Best of Montenegro – Kotor Bay with Boat Ride (Small Group)

Imagine a day filled with dramatic coastal scenery, centuries-old towns, and the thrill of a boat ride to a legendary island—this is exactly what the Best of Montenegro – Kotor Bay with Boat Ride tour promises. Offered by Amico Tours, this 11-hour adventure takes you along the spectacular Bay of Kotor, showcasing some of Montenegro’s most captivating sights in a comfortable, small-group setting. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone craving jaw-dropping views, this trip covers a lot of ground in a way that feels intimate and personal.

Two features stand out: the small-group format ensures you won’t be lost in the crowd, and the knowledgeable guide makes the history and culture come alive with interesting details. Plus, the inclusion of a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks offers a memorable touch to the overall experience. A potential consideration is that with a full 11-hour itinerary, you’ll want to be prepared for a long day—comfortable shoes and an open mind are a must.

This tour is most suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, authentic towns, and engaging guides. If you’re after a relaxed but enriching day exploring Montenegro’s coast and historic sites, this trip could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Stunning scenic stops, including Verige Strait and the town of Perast.
• Optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks adds a cultural highlight.
• Expert commentary from a knowledgeable guide enhances understanding.
• Comfortable transportation in brand-new Mercedes vehicles.
• Ideal for those with a full day to spare and an appreciation for scenic history.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-depth Look at the Tour

Starting with the Scenic Drive into Montenegro

The adventure begins with a pickup from one of 35 designated locations, from Dubrovnik to central hotels across the region. The transport is in brand-new Mercedes vehicles, offering comfort for the approximately 50-minute drive across the border into Montenegro. This part of the journey is a great opportunity to settle in and get excited about the day ahead. Given the long duration, the vehicle quality and small group size (guaranteed) make this a pleasant start.

Verige Strait: A Picture-Perfect Viewpoint

Your first major stop is Verige, a famous strait that offers some of the most breathtaking views in the area. Here, cliffs rise dramatically from the water, framing the narrow passage in a way that’s almost cinematic. It’s a quick 10-minute photo stop, but the memory of those towering cliffs and shimmering waters stays with you. Travelers on this tour often mention how this spot is perfect for capturing the essence of Kotor Bay’s rugged beauty.

Perast: The Charm of a Maritime Heritage Town

Next, you’ll visit Perast, a small town known for its baroque architecture, peaceful waterfront, and maritime history. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here—ample time to stroll along the promenade, explore the quaint shops, and admire the historic palaces that tell stories of the town’s seafaring past. The reviews consistently highlight the town’s charm and well-preserved architecture, making it a favorite among visitors.

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Optional Visit to Our Lady of the Rocks

A key highlight of the tour is the optional boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, an island famous for its church and museum. The legend behind the island—created by local sailors piling stones—adds a storybook quality that enhances the visit. The site offers beautiful views and photo opportunities, along with a chance to learn about local legends. The cost is around $10, and many travelers find this optional stop worth the extra few euros, especially for the chance to see the island’s stunning church and learn about its fascinating history.

Exploring Kotor: A UNESCO Jewel

After Perast, the route takes you along the coast to Kotor, the star of the tour. This fortified town, surrounded by mountains and water, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved medieval streets, impressive city walls, and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll have around 3.5 hours to explore, giving you time to walk the city walls (entrance fee approximately $15) and visit key sights like St. Tryphon Cathedral and the old town’s bustling squares.

Many visitors rave about the views from the city walls, which provide panoramic vistas of the bay and mountains—definitely a “must-do” if you’re keen on photography or simply soaking in the scenery. Be prepared for some uphill walking, but it’s worth every step for the perspective it offers.

The Return Journey and Flexibility

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back, giving you time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The small-group setting makes the experience more personal, and the comfortable Mercedes vehicles ensure a smooth ride. Drop-offs are available at over 35 locations, including hotels in Dubrovnik and nearby areas.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Comfort

Transportation is in brand-new Mercedes vehicles, which is a significant plus for comfort and reliability. The small-group guarantee means you’ll avoid the crowds that often accompany larger tours. The entire day is about 11 hours, so the quality of transport significantly impacts your overall enjoyment, especially on a day with a lot of scenic driving.

Guided Experience and Audio Guides

A knowledgeable guide will accompany you, providing context, stories, and historical insights. The tour also includes an audio guide in several languages (English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German), which enhances understanding for non-native speakers. However, some reviews mention issues like the German audio guide not working—something to keep in mind if language is a priority.

Cost and Value

The overall price covers transportation, the guide, and the small-group experience—an excellent value considering the number of stops, scenic views, and cultural insights. The optional extras, such as the $10 boat ride and $15 wall entrance, are modest, and you’re free to choose whether to indulge.

What’s Not Included

The tour doesn’t include the Our Lady of the Rocks boat ride or the Kotor City Walls, but these can be added for a small fee. This flexibility allows you to customize your experience based on your interest and energy level.

Authentic Experiences as Reported by Travelers

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Gabriel made the trip entertaining with lots of interesting details.” Others highlight the magnificent views and the well-organized schedule. A minor downside noted was the audio guide not working in German, but the overall sentiment remains positive.

One traveler described the day as “a lovely trip with a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide,” emphasizing how well everything was organized and the memorable scenery. Such feedback indicates this tour hits the sweet spot for many visitors looking for a balanced mix of sightseeing, stories, and comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip that combines scenic drives, charming towns, and cultural highlights without the hassle of planning numerous logistics. It’s excellent for those who appreciate small groups and personalized attention. If you’re eager to see Kotor’s medieval walls or snap photos of dramatic landscapes, this tour will serve you well.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are on a tight budget, consider whether the optional extras and the full day’s commitment suit your style. The tour’s pace is lively, but not rushed, and the presence of a guide makes navigating the attractions much easier.

The Sum Up

For anyone craving a rich, scenic adventure in Montenegro, this small-group tour offers excellent value. It combines stunning views, historic towns, and the charm of a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks in a way that feels intimate and well-organized. The knowledgeable guide truly enhances the experience, turning sightseeing into storytelling.

While it’s a fairly full day, the variety of stops and the comfort of modern transport make it a worthwhile splurge. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a taste of Montenegro’s best without the stress of DIY planning or overly large groups. Whether you’re marveling at the cliffs of Verige, wandering Perast’s peaceful streets, or walking along Kotor’s ancient walls, this trip promises lasting memories.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including all stops, transport, and activities, making it a full-day adventure.

Are meals included?
The tour doesn’t mention meal inclusions, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in one of the towns during your free time.

Is the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks included?
No, the boat ride is optional and costs around $10. It’s a highlight for many, but you can choose to skip it if you prefer.

What is the cost for visiting the city walls in Kotor?
The entrance fee for Kotor’s city walls is about $15, and you should allocate at least 2 hours if you plan to walk the walls.

Is transportation in a comfortable vehicle?
Yes, the trip uses brand-new Mercedes vehicles, ensuring a smooth ride in a comfortable setting.

Is this tour suitable for all age groups?
While the tour involves some walking and a full day’s commitment, it is generally suitable for most age groups, especially those comfortable with a bit of uphill walking and a day of sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: