How to Plan the Perfect Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik

So you’re in Dubrovnik, living the dream on the Croatian Adriatic Coast. But what if you could cross into another country, just for the day? Just across the border lies one of the most underrated gems in Europe. Montenegro may be small, but it packs in an incredible mix of medieval towns, rugged mountain backdrops and some of the most breath taking coastal scenery you’ll ever see. And the best part? You can get a real taste of this spectacular country in just one unforgettable Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik – and it’s much easier than you think!

Many travellers worry: Is it too much for one day? Will it feel rushed? Is it even worth the effort? This guide is here to answer those questions. I’ll show you exactly how to slow down just enough to experience the charm of Montenegro, while still making the most of your time. If you’re like me – a curious, independent solo traveller, craving a travel experience that feels just a little less touristy – this guide is for you. But in short: YES, it’s worth it. And I’m going to show you how to do it right.

Is Montenegro Worth Visiting?

It’s a fair question – especially with Croatia stealing most of the limelight in this picturesque and underrated corner of Europe. But the answer is a definite yes. Montenegro is 100% worth visiting, even if you only have one day.

Why? Because the country offers something different. It’s rawer, quieter, more affordable, and arguably more beautiful in places than its famous neighbour. Kotor, the main destination on most Montenegro day trips, is a picture-postcard town surrounded by towering cliffs and the deep blue depths of the Bay of Kotor. So whether you’re a photographer, a history lover, or just someone who appreciates good views, Montenegro delivers. And if you’re wondering whether it’s worth crossing a border for a single day, I promise it is.

Katie’s Top Tip: Leave Dubrovnik for your day trip to Montenegro before 7:30am, if you can, to beat border queues. Trust me – an early start will mean a lot more time for exploring Kotor and a whole lot less waiting.

How Long Does it Take to Cross the Montenegro Border?

The Croatia-Montenegro border is close to Dubrovnik – at only 38km (or 24 miles,) along the coastal road – which takes approximately 45 minutes’ drive.

Once you arrive at the border it is very straightforward – you just show your passport and any other needed travel documents and have it stamped by a border official. However, depending on the season and the time of day, there can be long queues at the border, increasing the travel time. On a good run, you can expect the crossing from Dubrovnik to Montenegro to take around one hour.

Here are some estimated travel times to popular tourist destinations, to guide your Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik:

• From Dubrovnik to Kotor: ~ 2 hours, 92km/57 miles
• From Dubrovnik to Budva: ~ 2 hours 45 minutes, 115km/71 miles
• From Dubrovnik to Perast: ~ 1 hour 45 minutes, 79km/49 miles
• From Dubrovnik to Podgorica: ~ 2 hours 45 minutes, 150km/93 miles
• From Dubrovnik to Herceg Novi: ~ 1 hour, 51km/32 miles
• From Dubrovnik to Tivat: ~ 2 hours, 69km/43 miles

Katie’s Top Tip: Pack plenty of snacks and water for the drive and keep them within reach. Hungry + stuck in traffic is not the energy you want to start off with on your Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik!

How to Get to Montenegro on a Day Trip from Dubrovnik

There are a few different ways to get from Dubrovnik to Montenegro on a day trip, including by bus, private car, on a shared day tour or on a private tour.

The best option for you will depend on your budget, the time you have available and the kind of experience you want. Most tourists will choose to book a guided tour (either shared or private,) to experience Montenegro in one day, however these can get busy and book up fast, and can also be expensive. More confident travellers may prioritise the freedom of travelling with their own car, whereas travelling by bus is an affordable option for budget-conscious travellers.

Let’s break each of these options down in more detail so you can make the best decision for your Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik:

1. Dubrovnik to Montenegro Bus

Cheapest but limited. Takes 2–4 hours depending on border traffic.

To get from Dubrovnik to Montenegro by bus, you will first need to get to the main bus station in Dubrovnik. To do this, you can take local bus 1, 1a or 1b from Pile Gate (the entrance to the old town.) To purchase tickets in advance, go to a newspaper kiosk or the Libertas stalls by Pile Gate. The price is currently €1.73 and your ticket must be validated in the machines when you board the bus. You could also buy a bus ticket from the driver when you board, but these tickets currently cost €1.99.

Once you have reached Dubrovnik bus station, you can take a bus directly to Kotor, Tivat, Herceg Novi, Podgorica, Bar or Budva in Montenegro. If you want to follow my itinerary, you will take the bus to the charming town of Kotor. I used Bus Croatia to book my tickets online in advance, but you can also buy tickets directly from Dubrovnik bus station.

How much does it cost to get from Dubrovnik to Kotor by bus?

Currently, it costs between 24 and 32 euros.

How long does it take to get from Dubrovnik to Kotor by bus?

When you book your ticket, the journey is advertised to take between 1 hour 50 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes by bus. However this is always subject to wait times at the border, so I would recommend leaving Dubrovnik as early as possible to minimise delays and maximise your time in Montenegro.

Katie’s Top Tip: In peak season, these buses do sell out. And even when I travelled in late September, they were still busy. As a result, I would always recommend booking your tickets in advance.

2. Drive Yourself (Car Rental)

Flexible, but prepare for insurance rules and potential parking stress in Kotor.

Renting a car to take yourself across the border to Montenegro is the most flexible option for your Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik. Having your own mode of transport means that you can control when you leave Dubrovnik and when you return, without having to worry about bus schedules or tour timetables. It may also allow you to add some additional, more off the beaten track stops, to your Montenegro itinerary. However, taking your own car means you also have to navigate the border crossing alone and you should be a confident driver.

Where else can I visit in Montenegro with a car?

If you have your own car for your day trip to Montenegro, your options for where you can get to widen significantly. If you’ve never been to Montenegro before, I would personally still make time to visit the spectacular old town of Kotor for at least some of your day trip in the country.

So here are a few destinations you can easily combine with half a day in Kotor:

• Drive the 16 hairpin bends of the Serpentine Road and admire the view from the top (30 minutes from Kotor)
• Njegos Mausoleum, Lovcen National Park for spectacular panoramic views (1 hour from Kotor)
• Spectacular Mogren Beach and Budva old town (40 minutes from Kotor)
• The charming waterfront town of Perast and a visit to Our Lady of The Rocks church by water taxi (20 minutes from Kotor)
• Kotor Cable Car for breathtaking views above the town and overlooking the bay (8 minutes from Kotor)

If you’ve visited Montenegro (and Kotor,) before, here are some other recommendations for your day trip to Montenegro:

• The Black Lake and Tara River Canyon, Durmitor National Park (3 hours from Dubrovnik)
• Ostrog Monastery (2 hours 30 minutes from Dubrovnik)
• Montenegro’s capital city, Podgorica (2 hours 45 minutes from Dubrovnik)
• Rijeka Crnojevica, Lake Skadar National Park (3 hours 30 minutes from Dubrovnik)

Where should I rent a car from in Dubrovnik?

The most recommended car hire companies in Dubrovnik include SurPrice, DiscoverCars and GoldCar. You can compare all up to date prices and reviews for yourself on a price comparison site like TripAdvisor or SkyScanner.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Dubrovnik?

How much your car rental in Dubrovnik will cost depends entirely on the time of year you travel. If you travel during the peak season (especially July and August,) you can expect to pay a lot more. Typically though, hiring a car in Dubrovnik costs around 20-50 euros per day.

What do I need to hire a car in Dubrovnik?

To hire a car in Dubrovnik, you will need a valid driver’s license and passport. To cross the border between Croatia and Montenegro, you will need a valid passport and any other necessary travel documents.

3. Shared Day Tours from Dubrovnik to Montenegro

Great balance between price and experience.

One of the best ways to get from Dubrovnik to Montenegro on a day trip is by taking a guided tour.

This Dubrovnik to Montenegro day trip includes hotel pickup and drop off in Dubrovnik, a professional guide, a 30 minute walking tour of Kotor and a Boka Bay sightseeing cruise, stopping along the way in beautiful Perast and at Our Lady of The Rocks church.

For a small group Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik, this one comes highly rated. It includes a maximum of 8 participants and visits to Perast, Kotor and Budva. There is also a ferry ride along the Bay of Kotor.

Katie’s Top Tip: These tours are very popular and will sell out in advance, so be sure to book in plenty of time. Where possible I would also advise choosing a small group tour instead of a big bus, for a more personal experience.

4. Montenegro Private Tour from Dubrovnik

Seamless, efficient, and often includes multiple stops (like Perast and Budva.)

If you value experience and ease over the financial cost of your day trip to Montenegro, a private tour is the best way to go. Your driver and guide will share the history of both Croatia and Montenegro as you drive, assist with the border crossing for peace of mind, and show you the very best Montenegro has to offer in just one day.

This highly rated private tour includes hotel pickup and drop off in Dubrovnik, luxury transportation and a private guide/driver to share their knowledge of the area with you. The tour stops in beautiful Perast (where you’ll have a chance to take a boat to Our Lady of The Rocks church,) the unmissable old town of Kotor and the beaches and old town of Budva.

The Perfect Route For Your Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Morning

For my fellow independent travellers (by bus or by car), let’s get into the perfect Dubrovnik to Montenegro itinerary. Starting with leaving Dubrovnik as early as possible, particularly during peak season – around 7am is ideal. But whatever time you leave, get ready to enjoy a spectacular scenic drive along the Adriatic coast as you make your way across the border!

Stop One: Kotor

Let me let you in on a little secret: a lot of the organised day tours (and even tourists following their own routes,) stop in Perast first. After all, it makes sense, right? It’s the closest to the border so you might as well stop off there first. Well, not for this itinerary.

If you’re anything like me, you can appreciate a place so much more with fewer crowds, and that is exactly why we are turning this popular and often unchanged itinerary on its head. With most tours heading to Perast in the early morning, that tiny town will be overrun and Kotor will be a whole lot quieter. Plus, for my bus travellers, this makes your day a lot easier too!

Best Things To Do in Kotor

You only have half a day in Kotor following this itinerary, so let’s make the most of it. These are the must-see things you have to do in Kotor, Montenegro, starting with a walking tour of the old town.

If you arrived in Kotor by bus, our starting point on this tour – Sea Gate – is an easy 10 minute walk from the bus station. If you arrived in Kotor by car, my recommended car park, Parking Riva Kotor, is around 5 minutes’ walk from Sea Gate. And if you’re taking a guided tour to Kotor and just reading along for inspo, your tour guide will hit up all of these spots too.

Kotor Old Town Self-Guided Walking Tour Route:

Stop 1: Sea Gate

Sea Gate is the main entrance to Kotor Old Town, flanked by two cannons. It is part of the city wall defences of Kotor. Just through the Sea Gate, you will find the iconic clock tower, as well as patio style cafes and restaurants.

Stop 2: Saint Tryphon Cathedral

Arguably the most iconic building in Kotor, Saint Tryphon Cathedral is a majestic example of Romanesque architecture. You can visit the interior of this spectacular cathedral every day between 9am and 6pm. At the time of writing, entrance costs 3 euros per person and is payable in cash.

Stop 3: Saint Luke’s Church

Saint Luke’s Church is a tiny, stone Orthodox Church in the heart of Kotor old town. It is situated at the heart of another small square, also home to quaint cafes and restaurants with outside seating to soak up the atmosphere.

Stop 4: Saint Nicholas’s Church

Another quaint church! Saint Nicholas’s Church is characterised by its domes and is more modern looking than others in Kotor. Set amidst the city walls, you cannot miss this spectacular building.

Stop 5: Cat Plazza (behind St Mary Collegiate Church)

You can see cats everywhere in Kotor old town, but if you really want to spend some time with them in a more peaceful spot, this is the place to go. Cat Plazza is a small park that has been taken over by the town’s strays – it’s where they play, sleep, get fed and have their water stations. It’s a lovely spot to sit quietly and observe.

Stop 6: Kotor City Walls walk to Kampana Tower

You can’t walk the entire length of the Kotor City Walls anymore, due to crumbling stone in certain areas. However, this stretch from the Cat Plazza to Kampana Tower is the best preserved and has the best views. There are also benches up there for a quiet escape from the bustling old town streets.

Stop 7: Gurdic Gate Bastion

Retracing your steps through yet more cobbled streets and alleys, Gurdic Gate Bastion can be found on the opposite side of the old town. This is only a small section of the walls, but it is still well worth a visit.

The entire walk will take around 20 minutes and is very easy and flat. You’ll want to wear good, comfortable walking shoes though due to the cobbles. Plus, allow extra time for plenty of photo stops and time to deviate from the route and get lost down the quaint side streets.

What Else is There To Do in Kotor?

If you have more time to spend in this charming town, here are a few other options:

• Visit the quirky Cat Museum
• Climb the 1300 steep steps (!!) to the top of San Giovanni Fortress
• Shop for authentic souvenirs at one of the small old town shops
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of Kotor’s many patio-style restaurants or cafes, serving traditional Montenegrin food and wine
• Wander the streets of the old town without an itinerary to get a feel for the real Kotor

Afternoon

After an early lunch, our Perast-first day trippers have caught us up and the old town streets are crowded, signalling our time to move on. (Yes, you have permission to feel just a little smug!)

If you are travelling by car, you can fit in both of our next stops (Budva and Perast,) easily into your itinerary. For my fellow bus travellers, you may want to pick just one to avoid rushing (although this ultimately depends on how late you want to arrive back in Dubrovnik.)

Stop Two: Budva

The gorgeous old town and golden beaches of Budva are just 40 minutes’ drive (or 45 minutes by bus, plus a 20 minute walk from Budva bus station,) from Kotor. This means that after a morning in Kotor and an early lunch, you should arrive at around 1:30/2pm. But what exactly makes Budva worth your time during your limited one day in Montenegro? Let me show you:

Best Things To Do in Budva

See the Budva Bell

The Budva Bell, along with the anchor next to it, are actually both large filming props, donated to the town after a filming crew left. Either way, this monument has become a symbol of Budva and is a must-see on your way into the old town.

Marvel at Budva’s Churches

Budva old town, like Kotor, has many beautiful churches, the most famous being the Church of St. John, which is actually one of the oldest churches in Montenegro. Other churches in Budva old town include the Church of the Holy Trinity, the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary and the Church of St. Sava.

Get lost in old town Budva

Just like in Kotor, Budva old town is best explored without a plan. With quaint side streets, tiny cobbled squares, majestic city walls and old ruins, there is plenty to stumble across in Budva’s old town. Here are a few of the main sights in Budva old town:

• Budva City Walls
• Square of Poets
• Square of Palms
• Ruins of the Roman-era Necropolis
• Rock Beach Viewpoint

Sunbathe on Mogren Beach

Once you’ve finished wandering the streets of Budva old town, it’s time to hit the beach, and Mogren Beach is the most famous (and beautiful!) in Budva. Whether you’re in the mood for swimming, sunbathing or simply another iconic photo stop, this beach is a must-visit. From the old town it takes just 7 minutes to reach the beach on foot, along a stunning coastal path. You’ll also pass another iconic symbol of the town enroute: The Budva Ballerina, which is also a must-see in Budva.

Stop Three: Perast

If you’re travelling by bus, you might’ve decided to skip Budva and head straight for Perast, or you might’ve decided to go all in and do both. If you’re travelling by car, Perast is almost directly enroute to the border with Croatia, making it a no-brainer final stop on this Montenegro day trip – plus the crowds will have left by now! Perast is approximately a one hour drive from Budva, on the way back to the border.

Perast is one place in Montenegro you should never skip. This charming waterfront town is tiny, but despite its small size you’ll feel as though you’re stepping back into the page of a fairy tale. With quiet churches, beautiful Baroque architecture, and an uninterrupted view of the bay, Perast makes the perfect end to your Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik.

Best Things To Do in Perast

• Stroll along the waterfront promenade
• Admire the Baroque palaces: Bujović Palace, Lučić-Kolović-Matikola Palace, Smekja Palace, Brajković-Martinović Palace, Visković Palace, Balović Palace, Šestokrilović Palace and Bronza Palace
• See Perast’s magnificent churches: the Church of St. John the Baptist, St Nicholas’ Catholic Church and Saint Mark’s Church
• Visit the Perast Museum, located in the stunning Bujović Palace
• Spend time with the friendly resident cats

Visiting Our Lady of The Rocks Church

Our Lady of the Rocks Church is located directly opposite Perast, on the island of Ostrvo. This tiny island offers visitors panoramic views of the bay and Perast town, plus a visit inside the beautiful blue-rooved church and small museum is a must-do.

During peak season the church is open from 9am to 6pm. The fee to enter is around 3 euros cash at time of writing.

To reach Our Lady of the Rocks from Perast you will need to take a water taxi. You can pick one up directly from Perast waterfront for around 10 euros. The journey will take just a few minutes.

Perast By Bus From Kotor

For my bus day trippers, the Blue Line Kotor to Perast bus takes around 30 minutes and stops in front of St. Nicholas’ Church in the centre of Perast. There is no official timetable for the bus, but it runs pretty regularly, even when I visited in late September. Make sure you bring cash for the bus fare, which costs just a couple of euros.

Evening: Return to Dubrovnik

It’s now time to say goodbye to Montenegro after a jam-packed day of beaches, old town streets and breath taking views. To avoid the worst of the traffic at the border, I would recommend heading back to Dubrovnik early (around 3/4pm,) or, my preference, make the most of your day and head back in the evening (around 6/7, even 8pm.) The drive from Perast back to Dubrovnik takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic and delays at the border. To get the bus from Perast to Dubrovnik, you will need to head back to Kotor on the Blue Line local bus first and then head to the bus station for your connection.

Want to Stay Longer? Here’s Where to Go Next

Once you’ve had a taste of Montenegro, chances are you’ll wish you had more time. And the good news? You can absolutely build a longer itinerary in this stunning Adriatic country.

If you’re thinking about staying in Montenegro a little longer, here are some guides you’ll want to bookmark:

14 Best Things to Do in Kotor Montenegro (Don’t Miss These!)

A detailed guide to Kotor’s must-sees, hidden corners and the moments that made me fall in love with the place.

Perfect 7-Day Montenegro Itinerary Without a Car

No car? No problem. This slow travel itinerary uses Kotor as a base and takes you to beaches, mountain villages and seaside towns – all by bus, guided tour, boat, or on foot.

10 Magical Day Trips from Kotor, Montenegro You’ll Never Forget

If you decide to stay in Kotor, these are the best ways to explore beyond it. Think boat rides, quiet villages, epic views, and UNESCO gems.

So, if you fall in love with Kotor (spoiler alert: you will), consider spending the night:

Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in Kotor

• Kotor Old Town for charming, old world vibes.
• Dobrota for quieter stays with spectacular views across the bay.

My Top Pick For Accommodation in Kotor

For my trip, I chose to stay at a locally-run Airbnb called Casa di Cattaro. This spacious studio is located directly opposite St Tryphon Cathedral, has a private bathroom, double bed, kitchenette and a small balcony overlooking the square. Every morning, I woke up to the sound of the cathedral bells. While every evening, I sat on my tiny balcony, watching the hustle and bustle below my feet and listening to live music from the nearby restaurants.

Hotel Monte Cristo is another popular choice among tourists to Kotor. This historic building is warm, friendly and super central – perfect for exploring the inner city walls.

Let’s Wrap This Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik Up

With just one day, you can experience the very best of two countries: one ancient walled town, spectacular beaches and unforgettable views. Planning the perfect Montenegro day trip from Dubrovnik isn’t just about ticking off another country from your bucket list or chasing one particular Instagrammable viewpoint. It’s about giving yourself the chance to experience something different and unique, even just for one day.

So yes, it’s worth the early morning. Yes, it’s worth the effort of crossing the border. And yes, you might just find yourself looking up how to come back before the day’s even over!

Planning your own border-hopping day trip from Dubrovnik to Montenegro? Drop your questions in the comments – I’d love to help!

Discover More of Beautiful Montenegro and Croatia:

• How to Plan the Perfect Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
• 10 Magical Day Trips from Kotor, Montenegro You’ll Never Forget
• 15 Top Things To Do in Split, Croatia You’ll Never Forget
• 14 Best Things To Do in Kotor, Montenegro (Don’t Miss These!)
• Perfect 7-Day Montenegro Itinerary Without a Car

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