From Dubrovnik: Perast, Kotor & Budva Small-Group Day Trip

A Day Trip into Montenegro’s Beauty from Dubrovnik
This small-group tour offers a well-paced taste of Montenegro, with visits to the enchanting towns of Perast, Kotor, and Budva. For around $89, you get nearly 11 hours of sightseeing, panoramic views, and a chance to walk medieval streets—all with the comfort of an 8-seater minivan and expert guides who seem genuinely passionate about their homeland.

What I particularly appreciate about this experience is how the early start ensures smooth border crossings—no long waits or delays—and how the guides manage to pack so much into a single day without feeling rushed. Two things I love are the spectacular views from the lookout point over Kotor Bay and the personalized attention that comes with a small group. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that you’ll need to be ready for an early morning wake-up, and the day is quite long, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule.

One of the true highlights is the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks—a charming, floating church built on a man-made islet, which adds a unique touch to the trip. Plus, the knowledgeable guides, like Andrew and Darko, often receive rave reviews for their storytelling and friendly approach, making each stop more engaging. But do keep in mind, the additional fees for the boat ride (€8) and the entrance to Kotor (€3) are not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly.

Key points / Takeaways

• Intimate group size ensures a more personal experience and quicker access to busy sites.
• Early start helps beat the crowds and avoid long border delays, especially useful at popular spots.
• Expert guides like Andrew and Darko make the trip informative, fun, and memorable.
• Flexible free time at each stop means you can explore at your own pace, whether that’s wandering medieval streets or relaxing on beaches.
• Price and value: At $89, you get a full day of sightseeing, scenic views, and cultural insights, making it an excellent value for a guided tour.
• Additional costs: Remember, the boat ride and Kotor entry fee are extra, so plan a few euros for those extras.

Arriving in Montenegro: Seamless Border Crossing and Early Start Benefits

The tour begins early, with pickup from Dubrovnik between 06:40 and 07:20. This early movement is a real advantage—not just to beat the crowds but to streamline the border crossing. The guides are adept at navigating shortcuts and avoiding traffic, which many reviews praise as a major plus.

Once across, the first stop at the Bay of Kotor offers stunning panoramic views from a lookout point. Travelers often mention how taking photos here is a highlight, with some calling it a “photogenic spot.” The early morning light and quiet streets make for better photos and a more peaceful experience before the day gets busy.

Perast: A Charming Stop with a Unique Islet Visit

An hour in Perast gives you a chance to explore its quiet, narrow streets and baroque architecture. If you choose to visit Our Lady of the Rocks, you’ll hop on a short boat ride (€8) to this floating church, which is a must-see for its historic and cultural significance. Several reviews mention how this stop is a personal favorite—one reviewer, Hannah, called it “such a photogenic spot,” emphasizing how perfect for photos it is.

The tour’s flexibility means you have time to wander, take photos, or enjoy the view of the bay. Guides often share stories about Perast’s maritime history, adding depth to the visit.

Kotor: Medieval Marvel and Fortified Wonder

Kotor is the star for many travelers. The 4-km city walls are a highlight, offering sweeping views of the bay and the town’s medieval charm. The two-hour free time allows you to stroll the winding streets, visit shops, or climb the Kotor Fortress if you’re feeling adventurous.

A major plus is how the early start keeps you ahead of the crowds, as many reviewers like Geert appreciate the “shortcuts” and fewer travelers at the main sites. The town is tiny but packed with historic buildings, charming cafes, and hidden alleys.

For those interested in history and architecture, the walls and old town are a real treat. Expect to see well-preserved structures, quaint squares, and perhaps some local artisans.

Budva: Beaches, Old Town, and a Lunch Break

Arriving around noon, the tour includes a recommended lunch at a local restaurant. Many travelers enjoy the opportunity to relax, enjoy traditional food, and explore Budva’s sandy beaches and lively old town. The free two-hour window is enough for a quick swim, a walk through the narrow streets, and maybe some gelato.

Reviewers like Tammy Moser and Laura praise the value of the included lunch and the scenic surroundings. It’s a lively contrast to the quiet towns of Perast and Kotor, with a bit of a touristy vibe but still authentic enough to enjoy.

Returning to Dubrovnik: Smooth and Scenic

The drive back begins at 14:30, with a ferry ride across Kotor Bay around 15:10 adding another scenic element to the journey. The border crossing is scheduled for around 16:00, which helps keep the day on track.

Most travelers find the entire experience well-organized and worth the effort. The last stretch of the trip offers reflections on the day’s highlights, with many reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits travelers who want a full day of cultural and scenic highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or navigating borders alone. It’s ideal if you enjoy small-group intimacy, guided insights, and flexible free time to explore at your own pace.

It works well for those comfortable with a long day, early mornings, and a bit of walking—especially in Kotor’s hilly terrain. If you’re interested in historic towns, stunning vistas, and authentic local experiences, this tour offers plenty of value.

However, if you prefer luxury, very relaxed pace, or extensive shopping, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. Also, be prepared for extra costs like the boat ride (€8) and entrance fees (€3 in Kotor).

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Montenegro Experience for Curious Travelers

This tour offers a fantastic introduction to Montenegro’s most famous sights, with the benefit of early starts and small groups for a more personal experience. The guides—notably Andrew and Darko—are often praised for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, making the long day both engaging and informative.

The scenic views from the lookout point, the charming streets of Perast, and the historic walls of Kotor make this trip a memorable highlight. The inclusion of free time at each stop allows you to explore at your own pace, whether that’s climbing a fortress or lounging on a beach.

While the additional costs for boat rides and entrance fees are not included, the overall value for money remains excellent, especially considering the full day of sightseeing packed into a reasonable price.

This experience is best suited for adventure-minded travelers who love history, stunning landscapes, and small-group atmospheres. If you want a manageable, well-organized way to see Montenegro’s highlights without stress, this trip delivers a lot of what makes the Balkan coast so special.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is from 06:40 to 07:20, so plan to be waiting in front of your hotel within that window.

Is the border crossing quick?
Yes, the early start helps avoid long waits, and guides are experienced at navigating through the border efficiently.

What’s included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation in a small 8-seater minivan, guided commentary in English and Spanish, and visits to Perast, Kotor, and Budva, with free time at each stop.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks (~€8) and the entrance fee to Kotor (~€3) are extra.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have approximately 1 hour in Perast, 2 hours in Kotor, and 2 hours in Budva, enough to explore, relax, or take photos.

What kind of guide will I have?
Guides like Andrew and Darko are highly praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness, enriching your experience with stories and tips.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with a full-day schedule and some walking, especially in hilly Kotor.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, some euros for extras, and comfortable shoes for walking around towns and fortifications.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

This small-group day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro’s highlights offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and expert guidance—perfect for travelers eager for an authentic taste of the Balkans without the hassle.