Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik: Kotor, Perast & Ferry

Summary

Private Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik with old towns, sea air and a ferry ride back

You’ll cross into Montenegro from Dubrovnik with hotel pickup included, wander quiet stone lanes in Perast, explore Kotor’s medieval walls with your local guide, relax in Budva for lunch or beach time, then take a scenic ferry ride across the Bay of Kotor before heading home. There’s space for little surprises — maybe laughter over mispronounced names or just time to breathe salty air.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wonder what it feels like to cross a border before breakfast? I didn’t either, until our driver picked us up in Dubrovnik just as the city was waking up — sleepy streets, that faint smell of coffee drifting out of cafés. We headed south along the coast, windows down, salty air mixing with the sound of Li (our guide) pointing out old stone villages tucked into the hills. The border crossing into Montenegro was quick but oddly thrilling; I kept checking my passport just to be sure.

The first real stop was Perast. It’s tiny — you could probably walk end to end in five minutes — but there’s this hush over the place, like everyone’s still listening for something from centuries ago. We took a short boat ride out to Our Lady of the Rocks (Li laughed when I tried to say “Gospa od Skrpjela” — definitely got that wrong). Inside, candles flickered against painted walls and it smelled a bit like wax and sea air. I liked how nobody rushed us.

Kotor was next and honestly, I didn’t expect those medieval walls to feel so… solid? You can run your hand along them and feel how cold they stay even in June. Li walked us through winding alleys where laundry hung above our heads and cats seemed to own every doorstep. She told stories about sailors and earthquakes — some details stuck, others just drifted by with the church bells echoing off the stones.

Lunch was in Budva (not included), which felt flashier than Perast or Kotor — more beachy crowds and sunbaked streets. I grabbed grilled fish at a place Li recommended and sat watching people wander between old city gates and neon umbrellas. On the way back we took a ferry across the Bay of Kotor; it was quieter than I thought it’d be, just water slapping against metal and that late afternoon haze settling on everything. Sometimes I still think about that view — blue water curling around mountains, feeling small but kind of lucky too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Montenegro coastal towns and ferry ride

• Pickup from Dubrovnik hotel
• Drive through Župa Dubrovacka Valley and Konavle
• Cross border to Montenegro
• Pass UNESCO Bay of Kotor
• Visit Perast village
• Optional boat to Our Lady of the Rocks
• Explore Kotor Old Town and St Tryphon Cathedral
• Lunch and leisure in Budva
• Return drive via scenic coastal roads
• Ferry crossing on Bay of Kotor
• Return to Dubrovnik hotel

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Montenegro day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in central Dubrovnik are included.

Do I need my passport for this tour?

Yes, you must bring a valid passport as you’ll cross an international border.

How long does it take to get from Dubrovnik to Montenegro?

The drive takes about 1-2 hours depending on border traffic.

Is lunch included on this private tour?

No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time in Budva to eat where you like.

Can we swim at any beaches during the tour?

You can bring your swimsuit if you want to visit beaches in Budva during your free time.

What towns will we visit on this day trip?

You’ll visit Perast, Kotor Old Town, and Budva along Montenegro’s coast.

Is there a guide on this tour?

Yes, an English-speaking driver-guide accompanies you throughout the day.

Is there a ferry ride included?

A one-way ferry crossing across the Bay of Kotor is included on the return journey.

Are infant seats available?

Specialized infant seats are available upon request for this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Dubrovnik by luxury air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide throughout; there’s also a one-way ferry ride across the Bay of Kotor on your way back. Bring your passport—border crossing is part of it—and if you’re traveling with little ones, infant seats can be arranged too.