Private Day Trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro

Exploring Montenegro from Dubrovnik: A Personal Trip Review

If you’re planning a visit to Dubrovnik and are craving a taste of Montenegro’s famed coastline, a private day trip offers a tempting way to see some of the most picturesque spots in the region. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve researched it thoroughly and spoken to travelers who have, so I can give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really stands out about this experience are the breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor and the charming old towns of Perast and Kotor. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you get a more tailored, relaxed experience—no rushing with crowds. One potential downside to keep in mind is that the tour is quite full-on for a single day, especially if you’re not used to long hours in a vehicle.

This trip is especially well-suited for those who love natural beauty, history, and a bit of adventure, but it’s also flexible enough to be customized if you want to focus on specific areas or skip certain stops. Whether you’re traveling solo, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour offers a good mix of scenic drives, cultural sights, and opportunities for memorable photos.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: The Bay of Kotor is considered one of the most stunning spots on the Adriatic.
• Flexibility: The tour is private and customizable, so you can tailor your experience.
• Convenient: Includes pick-up and private transportation, making logistics easier.
• Rich towns: Perast and Kotor are full of history, architecture, and scenic charm.
• Time-efficient: About 9 to 10 hours, covering key highlights without feeling too rushed.
• Cost: For around $465, up to 8 people can enjoy a personal, guided day out, which can be quite good value for a private experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

Overview of the Experience

This private day trip is designed to make Montenegro’s highlights accessible from Dubrovnik. It’s a full-day adventure that combines scenic drives, cultural exploration, and optional extras. The tour is priced per group, which makes it ideal for small parties seeking a personalized touch. It costs around $465.41 for up to 8 travelers, making it a potentially cost-effective way to share one of the most beautiful landscapes with friends or family.

The tour features pick-up service, so you won’t have to worry about finding your way. With an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation, you can relax and enjoy the ride while your guide shares insights into the places you visit.

The Stops: A Closer Look

Stop 1: The Bay of Kotor

The gateway to Montenegro, the Bay of Kotor is often called a masterpiece of nature. It’s the largest bay on the Adriatic and renowned for its dramatic scenery—towering cliffs, charming villages, and clear waters. No one seems to walk away unaffected by its beauty. As one traveler said, it’s “indescribably beautiful,” and you’ll probably find yourself reaching for your camera frequently here. The tour allocates about 1.5 hours for this stop, giving you ample time to soak in the views, take photos, and get a sense of the area’s grandeur.

Stop 2: Perast

Perast is a small, picturesque town that feels like a step back in time. It’s a favorite for many because of its well-preserved architecture, churches, and palaces that tell stories of centuries past. The buildings are mostly baroque style, adding a romantic touch to your walk. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, especially if you enjoy exploring narrow streets and soaking in local history. The stop here lasts about 45 minutes, just enough to browse, take photos, and maybe visit a church or two.

Stop 3: Our Lady of the Rocks

This is an optional boat trip to an islet in front of Perast. The island features a church and a small museum and is known for its unique story of man-made origins—created by local fishermen over centuries. The boat ride costs about $10 per person and is not included in the tour price. If you’re into scenic island visits, this adds a layer of interest, but it’s entirely up to you whether to include it. Travelers who have done it mention it’s a charming addition to the day, though it does cut into your time elsewhere.

Stop 4: Kotor

The highlight for many, Kotor is an ancient city surrounded by formidable walls that stretch over 4.5 km. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a history book—medieval architecture, narrow alleyways, and hidden squares. The city is well-preserved and offers plenty for history buffs and photo enthusiasts alike. You’ll get around 3 hours here, giving you enough time to explore the city walls, visit historic sites, or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The best part? The admission to the old town and walls is free, which adds to the overall value.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour provides air-conditioned private vehicles with booster seats if needed, making the ride comfortable and safe. Since the group size is limited (up to 8), you won’t be stuck with strangers or squeezed into a large bus—more like a personalized day out.

Is It Worth the Cost?

At roughly $465 for a group of up to 8, this tour offers good value if you value flexibility and personalized service. The price covers private transportation, pick-up, and a guided experience, which saves you the hassle of navigating on your own or joining crowded group tours.

Compare that to the cost of individual tickets, car rentals, and the time involved, and it’s quite reasonable, especially considering the scenic highlights you’ll visit. Plus, the option to customize the itinerary means you can prioritize what interests you most—something you won’t get with a standard bus tour.

Real Traveler Feedback

Justin_L, who rated the tour a perfect 5 stars, said: “Great tour!! Fully customizable and had a wonderful time in Montenegro! Would definitely recommend to anyone.” This highlights the appeal of the private, flexible approach, especially if you want a relaxed, tailored experience.

Some travelers have appreciated the stunning views and the ease of private transportation, noting how it takes the stress out of planning and ensures you get to see key sights without feeling rushed. The moderate duration of about 9 to 10 hours strikes a good balance—long enough to explore comfortably but not so prolonged as to exhaust you.

A small caveat is that some stops are quite brief, around 45 minutes, but that’s typical for a day trip and allows you to get a taste of each location without overextending yourself.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private trip is ideal if you’re after a flexible, scenic day that hits the highlights without the hassle of self-driving or coordinating multiple bookings. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or friends who want a personalized experience with expert guidance. If you love stunning vistas, charming towns, and historical sights, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It also suits travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience—the door-to-door pick-up, private transport, and the opportunity to customize the itinerary make it especially appealing. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more independent, self-guided approach, you might want to consider alternatives.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the private nature and flexible stops could make it suitable for older children or teenagers who enjoy scenic views and exploring towns. Keep in mind, the long hours may be tiring for very young kids.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is described as customizable, so you can suggest other locations or adjust the schedule to better fit your interests.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 45 minutes at Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, to 1.5 hours at the Bay of Kotor, and around 3 hours at Kotor. The boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks is optional and not included in the price.

What’s included in the price?
Private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and pick-up are included. Booster seats are available if needed.

What’s not included?
Lunch is not included, and the boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks costs about $10 per person if you choose to go.

How flexible is the timing?
Most travelers find the timing manageable; the total duration is about 9 to 10 hours. Since it’s private, the schedule can be slightly adjusted within reason.

Is the tour available year-round?
The information suggests confirmation is received at booking, but it doesn’t specify months. Most likely, it operates during the tourist season, but check directly with the provider for off-season options.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, picturesque towns, and the convenience of a private, tailored experience, this Dubrovnik to Montenegro day trip hits the right notes. The stunning views of the Bay of Kotor, combined with the charm of Perast and Kotor, promise a memorable day that’s both relaxing and enriching.

While you should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, the personalized nature and flexible stops make it a worthwhile way to see Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of navigating yourself. For those who want to indulge in some beautiful scenery and cultural discovery in comfort, this tour offers a solid choice.

Ultimately, whether you’re a history buff, a landscape lover, or simply in need of a well-organized day trip, this experience is worth considering. Just remember to confirm any customizations beforehand and enjoy what promises to be a day packed with gorgeous views and interesting sights.