Montenegro Private Tour: Bay of Kotor & Our Lady of the Rocks

Summary

Private journey through kotor bay with custom stops and island visit

You’ll wind along Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor with a local guide who lets you set the pace — pausing for photos or just to breathe in that salty air. Cross by boat to Our Lady of the Rocks island chapel, step inside its cool stone walls, and listen to local stories you won’t find online. There’s space for small surprises and quiet moments here.

What’s the experience like?

We were halfway around a sharp bend above the Bay of Kotor when our driver, Marko, just grinned and said, “Wait for this view.” I was still fiddling with my seatbelt — honestly, I get carsick on winding roads — but then we stopped and the window filled with this sort of silver-blue light. The water below was glassy, boats drifting like they’d forgotten to move. Marko pointed out the villages tucked into the green. “That’s Perast,” he said. I tried to pronounce it right; he nodded politely but I probably sounded like a tourist (which, yeah, I am). It smelled faintly like salt and pine needles when we stepped out for a second.

Our private tour Montenegro style meant we could linger there as long as we wanted. No one rushed us. We got back in — air-con humming thankfully — and coasted down toward the shore. At Perast, our guide organized a little boat across to Our Lady of the Rocks. The wind was soft but there was this hum from the motor that made it hard to talk, so we just watched the church getting bigger. Inside, I noticed waxy candle smoke and old women whispering prayers in what sounded like Italian or maybe Montenegrin? Not sure, but I liked how everyone seemed to know each other.

I didn’t expect to get hungry so soon but there’s something about sea air that does that. We grabbed some flaky pastries from a bakery by the dock (I can’t remember the name — it had blue shutters) before heading back along the coastal road. Marko told us stories about old smugglers and weddings on the islands; his English slipped sometimes into Spanish because apparently he speaks both. The whole day felt loose, like we could change our minds if we wanted. That freedom is what stuck with me most — well, that and the sound of church bells echoing over water as we left Perast behind.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Kotor and coastal sights

• Visit famous historic Kotor
• Drive along scenic coast
• Pass by Our Lady of the Rocks islet

Top questions

Is pickup included in this private tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included in your private tour booking.

How many people can join a private tour in Montenegro?

The maximum number per private tour is 7 people.

Are infant seats available for transport?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available on request.

What languages are available for guides?

The tour is possible in English, Spanish, Italian, or Russian.

Do I need my passport for this day trip?

Yes, a valid passport is required on the day of travel.

Is this private tour suitable for children?

Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Can we choose where to stop during the tour?

Yes, your itinerary is flexible; you can choose stops and timing.

Is transportation air-conditioned?

Yes, all vehicles used have air-conditioning and full equipment.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport in an air-conditioned car or van with all local taxes covered. There’s hotel pickup and drop-off arranged by your local guide. Infant seats are available if needed and you can choose your route or stops along the way before returning at your own pace.