Flying into Dubrovnik for a Montenegro Adventure
If you’re planning a trip to Montenegro, flying into Dubrovnik is one of the easiest and most scenic ways to begin your adventure. When I planned my week-long stay in Montenegro, Dubrovnik was the most accessible airport at the time, and it worked out perfectly. The journey from Dubrovnik to Montenegro was easy, seamless, and enjoyable, adding to the adventure. You can also consider a day trip from Dubrovnik if you’re holidaying in Croatia but fancy a taste of Montenegro’s charm. Here’s a guide to why Dubrovnik is an ideal entry point for Montenegro travel, how to get there, and tips to make the most of the journey.
Why Fly into Dubrovnik for a Montenegro Trip?
With its stunning location on the Adriatic coast, Dubrovnik’s airport is a convenient and well-connected entry point for Montenegro, especially since Montenegro’s main international airport was unavailable at the time. Dubrovnik Airport offers a great range of flight options from the UK and other parts of Europe, with many affordable and direct flights.
Another benefit is that the drive from Dubrovnik to Montenegro is short and full of gorgeous scenery. The journey is around 45 minutes to an hour to the Montenegrin border, and crossing into Montenegro was straightforward – we simply had to show our passports. The drive itself offered some of the most amazing coastal views, which felt like a bonus to start the holiday. Once across the border, we were ready to explore Montenegro’s stunning destinations, from Kotor Bay to the beaches of Budva.
Crossing the Border: What to Expect
We opted to travel by coach from Dubrovnik to Montenegro, which was incredibly straightforward. The journey took us through scenic coastal routes and quiet countryside stretches, making it a comfortable and relaxing start to the holiday. When we reached the border, we just needed to show our passports – no lengthy paperwork or extra hassle.
The coach waited for everyone to complete the check, and in a matter of minutes, we were off again, rolling through Montenegro’s beautiful landscapes. If you’re considering a self-drive option, rental cars are also available at Dubrovnik Airport. Whether you drive or take a coach, the border crossing is generally smooth, though you might want to double-check for any updates in border policies or passport requirements before you travel.
Why Montenegro Makes a Great Day Trip from Dubrovnik
If you’re staying in Dubrovnik but are curious about Montenegro, a day trip is entirely doable and highly recommended! Kotor Bay is one of the most popular day-trip destinations and is just over an hour from Dubrovnik by car. The town of Kotor, with its medieval architecture and stunning bay, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and feels like stepping back in time. Its cobbled streets, old fortifications, and dramatic mountain backdrops make it a unique addition to any Croatian holiday.
Budva, a vibrant town known for its nightlife and beaches, is another fantastic option if you’re up for a longer day. The journey takes about two hours each way, and you’ll get to experience Montenegro’s mix of sandy beaches, history, and culture. If you’re a beach lover, consider stopping by Sveti Stefan, a famous island resort with luxurious beach access (although access is restricted to certain areas). Taking a coach tour or hiring a car are great ways to make the most of your day trip.
The Journey from Dubrovnik to Montenegro: Scenic and Smooth
From Dubrovnik Airport, we quickly hopped on a coach that took us along the coastal road. The route gave us views of shimmering Adriatic waters, and every turn revealed a new angle of the breathtaking coastline. Montenegro’s coastal scenery is incredibly diverse, and the journey itself felt like a highlight. Passing through small Croatian and Montenegrin villages, we could already see glimpses of the culture, architecture, and stunning nature waiting for us in Montenegro.
One of my favourite parts of the drive was the approach to Kotor Bay, where the mountains rise up around the blue waters, creating a kind of natural amphitheatre. If you’re on the fence about the coach, I’d say it’s worth it just for this view! Renting a car offers the flexibility to stop along the way, while the coach option keeps things stress-free.
Arrival in Montenegro: Highlights Not to Miss
Once we crossed the border, we headed straight to Kotor Bay. Kotor itself is an absolute gem, with medieval charm and winding streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and historical sites. Climbing up to Kotor Fortress is a must – the view from the top is worth every step and lets you take in the full sweep of the bay and surrounding mountains.
Other highlights in Montenegro include:
- Budva: Known as Montenegro’s party town, Budva has a buzzing atmosphere, sandy beaches, and a beautiful Old Town. If you like a mix of sunbathing and nightlife, Budva has plenty to offer.
- Sveti Stefan: This famous islet turned luxury resort is one of Montenegro’s iconic images. While parts of it are off-limits to visitors, the beaches around Sveti Stefan are accessible and make for a great day trip from Budva.
- Perast: Just a short drive from Kotor, Perast is a small town on the bay with a unique charm. Its main draw is Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island church that you can reach by boat. This quiet town is a lovely stopover if you want to escape the more popular spots.
Each of these destinations felt like a hidden gem, and even with just a week in Montenegro, we were able to see a lot while taking in the relaxed pace and beautiful landscapes.
Practical Tips for Your Dubrovnik to Montenegro Trip
Here are a few tips based on my experience that might help you if you’re considering flying into Dubrovnik for your Montenegro trip:
- Check Transport Options: Coaches, private transfers, and car rentals are all available at Dubrovnik Airport. Coaches are the most affordable option, but hiring a car gives you the flexibility to stop for photos or side trips.
- Bring Your Passport: You’ll need it for the border crossing. In my experience, the check was quick and smooth, but it’s always good to keep your passport easily accessible.
- Plan for a Slight Delay: During peak travel times, the border crossing can get busy. We had a relatively quick experience, but I’d recommend budgeting a bit of extra time if you’re on a tight schedule.
- Consider a Day Trip Option: If you’re staying in Dubrovnik, a day trip to Montenegro is a fantastic add-on to your itinerary. You can find plenty of day tours to Kotor and Budva, or simply rent a car and explore on your own.
- Enjoy the Scenic Journey: The route from Dubrovnik to Montenegro is one of the most scenic I’ve ever experienced, so have your camera ready! The Adriatic coastline, dotted with islands, mountains, and villages, is stunning.
Why I’d Recommend Dubrovnik as Your Gateway to Montenegro
Overall, flying into Dubrovnik made my Montenegro trip easy and enjoyable. The airport is well-connected, the journey is scenic, and border crossings are relatively straightforward. Plus, it’s a great option if you’re only looking to visit Montenegro for a day – Kotor Bay alone is worth the trip.
Whether you’re planning a week in Montenegro or just a day trip from Dubrovnik, this journey adds a bit of adventure and stunning scenery to your travels. Montenegro’s beauty, history, and coastline make it a remarkable destination, and Dubrovnik’s proximity makes it easy to reach and enjoy. For anyone on the fence about adding a bit of Montenegro to their Croatian holiday, I’d say go for it – the journey and destination are both worth every moment.
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