7 Best Montenegro Day Trips

A well-rounded trip to Montenegro typically ranges from 5 to 10 days, allowing you to explore its diverse landscapes, historical sites, coastal towns, and natural wonders.
Here’s a rough breakdown of how you might allocate your time:
Kotor and Bay of Kotor (2-3 days): Discover the charming old town of Kotor, take a boat trip to the Blue Cave, explore the medieval city walls, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Bay of Kotor.
Budva and Surroundings (1-2 days): Explore Budva’s Old Town, relax on the beaches, and consider taking a day trip to nearby towns like Perast and Sveti Stefan.
Tara Canyon and Northern Region (2 days): Journey to the Tara Canyon, go rafting on the Tara River, and explore the natural beauty of the northern region, including Biogradska Gora National Park.
Bar and Ulcinj (1-2 days): Visit the historic town of Bar, explore its sights, and head to the coastal town of Ulcinj for a taste of the Adriatic’s southern charm.
Additional Time (1-2 days): If you have extra time, you could explore the coastal towns of Herceg Novi and Tivat, or venture into the mountains for hiking and more outdoor adventures.

However, a well-rounded trip to Montenegro typically spans around 7 to 10 days to fully experience its diverse attractions and regions.
Here’s a general itinerary breakdown:
Kotor and Bay of Kotor (2-3 days): Discover the enchanting old town of Kotor, explore the Bay of Kotor, take a boat trip to the Blue Cave, and hike up to the Kotor Fortress for panoramic views.
Budva and Coastal Towns (2-3 days): Explore the medieval streets of Budva’s Old Town, relax on the beaches, visit the picturesque town of Perast and its islands, and consider a trip to Sveti Stefan.
Tara Canyon and Northern Region (2-3 days): Journey to the stunning Tara Canyon, go rafting on the Tara River, and explore the natural beauty of the northern region, including Biogradska Gora National Park.
Bar and Southern Coast (1-2 days): Visit the historic town of Bar, enjoy the southern coastal vibes in places like Ulcinj, and relax by the Adriatic Sea.
Optional Extensions: If you have more time, you can extend your trip to include activities like hiking in the mountains, visiting additional coastal towns, or immersing yourself in local culture and cuisine.

A day trip to Montenegro can be worth it, especially if you’re in a nearby location and want to get a taste of the country’s stunning landscapes, historic towns, and cultural attractions. However, keep in mind that Montenegro offers a diverse range of experiences, and a single day might not allow you to fully explore and appreciate everything it has to offer.
Pros of a Day Trip to Montenegro:
Convenience: If you’re staying in a nearby location like Dubrovnik, Croatia, a day trip to Montenegro can be a convenient way to explore a new country without changing accommodations.
Highlights: You can visit some of Montenegro’s key attractions such as Kotor, the Bay of Kotor, Budva, or the Tara Canyon in a single day, giving you a glimpse of the country’s beauty.
Scenic Drives: Montenegro offers stunning coastal and mountainous drives, and a day trip can allow you to enjoy these scenic routes.
Cons of a Day Trip to Montenegro:
Limited Time: Montenegro has a lot to offer, and a single day may not provide enough time to fully immerse yourself in its culture, history, and natural beauty.
Rushed Experience: Trying to fit multiple attractions into a single day can lead to a rushed and hectic experience, preventing you from truly savoring the destinations.
Missed Opportunities: Montenegro’s charm lies in its diversity, from coastal towns to rugged landscapes. A day trip might mean missing out on lesser-known gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Here’s why it’s considered one of the best day trips:
Kotor and Bay of Kotor Day Trip from Dubrovnik:
Scenic Drive: The drive from Dubrovnik to Kotor takes you along the picturesque coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and charming coastal towns.
Kotor Old Town: Explore the well-preserved medieval Old Town of Kotor, with its narrow streets, squares, and historic architecture. You can visit landmarks like St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and the Maritime Museum.
Kotor Fortress: Embark on a hike to the Kotor Fortress, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town, bay, and surrounding mountains. The hike is moderately challenging but offers a memorable experience.
Bay of Kotor: Cruise along the stunning Bay of Kotor, often referred to as Europe’s southernmost fjord. The bay is surrounded by dramatic mountains and dotted with picturesque villages.
Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks: En route to Kotor, you can stop at the charming village of Perast. Take a short boat ride to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a beautiful church and museum.
Cultural Immersion: Experience the blend of Montenegrin and Venetian influences in Kotor’s architecture, history, and cuisine. Enjoy local dishes and explore the town’s unique atmosphere.
Scenic Photo Opportunities: The day trip offers numerous photo opportunities, from the stunning landscapes of the Bay of Kotor to the historic charm of the old town.
Convenient Distance: Kotor is relatively close to Dubrovnik, making it an achievable day trip that allows you to experience another country’s culture and beauty in a short amount of time.

Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons to help you decide:
1. Spring (April – June): Spring is a wonderful time to visit Dubrovnik. The weather is pleasant and mild, with temperatures gradually warming up. It’s a great time for sightseeing, exploring the Old Town, and enjoying outdoor activities without the intense summer crowds. April and May are particularly lovely for quieter and more budget-friendly travel.
2. Summer (July – August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Dubrovnik, especially in July and August. The weather is hot and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, keep in mind that the city can be very crowded during this time, with long lines at popular attractions. If you don’t mind the crowds and want to experience the vibrant energy of the city, summer could be the right time for you.
3. Fall (September – October): Fall is another excellent time to visit Dubrovnik. The weather remains warm and pleasant in September and early October, making it a great time to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities. The crowds start to thin out, allowing for a more relaxed experience while exploring the city’s attractions.
4. Winter (November – March): Winter is the offseason in Dubrovnik. While the weather is cooler and some attractions might have limited opening hours, this can be a quieter and more budget-friendly time to visit. You’ll have a chance to experience the local culture and enjoy the city’s charm without the summer crowds.