Full-Day Tour Bay of Kotor Perast Kotor and Budva small group from Dubrovnik

Traveling from Dubrovnik to Montenegro for a day trip offers some of the most scenic and culturally rich experiences along the Adriatic coast. This small-group tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 with over 765 reviews, promises a well-balanced mix of history, stunning scenery, and charming towns. For just over $100 per person, you get round-trip transportation, multiple stops, and the flexibility of a personalized group—making it a popular choice among travelers craving authentic sights without the hassle of self-driving.

What we love about this tour is how it maximizes the day with carefully curated stops, from exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites to wandering lively old towns. Plus, the fact that transport and border crossings are managed for you offers a stress-free experience, especially with the drive being handled by knowledgeable guides. That said, some might find the day long and the roads a bit bumpy—so it’s best suited for those with a good level of comfort and patience for travel.

If you’re eager to see Montenegro’s highlights, value good storytelling, and prefer small-group intimacy, this trip hits the right notes. It’s perfect for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those who want a taste of Montenegro’s unique culture without spending days there.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Visit two countries and several must-see sites in a single day.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, fostering a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.
• Scenic Drive: Let someone else handle the border crossings and road navigation, so you can enjoy the views.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Ivo, Darko, and Bojan are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• Flexible Free Time: You’ll have time for sightseeing, shopping, and optional extras like boat rides.
• Value for Money: At around $102, the tour offers a comprehensive day with all transport included, making it a cost-effective way to explore Montenegro.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start Early for Maximum Advantage

The tour kicks off at 6:45 am, an early start that’s quite necessary given the 10-hour schedule. The early departure is appreciated by many reviewers, as it lets travelers beat the crowds—especially at popular spots like Kotor and Our Lady of the Rocks. It also provides a smoother border crossing; one reviewer noted that the driver used a smaller checkpoint, saving significant time, which is a smart touch.

Stop 1: Bay of Kotor

The Bay of Kotor, often called the ‘fjord of the Mediterranean,’ is the first stop. It’s a winding, stunning stretch of water lined with dramatic cliffs and charming villages. The bay is free to explore, and while many stops here are brief, the scenery alone makes it worth the early wake-up. Travelers have expressed admiration for the landscape, describing it as a place of breathtaking views they could gaze at for hours.

Stop 2: Perast

Next, you’ll visit Perast, an old town just a few kilometers from Kotor. This little gem is beloved for its picturesque streets and proximity to the islets of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. Many reviewers mention how charming and photogenic Perast is—perfect for wandering at your own pace. Some optional extras are available here, such as a boat ride to the islets (~€12), which one reviewer highly recommends to get a full picture of the area.

Stop 3: Kotor Old Town

The jewel of the trip, Kotor’s medieval old town, is a highlight for nearly everyone. Characterized by winding alleys, Romanesque churches, and historic squares, it’s a place that invites exploration both on foot and through guided commentary. The group typically spends about two hours here, enough time to soak in the atmosphere, snap photos, and learn about its fortifications and history.

Reviewers praised guides like Andrew and Ivo for their knowledge, with comments on how they pointed out key attractions and shared engaging stories. One noted that the old town gets busy during cruise ship season, but starting early helps avoid the crowds. Entrance to Kotor is free, but a 3-euro tax per person applies, which you need to pay at the gate.

Stop 4: Budva

The final stop is Budva, known for its lively beaches and nightlife. Here, the tour provides about two hours to explore the narrow streets of the old town, surrounded by Venetian stone walls. Some travelers enjoy wandering, shopping, or simply relaxing on the beaches, although opinions vary—some find Budva a bit too commercialized and busy. One reviewer suggested skipping the beach in favor of a relaxed lunch and a stroll, which many found to be the best approach.

The tour doesn’t include a formal guide in Budva, offering free time to explore independently. If you wish, there’s an option to pay for extra attractions like a boat ride, which many reviewers appreciated for adding a memorable touch to their day.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is appreciated during the long drive. The small group size (up to 8 travelers, with some reviews mentioning up to 16) creates an intimate setting that allows for more interaction with guides and fellow travelers. Guides like Darko and Bojan have received praise for their friendliness, storytelling, and skillful handling of border crossing procedures, which significantly reduces waiting times.

Traveling with a driver-guide means you’re free to enjoy the scenery—many reviewers noted the quality of the driving, especially given the winding coastal roads and border queues. The early start helps skip some of the traffic, especially on busy days.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• The tour starts at 6:45 am, so early risers will be rewarded with fewer crowds.
• Most travelers can participate, but it’s a full-day commitment.
• A passport or EU ID is needed, as Montenegro isn’t in the EU, and a 3-euro entry tax applies in Kotor.
• Optional extras, like the boat ride (~€10-12), are payable on-site.
• The tour is non-refundable and requires a minimum of 4 people to run during off-season.
• Gratuities for guides are not included but appreciated by many.

Value and Authenticity

The price of roughly $102 includes transportation, border crossings, and multiple sightseeing stops. For the value-conscious traveler, this offers a rundown of Montenegro’s highlights without the hassle of driving or organizing logistics yourself. Many reviewers mention how the guides’ local knowledge brought the sites alive, making the experience more meaningful than just walking around on your own.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

One of the most consistent praise points is for the guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Travelers felt that their guides, whether Ivo, Darko, or Bojan, made the day special with stories, helpful tips, and a relaxed attitude. The early start and efficient border crossing strategy received special mention, saving hours of waiting and making the long day more comfortable.

However, the reviews also reveal some considerations. Several travelers mentioned that roads aren’t always in perfect condition, and traffic can be heavy, especially in high season. One review highlighted frustration over a long travel time caused by road upgrades, but most felt that the scenery and site visits balanced out this inconvenience.

The optional activities—like boat rides—are well worth considering if you want to elevate your experience. Travelers who took the boat to Our Lady of the Rocks found it to be a worthwhile addition, adding a different perspective of the bay.

The Sum Up: Who Should Take This Tour?

This full-day Montenegro trip from Dubrovnik offers excellent value for those wanting a hassle-free way to see some of the country’s best sights. It’s ideal for travelers who love history, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy. The early start and busy schedule mean it’s best suited for energetic travelers comfortable with long days and some road time.

If you’re looking for a guided experience that combines breathtaking landscapes with culturally rich stops, this tour delivers. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing run. It’s perfect for those who enjoy structured days, meaningful sightseeing, and having a local handle the logistics.

However, if you prefer relaxed pacing or more time in one spot, this might feel a little rushed—especially during peak season when traffic and cruise ship crowds can be challenging. Also, those sensitive to long drives or road conditions should consider whether a full day of travel suits their style.

In all, this tour strikes a good balance between convenience, cost, and authentic exploration. Whether you’re a first-timer to Montenegro or want a quick taste of its magic, it’s a trip worth considering.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, which makes starting the day simple and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early at 6:45 am, so be prepared for a full day.

What’s the group size?
The tour is small-group, limited to 8 travelers, which encourages a more personal experience.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, a valid passport or EU ID is necessary to cross into Montenegro, as it’s not part of the EU.

Are there extra costs?
Yes, optional extras like a boat ride (~€10) and entrance taxes (€3 for Kotor) are paid on-site. Tips are not included.

Can I explore independently?
Yes, you’ll have free time in Perast, Kotor, and Budva to wander, shop, or relax at your own pace.

What about the border crossing?
Border management is streamlined thanks to the guides and small group size, reducing wait times.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for a long day with some walking and vehicle travel.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
No, this tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked. Make sure of your plans before booking.

In summary, this tour offers a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rewarding day out for those traveling from Dubrovnik who want to experience Montenegro’s best sites without the fuss of self-driving. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and stunning stops make it a solid choice—just be prepared for a long, active day.