Dubrovnik Day Tour: Montenegro with Kotor, Perast, Boat Ride

If you’re in Dubrovnik and looking to see more of the region’s stunning coastline and charming towns, this Montenegro day tour offers a great way to do it without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. It takes you on a full-day journey to some of Montenegro’s most photogenic spots, complete with a boat ride, local guides, and plenty of opportunities to relax and soak in the scenery.

What really stands out about this experience are the expert guides who help bring the history and stories of each place alive, and the breathtaking views you’ll get along the way. The tour is well-structured, and the small group size keeps things intimate and less rushed. However, keep in mind that it’s a long day — about 11 hours — so it might be tiring if you’re not used to full-day excursions.

One potential consideration is the additional costs not included in the upfront price, such as the tourist tax and boat ride fee. Still, for the price, the value of seeing Montenegro’s highlights with knowledgeable guidance makes it worthwhile for many travelers. This tour is ideal if you enjoy scenic day trips, are keen on exploring coastal towns, and don’t mind a packed schedule.

If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of cultural exploration, scenic drives, and boat trips, this tour could be a prime choice. It balances the beauty of Montenegro’s coastline with engaging storytelling, making for an experience that’s both relaxing and enriching.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day trip from Dubrovnik with pickup and drop-off.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and local knowledge.
• Includes a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks island, offering unique views.
• Visits two picturesque towns: Perast and Kotor, with free time to explore.
• Small group size (maximum 20 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Additional costs: Tourist tax (€3) and boat ride (€10) are extra.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Early for a Full Day of Exploration

The tour kicks off bright and early at 6:30 am to maximize your day. You’ll be picked up from your Dubrovnik accommodation or designated meeting point in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more comfortable. The drive to Montenegro typically takes about 6 hours round-trip, so be prepared for a bit of travel time.

First Stop: Perast — The Coastal Charm

Perast is the first stop, and it’s one of those towns that instantly feels postcard-perfect. Known for its lovely waterfront and historical charm, it’s a place where you can easily lose track of time wandering along the narrow streets and admiring the old stone buildings. According to local legends, the town’s connection to the Madonna and Child icon adds an element of cultural intrigue.

Here, you’ll have about an hour to explore freely. You’ll see the famous Our Lady of the Rocks island after a short boat ride — included in the tour — which is a highlight. The island appears almost like a floating jewel, filled with church buildings and a storied past, carved from human effort and faith.

The Boat Ride to Our Lady of the Rocks

The boat ride to this man-made island is a quick 30-minute journey that adds a special touch to the day. It’s a chance to enjoy the water and snap some incredible photos of the coastline. The island itself is a place of pilgrimage, with a church and a museum, and it’s notable for being built on a collection of rocks laid by local fishermen over centuries.

Kotor: The Old Town and Its Enchantment

After returning from the island, it’s time to visit Kotor, where you’ll spend about 3 hours exploring with a local guide. Kotor’s old town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, ancient walls, and hidden squares — a real treasure for wandering at your own pace.

You’ll get the background on the town’s history, and then you’re free to walk around, climb the formidable city walls, or find a cozy café for a bite. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see the imposing fortress walls, which reward those willing to make the climb with panoramic views of the bay. During the walk, guides often share stories of Kotor’s strategic importance through the centuries.

Several reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Luka for making the history come alive, balancing instructive storytelling with relaxed pacing. One reviewer shared that Luka “struck the perfect balance,” making the day both instructive and leisurely.

Lunch and Free Time

After the guided portion, you’ll have some free time to explore Kotor independently. This is a good time to grab a local meal — many recommend trying the fresh seafood or local specialties in one of the town’s many restaurants. While not included in the tour, this adds to the authentic experience, and you can choose a spot that suits your tastes and budget.

Return Journey and Reflection

Following a full day of sightseeing, the return trip to Dubrovnik is relaxed, with the chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. The tour concludes with drop-off at your original pickup point, making it a seamless experience.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Based on reviews, this tour’s organization stands out. Travelers appreciate how smoothly everything runs, from the pickup to the guided walks and boat rides. One reviewer mentioned, “The agency added us to a social media group with all details and even live tracking when pickup from hotel,” which really shows how attentive they are to customer experience.

The guides also receive high praise. Luka, in particular, is singled out for his engaging and well-balanced storytelling, helping visitors not just see the sights but understand their significance. Several reviews note guides being professional, knowledgeable, and friendly, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The scenic views along the coast, especially during the boat ride and from the walls of Kotor, are consistently described as stunning. Many visitors mention the photo opportunities, with the picturesque bay, old towns, and the floating church of Our Lady of the Rocks making for memorable images.

Paying Attention to Costs and Value

The initial price of around $58.47 per person offers fairly good value, considering the included transportation, guides, and several key sights. However, there are some extras: €3 tourist tax and €10 for the boat ride to the island. These add to the overall cost but are quite standard for such tours.

The duration — about 11 hours — might sound long, but if you’re eager to see Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport and guides yourself, it’s quite efficient. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a more personal experience and easier movement through crowded spots.

In terms of pacing, the tour balances structured guided parts with free time, giving you enough space to explore on your own. For many, this mix hits the right note, especially given the travel time involved.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic coastal drives, historical towns, and boat trips, all packed into a full day of exploration. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a long day on the move and want a convenient, guided way to see Montenegro’s highlights from Dubrovnik.

If your priority is rich culture or relaxing beach days, this might feel a bit busy. But if you’re curious about the area’s history, love picturesque towns, and want to see the stunning bay, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive more comfortable.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 11 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and free exploration.

Is the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks included?
The boat ride is part of the tour, but it costs an additional €10 per person.

What is the cost of the tourist tax?
The tourist tax is €3 per person and is paid on the spot.

How much time do we spend in Kotor?
You’ll have around 3 hours to explore Kotor with your guide, with some free time for walking, shopping, or dining afterward.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the tour provides an English-speaking guide throughout the day, including a local guide in Kotor.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, some cash for extra expenses, and sun protection depending on the weather.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed for families, the itinerary and pace may suit travelers with children who enjoy walking and sightseeing — just consider the long day and walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This Dubrovnik to Montenegro tour offers a well-rounded taste of Kotor Bay’s beauty and history. With expert guides, scenic boat rides, and free time to explore charming towns, it’s a reliable choice for those wanting a guided day trip without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets themselves.

The experience’s main strengths lie in its organized approach, the knowledgeable guides, and the spectacular scenery. The inclusion of a boat ride adds that extra special touch that makes the day memorable. While it’s a long journey, the convenience and quality of sights make it worthwhile for many.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to enjoy some of the most beautiful coastal scenery, this tour offers a solid way to see Montenegro from Dubrovnik. Just be prepared for the full schedule and extra costs if you want to fully enjoy the boat ride and island visits.

All in all, if you’re after a smooth, guided, scenic experience that hits the highlights, this tour is definitely worth considering.

(Please note: The review is based solely on available information and actual experiences may vary. Always check the latest details before booking.)