Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to get from Dubrovnik to Kotor, Montenegro.
If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, chances are high that you’ll visit both Dubrovnik and Kotor. Dubrovnik, a popular tourist destination in Croatia, and Kotor, a picturesque city in Montenegro, are located just a few hours apart. Here’s everything you need to know about traveling from Dubrovnik to Kotor.
Montenegro Essentials
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Montenegro Tours
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Some lucky people might be going on a cruise that covers both destinations – the ultra affluent may be able to charter a yacht, but for those who aren’t please find our guide.
For a comprehensive guide on what to do, and where to stay, read our amazing guide to Kotor. If you only have 24 hours in Kotor, read our excellent 24 hour itinerary for Kotor.
Option 1: Bus
The most convenient way to travel from Dubrovnik to Kotor is by bus. Online predictions indicate a travel time of under 2 hours from Dubrovnik to Kotor. However, we find that the trip takes around 3 hours, despite light traffic and swift border procedures. It’s prudent to question such online estimates. In essence, if Kotor is your destination, it’s advisable not to have any pressing engagements on the day you reach.
It’s worth noting that in the Balkans, bus schedules can shift, especially depending on the season. So, if you’re considering a bus journey from Dubrovnik to Kotor, double-check the timings in person prior to your intended departure.
The Dubrovnik bus station, also known as ‘Autobusni Kolodvor,’ is about 3 kilometers from the old town and is located near the ferry terminal. We strongly advise you to purchase your ticket(s) in advance, especially during the summer months when buses can fill up quickly. Every day, multiple buses run the route, with more scheduled during the summer.
Border control can be (hopefully) uneventful – but be prepared to get off the bus to pass through the border. We have heard some stories over the summer months where it can take upto 1 hour but often it is very swift.
Bus journeys are typically quite pleasant and offer a comfortable experience. However, a heads-up for individuals prone to motion sickness: the winding roads of Kotor, with their numerous serpentines, might cause some dizziness or discomfort. It’s advisable to be prepared, perhaps with anti-nausea remedies, if you’re sensitive to such conditions.
Once you arrive in Kotor, the bus will drop you off at the main bus station, which is located just outside the Old Town. From there, it’s a short walk to the city center, where you’ll find many restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Where to Stay
Looking for a hotel to stay?
Always compare the prices of Hotels – and end up saving $$$s. We recommend Hotel Look for the best prices
Prefer staying in Villas?
Montenegro has a great range of apartments and villas available at VRBO
Charter a Yacht
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The cost of a bus ticket from Dubrovnik to Kotor is approximately €30 per person. Keep in mind that the border between Croatia and Montenegro can be busy during peak travel periods, especially in the summer months. You should allow extra time for border control, which can take up to an hour or more.
You can book a bus from here – and needless to say, the sooner you do this, the cheaper it is.
Option 2: Private Transfer
If you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free journey, you can hire a private transfer from Dubrovnik to Kotor. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic and border control. You can book your private transfer online or through a local travel agency.
A private transfer is an excellent option for families or groups of friends who want to travel together. You can choose the type of vehicle that suits your needs, and the driver will pick you up from your hotel or apartment in Dubrovnik and drop you off at your accommodation in Kotor.
The cost of a private transfer from Dubrovnik to Kotor depends on the number of passengers and the type of vehicle. A standard sedan or van can cost around €70-100, while a luxury car or minibus can cost €150-200 or more.
Option 3: Car
If you have a valid driving license, you can rent a car and drive from Dubrovnik to Kotor. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on the traffic and border control. You can rent a car at Dubrovnik Airport or in the city center.
Driving in Montenegro can be challenging due to narrow roads, steep hills, and sharp turns, especially if you’re not used to driving in Europe. You should also be aware of the speed limits and traffic rules in Montenegro, as they may differ from your home country.
Once you arrive in Kotor, you can park your car in one of the many parking lots outside the Old Town. From there, it’s a short walk to the city center.
The cost of renting a car in Dubrovnik depends on the type of vehicle, the rental period, and the rental company. On average, a standard economy car can cost around €30-40 per day, while a larger SUV or luxury car can cost €50-100 or more per day. For our best guide for renting cars in Montenegro read this article.
Localrent compares car rental prices from local suppliers. Many of them are individuals rather than big international car rental companies. As a result, the rates are very competitive – around 30% lower – when compared to other sites. It depends on how early you book to get the best deal, but booking with Localrent is always a better deal than booking with anyone else.
Note that car rental costs will impose a higher fee if you pick up the car in one country and return to another country. Please bear this in mind when making the booking.
When renting a car in Croatia for travel to Montenegro, you’ll need a green card to prove the car is insured for travel in other countries. Some rental car companies may try to charge extra for a “cross border card,” which is essentially the same thing as a green card. It’s important to note that all cars insured in Croatia should come with a green card at no extra charge, but some rental companies may try to add an additional fee for it. Stay informed to avoid any surprises when renting a car for your Montenegro adventure!
Conclusion
In conclusion, traveling from Dubrovnik to Kotor is easy and convenient. You can choose from several options, including bus, private transfer or car. The most popular and affordable option is the bus, which departs daily from Dubrovnik Bus Station. If you prefer a more comfortable and hassle-free journey, you can hire a private transfer or rent a car. It makes sense as you will get an opportunity to travel a lot more freely – and see some amazing places like Durmitor National Park and Lovcen National Park.
If you’re looking for a memorable experience, you can take a ferry from Dubrovnik to Kotor during the summer months. Whichever option you choose, make sure to plan your trip in advance and allow extra time for border control and traffic. We hope that our guide has helped you plan your trip to Montenegro, and we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey!
