Tours in Croatia by Secret Dalmatia

Duration: full day

Difficulty: easy

Location: Montenegro

Available all year round

Jewels of Boka Bay

Experience the dramatic beauty of Montenegro!

At an arm’s reach from the south of Croatia, Montenegro is a stunning variation of familiar sceneries with a tad bit of primeval interwoven between pockets of Venetian and Roman history and architecture. A landscape of mountains rising straight up from the sea to touch the clouds, intercepted only by a ribbon of road and an occasional picturesque village, this is also the largest bay of the Adriatic Sea, the Boka Bay. On a calm day the waters of the bay mirror the mountains and sky in duplicate perfection. In the very center, the town of Kotor poses shadowed by limestone cliffs, cloaked in both medieval and Venetian heritage and charming from both close and far. Gracing many bucket lists, Montenegro and its celebrated Bay of Kotor are show-stopping beauty from end to end.

  • This tour is fully private and on request only.
  • Tour includes collection from your hotel, villa or private accommodation by our professional English speaking chauffeur in a comfortable luxury sedan car or passenger van, road tolls, boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks (not possible in rough seas and rainy weather), entrance tickets to Saint Tryphon cathedral in Kotor and guided tour of Kotor and Perast.
  • Bring your passport, camera, comfortable shoes, hat and sunscreen in the summer months. In peak summer months delays at Montenegro border crossing are to be expected.
  • Please let us know if you have any mobility issues so the tour can be adjusted accordingly.
  • OPTIONAL: The tour can include a visit to the ancient town Budva, which today is a lively tourist resort and a panorama of the tiny island-fortress called Sveti Stefan, today an Aman resort closed off to the public. Available at additional cost.

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Tour description

What you'll see on this tour

 

Montenegro is a visual treat. It is a country where the mountains descend into the sea, interrupted only by a public road taking you along the largest bay of the Adriatic, the bay of Kotor. But as you move off the coast, the road suddenly swoops up into the mountains and you’re in a series of amazing switchbacks somehow carved out of solid rock, offering stunning sea views around one bend and pristine forest around the next. Montenegro is always a surprise!

Your private English speaking driver will pick you up at the agreed time at your hotel, private apartment or villa in the Dubrovnik area. The tour will take you through Župa Dubrovačka and Konavle valley all the way up to the border with Montenegro, about an hour from Dubrovnik. The seaside road then winds its way through the towns of Herceg Novi, Risan and Perast to Kotor, giving you a first-hand experience with Montenegro’s three different landscapes – bay, mountain and sea.

Driving along the main coastal road through many small fishing villages, we’ll arrive to take a boat from the baroque town of Perast to the famous man-made islet, Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks) and stop to tour this amazing site. Next on our list of pearls is Kotor, a UNESCO protected historic town well-known for its rich history, nautical tradition and the famous merchant navy of Boka Kotorska. The city itself is still surrounded by the well-preserved medieval wall, offering stunning vistas from several stops high up. Your Montenegrin guide will introduce you to Kotor, its culture, history and affection for cats, before you explore it on your own for a bit. The city’s maritime history museum is well worth a visit, but so are the rambling narrow streets and alleys, many charming shops and café bars on open piazza, all named after the goodies which were once traded there. Our drive continues around the amazing Boka Bay with numerous photo opportunities!

Quick Info

AIRPORT NEARBY

Dubrovnik, Tivat

HARBOR NEARBY

Dubrovnik, Kotor

Distance to attraction

DISTANCE

Dubrovnik: 115 Km

Dubrovnik

Kotor

Budva

Our Lady of the Rocks

After finding the icon of Madonna and the Child on the rock in the sea on July 22nd, 1452, the local sailors made an oath, which was the founding stone of this man-made island. The sailors swore to lay a stone here before and after every voyage. Over centuries, a small island was created. This tradition of laying stone lives still today. Every July 22nd, locals take their boats out and throw rocks on the site. You can take an idyllic boat ride from the town of Perast to the votive church and the museum of Icons on the island, where the original icon is exhibited on the main altar.

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When you embark on a Boka Bay tour, you’re setting foot into a dreamlike landscape where the majesty of the mountains descends straight into the azure of the Adriatic Sea. This unique experience, curated by our team of expert guides, is designed to immerse you in Montenegro’s natural beauty, while also exploring the rich heritage of its historic towns and structures.

This guided private tour commences in Dubrovnik, leading you through the verdant valleys of Župa Dubrovačka and Konavle. As you approach the border with Montenegro, the scenery starts to change, and you are met with the breathtaking sight of Boka Bay, the largest bay in the Adriatic. Each twist and turn of the journey reveals stunning vistas of seaside villages, rugged mountains, and the shimmering sea.

Highlights of the tour include a boat ride from the baroque town of Perast to Gospa od Škrpjela (Our Lady of the Rocks), a man-made islet steeped in history and lore. You will also tour Kotor, a UNESCO protected historic town, famed for its rich history, nautical tradition, and an undying affection for cats! The tour also includes plenty of opportunities for capturing memorable photographs, so don’t forget your camera!

A guided private Boka tour means that your tour of Boka Bay and its surroundings is personally tailored to your interests and preferences. This exclusivity allows us to provide an immersive and personalized tour experience, whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or someone who enjoys both in equal measure.

Our expert guides, fluent in English and well-versed in the local history, culture, and folklore, lead the tour. They’re eager to share the stories and secrets of the Boka Bay, Perast, Kotor, and other places along the way, enriching your experience manifold. With a private tour, you enjoy the luxury of exploring at your own pace, lingering at places that capture your imagination, and skipping the ones that don’t. This kind of personalized attention is rarely found in group tours.

A guided private Boka tour also allows us to accommodate special needs and preferences. If you have mobility issues or specific dietary requirements, we can adjust the tour accordingly. So, when you opt for a private tour of Boka Bay with us, you’re not just signing up for a tour; you’re embarking on a bespoke journey curated to cater to your every need and interest.

Preparation is key for making the most out of your Boka Bay tour! Here are a few essentials we recommend. First and foremost, your passport is needed, as the tour takes you across the border from Croatia into Montenegro. Comfortable shoes are crucial, given the variety of terrains and the amount of walking involved in exploring the quaint towns and historical sites. A hat and sunscreen are advisable during the summer months to protect against the Mediterranean sun.

And of course, don’t forget your camera! The Boka Bay tour is full of stunning views and picturesque moments, whether it’s the mirrored reflections of the mountains in the Adriatic Sea, or the charming streets of Kotor. Last but not least, remember to pack any personal necessities, such as medication, and let us know if you have any specific needs or requirements. We’ll do our utmost to accommodate them and ensure a comfortable and memorable tour for you.

Kotor, often described as the jewel of Montenegro, is a town of immense charm and history. The town is UNESCO protected, reflecting its value as a site of cultural heritage. Kotor is nestled at the edge of Boka Bay, shadowed by imposing limestone cliffs and watched over by the ancient city walls, a testimony to its medieval past.

As you explore the town on your Boka Bay tour, you’ll discover its rich maritime history and nautical tradition, borne out in sites like the maritime history museum. This is a town where history comes alive, where every cobblestone, every alleyway has a story to tell. From the bustling piazzas with their café bars and shops, to the narrow, winding streets steeped in antiquity, Kotor exudes an atmosphere that is at once inviting and enigmatic.

It’s also a town famed for its affection for cats, which you’ll see sunning themselves in the squares or wandering down the alleyways. Don’t be surprised if you find shops selling cat souvenirs or see cat motifs around the town – it’s all part of the local culture, a tribute to these feline friends who have become a part of Kotor’s identity.

Your guided private Boka tour will bring you up close to the magic and charm of Kotor, making for an unforgettable experience.

At our company, we strive to provide unforgettable experiences for all our clients, and we’re committed to accommodating specific needs to the best of our ability. If you have any mobility issues, it’s important to let us know in advance so we can adjust the tour accordingly.

The Boka Bay tour involves a certain amount of walking, especially when exploring the towns of Kotor and Perast. However, our private guided tours offer the flexibility to adapt the itinerary based on your needs. If necessary, we can limit the amount of walking and make sure that you’re comfortable throughout the tour. We will ensure that the transportation provided is also suitable for your needs, whether it be a luxury sedan or a passenger van.

One of the highlights of our private guided Boka tour is the boat ride to the man-made islet of Gospa od Škrpjela, or Our Lady of the Rocks. This excursion offers a unique perspective of the dramatic beauty of the Boka Bay, from the shimmering waters to the towering mountains. But the true gem lies on the islet itself.

The islet is home to a 17th-century Roman Catholic church that houses a significant collection of artworks and a museum. Here, you’ll get to see the original icon of Madonna and the Child that was found on the rock in the sea, which led to the creation of this island. Beyond the religious and cultural significance, the legend behind the formation of this island and the local tradition of laying stones around it adds a rich layer to your Boka Bay experience. Please note that the boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks may not be possible during rough seas and rainy weather.

The drive around Boka Bay, as part of our guided private Boka tour, is nothing short of spectacular. Montenegro is a visual treat that unfolds in a captivating mix of bay, mountain, and sea landscapes. Your journey begins from Dubrovnik, taking you through Župa Dubrovačka and Konavle valley up to the border with Montenegro.

From there, the seaside road snakes its way through several quaint towns such as Herceg Novi, Risan, and Perast before reaching Kotor. The road hugs the coastline, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, the largest bay of the Adriatic, and the steep mountains that descend almost vertically into the sea. It’s a panorama that’s breathtaking and humbling in equal measures.

Along the way, you’ll pass through many charming fishing villages that lend an idyllic touch to the journey. Every bend in the road opens up to a new vista, each more enchanting than the last, offering numerous photo opportunities. Whether it’s the vast expanse of the sea mirrored in the bay or the lush forest wrapping the mountains, the landscapes on this Boka Bay tour are a feast for the eyes.

We understand that every traveler has unique interests and desires, which is why our Boka Bay Montenegro tours can be customized to include additional experiences. One such option is a visit to the ancient town of Budva, a lively tourist resort known for its Mediterranean buildings, sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Another addition could be a panoramic view of Sveti Stefan, a small islet and 5-star hotel resort. This former fishing village turned luxury resort is one of Montenegro’s most photographed sites. Although access to the island itself is restricted, the sight of the red-roofed buildings against the backdrop of the blue sea is a visual treat not to be missed.

Please note that these additional experiences come at an extra cost. Let us know your preferences, and we’ll tailor your private guided Boka tour to provide an unforgettable journey through the jewels of Montenegro.

The UNESCO protected historic town of Kotor is a real gem of our guided private Boka tour. Nestled in a secluded part of Boka Kotorska bay, Kotor is a treasure trove of cultural and historical sights. The city’s well-preserved medieval wall, its rich maritime history, and charming Venetian architecture make it a unique attraction that holds a special allure for history and culture enthusiasts.

With our local guide, you’ll learn about Kotor’s fascinating past and present, and you’ll discover why the city has such a deep affection for cats. The city’s Maritime Museum is definitely worth a visit. Housed in a Baroque palace, it showcases a fascinating collection of naval artifacts that narrate the region’s maritime history. Besides the museum, Kotor’s narrow cobblestone streets and alleyways are worth exploring. You’ll find many delightful shops and cafes in open piazzas, each named after the goodies which were once traded there.

Montenegro enjoys a Mediterranean climate on the coast, with warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 29°C (84°F), making it perfect for exploring the beautiful outdoors of Boka Bay. In this season, we recommend wearing light, comfortable clothing, and don’t forget your hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Comfortable shoes are a must, given the amount of walking involved in the tour.

The weather in Montenegro can be a bit unpredictable in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), so it’s advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater. In the winter months, the temperatures can drop, and rain is more common, especially along the coast, so make sure to pack a waterproof jacket.

Remember, no matter the season, always bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites that you’ll encounter on your Boka Bay tour.

With this information at hand, you’re well-prepared for an engaging, enjoyable, and memorable trip through the magnificent landscapes and historic sites of Boka Bay, Montenegro. Remember, our private tours are fully customizable, offering you the freedom to explore at your own pace with expert guidance. We look forward to welcoming you to this extraordinary part of the world!