Private full day Montenegro tour

Exploring Montenegro from Dubrovnik: A Practical and Personalized Day Trip

If you’re staying in Dubrovnik and considering a day trip to Montenegro, this private full-day tour might just be what you need. Based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that this experience offers a comfortable, flexible way to see some of Montenegro’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this tour are the personalized touches—your own driver and the ability to customize your stops—and the fact that it includes some of the most iconic sights like Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor’s medieval streets. Plus, the vehicle’s air conditioning and flexible timing make for a smooth day, especially in the summer heat.

However, keep in mind that some entrance fees aren’t included (like the island’s ticket), and the itinerary is quite packed—so if you’re after a more leisurely vibe, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s most suited for travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and want a hassle-free way to cross borders and see new places.

If you’re a traveler who values comfort, flexibility, and a small-group experience, this tour could be a great fit—especially if you’re keen to tick off Montenegro’s highlights without the stress of driving yourself.

Key Points

• Private, Flexible Experience: Your own driver ensures a personalized, relaxed day tailored to your interests.
• Stunning Sights: You’ll visit some of Montenegro’s top attractions, from Our Lady of the Rocks to Kotor’s medieval walls.
• Comfort and Convenience: Air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pick-up make for a smooth journey.
• Cost-Effective for Small Groups: At around $430 for up to 3 people, it offers good value for a full day of exploring.
• Limited Inclusions: You’ll need to budget separately for entrance tickets and lunch.
• Ideal for Explorers: Best suited for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, flexibility, and a personal touch.

In-Depth Look at the Montenegro Private Tour

If you’re considering this tour, here’s what you can expect from start to finish, based on the details provided and what travelers have shared.

Starting Off: Early Morning Pick-Up

The tour kicks off at 7:00 am, which is fairly early but standard for a full-day excursion that aims to maximize daylight hours. Your driver will pick you up from your Dubrovnik hotel, so there’s no need to worry about transportation logistics or finding meeting points—this is a plus for stress-free planning.

Having an air-conditioned vehicle is a real bonus, especially during the hot Croatian summer months. As one reviewer pointed out, “Very comfortable vehicle with very good air conditioning—was such a hot day we really needed it.” This comfort certainly helps set a relaxed tone for the day.

First Stop: Our Lady of the Rocks

Your first destination is Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial island in the middle of Kotor Bay. This island is visually impressive—an island built by man, with a church and a small museum, and the scenery around it is stunning.

You’ll spend around 45 minutes here, and while the admission ticket (roughly €10) isn’t included, many travelers find it worth the small additional cost to explore the island’s history and views. During your visit, you might find yourself captivated by the stories and panoramic vistas.

A reviewer mentioned, “Great itinerary and allows you to be flexible,” which is a good reminder that this stop can be tailored depending on your interests. Just be aware of the timing so you don’t feel rushed.

Exploring Kotor’s Medieval Charm

Next, you’ll head to Kotor Old Town, a highlight of Montenegro. The city walls, the narrow winding streets, and the St. Tryphon Cathedral are all part of the charm. You get about 2 hours and 45 minutes here—ample time to wander at your own pace, snap photos, and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

Kotor is often described as a “must-visit” destination, with its well-preserved architecture and stunning bay views. One traveler raved, “Kotor is a must visit destination that is located in Montenegro,” reinforcing how popular and photogenic it is.

The free admission to the old town means you can explore without extra costs, but keep in mind that some attractions inside (like churches or museums) may charge small fees if you want to go inside.

A Scenic Drive and a Charming Border Town

Following Kotor, your driver might take you through the bay’s scenic fjord-like landscape, offering plenty of picture-perfect moments.

The next stop is Herceg-Novi, a small and picturesque town at the border with Croatia. You’ll stop for roughly 25 minutes, giving you a quick chance to stretch your legs, stroll the old streets, or enjoy a coffee and take in the views. It’s a pleasant, less crowded spot that adds variety to your day.

Flexibility and Personalization

One of the biggest advantages, as highlighted by reviews, is the ability to customize the tour. Travelers loved that their driver could adjust the schedule or suggest other nearby stops if they wished. This flexibility is especially valuable when you’re making the most of a single day—no one wants to feel hurried or like they’re missing out.

Practical Details and Cost Analysis

The total cost is approximately $430 for up to three people, which breaks down to about $143 per person if split evenly. This covers all fees and taxes, and the vehicle is exclusive to your group, adding a level of privacy and comfort not usually found in group tours.

It’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to grab something during your stops. The only additional expense not covered is the island ticket, which costs around 10 euros per person.

The tour lasts roughly 10 hours, giving you plenty of time for sightseeing, photos, and some downtime. As one reviewer put it, “Great itinerary and allows you to be flexible with what you see and how long you spend at wherever you stop,” which underscores the value of this personalized approach.

What Travelers Love (and What to Watch For)

Based on reviews, travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging driver, who often doubles as a guide. One reviewer said, “Baldo was so engaging and full of information,” and many appreciated the commentary that added context to each stop.

The scenic views and the chance to explore iconic spots like Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor’s medieval walls are major draws. Several reviews also mention how comfortable and modern the vehicle was, making the long day more manageable.

Some travelers noted that the timing was well-managed, but others felt that the planned schedule could be slightly adjusted if you want more time at certain stops. The flexibility, as highlighted by reviewers, is a key benefit.

Possible Downsides

The main drawback is that admission tickets aren’t included for the island, which adds a small extra cost. Also, the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer a more leisurely experience, you might find yourself with limited time at each location.

On top of that, the tour relies heavily on the driver’s knowledge and timing; if you’re looking for an in-depth guided tour of historical sites, this might be more of a self-guided experience with a driver rather than a narrated tour.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This private Montenegro day trip offers a balance of comfort, flexibility, and iconic sights. If you’re someone who appreciates having your own driver, values personal pacing, and wants to see the highlights without worrying about transportation or logistics, this tour is a solid choice.

It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy customizing their day and don’t mind paying a bit extra for a private experience. The scenery, the charming towns, and the ease of crossing borders make this a practical way to expand your Croatian trip with a Montenegro detour.

While it might not satisfy those looking for in-depth guided tours or those who want to include additional activities like boat rides or extensive museum visits, it’s a reliable, well-reviewed option for a scenic, hassle-free day out.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The tour is mostly about sightseeing and driving, so it can work for families comfortable with a full day of activity. However, since it involves some walking and a full schedule, consider your children’s stamina and interests.

What’s included in the tour? The price includes all fees and taxes, as well as the air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup. Tickets for Our Lady of the Rocks are not included, and you’ll need to pay around 10 euros per person.

Can I customize the stops? Yes, the tour allows for some flexibility and customization, so you and your driver can adjust the itinerary or add other nearby stops if desired.

What should I bring? Bring some snacks, water, and extra money for entrance fees or souvenirs. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring Kotor’s old town.

How long is the driving time? The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, with most of that time spent at stops and the drive between them.

What’s the weather like? The tour is weather-dependent; if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

This private Montenegro tour from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to see some of Montenegro’s most captivating sights without the fuss. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to explore at their own pace with a friendly, knowledgeable driver leading the way.