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

Exploring the Bay of Kotor, Perast, Kotor, and Budva on a full-day small group tour from Dubrovnik offers a practical and scenic way to visit Montenegro without the hassle of driving. Priced at $101.91 per person, this 10-hour journey is led by a driver who doubles as a guide, with small groups limited to 8 for a more personal experience. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient option for those staying in Dubrovnik. While the itinerary covers some of Montenegro’s most beloved sites—like the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor and the lively Budva—it also emphasizes the scenic drive, with many reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and stunning views.

The tour is best suited for those interested in history, architecture, and picturesque coastal scenery. Keep in mind that entry fees apply at several stops, including a €3 tax to enter Kotor and €10 for the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks. Some reviews mention traffic delays, especially during high season, but this is balanced by the small-group attention and expert narration from guides like Darko and Ivo.

Key Points

• Visit two countries in one day: Montenegro is easily accessible from Dubrovnik, with stops at Kotor, Perast, and Budva.
• Small group experience: Limited to 8 travelers, with a driver who also acts as a guide, providing personalized attention.
• Hassle-free logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off remove the stress of finding meeting points or navigating border crossings.
• Spectacular scenery: The drive and stops showcase coastline views, medieval towns, and bay landscapes that impress every time.
• Entry fees and extras: Be prepared to pay €3 tax in Kotor and €10 boat fare if you choose the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks.
• Guides praised for knowledge: Guides like Darko and Ivo receive high marks for informative commentary and friendly service.

Scenic Drive to Montenegro with Small Group Comfort

Starting early at 6:45 am, this tour departs from Dubrovnik, setting the stage for a full day of sightseeing. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the approximately 10-hour trip. The small group format enhances flexibility, allowing guides to tailor the experience and answer questions in a relaxed environment. The vehicle’s size and the smaller border checkpoints help travelers avoid long waits that larger groups often encounter, as noted in reviews highlighting the efficient border crossing.

The route takes you along Montenegro’s coast, offering breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and bays. The guides are praised for their knowledge of local history and geography, often pointing out main attractions at each stop. The early start helps to avoid crowds at popular sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, especially during the high season.

Exploring the Bay of Kotor’s Winding Shores

The Bay of Kotor, also known as Boka, is the first major stop. Known for its serpentine shape and stunning scenery, the bay is a highlight for many travelers. The stop lasts around 10 minutes, mainly for taking photos and enjoying the view. As a free admission site, the bay offers a panoramic perspective of the coastline without additional costs. This brief stop is perfect for appreciating the spectacular natural landscape.

Perast’s Historic Charm and Islet Visits

Next, the tour visits Perast, a small town famed for its baroque architecture and proximity to two notable islets: St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. The stop lasts about an hour, giving ample time for photos, exploring, and optional boat rides. The boat to Our Lady of the Rocks costs €10 per person and is a popular add-on, providing a close-up view of the church and museum on the islet. Travelers often comment on Perast’s well-preserved charm and beautiful waterfront, making it a favorite spot.

Kotor’s Medieval Old Town

The highlight of the tour is the 2-hour visit to Kotor, a fortified town with winding alleys, medieval squares, and Romanesque churches. Entrance to Kotor involves a €3 tax, paid locally, which covers the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Guides typically give a rundown of the town’s history, architecture, and notable sites, such as the Kotor Fortress. Visitors can stroll independently, enjoying local cafes and souvenir shops.

The review mentions traffic congestion during high season, but the small-group format and expert guidance help maximize the available time. The scenery from the fortress walls offers panoramic views of the bay, often described as breathtaking.

Discovering Budva’s Beachside Vibe

The final stop is Budva, a lively town famous for sandy beaches and nightlife. The 2-hour stay allows visitors to explore the medieval old town, surrounded by Venetian stone walls, and perhaps take a walk along the coastal promenade. Some reviews note that Budva can be crowded, especially in high season, and recommend limiting time in the town for those seeking a more relaxed experience. Visitors can also choose to skip the optional beach visit and instead enjoy lunch or shopping.

Practicalities: Transport, Entry Fees, and Border Crossings

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the long drive, with guides often pointing out local landmarks and scenic viewpoints. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is highly valued for convenience.

Border crossings are typically swift, especially with the smaller checkpoints used by the tour. Travelers should carry passport or EU ID, as Montenegro is not part of the EU, and entry fees apply—notably €3 for Kotor and €10 for the boat ride. The tour provider can arrange guides in Kotor upon request, but the driver also serves as a guide, providing informative commentary.

Review Highlights: Guides and Scenic Value

Multiple reviews praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and driving skills. Guides like Darko and Ivo earn commendations for engaging storytelling and safe driving. Their ability to navigate traffic and border queues is a common theme.

Travelers also highlight spectacular scenery along the coast and at each of the stops. The early start helps avoid crowds at busy sites like Our Lady of the Rocks, making the experience more enjoyable.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour provides a rundown of Montenegro’s coast, some traffic delays are possible during high season, leading to longer travel times. The entry fees and optional extras like the boat ride add to the overall cost, so travelers should prepare accordingly.

The tour is not private and has a maximum of 16 travelers, with some reviews mentioning crowd levels in certain areas, especially Budva. The duration (about 10 hours) means it’s a long day, and participants should be prepared for a full itinerary.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day Montenegro Tour

This full-day guided trip from Dubrovnik offers a cost-effective, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience Montenegro’s most iconic spots. The small group size and expert guides make it a comfortable and informative option, especially for those eager to explore Kotor, Perast, and Budva without the hassle of driving or organizing logistics themselves.

While traffic and crowds can be challenges, the early start and efficient border crossings help maximize sightseeing time. The entry fees and optional boat rides should be budgeted for, but the stunning views and historical sites make the trip worthwhile. It’s ideal for history buffs, scenery lovers, and anyone looking for a hassle-free Montenegro experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting early at 6:45 am.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry fees such as €3 for Kotor and €10 for the boat ride are paid separately.

Can I arrange a guide in Kotor?
Yes, guides in Kotor can be arranged upon request, but the driver also provides commentary.

What stops are included?
Stops include Bay of Kotor, Perast, Kotor Old Town, and Budva.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or EU ID, cash for entry fees and extras, and comfortable clothing for walking.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but walking and long hours may be challenging for some.

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $101.91 per person.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Guides like Darko and Ivo receive high praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and driving skills.