Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip by Bus and Boat

If you’re considering a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, you’ve probably come across options that promise a mix of scenic cruises and historical exploration. The Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip by Bus and Boat offers just that—an opportunity to see some of Montenegro’s most famous sights with the convenience of guided transport and a boat cruise. While the experience has its high points, it’s worth knowing what to expect before booking.

We like this tour for its beautiful views of the Montenegrin fjord and the chance to visit iconic sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor’s old town. The boat ride, which includes a restaurant, café/bar, and sun terrace, makes for a relaxing way to take in the scenery. On the flip side, a few travelers mention long wait times and some last-minute changes, so it’s not perfect. Still, if you’re after a straightforward way to see Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of planning your own day, this tour could be a good fit—especially if you’re okay with a busy day and some shared group dynamics.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: The fjord views are a standout, offering classic photo opportunities.
• Cultural Stops: Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Kotor’s old town provides a good taste of Montenegro’s history.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes pickup, drop-off, and a comfortable cruise with amenities.
• Time Management: Some reviews highlight limited time at Kotor, so plan your expectations accordingly.
• Cost & Value: At $119, it’s a decent price for a full-day guided experience with lunch.
• Travel Logistics: Border crossings can be slow, and some travelers faced delays or last-minute changes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Scoop on the Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Starting Point: Easy Pickup & Early Departure

Most travelers will appreciate the pickup service that gets you smoothly from Dubrovnik to Montenegro. The tour typically departs early morning around 8:00 am from the Dubrovnik port area, specifically Gruz. Once on the bus, you’ll enjoy a roughly two-hour ride, crossing the border into Montenegro. Keep in mind, this border crossing can sometimes involve queues—several reviews mention long waits of up to four hours—so it’s a good idea to bring patience and perhaps some snacks or entertainment for the wait.

The bus ride offers a chance to relax after a busy morning, and the guides are generally helpful during the trip, providing some background info to get you excited about the day ahead. Once in Montenegro, your journey continues by boat, which is where things start to get more scenic.

The Montenegrin Fjord & Our Lady of the Rocks

The highlight for many is the boat cruise along the Bay of Kotor, often described as a journey through some of the most scenic waters in the region. The boat features additional comforts like a restaurant, café/bar, and a sun terrace with loungers—ideal if you want to relax while taking in the stunning surroundings.

One of the key stops is the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, just off the coast of Perast. This tiny island is famous for its church, built in the 17th century, perched dramatically on the water. Inside, you’ll find murals by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned Baroque artist, which adds to the charm of the site. It’s a quick visit, but many find it worthwhile for the photos and the history.

Kotor: The Medieval Gem

Next, the boat docks near Kotor, a town often described as a medieval treasure. Its well-preserved walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings make it a favorite for visitors. The visit usually includes a stop at the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, known for its architecture and religious artifacts, as well as a quick look at the Maritime Museum—though the time here is often quite limited (roughly 45 minutes). Several reviews, including Brendan’s, mention that this is probably not enough time to fully explore Kotor’s charms, but it does give a snapshot of its historical importance.

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Lunch & Relaxation Aboard the Boat

Lunch is generally included in the tour price, served on the cruise. While some travelers praise the quality of the meal, others find it average, and a few mention that the food options were not particularly memorable. Still, it’s a nice touch that you get to dine with views of the fjord, making the journey more enjoyable.

Return Journey & Final Thoughts

After a full day, the boat returns to Bijela around 6 pm, and the bus back to Dubrovnik departs soon after. Expect to be back in Dubrovnik around 8:30 pm, depending on border crossing times. Keep in mind, the return journey involves some lengthy bus travel, but most find the scenic views along the way compensating.

What Travelers Say: Real Experiences and Honest Feedback

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—they seem to make a real effort to share cultural insights and historical facts, which enriches the experience. Gerd, for example, praised the guides for their fluent English and helpfulness, adding that the trip was packed with interesting commentary.

However, there are some frustrations, especially regarding border queues and last-minute changes. One traveler mentioned, “You did not warn us of the change in support, result, we spent 30 euros in a taxi to reach the bus.” This points to the importance of verifying pickup details and being prepared for delays.

Another common concern is time management. Travelers like Brendan expressed that not enough time is allocated for exploring Kotor, which is arguably the main highlight. If seeing the old town thoroughly is a priority, this tour may feel rushed.

Some also comment on the long bus hours—about six hours in total—highlighting that the day is quite packed. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a consideration.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price of $119, this tour offers a decent value for a full day of sightseeing, especially including the cruise, guided commentary, and lunch. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, and you’ll get a quick taste of Montenegro’s most iconic spots. That said, it’s a somewhat rushed trip, with limited time at key locations, and border wait times can eat into your day.

If you’re someone who enjoys guided tours and doesn’t mind a busy day, you’ll probably find this experience rewarding. On the other hand, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want more time at Kotor, you might consider other options or plan to stay longer independently.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is suited to travelers who want an organized, hassle-free way to see Montenegro’s highlights without the stress of planning. It’s a good choice if scenic boat rides, historical sites, and cultural insights appeal to you. Keep in mind, the tour involves some long travel hours and can be busy, so it’s less ideal if you dislike group trips or have mobility issues.

It’s also a solid option if you’re traveling on a budget, looking for a full-day experience, and don’t mind a packed schedule. For those wanting a more leisurely exploration or more time in Kotor, consider extending your stay or exploring different tours.

FAQ Section

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
You should check if you need a visa to enter Montenegro. The tour involves crossing the border, so having your passport or ID card ready is essential.

What should I bring on the day?
Bring your passport or ID card, and remember, large bags or luggage are not allowed on the tour. A hat, sunscreen, and water are good ideas, especially since you’ll be spending time outdoors.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While no specific mention of children is made, the tour mainly involves sightseeing and boat rides, so it could be suitable for families with children old enough to handle a full day of travel.

How long is the bus ride?
The bus ride from Dubrovnik to Montenegro takes approximately two hours, depending on border crossing times, which can be unpredictable.

What’s the typical duration at each site?
Most stops in Kotor and on Our Lady of the Rocks last around 45 minutes to an hour. The limited time at Kotor might feel rushed if you’re eager to explore more.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, a meal is provided aboard the boat, with options to choose from. The quality received mixed reviews but was generally appreciated for convenience.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned; the price covers pickup, drop-off, the cruise, guide, and lunch. Keep in mind that border queues might extend the day.

Can I cancel this trip?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving some flexibility if your plans change.

How crowded does it get?
The tour can be busy, especially during peak seasons. Some reviews note that border queues can add to the feeling of a crowded, rushed day.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip by Bus and Boat stands out as a practical and scenic way to see some of Montenegro’s most famous sights with minimal fuss. You’ll enjoy the beautiful views of the fjord, the historic charm of Kotor, and the unique experience of visiting Our Lady of the Rocks. It’s a solid choice if you value guided convenience, good company, and a full itinerary in one day.

That said, expect a busy schedule with some limitations on time, particularly at Kotor. If you’re after a relaxed pace or a deep dive into Montenegro’s towns, you might want to consider more localized options or extending your stay. Overall, for the price and what’s included, it’s a tour that delivers on a memorable day packed with scenic beauty and cultural highlights—well worth considering if it aligns with your travel style.

Remember: Always check border crossing times and tour details close to your travel date, as last-minute changes can occur. With a bit of patience and an adventurous spirit, this trip can be a rewarding way to experience Montenegro’s enchanting coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: