Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Optional Boat Trip

Travelers seeking a seamless way to explore Montenegro’s stunning coastlines and historic towns often turn to the Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik offered by Super Tours. This well-rated experience promises a combination of scenic drives, charming villages, and picturesque views of the Bay of Kotor—all within a roughly 11 to 12-hour window. Whether you’re after a taste of Montenegro’s coastal beauty or a hassle-free organized day, this trip provides a compelling option.

One of the best things about this tour is how it balances sightseeing with free time, letting you wander at your own pace in places like Kotor and Perast. Plus, the optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks adds a dash of maritime charm, giving you a chance to see the baroque church and the man-made island up close, at your own expense. However, be aware that the long journey—about 2 to 2.5 hours each way—can feel a bit tiring, especially if weather conditions aren’t ideal. This tour suits travelers who want a structured but flexible day trip with opportunities to soak in some of Montenegro’s most beautiful spots without the hassle of self-driving or planning.

Key Points

• Comfortable transport with air-conditioning and hotel pickup options, ensuring a smooth journey.
• Visiting iconic sites like Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, Perast, and optional boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Long drive but scenic coastal routes that showcase Montenegro’s rugged beauty.
• Flexible free time to explore towns, visit landmarks, or relax with a drink.
• Highly rated tour guides who share engaging insights about the region.
• Excellent value combining transportation, guided commentary, and multiple stops for around $72.

An Introduction to the Experience

Our review of this trip comes from countless traveler feedback and detailed descriptions, not personal experience, but it’s evident that this tour offers a comprehensive look at Montenegro’s coast with the convenience of organized logistics. It’s perfect for those who prefer a set itinerary with the assurance of transport and guides, rather than navigating unfamiliar roads themselves.

One of the standout features is how the tour manages to hit key highlights—Perast, Kotor, and Budva—within a single day. Plus, the optional boat ride, which is a small extra fee, provides a chance for a quick maritime adventure and a close look at Our Lady of the Rocks. The most appreciated aspect? Guides like Ivan, Nico, and Drazen who bring the stops alive with stories and tips. They make the long bus rides more engaging, sharing tidbits about local culture, history, and hidden gems.

On the flip side, the total travel time can be a challenge. Several reviews mention how the journey takes about 2 to 2.5 hours each way, which can be a lot of sitting, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating. Some travelers also note that the border crossing can cause delays, sometimes nearly halving the sightseeing time in Kotor. If you’re looking for a more relaxed pace or more time at each site, this might feel a little rushed.

In the end, this trip is ideal for those wanting to tick Montenegro off their list without the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple tickets. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with a full day of travel and sightseeing, and who enjoy guided experiences and scenic drives.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Dubrovnik

The adventure begins with hotel pickup or a designated meeting point at Pile Gate, conveniently close to Dubrovnik’s Old Town. The bus is air-conditioned, which is a lifesaver considering the longer drives ahead. Early mornings may see some variability in pickup times, but overall, the process is smooth, and most travelers report punctuality.

Scenic Drive and Bay of Kotor Views

The drive south along the Dalmatian Coast is a highlight on its own. Expect to be captivated by sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea, rugged coastline, and lush valleys. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the scenic route, with some calling it “beautiful” and “picturesque.” The road twists and turns around the bay, offering countless photo opportunities—and the chance to appreciate Montenegro’s rugged beauty from a comfortable vantage point.

Stop at Perast: Legend and Charm

The first stop is Perast, a small coastal town famous for its baroque architecture and the legend of the Madonna and Child icon. With about an hour and a half here, you have time to wander the quiet streets, admire the historic buildings, or consider the optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks. This island, made man-made over centuries, features a small church, a museum, and a panoramic view of the bay.

Reviews praise Perast as “beautiful,” with one mentioning that the story about the icon adds a charming layer to the visit. Be aware that this stop is free, but the boat to the island costs approximately $10, which travelers often find worthwhile for the unique experience.

Kotor Old Town: Exploring in Free Time

Next is Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a labyrinth of narrow streets, charming squares, and historic sites like St. Tryphon Cathedral. The tour allows around three hours here, which is enough to explore at your own pace, visit landmarks, or simply sit with a drink and watch the world go by.

Many reviews highlight the quality of the guides during the drive, like Nico, who shared engaging stories about Kotor’s history and culture. Some travelers note that the town’s climb up to San Giovanni Fortress—a steep 1,350 steps—is an absolute must-do for panoramic views, though it might not appeal to everyone, especially if they’re short on time or prefer a relaxed visit.

Optional Boat Ride to Our Lady of the Rocks

The boat trip is at your own expense, roughly $10, and offers a chance to see the artificial island and its ecclesiastical treasures up close. Several reviewers recommend it, calling it “worth the extra,” especially if the weather is clear and sunny. However, if weather conditions are poor—as some travelers experienced—the ride can be less impressive, and you might opt to skip it.

Budva: Coastal Charm & Beaches

The last major stop is Budva, known for its walled Old Town and some of Montenegro’s best beaches. You’ll have around two hours here, which is ideal for strolling the streets or grabbing a snack. Reviewers appreciate the picturesque setting, with some mentioning it as “charming” and “full of life.”

The optional ferry boat ride back from Budva to Dubrovnik is a novel touch, though not everyone mentions it explicitly. This stop offers a relaxed end to the sightseeing, allowing you to soak in the Mediterranean vibe.

Return Journey

The drive back to Dubrovnik skirts along the coast, offering one last chance to enjoy the views. Expect to arrive back in Dubrovnik around late afternoon or early evening, depending on border crossing delays. Several reviews note that border queues can extend the day, but guides usually keep travelers informed and comfortable.

Transportation, Guides, and Group Size

The experience is conducted in air-conditioned vehicles, which are comfortable for the long drives. Group sizes are capped at about 100 travelers, with many reviews mentioning small-group options that feel more personal. Guides like Nico, Drazen, and Ivan stood out for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills—adding value beyond just driving between sites.

Some reviews comment that the guide’s knowledge varies, with a few mentioning limited commentary or difficulty hearing from the rear of the vehicle. This is worth considering if you’re keen on a fully narrated experience.

Price and Value

At roughly $72 per person, including transport, guides, and hotel pickup in Dubrovnik, many travelers find this to be good value. The cost covers multiple stops, scenic drives, and the convenience of organized logistics, making it ideal for those who prefer not to plan every detail themselves.

What’s Not Included

The main extras are the boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks (about $10) and food or drinks, which are at your own expense. A small EUR 1 tax is payable to enter Kotor, so bring some cash.

Practical Tips for the Trip

• Bring your passport as border crossings are part of the journey. A valid visa may be required depending on your nationality.
• Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to climb the fortress or explore towns.
• Check the weather forecast, especially if you’re considering the boat trip or the fortress climb.
• Arrive early at the pickup point, especially if you’re not staying at a hotel within the immediate Dubrovnik area.
• Carry some cash for optional expenses like the boat ride, snacks, or souvenirs.
• Prepare for a long day—pack water, snacks, and entertainment for the bus ride.

The Sum Up

This Montenegro full-day tour from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded snapshot of Montenegro’s coast, perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic drives with cultural stops. The inclusion of free time in Kotor and Budva allows for a personalized experience, and the optional boat trip adds a special touch—if weather permits.

The guides are generally praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the long bus rides more engaging. While the journey is lengthy, the stunning views, charming towns, and relaxed pace make it worthwhile, especially for those new to Montenegro or short on time.

If you’re after a value-packed day trip that balances sightseeing with some leisure, and you’re comfortable with a full schedule, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, scenic drives, and the chance to explore multiple spots without the hassle of planning transport or tickets themselves.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered within Dubrovnik, and for small-group options, within a 20-minute drive outside Dubrovnik. The meeting point for others is at Pile Gate.

Can I bring my pet?
No, pets are not allowed on this tour.

How long is the drive each way?
Expect approximately 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on border crossing delays and traffic.

What is the cost of the boat trip?
The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks costs around $10 and is at your own expense.

What do I need to bring?
A valid passport, cash for extras, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers say yes, as long as they’re comfortable with the long bus ride and walking around towns.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to about 100 travelers, with options for smaller groups.

This full-day trip from Dubrovnik showcases Montenegro’s coastal splendor, historic towns, and charming villages, all with the ease of a guided tour. It’s a fantastic way to see a slice of Montenegro without the stress of self-driving, making it ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and culture.