Dubrovnik to Kotor and Perast day trip

By 09:00, we find ourselves in the scenic town of Perast, a baroque marvel seemingly frozen in time. Nestled on the Bay of Kotor’s shores, Perast is famed for its postcard-worthy waterfront and historic buildings. Legends say that Perast’s seafaring prowess was so renowned, even pirates dared not challenge its fleet. This stop is a picturesque introduction to the rich maritime history that enriches our Dubrovnik to Kotor and Perast journey.

At 09:30, we are going on a magical boat ride to the Island of Our Lady of the Rocks. According to legend, this man-made island was created by seamen who kept an ancient oath. After finding an icon of the Madonna and Child on a rock in the sea, they vowed to build an island right there, laying stones around the spot where the icon was found. Over time, the island emerged, and today it hosts a charming church and museum, making it a highlight of the tour.

We spend about 30 minutes exploring the church and museum, delving into stories of local sailors and their devotion. The church is adorned with 68 magnificent paintings by Tripo Kokolja, a famous 17th-century Baroque artist from Perast. Each piece tells a part of the island’s story, weaving a rich tapestry of faith, art, and history that is central to our Dubrovnik to Kotor experience.

Our return to Perast by boat at 10:30 offers another opportunity to soak in the tranquil beauty of the Bay of Kotor. The calm waters and surrounding mountains create a serene atmosphere, offering a moment of reflection on the unique blend of nature and human endeavor that characterizes our tour.

From 11:00 to 12:00, you have free time to explore Perast at your leisure. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a coffee in one of the quaint cafés, or simply marvel at the town’s baroque architecture. This peaceful town, with its rich history of maritime success and its role as a guardian of the bay’s traditions, adds depth to our Dubrovnik to Kotor journey.

As we drive towards Kotor, the landscape unfolds like a living museum of the Adriatic’s natural and cultural splendor. This leg of our Dubrovnik to Kotor exploration offers stunning views of the bay, often described as Europe’s southernmost fjord, though it’s technically a ria (a submerged river canyon).

Arriving in Kotor at 13:00, we dive into the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Kotor’s Old Town is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, winding streets, and squares, each with its own story. We’ll explore landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the ancient city walls that have protected Kotor for centuries. Legends of heroic sieges and artistic masterpieces bring the stones to life, enriching the final chapter of our Kotor and Perast fairytale.

Our journey concludes as we return to Dubrovnik. Reflecting on our day, we cherish the experiences from our Kotor and Perast tour from Dubrovnik – a blend of historical explorations and peaceful moments.