Montenegro Coast Small Group Excursion

Thinking about taking a day trip from Dubrovnik to see Montenegro? This Montenegro Coast Small Group Excursion promises to take you along the spectacular coast, offering stunning scenery, charming towns, and a glimpse of local life. Based on numerous reviews and detailed tour features, I’ll share what you can realistically expect — the good, the not-so-good, and whether it’s worth your time.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to get a taste of Montenegro’s famous Bay of Kotor and its picturesque towns, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and a comfortable ride. Plus, the boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks sounds like a real highlight. On the flip side, a common concern among travelers is the group size and border crossing delays — these can influence the overall experience.

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, historical towns, and doesn’t mind a full day out, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a guided, organized way to see a different country without the hassle of navigating on your own. But if you’re after a very intimate experience or a more flexible pace, you might want to consider alternatives.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more personalized feel, though reviews suggest the group size can sometimes be larger than advertised.
• Stunning views of Boka Kotorska bay make the long drive worthwhile, especially when passing through the scenic coastlines.
• Visit to Kotor Old Town is a major highlight, with plenty of time to explore the maze of cobblestone streets and historic sites.
• Boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks adds a unique touch to the day, with about 20 minutes on the island, although tickets are not included.
• The tour is quite comprehensive, including stops at Perast, the cathedral, and local guides, giving you a good overview of Montenegro’s coastal culture.
• Timing and border crossings can be a bit unpredictable, with some reviews mentioning delays, so patience is key.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This full-day tour kicks off early, with pick-up from Dubrovnik around 6:40 am. The first stop is the St. Tryphon Cathedral in Kotor, where you get about 15 minutes to admire its architecture — enough for a quick glance, but not enough for a deep dive into its history. Since the admission isn’t included, if you’re interested in visiting the inside, plan to pay separately.

Next, you’ll head into Kotor Old Town, where you’re given roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes. This is the heart of the trip and what most travelers rave about. The tight, winding streets, charming squares, and ancient walls are perfect for wandering, snapping photos, or grabbing a coffee. As one reviewer points out, the tour guide is knowledgeable, although some feel the commentary can be rushed or not detailed enough.

The third stop is Perast, a peaceful town with pretty waterfront views, where you’ll stay about 45 minutes. This is a quieter, more relaxed part of the day, great for strolling or taking a few photos. The free tour here is a bonus, with no extra admission fees.

Finally, the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks offers about 20 minutes on the island, famous for its church and legends. The boat is organized by the agency, but tickets aren’t included — so if you want to go inside, be prepared for an additional cost.

Transportation and Group Size

You’ll be traveling in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus, which is appreciated on a long day. While the tour is marketed as a small-group experience, some reviews mention that it can sometimes feel more crowded, with about 13-15 people or even a full bus. The driver and guide are generally well-reviewed, with many noting their knowledge, humor, and professionalism. The small-group feel can make the experience more intimate, but it’s worth keeping in mind that group sizes can vary.

Border crossing is another part of the adventure, and it can be slow, especially during busy times. One review mentions that the small bus was able to navigate borders more quickly, which is a definite advantage. Expect some waiting, but the scenery during the drive makes up for it.

Value for Money

At $59.95 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the inclusion of hotel pickup, a guided experience, and visits to several notable spots. The price doesn’t cover meals or entrance fees, and the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks isn’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to go inside the island. Many reviewers feel the experience is worth the cost, especially given the scenic beauty and informative guides.

However, some express disappointment over group size and timing, so if a more personalized, leisurely experience is what you’re after, you might want to explore private tours or different options.

The Experience of the Day

We loved the scenic drive along Montenegro’s coast, with many passengers commenting on how breathtaking the views of Boka Kotorska bay are. It’s a treat to see such rugged, dramatic coastline and picturesque towns from a comfortably moving vehicle.

Kotor Old Town steals the show for many, offering charming streets and historical sights. Visitors appreciate the time to explore, shop, or simply relax in its cafes. One reviewer calls Patricia, the guide, “knowledgeable, caring, and amusing,” which adds a lot to the experience, even if some mention she speaks quickly or the commentary can be somewhat rushed.

Perast offers a peaceful contrast, with its quiet streets and scenic harbor, perfect for a short stroll or photo session. The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is often praised, with travelers enjoying the boat trip and the views of the tiny island.

Weather can be a variable factor. Many reviews note that rain or shine, the scenery remains stunning, though poor weather can limit some activities, especially the boat trip. The guide and driver are generally praised for their efforts, despite occasional delays at borders.

Considering the Group and Timing

A common point of contention is group size. While the tour is advertised as small-group, some travelers have found it to be more of a full bus. This can impact the feeling of intimacy and flexibility — especially when waiting at borders or moving from one spot to another.

Timing is another factor. The tour starts early, allowing for maximum sightseeing but resulting in a very full day. If you’re not a morning person or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel rushed. On the bright side, the early start means you beat some of the crowds and get more out of the day.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Montenegro Coast Small Group Excursion is perfect for travelers seeking a well-organized day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning their own trip. If you enjoy scenic drives, exploring historic towns, and having a knowledgeable guide, you’ll find plenty to love here. The boat trip and views are memorable, and the overall value is good for the price point.

However, if you’re very particular about small groups or a more exclusive experience, be aware that some reviews mention larger groups and border delays. Those who prefer flexible, unstructured touring might find this less ideal.

In short, this tour is well-suited for those wanting a mix of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and convenience. It’s a solid choice if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule, enjoy guided travel, and want to see Montenegro’s highlights in one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children who can handle a full day of travel and walking will generally enjoy the scenic views and town visits. Always check with the tour provider about age restrictions, if relevant.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and a comfortable coach. The boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks and entrance to Kotor Old Town are included, but other fees like entrance tickets and food are not.

How long is the drive?
The total duration is about 10 hours, including stops and border crossings. The drive to Montenegro is scenic but long, so expect some time on the coach.

What are the main highlights?
Expect stunning views of Boka Kotorska bay, a walk through Kotor’s historic streets, a peaceful stop in Perast, and a boat ride to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Last-minute cancellations won’t be refunded.

Is the group size truly small?
The tour is marketed as small-group, but some reviews suggest it can feel like a full bus, especially during border crossings. Expect around 13-15 people or more.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, any necessary visas, some cash for extras, and comfortable clothing suitable for walking and weather conditions.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Most travelers take it during good weather months. The early start helps avoid crowds, but be prepared for a long day.

If you’re after a scenic, guided taste of Montenegro’s coast, this tour offers a lot of value — just keep in mind the group size and border delays. It’s a solid choice for those who want to see the highlights without planning every detail themselves.