Montenegro Full Day Trip from Dubrovnik (small group)

Thinking about adding Montenegro to your Croatian adventure? This full-day tour from Dubrovnik promises a chance to see some of the most captivating spots along the coast, from fjord-like bays to charming old towns. If you’re after a way to tick off multiple highlights in one day, this trip might be just what you need.

What we like about this journey is the opportunity to explore Boka-Kotor bay, often called the southernmost fjord in Europe, and to get a taste of Montenegrin towns like Perast, Kotor, and Budva—each with their own character and stories to tell. Plus, the knowledgeable guides really elevate the experience, sharing stories and pointing out details you might miss on your own.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t perfect. The 9-hour duration can feel a bit rushed if you like to linger longer in each spot, and the transportation depends on the day’s traffic and border crossings, which can sometimes cause delays. Still, it’s a solid option for those who want a broad overview without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transport themselves.

If you enjoy scenic drives, picturesque towns, and learning a bit about the region’s past, this tour should suit you well—especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate a laid-back, guided experience.

Key Points

• Small group size means more personal attention and fewer crowds.
• Includes multiple stops at key Montenegrin towns, giving a well-rounded view.
• Guided commentary enhances the experience with local insights.
• Opt-in boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks is available but costs extra.
• Roughly 9 hours total, including travel time, so expect a full day.
• Border crossing and traffic can introduce some unpredictability.

Exploring Montenegro in a Day: What to Expect

This tour balances sightseeing with the realities of a day-long trip. You’ll start early in the morning and head out from Dubrovnik, aiming to make the most of your time in Montenegro’s coastal gems. The experience is designed for those who want to see the highlights without the need to change hotels or arrange separate transport.

The Journey Begins: Herceg-Novi

Your first stop, Herceg-Novi, is where you get your first glimpse of the Boka-Kotor bay, often described as Europe’s southernmost fjord. This is a great spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. The old town, with its narrow streets and historical buildings, will give you a quick taste of local life. The tour includes a 40-minute stop, which means you’ll have just enough time to explore and grab a quick coffee.

The reviews note that guides tend to be friendly and accommodating, which really helps set a relaxed tone for the day. One traveler loved how the guide made the experience “wonderful” with their effort and friendliness.

Strolling Through Perast

Next, the tour takes you to Perast, a tiny town brimming with old stone houses, charming villas, and historic churches. The highlight here is the St. Nikola Church, known for its tall bell tower—one of the most distinctive features along this coast. You’ll have about an hour here to wander, take photos, or even consider a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, which is an optional activity (costs extra, around $10).

Travelers often comment on the beauty of Perast—many say it’s a highlight, with some describing it as “quintessentially picturesque”. If you love small towns with a lot of character, this stop will likely appeal.

The Charm of Kotor Old Town

The heart of the day is Kotor, with its medieval walls, the impressive St. Triphun Cathedral, and narrow alleyways. With roughly two hours here, you’ll have good time to explore, grab lunch, or just soak in the atmosphere. The old town’s maze-like streets and historic sites make it a favorite among travelers, and guides usually point out the best photo spots and hidden corners.

Some reviews mention they appreciated the personal stories and insights shared by guides, helping to bring the ancient walls and buildings to life. You’ll also get a chance to see the town’s main attractions without the hassle of planning your own visit.

Visiting Budva

Finally, the tour heads to Budva, one of the oldest towns on the coast, surrounded by city walls. You’ll have a couple of hours here, perfect for wandering, enjoying a drink, or even a quick bite. The lively atmosphere and historic architecture make it a fitting end to the day’s sightseeing.

Travelers say that Budva’s mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy makes it a worthwhile stop, even if only for a short while.

The Not-So-Perfect Bits

While many loved the experience, some aspects received mixed reviews. The biggest complaint was about the guide’s clarity—particularly one review that found the guide’s thick accent and mumbling hard to understand. This can sometimes make it tricky to catch all the stories and details, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

Another significant point is the border crossing, which can cause delays. One traveler reported that their driver’s vehicle was stopped and fined at the Montenegro border, and their passports were temporarily taken by police. These unexpected events aren’t typical but do highlight potential unpredictability.

The 9-hour duration is quite full, and if you’re someone who prefers to linger longer in each place or avoid feeling rushed, this might not be ideal. It’s a tour that maximizes seeing multiple locations in a short amount of time, which is attractive for many, but can also feel hectic.

The Value of the Tour

At around $88 per person, this tour is reasonably priced considering the number of stops and the guided experience. You get a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and a driver/guide who shares insights—plus, most of the attractions are free to explore. The main exception is the optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, which costs about $10.

For travelers who prefer a guided day without the hassle of figuring out transport and border crossings on their own, this tour offers a lot of convenience. Its popularity, with over five bookings last month and a decent overall rating, suggests that many find it a worthwhile way to see Montenegro in a day.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a structured, guided overview of Montenegro’s coast, especially if you’re on a tight schedule and prefer not to organize multiple logistics. It’s good if you enjoy scenic drives, historical towns, and learning about the region from a guide.

However, if you’re sensitive about border delays or dislike feeling rushed, you might want to consider other options, particularly for longer, more relaxed explorations. Families with older children or travelers comfortable with a busy itinerary could get a lot out of this, but it’s not tailored specifically for very young kids.

Final Thoughts

This Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik is a solid choice for those who want a quick yet comprehensive peek into Montenegro’s coastal towns. The guides’ local knowledge and the beautiful scenery make it a memorable experience, especially if you’re eager to see multiple sights without extra planning.

While it’s not without its hiccups—like border delays and a sometimes hard-to-understand guide—it offers good value for the price and a chance to tick off several iconic spots in a single day. If you’re a traveler who enjoys guided tours and doesn’t mind a packed schedule, this could be a great add-on to your Croatian adventures.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it can be suitable for families, especially those with older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing and some walking.

What is included in the price?
You get transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a driver/guide. Most sites are free to explore, but the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is optional and costs about $10.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, stops, and sightseeing.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is extra, and any meals or drinks are at your own expense.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, camera, passport or EU ID, and some cash for optional activities or snacks.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if there’s bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

If you’re looking for a convenient way to see key Montenegrin highlights from Dubrovnik and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour offers a practical and scenic solution. Just keep in mind the possible border delays and ensure it fits your travel style.