About this experience
Travel along the Boka-Kotor Bay will not only treat you to unforgettable Mediterranean views but also immerse you in the region's ancient atmosphere, letting you explore Montenegro's oldest sanctuaries. During the excursion, I will share the most interesting facts about the cities we visit and enlighten you with ancient legends of the area.
What to expect
Savina Monastery
After a scenic ride along the Adriatic highway, we will cross the bay and head towards the coast of the Herzeg Novi Riviera. Here you will discover the masterpiece of Dalmatian Baroque architecture, the Savina Orthodox Monastery. Known as the 'Soul of Boka Kotorska,' you will explore the monastery's churches and, for the believers, the abbot will present a reliquary with saint's relics.
Coastal town of Perast
Upon arrival in the town, we will stroll along its waterfront street. Built during the Venetian Republic era, you will admire the churches and palaces of local aristocrats. Here you will also see the tallest bell tower in the south of the Adriatic, which you can climb by choice. I will share stories of Russian sailors connected to Perast, how the town became a maritime center, and other intriguing facts during the walk.
Gospa od Skrpjela
The only man-made island in the Adriatic is worth a visit. We will take a boat to reach it. You will learn about the motivations behind the island's construction and why it is still being filled up to this day. We will visit a church with a miraculous icon and a museum with unique exhibits. In the museum, we will examine the famous icon embroidered with gold silk threads and surprisingly — the embroiderer's hair.
Kotor — ancient city
In ancient Kotor, the architecture will reveal the city's ancient past to you. You will admire the Cathedral of St. Tryphon — the oldest active shrine in the southeastern Adriatic, even older than the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris! Next, you will see the churches of St. Nicholas (20th century) and St. Luke (11th century). Throughout, I will share stories of the city's festivals, ancient traditions, and happily answer any of your questions.
Organizational details
- You can add visits to Old Budva, Tivat, Risan upon request.
- The program can be enhanced with a visit to a local cuisine restaurant. There are plenty of restaurants in the Boka-Kotor Bay for every taste and budget.
- The excursion's timing may vary (please inquire via message).
- The tour includes guide services and entrance tickets to the church. If desired, I can provide a car with a driver. Car rental with fuel, parking, and ferry crossings costs 120 euros/up to 3 passengers; 180 euros/minivan for 7 passengers. Microbus or bus rental is also possible, and the cost is negotiated separately in this case.
- The excursion price does not include:
— entrance tickets
— lunch
— tastings
— boat tickets to the Virgin Island on the reef (5 euros/person). - When visiting churches, shoulders, chest, and knees should be covered.