Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip by Bus and Boat

Discover the Full-Day Montenegro Trip from Dubrovnik for $119

This Montenegro day trip offers an engaging blend of bus travel, boat cruise, and cultural exploration. Priced at $119 per person, the tour starts in Dubrovnik and takes you into the scenic Kotor Municipality area. The itinerary includes a full-day cruise along the Montenegrin fjord, visits to the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks island, and a walk through the fortified city of Kotor.

While the tour has its highlights, such as the historic church murals and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, it is also important to consider the border crossings and border queue delays noted by some guests. This tour is ideal for those eager to experience Montenegro’s natural beauty and cultural sights with a guided experience and lunch included.

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Key Points

• Price: $119 per person, including pickup, boat cruise, guide, and lunch
• Duration: Full-day trip from Dubrovnik, with transportation and sightseeing
• Main stops: Our Lady of the Rocks island, Kotor’s old town, and the fjord cruise
• Highlights: Scenic boat ride, murals by Tripo Kokolja, Kotor Cathedral, and a boat terrace
• Suitability: Best for travelers comfortable with border crossings and moderate walking
• Limitations: Not suitable for those with mobility issues and potential border queue waiting

Starting from Dubrovnik: Pickup and Transfer Details

The tour begins with pickup and drop-off services in Dubrovnik, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city. The bus ride to Montenegro lasts approximately two hours, during which you pass through the border crossing. This process can take some time, as queues at the border tend to be lengthy, which might impact the overall schedule.

Once in Montenegro, the group switches to a boat for the highlight of the trip—a cruise along the Bay of Kotor. The transport arrangement aims to keep the trip smooth, but some past guests have experienced delays during border crossings, so flexibility is advised.

Navigating the Montenegro Fjord: A Scenic Boat Journey

The boat cruise along the Montenegro Fjord offers stunning views of this rare fjord-like formation in the country. The boat features a restaurant, café/bar, and terrace with sun loungers, so you can relax while taking in the scenery.

Travelers often appreciate the comfortable onboard amenities, which include options for food and drinks, making the cruise part of the trip enjoyable and leisurely. The cruise includes stops at the island of Our Lady of the Rocks and in the historic city of Kotor, combining natural beauty with cultural exploration.

Visiting Our Lady of the Rocks and Its Murals

The island of Our Lady of the Rocks appears as a small dot on the water, but it holds significant charm. The 17th-century church on the island is famous for its 68 murals painted by Tripo Kokolja, a notable Baroque artist.

Guests get the chance to explore the church and enjoy the picturesque views of the bay. The visit to this island is a key part of the cruise, providing a glimpse into Montenegro’s religious and artistic heritage.

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Exploring Kotor’s Old Town and the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon

Later in the day, travelers visit the fortified city of Kotor, often described as a Medieval gem. The Old Town features narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares.

A highlight is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, where visitors can see valuable artifacts linked to the Slavic tribes that settled the area in the 7th century. Plus, the Maritime Museum offers insights into Kotor’s long-standing seafaring tradition.

Guests note that the time spent in Kotor—around 45 minutes—can feel a bit brief, especially given the town’s beauty and history.

Dining and Amenities on the Boat

The lunch onboard the boat is included in the trip price. The three-course menu features a variety of options, with some guests describing the meal as very good. The onboard restaurant and café/bar are convenient for enjoying drinks, snacks, or a leisurely meal during the cruise.

The terrace with sun loungers enhances the relaxing atmosphere, perfect for enjoying the scenic views of the bay. Although some guests mention the food quality as ordinary, the overall experience is positively complemented by the friendly crew and comfortable setting.

Practicalities: Border Crossings and Border Queues

An important consideration is the border crossing between Croatia and Montenegro. Past feedback highlights long queues at border points, sometimes causing delays of up to 4 hours.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card and be prepared for possible waiting times. The trip is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, and luggage or large bags are not allowed on the tour.

Guests are advised to check if they need a visa for Montenegro before booking, as border formalities are part of the journey.

The Guide and Overall Experience

The guides on this tour have received mixed reviews. Some travelers praise the knowledgeable and helpful guides who convey technical, historical, and cultural information fluently in English and French.

A standout guide is Ines, who is described as perfect by some guests. However, there have been reports of support changes and initial delays, leading to some dissatisfaction.

Despite the logistical hiccups, the scenic views, historic sites, and relaxing boat cruise are the core strengths of this trip.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This Montenegro day trip is a solid choice for those interested in seeing Kotor’s old town, exploring Our Lady of the Rocks, and enjoying a scenic boat ride. It appeals most to travelers who don’t mind border formalities and appreciate guided cultural insights.

The price point and inclusion of lunch and onboard amenities make it an attractive option, but it’s best suited for adults or active travelers comfortable with moderate walking and border crossings.

Final Thoughts on the Dubrovnik: Montenegro Day Trip

This tour offers a well-rounded experience combining natural beauty, history, and relaxation on the water. The scenic fjord cruise, Our Lady of the Rocks, and Kotor’s old town are highlights that justify the $119 price tag.

However, travelers should be aware of border queue times and brief stops in Kotor, which may limit time at each site. The onboard amenities and guide expertise add value, though experiences with organization have varied.

This trip provides a beautiful snapshot of Montenegro’s charm with comfortable transport and guided insights—ideal for visitors eager for a day of sightseeing and relaxation beyond Dubrovnik.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
This tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments and involves some walking and border crossing procedures.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your passport or ID card for border formalities. Large luggage or bags are not allowed onboard.

How long is the bus ride from Dubrovnik to Montenegro?
The bus ride takes approximately two hours, including the crossing of the border.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off, the boat cruise, a guide, and lunch aboard the boat.

What are the main stops?
You’ll visit Our Lady of the Rocks, cruise along the fjord, and explore Kotor’s old town with its Cathedral of Saint Tryphon.

Are there any optional extras or additional costs?
No, everything included in the $119 price is specified; no extra charges are typically expected.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
The tour departs in the morning with returns in the evening, providing daylight for all activities and sightseeing.

How long do I spend in Kotor?
The stop in Kotor lasts about 45 minutes, which may be brief but still enough to see the highlights of the old town.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, allowing flexibility, but early booking is recommended for availability.

What is the overall value of this tour?
The trip offers good value considering the scenic cruise, cultural visits, and lunch included, though it requires patience for border queues.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby