Private tour to Montenegro, Perast, Kotor and Budva

Exploring Montenegro’s Coastline: A Private Tour from Dubrovnik

This private day trip to Montenegro offers a chance to see some of the most picturesque spots along the Adriatic. From Dubrovnik, you’ll hop into a comfortable 8-seater van and spend about 10 hours exploring Perast, Kotor, and Budva — three gems that highlight Montenegro’s charm. What makes this tour appealing is the personal touch: a dedicated guide who shares insights, flexible timings, and the opportunity to enjoy each town at your own pace.

One of the standout features is the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor, often considered one of Europe’s most beautiful fjord-like landscapes. The chance to visit Our Lady of the Rocks, with the optional boat ride, adds a unique dimension. That said, it’s worth noting that the boat ride and entry fee are not included in the standard price, so budget accordingly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day trip with a knowledgeable guide, especially those keen on photography, scenic vistas, and authentic cultural experiences. However, if you’re not a fan of early mornings or long drives, you might find the schedule a bit packed. Overall, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing, history, and leisure.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience tailored for your group ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Stunning viewpoints and photo stops enrich the scenic journey.
• Opportunity to visit three iconic towns: Perast, Kotor, and Budva, each with its own character.
• Optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks adds a special experience.
• The tour offers ample free time to explore each location at your own pace.
• The cost includes transportation, guide, and entrance to Perast, but boat rides and additional activities are extra.

A Deep Dive into the Montenegro Day Trip

Convenient Pickup and Early Start

The experience kicks off early, with pickups from Dubrovnik around 7 am. The trip’s timing is perfect for maximizing your day — leaving plenty of time to soak in each spot without feeling rushed. We loved the way the guide handled the border crossing, which takes about 40 minutes including passport checks. Remember to bring your passport because border formalities are mandatory. The early start means you’ll be back in Dubrovnik around 5 pm, offering a full day of exploring without overextending.

Scenic Drive and First Stop: Bay of Kotor

Within an hour of crossing into Montenegro, you arrive at the spectacular Bay of Kotor. The panoramic view from the lookout point is a highlight that everyone raves about. The guide does a good job of pointing out key features and sharing stories about the area’s history and geography, making the moment even more engaging. This is an ideal spot for photos that will make your friends jealous for years.

Perast: Baroque Charm and Islet Adventures

Next up is Perast, a tiny yet captivating town packed with baroque architecture and seaside charm. You get about an hour here — enough time to stroll along the waterfront, admire the well-preserved buildings, and perhaps enjoy a coffee. The real draw, however, is the optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a small island topped with a church and a museum. Several reviews highlight how this boat trip adds a special touch to the visit, although it does come with an extra fee not included in the tour price.

Travelers who’ve taken the boat ride mention that it’s “worth the extra cost” and enjoy the chance to see the islet up close, with its intriguing history and beautiful views. If you decide to go, plan for about 20-30 minutes on the boat. If not, you still have plenty of time to soak in the quaint scenery of Perast.

Kotor: Medieval Marvel

Just a 15-minute drive from Perast, Kotor welcomes you with its well-preserved medieval old town, bustling squares, and fortified walls. The guide allocates about two hours here, which is plenty to navigate the winding streets, peek into historic churches, and admire the fortress walls that loom above the town. Many visitors note the guide’s engaging storytelling, which makes the history come alive.

You’ll love wandering around the maze of alleys, discovering cozy cafes, and learning about Kotor’s strategic importance through ages. Be prepared for some uphill walking if you choose to climb the fortress — the views from the top are truly worth the effort, providing a sweeping vista of the bay and surrounding mountains.

Lunch and Leisure in Budva

At around 12:30 pm, the group departs for Budva, where a local restaurant awaits. The tour includes the option to enjoy a relaxed lunch and then explore the town at your own pace for about two hours. Budva’s old town is lively, filled with narrow streets, historic churches, and a small but beautiful beach. Many reviews mention taking time to relax at the beach or stroll along the coast, soaking up the vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also wander into the shops or simply sit at a café and watch the world go by. The time here is enough to get a taste of Budva’s lively spirit without feeling rushed.

Return Journey: Ferries and Border Checks

The return trip begins around 2:30 pm with a scenic ferry ride across the Bay of Kotor — a relaxing way to appreciate the landscape from the water. The ferry ride is often highlighted as a peaceful, scenic highlight, with many travelers noting how it offers a different perspective of the bay.

Post-ferry, the group heads back to Dubrovnik, with a border crossing around 4 pm. This routine check can sometimes cause delays, so patience is key. The tour concludes around 5 pm, with everyone transported back to their original pickup points.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The private nature of the tour means you won’t be stuck with strangers and can customize your experience slightly if needed. The guide’s knowledge is frequently praised — they share insightful stories, historical context, and local tips that enrich the sightseeing. The scenic stops, especially the lookout and bay ferry, are carefully chosen to maximize visual impact.

The inclusion of free time at key locations like Kotor and Budva allows for a more relaxed experience, particularly for those interested in photography or exploring independently. The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, although optional and extra, is a highlight for many, giving a sense of adventure and a chance to see a unique island church.

Value-wise, considering the transportation, guide, and multiple stops, the price is reasonable, especially for those who appreciate a more intimate, flexible tour. The added cost of activities like boat rides should be factored in, but overall, it’s a good investment for a comprehensive day of exploring Montenegro’s coast.

Considerations and Tips

• Start early: The 7 am pickup ensures you make the most of your day, but it also means an early wake-up call.
• Bring your passport: Border formalities require it, so keep it accessible.
• Budget for extras: The boat ride and entry to Our Lady of the Rocks are not included, so plan for those costs.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Particularly for walking around Kotor’s old town and climbing the fortress.
• Photography: Bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom — the views, especially from the lookout and during ferry rides, are stunning.
• Weather considerations: Check the forecast, especially if you plan to spend time on the boat or at the beach.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for groups and couples looking for a personalized experience in Montenegro with a knowledgeable guide. It suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, breathtaking viewpoints, and culture in picturesque towns. If you prefer a flexible itinerary with free time to explore independently, this trip hits the mark.

It’s perfect for those who value comfort and convenience — a private van, direct pickup, and a balanced schedule make for a hassle-free day. It’s also a good choice for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Montenegro’s coastal highlights without the stress of planning multiple transportation or logistics.

Conversely, if you’re traveling solo or seeking a more active, group-focused experience, you might find larger group tours or different formats more engaging.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it is suitable for families, especially since the itinerary is flexible and not overly strenuous. Just keep in mind the early start and some walking involved.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve ahead, especially since it’s a private tour with limited availability.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport for border crossing, comfortable shoes, camera, and any personal essentials. Snacks and water are optional, but the tour does not include food or drinks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the boat ride included in the price?
No, the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is an optional extra not included in the base price.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik?
It takes about 40 minutes to reach the border crossing, and then the journey into Montenegro is part of the overall 10-hour schedule.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English and Spanish, handled by guides fluent in both languages.

This private Montenegro tour from Dubrovnik offers a thoughtful blend of scenic beauty, cultural sights, and leisure time — perfect for travelers who want a curated experience without the chaos of large group tours. Whether you’re looking for Instagram-worthy views, historic towns, or just a day away from the bustling city, this trip delivers a memorable glimpse of Montenegro’s coast.