Montenegro Private Tour from Dubrovnik

If you’re considering a trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, this private tour offers a chance to see some of the most stunning spots in the Bay of Kotor area without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. This experience is highly rated, with 190 reviews averaging a perfect 5.0, and it’s recommended by 99% of travelers who’ve tried it. It’s a popular choice for those who want a personalized, flexible trip with a knowledgeable guide.

What really appeals to us about this tour is the customizable itinerary—you get to decide what you want to see, from Roman mosaics in Risan to the UNESCO-protected streets of Kotor. Plus, the round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off make things smooth, especially if you’re staying outside the city center. The second thing we love? The small group size (up to 3 people), which ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention.

One consideration? Since it’s a full-day trip with multiple stops, it does require a good chunk of time—about nine hours. If you’re not used to long excursions, or if you prefer a more relaxed pace, keep that in mind. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunch or drinks, so budget and plan accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love history, scenic drives, and discovering hidden gems at their own pace. It’s ideal if you’re flexible and eager for a personalized day exploring Montenegro’s highlights from Dubrovnik.

Key Points

• Highly personalized experience with the ability to customize your itinerary.
• Expert guide who provides engaging, knowledgeable commentary.
• Beautiful sights including Kotor, Perast, Risan, and Budva, with options for off-the-beaten-path stops.
• Comfortable transportation in a private, air-conditioned minivan.
• Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off for stress-free planning.
• Full-day long tour—about nine hours, offering a rundown.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This private tour offers a thorough day of sightseeing, with the flexibility to choose what you most want to see. From start to finish, you’re in good hands with a driver-guide who is eager to tailor the experience to your preferences. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect.

The Start: Pickup and Journey through Konavle

The day begins with hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, a real convenience. From there, you’ll head into the scenic Konavle region, famous for its lush landscapes and charming villages. The drive itself is part of the pleasure, offering glimpses of Croatian countryside before crossing into Montenegro. The journey can include stops for photos, whether it’s sweeping landscapes or quaint roadside scenes—something many reviews highlight as a lovely way to start the day.

Crossing into Montenegro

Traveling from Croatia into Montenegro involves a border crossing, usually quick if the timing is right. Based on the reviews, border wait times tend to be quite reasonable, sometimes as short as under ten minutes—an often overlooked but appreciated detail. Once over the border, the scenery shifts to the rugged, dramatic coastline and the bays that define this part of the world.

Risan: Roman Mosaics and Ancient Marvels

The first stop in Montenegro usually is Risan, known for its Roman mosaics. This is a must-see for history buffs or those curious about ancient civilizations. Travelers describe this as a quiet, peaceful spot where you can admire intricate mosaics and imagine life centuries ago. One reviewer notes, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and a pleasure,” emphasizing how much a good guide can enhance what might otherwise be just a quick visit.

Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

Next, your guide might take you to Perast, a picturesque town with stunning views and two islands just off the coast. The famous Our Lady of the Rocks island is accessible for a visit, conveying a sense of calm and serenity. Many guests find this one of the most charming parts of the trip, with reviews mentioning “beautiful views” and “a peaceful island experience.” You might even get the chance to visit the church and learn about its fascinating maritime history.

The UNESCO World Heritage City of Kotor

The highlight for many is the UNESCO-listed city of Kotor. This medieval town, surrounded by imposing city walls, is a wonder to explore. You can wander narrow, cobbled streets, discover hidden squares, and soak in the atmosphere of a city that feels like stepping back in time. Sightseeing around Kotor often includes walking the fortress walls for panoramic views, and many reviews praise the “outstanding explanations of the history” from guides like Marijan.

Some travelers opt for an optional lunch here—many recommend trying local seafood at waterside restaurants. However, the tour doesn’t include food, so you’re free to choose a spot that suits your taste and budget.

Visiting Budva

Continuing along the coast, the tour visits Budva, famous for its lively old town. Depending on traffic and time, your guide might suggest skipping or spending more time here. Some reviewers note that roadworks between Kotor and Budva can slow things down, and in one case, a guide recommended skipping Budva altogether if time is tight. Still, Budva offers a vibrant atmosphere, lovely beaches, and charming streets worth seeing if you have the time.

Ferry Ride and Return

A real plus of this tour is the ferry crossing across Kotor Bay, which gives a unique perspective of the coastline and a break from driving. The ferry ride is often mentioned as a highlight for its scenic views and relaxed pace.

As the day winds down, you’ll head back toward Dubrovnik, with the driver possibly offering to make some additional stops depending on your interests and timing. The return journey can be a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

From the reviews, several aspects are consistently praised:

• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Marijan and Boris are frequently described as friendly, passionate, and very informed. They don’t just narrate facts—they share stories that bring the places to life.
• Flexible, personalized experience: The ability to tailor your stops means you get to spend more time in what excites you most. Several reviews mention how guides listen carefully and adapt the day accordingly.
• Beautiful scenery and historical sites: The views along Kotor Bay, the ancient walls of Kotor, and the tranquility of Perast make the trip visually stunning.
• Good value for money: For around $666 per group (up to three guests), you get a full, customized day with private transportation and an experienced guide—many consider this a fair or even excellent deal, especially given the personalized service.
• Comfortable transportation: The private air-conditioned minivan offers a relaxed, hassle-free ride and a chance to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews mention extensive roadworks between Kotor and Budva, which can add time and reduce the amount of exploring possible in Budva. If you’re particularly keen on visiting Budva, it’s worth noting that it might be a shorter stop or worth skipping altogether to maximize time elsewhere.

Another point is that lunch and drinks are not included, so you should plan for this in terms of budget and timing. Some travelers recommend bringing snacks or planning a meal in Kotor or Perast.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you love history, scenic drives, and discovering hidden corners at your own pace, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who want the convenience of a private guide, the comfort of door-to-door pickup, and the flexibility to customize their day. It’s a good choice if you’re visiting Dubrovnik and want to see Montenegro’s highlights without the stress of organizing multiple transport modes or tours.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced day or are traveling with very young children, you might find the nine-hour schedule demanding. Also, those on a tight budget might want to consider the cost relative to other excursions, especially since food and drinks are extra.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for those staying outside Dubrovnik?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup from Dubrovnik or the surrounding area, making it convenient regardless of your accommodation location.

How long does the whole trip last?
The tour lasts approximately nine hours, covering various stops and scenic drives around Montenegro.

What transport is used during the tour?
You’ll be traveling in a private, air-conditioned minivan, ensuring comfort during the long day.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Lunch and drinks are not included, so you should budget for meals separately. Optional visits, like to islands, may have entrance fees, but these are not specified as part of the tour cost.

Can I customize which sites I visit?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to focus on the attractions you’re most interested in.

How is the border crossing handled?
Border wait times are generally short—often less than ten minutes—thanks to efficient processing, according to reviews.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, it suits most travelers interested in history and scenery. The long drive might be tiring for very young children, so consider your family’s needs.

Final Thoughts

This private Montenegro tour from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded, flexible way to explore some of Montenegro’s most captivating sights. The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, and the chance to customize your day makes it appealing for travelers who value a personalized experience. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach help elevate what might otherwise be just a sightseeing trip into a memorable adventure.

If you’re after a comprehensive day of discovery with the convenience of private transportation and the option to tailor your stops, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see Montenegro without the hassle of organizing multiple parts of the trip themselves.

For those who want a smooth, insightful, and visually stunning experience with a trusted guide, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to plan for some extra meals or snacks, and be prepared for a full day on the go. It’s a great way to make the most of your time between Croatia and Montenegro.

Ready to explore the Bay of Kotor with a personal touch? This tour combines comfort, flexibility, and expert insights for an unforgettable day.