat to Our Lady of the Rocks might be canceled, which some reviewers mentioned made the day slightly less complete.

Price-wise, at $552.10 for the whole group, it’s a bit on the higher side, but considering the private nature, guided service, boat rides, and included fees, it’s generally good value for those wanting a hassle-free, rundown of Montenegrin highlights.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Our Lady of the Rocks

We start with a boat ride to this charming island, famous for its church and museum. The entrance fee and boat ride are included, so you can enjoy the experience without worrying about extra costs. The museum showcases maritime artifacts and the story behind the island’s creation by local fishermen. Many reviews mention how stunning the views from here are and how the boat ride itself adds a special touch to the trip.

Kotor Old Town

Next, you’ll step into the UNESCO World Heritage site that is Kotor’s Old Town. We loved the way guides take you through the narrow streets, highlighting historic buildings, the fortress walls, and the main square. You get about an hour and a half to explore at your pace—ample time to snap photos, browse shops, or just soak in the medieval vibe. Several travelers appreciated their guide’s local insights, making the tour both educational and fun. One reviewer said, “Our guide in Montenegro was good,” and another shared, “Ivo was very accommodating and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how important a good guide is at this stop.

Sveti Stefan

A quick stop here offers a chance to capture photos of the iconic islet from above. It’s a short visit—around 5 minutes—but enough to get that postcard shot. You won’t have time to explore the resort directly, but the view alone makes it worth the stop.

Budva’s Old Town & City Walls

The tour then moves to Budva, where you’ll have about 1.5 hours to wander the lively old town, walk the city walls, and enjoy the seaside atmosphere. Many reviews mention that this is a great spot for a relaxed lunch or some quick shopping. The walls offer fantastic views over the Adriatic, and you’ll get a good feel for Montenegro’s coastal vibe.

Return to Dubrovnik

The day wraps up with a ferry crossing back across Kotor Bay, which is included in the tour. The journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s sights and enjoy some scenic views on the way back to Dubrovnik.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. Ken_t noted, “Elmir was a fantastic guide, well versed in English,” making for a smooth drive and informative commentary. Sylvia_L was thrilled with their guide, Ivo, saying he was “so accommodating and very knowledgeable,” which added a lot to their experience.

Even with some minor hiccups—like Ghufran_A mentioning a “bumpy start” due to vehicle issues—tour operators seem quick to make gestures that keep the day enjoyable. The included entrance fees and boat rides are a bonus, simplifying the logistics and expenses.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Around 11 hours, so be prepared for a full day.
• Price: $552.10 per group, which is reasonable considering all inclusions and private service.
• Transport: Fully air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Ideal for: Travelers looking for a comprehensive, hassle-free day with personalized attention.
• Weather: Keep an eye on the forecast—bad weather might limit some activities, especially the boat to Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Booking: Typically booked around 34 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want this experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love sightseeing with a personal touch and want to avoid complicated logistics, this private tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for those interested in history, scenic views, and cultural highlights, all within a comfortable, guided setting. Given the pace and the inclusions, it’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded Montenegro experience without rushing or doing too much planning on their own.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 11 hours, giving you a full day of exploration.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, the entrance fee for the church museum on Lady of the Rocks and boat rides are included in the price.

Can I customize the stops? As a private tour, you can spend more time at the sights that interest you most, making it flexible.

What if the weather is bad? If it rains, activities like the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks may be canceled, but guides are usually flexible to adapt the day.

Is this tour suitable for children? The information states children must be accompanied by an adult, so it’s suitable for families, but consider the full day’s length.

What languages are guides available in? The tour is operated by a multi-lingual guide, with English confirmed as standard.

How many people can join? The price is listed per group (up to 1), indicating a private experience for your party only.

What is the cost? The tour costs $552.10 for the entire group, which can be a good value for a full-day private experience.

What makes this tour special? The combination of scenic boat rides, historical sites, and personalized guidance makes it a standout way to see Montenegro without the hassle of self-driving.

In the end, this private Montenegro tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, scenery, and comfort, making it a strong option for those wanting a detailed and enjoyable day trip from Dubrovnik. Whether you’re into history, photography, or just soaking up gorgeous views, you’ll likely find plenty to love here.