Montenegro Private Tour from Dubrovnik: Kotor & Perast

Exploring Montenegro from Dubrovnik: The Kotor & Perast Private Tour

Taking a day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro offers a tempting glimpse into a less-visited, but equally captivating, corner of the Balkans. This private tour, priced at around $294 per person, is designed to give travelers a personalized experience of the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor and the charming village of Perast. It’s a full-day adventure that promises scenic drives, historical sights, and the chance to savor local flavors—an appealing mix for those craving more than just the usual Dubrovnik strolls.

What truly stands out about this tour is the dedicated attention from your guide, allowing for a much more relaxed and tailored timeframe. Plus, the opportunity to explore two different, yet equally picturesque, towns gives you a richer sense of Montenegrin coastal life. That said, one thing to keep in mind is the longer drive time and the need to be comfortable with crossing borders, which can sometimes introduce delays. This experience is best suited for curious travelers eager to see beyond the Croatian coast and into the less-visited treasures of Montenegro.

Key Points

• Private and Personalized: With a dedicated guide, you get a flexible itinerary and attention to your interests.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, mountains, and charming coastal villages.
• Historic Highlights: Explore medieval architecture, the iconic St Tryphon Cathedral, and fortress ruins that overlook Kotor.
• Local Flavors: While lunch is not included, you’ll have time to enjoy fresh seafood and seasonal dishes at local restaurants.
• Optional Excursions: After the main sightseeing, you can opt to visit Perast or take a boat ride to nearby islands.
• Value for Money: The tour’s cost includes transport, a private guide, and the opportunity for a highly customized experience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This private tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup at 8:00 am. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortably air-conditioned vehicle, leaving behind the Croatian coast to venture into Montenegro. The drive itself is a treat. You’ll pass along the stunning Dalmatian coastline, with glimpses of sparkling sea and rugged hills. Your guide will share nuggets of local history and culture, making the journey as engaging as the stops.

The Border Crossing and Scenic Drive

Crossing from Croatia into Montenegro is straightforward, though it’s worth noting that border crossings can sometimes introduce delays, especially during peak times or if there’s high traffic. Once across, the landscape transforms into a dramatic tableau of mountains framing the Bay of Kotor. This bay, often called Europe’s southern fjord, is a highlight even before you arrive. The drive around the bay offers plenty of photo opportunities, with seaside villages sprinkled along the water’s edge.

Stop 1: Exploring Kotor

Arriving in Kotor, you’ll have about three hours to explore independently. We loved the way the guide set the tone—highlighting that this medieval town is a world heritage site with walls that date back to the Middle Ages. The narrow streets are lined with stone buildings topped with iconic red roofs, creating a postcard-perfect scene.

One of the key sights here is St Tryphon Cathedral, dating back to the 12th century. It’s small but packed with history, and a quick visit inside provides a sense of the town’s religious and cultural heritage. For those feeling adventurous, climbing the Castle of San Giovanni offers panoramic views over Kotor, but beware—it’s quite a trek up 1,350 feet (411 meters). Reviewers mention the climb is worth it for the breathtaking vistas, though it’s not for the faint of heart or those short on time.

Some guests, like Ann_B, appreciated how the guide was flexible, especially when a cruise ship was in port—allowing them to avoid crowds and tailor their visit. The town’s lively atmosphere, with cafes and small shops, makes it a delightful place to stroll, absorb history, or just enjoy the scenery.

Stop 2: The Charm of Perast

After Kotor, your tour might include a visit to Perast, a tiny coastal village that feels untouched by mass tourism. It’s about an hour’s stop here but packed with charm. The sea breeze, colorful houses, and beautiful views of the island monastery of St George make it a perfect spot for relaxing and snapping photos.

Many reviewers recommend taking a boat ride to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, although this is an optional extra (around $10 per person). The village itself is perfect for wandering, with historic churches and quiet alleyways. You might even enjoy a quick visit to the small island to soak in the peaceful setting.

Lunch and Flexibility

Lunch isn’t included in the tour price, but you’ll have plenty of options in Kotor—especially seafood, which is fresh and plentiful in this part of Montenegro. Tour participants have raved about the local cuisine, noting the delicious seafood and seasonal dishes available at small restaurants. If you’re a foodie, this is a fantastic chance to try regional specialties without the tourist traps.

The Return Journey

After a relaxed afternoon, you’ll take a short ferry ride across the bay back to Montenegro, then head northward to Dubrovnik. The drive back is comfortable and offers more scenic views, with some tours offering flexibility to make additional stops or revisit favorite spots.

What Our Reviewers Say

Authentic insights from past travelers reveal the tour’s strong points and areas for consideration. Many praise the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer calling Drazen “perfect in every way” and noting his ability to adapt the schedule based on cruise ship arrivals. Zach, another guide, was noted for his storytelling and photography skills, making the day even more memorable.

On the flip side, some reviewers found the itinerary description a little misleading. Laurie_C mentioned feeling the tour was more of a free independent exploration with a guide rather than a structured guided experience, especially since the majority of the time was spent on their own at stops. That said, most appreciated the flexibility and privacy a private tour offers, as opposed to large group excursions.

A common highlight is the scenic drive and stunning views, which many felt justified the cost. For example, a traveler remarked, “We saw some truly breathtaking spots,” emphasizing the value of experiencing Montenegro’s coast without the hustle and bustle of large tour groups.

The Practical Side: Transport, Timing, and Value

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day. Most travelers find the timing ideal—early start allows for maximum sightseeing before the afternoon crowds or cruise ship influx. The private vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, and the group size is limited to your party, enhancing the personal touch.

At $293.74 per person, the tour offers good value considering the private guide and transport, especially for those wanting a more tailored experience. The price doesn’t include the optional boat ride or meals, but with suggested local eateries nearby, you can enjoy fresh seafood and authentic Montenegrin cuisine at your own pace.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who value flexibility, comfort, and a tailored experience. It suits those who prefer avoiding large groups and want to explore at their own pace—whether that’s climbing the fortress, visiting quiet churches, or relaxing in a seaside café. It’s a good fit for anyone curious about Montenegro’s lesser-known towns and scenic coastline, especially if they’re comfortable with some walking and a bit of border crossing.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight schedule, dislike long drives, or prefer guided tours with fixed itineraries. Also, if you’re not keen on optional extra costs, keep in mind that lunch and boat rides are paid separately.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Dubrovnik to Kotor and Perast strikes a nice balance of scenic beauty, historical interest, and personalized service. The flexibility offered by a private guide means you can tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s climbing walls, sampling seafood, or simply soaking in the views.

You’ll love the way this tour showcases Montenegro’s coastal charm away from the crowds, with knowledgeable guides making the history come alive. The scenic drive, the medieval streets, and the peaceful villages all combine for a memorable day out.

For travelers wanting a more intimate, relaxed, and customized experience—yet still packed with stunning sights—this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially worthwhile for those who appreciate flexible schedules and value local insights, making it one of the more rewarding ways to explore Montenegro from Dubrovnik.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers have enjoyed this private tour. The small group setting and private guide make it a comfortable option for anyone exploring alone.

What is included in the price?
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included. Additional activities like meals and boat rides are extra.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can be flexible about stops and timing, especially if you communicate your preferences in advance.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to Kotor?
The drive takes about an hour, crossing the border into Montenegro, with scenic views along the way.

What are the main highlights in Kotor?
The medieval Old Town, Saint Tryphon Cathedral, and panoramic views from the fortress are major attractions.

Is there an opportunity to visit Perast?
Yes, the tour includes a stop in Perast, where you can explore the village and consider boat rides to nearby islands.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves some walking through town streets and possibly climbing stairs to the fortress. It’s manageable for most, but those with mobility issues should consider this.

What type of clothing should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially if you plan to climb the fortress.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but ample options in Kotor serve fresh seafood and local dishes.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provider’s website or Viator. It’s advisable to book at least 40 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a thoughtfully curated way to experience Montenegro’s coast in style and comfort. With flexible stops, knowledgeable guides, and mesmerizing scenery, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Balkan itinerary, especially for those eager to explore beyond the well-trodden paths.