Montenegro & Bosnia in 1day: 2 Countries Day Tour from Dubrovnik

If you’re short on time but eager to experience a bit of the Balkans, this Montenegro & Bosnia in 1 Day tour from Dubrovnik might just be your ticket. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a practical way to tick two countries off your list without sacrificing too much time or comfort.

What we love about this tour is how seamlessly it combines scenic drives with cultural stops, giving you a quick but meaningful taste of both Montenegro and Bosnia. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary ensure you’re not just rushing through sights but actually soaking in their charm. Also, the air-conditioned vehicle and organized border crossings make the long day manageable and stress-free.

Of course, there’s a fair amount of time spent on the road—around 9 to 10 hours in total—which might be tiring for some. If you’re particularly sensitive to long car journeys or prefer more in-depth explorations, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, if your goal is to see two countries efficiently and enjoy some stunning scenery along the way, this tour fits the bill.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time, love scenic drives, and are curious about the Balkans’ diverse cultures. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a good guide, value comfort, and don’t mind a packed schedule.

Key Points

• Two countries in one day: Montenegro and Bosnia are both covered, offering a diverse experience in a single trip.
• Scenic drives and beautiful vistas: Expect plenty of photo stops along the Bay of Kotor and panoramic views from Trebinje.
• Expert guides make the experience more engaging and educational.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles helps manage the long hours on the road.
• Border crossings are smooth with guides helping to navigate the process.
• Limited time at each stop means you’ll see highlights, but not deep dives into each location.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Scenic Drive Along the Bay of Kotor

The tour kicks off with a drive along the stunning Bay of Kotor, passing through charming villages like Bijela, Kamenari, and Morinj. Your guide will share stories about Montenegro’s culture, traditions, and history, adding context to the views. Expect to get some great photo opportunities at Verige, a narrow strait famed for its scenic beauty.

While the drive itself is a highlight, it’s worth noting that admission tickets are not included in the price, so plan accordingly if you want to visit specific sites.

Perast: A Quick Photo-Stop

Your next stop is the tiny town of Perast, where you’ll have about 10 minutes to take pictures of the pretty waterside scenery and the iconic islands of Saint George and Our Lady of the Rocks. It’s a brief stop, but you’ll appreciate the chance to stretch your legs and snap some memorable shots. This spot is free to explore, making it a nice, relaxed break.

Exploring Kotor

The jewel of the day is Kotor, a town that once thrived as an independent city-state. Known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its Venetian influence, Kotor is a walkable maze of narrow streets, lively squares, and ancient churches.

You’ll get about an hour and 15 minutes here, which is enough time for a quick wander and perhaps a casual lunch (which you can opt for on your own). Many reviews mention how knowledgeable guides help bring Kotor’s history to life, making the visit all the more interesting.

Panoramic View in Trebinje

Crossing into Bosnia, you’ll visit Hercegovačka Gornica, a hilltop viewpoint that offers sweeping panoramas of Trebinje, the Trebišnjica River, and the mountains beyond. This short stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the landscape, with guides explaining the significance of the area.

Trebinje Old Town

Finally, you’ll explore Trebinje, a charming town with wide Austrian-era streets shaded by large plane trees. Your guide will narrate how Trebinje grew through the centuries, and you’ll get the chance to walk through its historic alleys. This part of the tour lasts about an hour and is a great way to experience Bosnia’s relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

What the Reviews Say

Most travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning guides like Kristina, Neven, and Jaksa by name. Several reviews highlight how guides make border crossings smoother and enrich the experience with local insights.

Reviewers also mention the stunning scenery—from the bay views in Montenegro to the countryside in Bosnia—and find the stops perfectly timed to avoid fatigue while maximizing sightseeing. One traveler noted, “Our driver Neven was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the long journey enjoyable,” capturing how important the driver’s attitude is to the overall experience.

A common theme is the value for money, with many saying that for around $200, you get a comprehensive day trip covering two countries, scenic views, and cultural highlights. However, some reviewers have pointed out that booking in advance can sometimes be more expensive than local options, so doing some research might save you a few bucks.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and What’s Included

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, which is a big plus—no need to worry about transportation logistics. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long hours more comfortable, especially in warmer months.

The group size is limited to 8 people, creating a more intimate experience compared to larger, more impersonal tours. This smaller group usually results in better interaction with guides and a more relaxed pace.

The price of $202.62 per person covers transportation, parking fees in Trebinje and Kotor, and the guide’s commentary. However, it does not include admission tickets or meals, so you might want to budget extra for quick snacks or a meal during free time.

Duration and Pace

This tour lasts around 9 to 10 hours, starting early and ending in the evening. Expect a lot of driving, but most travelers agree that the views and experiences along the way compensate for the long hours. It’s a pretty full day, so packing some snacks or a water bottle is advisable.

The Value Proposition

When you consider the cost versus the experience, this tour offers a lot. You’re getting the chance to see two different countries, learn about their cultures, and enjoy scenic stops—all with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guides.

Most reviews reflect high satisfaction, praising the professionalism, friendliness, and knowledge of the guides. The small group size enhances the feeling of intimacy, and the flexible itinerary allows for some personalized touches, like restaurant recommendations or extra photo stops.

On the flip side, if you’re craving a more in-depth exploration of each location or prefer a slower, more relaxed pace, this tour might feel a bit rushed. But for those wanting to check off multiple sights in a single day and enjoy a well-organized trip, it hits the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who want to see two countries quickly but comfortably. If you’re interested in scenic drives, cultural highlights, and efficient sightseeing, you’ll likely find this tour worthwhile. It’s particularly good if you enjoy guided experiences, value knowledgeable guides, and prefer not to worry about border crossings or logistics.

However, if you prefer a more in-depth or leisurely exploration of each place, or if you’re traveling with very young children or mobility issues, you might want to consider longer, more detailed tours instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking around towns like Kotor and Trebinje, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. You might find some uneven streets or steps.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup and drop-off in Dubrovnik, parking fees in Trebinje and Kotor, and a guided commentary are included.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You are free to bring snacks or purchase food during the stops.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 10 to 15 minutes for photos, with Kotor and Trebinje offering longer segments (about an hour and a quarter in Kotor and an hour in Trebinje).

Is there an option for a private tour?
Yes, the tour offers a private experience if desired, which can be more flexible and tailored to your preferences.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, as you’ll cross borders into Bosnia and Montenegro, a valid passport is necessary. Guides assist with border crossings.

How scenic is the drive?
Expect plenty of scenic vistas along the Bay of Kotor, mountain views from Trebinje, and picturesque towns—most reviews highlight how beautiful the scenery is.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection in summer, and layers if you’re traveling in shoulder seasons.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, generally spring to early fall offers the best weather for sightseeing and scenic drives.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The standard itinerary is fixed but can be adapted slightly, especially in private tours. Discuss your preferences with the guide.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to maximize your Balkan trip in a single day, this Montenegro & Bosnia tour from Dubrovnik seems like a solid choice. It balances scenic drives, cultural highlights, and expert guidance to give you a memorable snapshot of two diverse countries. While it’s a full, sometimes long day, most travelers find it worthwhile—especially those eager to see as much as possible without the hassle of planning each border crossing or transport.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy organized tours, scenic landscapes, and the ability to tick multiple destinations off their list efficiently. With a small group and attentive guides, this trip offers a relaxed yet comprehensive glimpse into the Montenegro and Bosnia regions.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, it provides a hassle-free way to explore these beautiful parts of the Balkans, making it a worthwhile addition to your Dubrovnik adventure.