Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Optional Boat Trip

Discover Montenegro on a Full-Day Excursion from Dubrovnik

This Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik offers an affordable and scenic way to explore southern Montenegro’s charming towns and stunning coastlines. Priced at $71.94 per person, the tour lasts approximately 11 to 12 hours and includes hotel pickup, comfortable transport, and guided commentary throughout. The tour is highly booked, with over 2,900 reviews and a strong 4.5 out of 5 rating, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive day away from Dubrovnik.

The trip begins with a pickup from central Dubrovnik and takes you along the picturesque Dalmatian Coast. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and pass through small villages before reaching Montenegro. A highlight is the optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, a small man-made island with a baroque church. However, the day also includes free time in Perast, Kotor, and Budva, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace and soak in the atmosphere.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day tour priced at $71.94 with hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport
• Explore three key towns: Perast, Kotor, and Budva, each offering unique sights and charm
• Optional boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks costs extra but is highly recommended
• Enjoy sweeping coastal drives and views of the Bay of Kotor and Adriatic Sea
• Flexible free time in Kotor and Budva for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing
• Tour duration is around 11-12 hours, suitable for travelers with a full day available

Starting the Journey from Dubrovnik’s Pile Gate

The tour departs from Pile Gate, a central point in Dubrovnik, making it easy for travelers to join the group. The pickup is at the Gift Shop Dubravka, and the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off for those staying within Dubrovnik. The journey begins by boarding an air-conditioned vehicle, where a knowledgeable tour escort shares insights about the region’s history and culture as you leave the Old Town behind.

Traveling south along the scenic Dalmatian coast, you can expect to see the stunning coastline, dotted with small villages and lush valleys. The border crossing into Montenegro is part of the experience, with a EUR 1 tax payable at the entrance of Kotor. The drive around the Bay of Kotor is especially picturesque and sets the tone for the day ahead.

Visiting Perast: A Seaside Village with Legends

The first stop is Perast, a peaceful town famous for its maritime heritage and baroque architecture. The town’s charm lies in its narrow streets, historic churches, and waterfront views. A local legend recounts that seafarers made an oath to the icon of Madonna and Child, found on a rock in the sea, leading to the town’s spiritual significance.

You’ll spend about 1 hour 30 minutes exploring Perast at your own pace. It’s a perfect spot for photos, relaxing by the sea, or grabbing a quick coffee. While there is an optional boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks, this incurs an extra cost of approximately $10 and involves visiting a baroque-era church on a man-made island. Many find the boat ride worthwhile for the scenic views and the opportunity to see a historic religious site.

Discovering Kotor’s UNESCO-Listed Old Town

Next, the tour takes you to Kotor, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning fjord-like setting. You get about 3 hours to wander through Kotor Old Town, with highlights including the St. Tryphon Cathedral and the Square of Arms. These areas are filled with shops, cafes, and historic sites, offering an authentic glimpse of Montenegrin life.

For a memorable experience, consider climbing 1,350 steep steps up to San Giovanni Castle for spectacular views over the bay and the old city walls. Alternatively, many visitors prefer to sit at a local café or browse the shops. The town’s atmosphere is lively and picturesque, making it a highlight of the trip for many.

Free Time in Budva: Beaches and Old Town Charm

The third major stop is Budva, famous for its walled Old Town and some of Montenegro’s best beaches. You’ll have around 2 hours to explore this lively town, walk along the city walls, or enjoy a meal in one of the waterfront taverns. Budva offers a more modern contrast to Kotor, with a vibrant nightlife and scenic beaches.

Many travelers appreciate the free time to relax, take photos, or browse local shops. If desired, you can stroll to nearby beaches or explore additional sights outside the main Old Town.

Optional Boat Ride to Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the most praised options of this tour is the boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a baroque church and a museum. Although it’s an optional addition and costs extra (around $10), many find it a worthwhile experience. The church and the island’s artwork are notable, and the boat ride offers a different perspective of the bay.

However, some reviews mention that bad weather and rain can limit the experience or spoil the views from the boat, so checking weather conditions is advised. If weather permits, the boat ride adds a memorable element to the day.

Scenic Coastal Drive and Return to Dubrovnik

The final part of the trip involves a scenic drive along Montenegro’s coast, offering sweeping views of the bay, villages, and the rugged landscape. This drive provides a peaceful conclusion to a busy day of sightseeing. The tour then returns to Dubrovnik, with a drop-off at the original pickup point or your hotel if within the city.

Travel times can be long, with approximately 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on border crossing delays. Reviews note that border queues can extend the day, so patience and a good book are recommended.

Practical Details: Transport, Group Size, and Accessibility

This tour is operated by Super Tours with a maximum of 100 travelers, but many reviews highlight the experience of a small, friendly group. The included transport is in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup only available for central Dubrovnik hotels or those within a 20-minute drive for the small group option.

A valid passport is required for the border crossing, along with any necessary visas. The tour usually runs rain or shine, but poor weather can lead to cancellations or changes in the itinerary, with the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.

Final Thoughts on the Montenegro Full-Day Trip from Dubrovnik

This tour offers a cost-effective way to explore Montenegro’s highlights in a single day, with comfortable transport, informative guides, and a flexible schedule. The chance to see Kotor’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, relax in Budva, and enjoy the breathtaking coastlines makes it particularly attractive for travelers based in Dubrovnik.

The optional boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks adds a special touch, though weather can influence the experience. Reviewers commend the knowledgeable guides and the scenic drives, making this a well-rounded day out. Keep in mind the long travel times and border queues, which are common challenges but are balanced by the stunning scenery and memorable stops.

If you enjoy guided tours with free time to explore at your own pace, this trip delivers on both adventure and relaxation. It suits those with a full day available and a curiosity for Montenegro’s towns, coastal landscapes, and cultural sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Pile Gate in Dubrovnik, with pickup at the Gift Shop Dubravka. Drop-off is back at the same location or your hotel within Dubrovnik.

What is included in the tour price?
Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a tour escort, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. The boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks is optional and costs extra.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to Montenegro?
Travel time is approximately 2 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on border crossing queues. Expect a total of around 11 to 12 hours for the full day.

Is there free time in Kotor and Budva?
Yes, the itinerary allows for several hours of free exploration in both towns, with options to walk and shop or relax at cafes.

What are the main sights in Kotor?
Kotor’s Old Town features attractions like St. Tryphon Cathedral and the Square of Arms. Climbing San Giovanni Castle is optional for panoramic views.

Can I take the boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks?
Yes, it is available as an optional activity at a small extra cost, but weather conditions may affect availability.

What should I bring?
A valid passport for border crossing, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Food and drinks are not included, so bring some snacks or money for meals.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but note that border crossing delays and long bus rides are part of the experience. Accessibility details are not specified, but physical activity includes walking and climbing stairs.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and weather cancellations may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.