10. Montenegro: Kotor Bay Tour with Boat Ride from Dubrovnik
Visit Kotor bay in Montenegro, one of the most scenic and picturesque places on the Adriatic Sea. It is also the biggest bay on the Adriatic, and because of its strategic importance in this turbulent region, it has been under rule by different nations.
Each of them left a mark that can be seen today through a beautiful blend of architectural influences. Romans, Turks, Venetians, Austrians - each nation left a mark on this region and its cities.
After your departure from Dubrovnik and a scenic drive through Konavle valley, enter Montenegro where you make a short stop at Verige to take photos of the beautiful landscape just before entering Kotor bay.
Continue your drive along the coast through Risan and Perast, to reach Kotor. Often called the best preserved and prettiest town in Montenegro, this UNESCO-listed fortified city is famous for its city walls, a display of Venetian-inspired architecture, beautiful churches, and rich history.
Whether it was independent, or as a part of the Byzantine Empire, Serbian kingdom, or Venetian republic, Perast may be one of the most historically intriguing places in Boka Kotorska. Baroque, renaissance palaces and narrow streets in Perast will take you back to a time of luxury and wealth.
In Perast, you have the opportunity to take a boat ride and visit Our Lady of the Rocks island. The legend says that in 1452 two brothers found Mary’s picture on a rock in the sea. This led to a miraculous healing of one of the brothers.
Ever since locals have been bringing rocks and sinking ships next to this rock. An island was formed and first, a chapel was built, then a church in its place. Some call it the Croatian Sistine chapel because of the artwork that enriches its walls.
Itinerary:
• Departure from Dubrovnik • 8:00 AM - Arrival at the border of Montenegro • 8:45 AM - Photo/coffee break (approx. 20 minutes) • 10:00 AM - Arrival to Kotor, local guided tour, free time (approx. 3 hours) • 1:00 PM - Drive from Kotor to Perast • 1:30 PM - Arrival in Perast, boat transfer to Our Lady of the Rocks island, free time • 3:30 PM - Departure from Perast • 6:00 PM - Approximate return to Dubrovnik