Dubrovnik is one of the most popular day trip locations from Kotor, and definitely for a good reason. Not that it’s only easy to get there, but also for the famous old town and the city walls. The trip will give you ample freedom on your day trip. A scenic drive of only 2 .5 hours will bring you there from Kotor. Definitely, a must if you are in Kotor.
1st Stop at Perast, Montenegro
On my way to Dubrovnik, I made an early morning stop at Perast, a beautiful small old town on the Kotor Bay, only 10 miles (16 km) from Kotor. Many tourists prefer to stay here for its natural beauty. I saw a few great restaurants, hotels, guest houses, and medieval churches surrounding one main road along the Bay. Two beautiful islets make the area more attractive to tourists. Our Lady of the Rock and the other one is Sveti Dorde (St. George), which houses a Benedictine monastery.
Next Stop Herceg Novi, Montenegro
From Perast, I started heading to my next destination, Herceg Novi. Driving the scenic highway along Kotor Bay was a great experience; on the way, I passed a few beautiful little towns, such as Risan, Lipci, and Zelenika.
We made a quick stop in Herceg Novi, a coastal town located at the foot of Mount Orne and the entrance of the Bay of Kotor. It is a historic town that blends diverse and beautiful ancient buildings from different ancestral origins. I wish I had spent more time here as this place deserves an extended stay to explore all it offers.
Border Crossing Debeli Brijeg, Montenegro
From Kotor to the Border Crossing on the Adriatic Highway that connects Croatia is only 33 miles (54 km) and should not take more than 1.5 hours. My story is different as I made multiple stops, so it took me way longer. It was May 31 early morning, and it took me less than 15 minutes at the border, definitely not as long as you hear stories about it taking hours. On the Croatian side of the border control is Karasovići, about 3 miles ( 5 km) from Montenegro border control. From the Croatian side of the border to Dubrovnik is only 24 miles (38 km), and it takes about an hour to get there by car.
Things to do in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is one of the most popular day trip locations from Kotor, and definitely for a good reason. Not that it’s easy to get there, but also for the famous old town and the city walls. Its popularity has skyrocketed since the airing of the Game of Thrones series. The architecture inside the old town is fabulous. In real-time, you can see ‘King’s Landing,’ ‘Qarth,’ and the ‘Red Keep’ gardens.
I walked along the top of the city’s walls and narrow alleys to see some of the many architectural masterpieces. Not to mention clock tower, Franciscan Monastery, Dubrovnik Cathedral, and Church of St. Blaise are among the many.
Helpful Information
If you want to avoid summer crowds, then the best time to visit Dubrovnik is between April and May just before pick season.
Also for warmer water and mild temperature, September and October is the best time to visit.
By Air
Dubrovnik is the southernmost city in Croatia, close to the border of Bosnia and Montenegro, so the easiest way to reach there is by air. The nearest airport is only 13 miles (21 km) from the city. Many domestic and international flights have daily flights from major European cities to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV). During the summer months, you will find frequent direct flights with great deals. You can also fly there via Zagreb the capital and then get Croatia Airlines which has daily flights to Dubrovnik. Car rental is available at the airport. Getting to the Old Town is simple, hop on to non-stop airport shuttle all the to the Dubrovnik main bus terminal or ferry port.
Alternatively, Tivat airport (TIV) in Montenegro is another option to get there, which is only 44 miles (72 km) from Dubrovnik.
By Bus
You can reach Dubrovnik by bus not only from Zagreb, Zagreb Bus Terminal, Rijeka or Split but also from neighboring countries. Check out Croatia Bus for available services.
By Car
The majority of travelers prefer to visit Croatia by car from neighboring countries. The nice scenic highway systems even make it easier for European travelers.
Dubrovnik is a small coastal city with a population not more than 50,000. The best way to see the old walled city is on foot and other part of the city can be accessed by different ways.
By Bus
The best way to move around Dubrovnik is by bus since there is no trams or trains service available. There are different bus routes, some of which runs from the harbor to the old towns western entrance. Popular bus route also covers many hotels including Dubrovnik Palace. There are tickets available upon boarding the bus, which is valid for an hour, or daily tickets are also available after activation.
By Private Car
I drove my rent a car and did not find any problem getting from one place to other. It is the most convenient if you are planning to make some day trips or out of town coastal trips. But you will find it challenging to find parking if you drive to the old city area. There are paid parking lots around the old town and finding a spot in those is not so difficult.
By Taxis
Metered taxis are available throughout the city, and I saw a few taxi stand close to the old city gate. Also, UBER service is now available, especially during the summer season, and it’s much cheaper than Taxi.
There are many day-trippers from Kotor, Mostar, Split and they touch base the highlights of this relatively compact fairytale old town and other destinations in the city. But if you really interested to know more and explore other amazing parts of Dubrovnik, then two days is enough.
If you consider using this city as your base for day trips along Adriatic coast, and across into Montenegro and Bosnia, then two days is not enough. I recommend adding additional days based on your trip plan.
Border crossing to and from Croatia could be crowded during the peak summer season. During July and August try to avoid border crossing during the weekend.
Croatian currency is the Kuna, 100 lipa makes one Kuna. The exchange rate for 1 US$ is about 6.74 kuna. Parking machines near the old town will take Euro, or you can also use your bank card.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Hotel Komodor, Dubrovnik
I had a great stay in Hotel Komodor, and the location was excellent, with a bus stop just around the corner—also free parking for hotel guests, which was a plus for me. A few good restaurants were nearby, and a great beach was just across the street. The hotel staff was friendly and very helpful. I definitely, recommend this hotel for giving it a try. Located 150 feet from the beach and featuring a terrace with an outdoor swimming pool, free sun loungers, and parasols, Hotel Komodor is located on Lapad Peninsula in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel
Located right next to the beach, Dubrovnik President Valamar Collection Hotel offers a unique beachfront location and stunning views of the Elaphiti Islands stretching from all room terraces and balconies. A Mediterranean-themed wellness center and award-winning gourmet restaurants are also located on-site. It enjoys an attractive setting on the Babin Kuk Peninsula. The Mediterranean-styled wellness center offers various signature treatments and a sauna and hot tub. Entrance to this spa center and the gym is free.
My Opinion and Last Word
Have you been to Dubrovnik, Croatia? Any cool tips to share?
loved being in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and want to go back again. I hope my story has motivated you to visit Croatia.
Please leave a comment below! I’d love to hear from you to improve my knowledge.
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