Kotor Travel Guide | Montenegro
- 9 hours ago
- 5 min read
Kotor is one of the most beautiful places in Montenegro and, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful towns in the Balkans. Nestled between dramatic mountains and the Bay of Kotor, this UNESCO-listed town feels like something straight out of a postcard.
While Kotor itself is quite small, there is plenty to see and do both within the Old Town and around the bay. Whether you're visiting for a day or staying longer, this guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Kotor.
Best Things to Do in Kotor
How Many Days Do You Need in Kotor?
Where to Stay in Kotor
Best Viewpoints in Kotor
Can You Swim in Kotor?
Things to Know Before Visiting Kotor
Best Things to Do in Kotor
Explore Kotor Old Town
The heart of Kotor is its beautiful Old Town. Surrounded by medieval walls, it is full of narrow stone streets, charming squares, churches, restaurants, and hidden corners. One of my favorite things to do in Kotor is simply wander around without a plan. You'll often stumble across quiet courtyards, local cats sleeping in the sun, and small cafés tucked away from the crowds.
Don't miss:
St. Tryphon's Cathedral
The Clock Tower
Arms Square
The Maritime Museum
Consider booking one of the free walking tours in Kotor ➡️ Kotor Free Walking Tours
Climb to Kotor Fortress
If there is one thing you absolutely have to do in Kotor, it's climbing to the fortress above the town. The hike involves several hundred steps, but the reward is one of the best views in Montenegro. From the top, you'll see the entire Bay of Kotor stretching out below you.
During summer, I highly recommend starting early in the morning or visiting around sunset. The climb can become very hot during the middle of the day.
Ride the Kotor Cable Car
One of Kotor's newest attractions is the cable car connecting the bay with Mount Lovćen.
The ride itself only takes around 11 minutes, but the views are incredible. At the top, you'll find viewing platforms, walking trails, restaurants, and some of the best photo opportunities in Montenegro.
If climbing to the fortress sounds too challenging, this is an excellent alternative for enjoying panoramic views.
Visit Perast
Located just a short drive from Kotor, Perast is one of the prettiest towns in Montenegro. The town is famous for its elegant stone buildings and relaxed atmosphere. I personally think Perast is so magical and one of the most amazing little spots in Montenegro. I highly recommend having lunch or dinner at one of the seaside restaurants there.
Take a Boat Tour
I think one of the most popular activities to do, and the one I personally enjoyed a lot, is to take a boat tour along the Bay of Kotor coast. There are typically 2 types of tours - a shorter one (typically costs 20 Euros) and a longer one (typically costs 40 Euros). The shorter one will take you to the little island that features Our Lady of the Rocks church and to Perast. The longer one will take you to:
Also Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks
Former Submarine Tunnels
And Blue Cave, where most likely you will also have some time to swim and snorkel)
We opted in for something a little bit different. A shorter route but a private boat, and it was such a magical boat trip. The boats are small, and tour organizers said they usually squeeze from 10 to 12 people on them. That was not the way we wanted to enjoy the Bay of Kotor, so we opted for a shorter but private ride.
If you are on a tight schedule, I recommend booking in advance ➡️ Boat Tours in Kotor. As I said, look out for how many people might be on the tour. But if you are flexible with your time, then you can just book on the spot. This is where all the boat tours go from and where you can book them and pick a boat & tour:
Walk Along the Waterfront
Sometimes the simplest activities are the best. The waterfront promenade is perfect for an evening walk, a coffee break, or simply watching the boats come and go. It's especially beautiful around sunset when the mountains begin to glow in the evening light.
How Many Days Do You Need in Kotor?
You can see the main highlights of Kotor in one day, but I think two days is ideal.
1 day: Explore the Old Town, climb the fortress, and enjoy the waterfront.
2 days: Add a boat tour and visit Perast.
3 days or more: Explore nearby beaches, Lovćen National Park, and other towns around the Bay of Kotor.
Where to Stay in Kotor
Kotor Old Town
If you want to be in the middle of the action, stay inside the Old Town. You'll be within walking distance of restaurants, attractions, and the waterfront. Just keep in mind that it can be noisy during the summer months.
Dobrota
For most travelers, I think Dobrota is the best place to stay. Located just outside Kotor, it offers beautiful waterfront accommodation, fewer crowds, and fantastic views of the bay while still being close enough to walk into town.
Perast
If you're looking for a romantic getaway or a quieter experience, Perast is a fantastic option. The atmosphere is much more relaxed than in Kotor, and the bay views are stunning. Also, Kotor is a short 15-minute taxi drive away. Next time I visit Montenegro, I will stay in Perast.
If you are looking for the best base while exploring Montenegro, check out my 'Best Places to Stay in Montenegro' Guide!
Best Viewpoints in Kotor
Kotor is known for its incredible views, but these are the best spots:
Kotor Fortress - The classic viewpoint and probably the most famous.
Kotor Cable Car - One of the easiest ways to enjoy panoramic views.
Kotor Serpentine Road Viewpoint - If you're driving towards Lovćen National Park, stop at one of the viewpoints along the famous serpentine road. The view looking back over the Bay of Kotor is one of the most photographed scenes in Montenegro.
Can You Swim in Kotor?
Yes, you can swim in Kotor, although most visitors don't come here specifically for the beaches. There are several swimming spots along the waterfront, particularly in nearby Dobrota. The water is generally calm and clean, making it perfect for a refreshing swim during the summer. If you're looking for larger beaches, you'll find better options in nearby Budva, including the popular Mogren Beach.
Things to Know Before Visiting Kotor
Cruise Ship Crowds Are Real
Kotor is a major cruise ship destination. When a large ship arrives, the Old Town can become significantly busier. If possible, visit popular attractions early in the morning before the cruise passengers arrive.
Summer Can Be Extremely Hot
The mountains surrounding Kotor trap heat, making summer temperatures feel even warmer. Bring water, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities earlier in the day.
Parking Can Be Difficult
If you're visiting during July or August, finding parking can sometimes be challenging. Arriving early will make things much easier. And even if you find one, it will be expensive. For the one near Kotor Old Town, we paid 18 Euros! That was for around 6 hours.
The Bay of Kotor Is Not Actually a Fjord
Many people describe the Bay of Kotor as a fjord, but technically it isn't one. The bay is actually a submerged river canyon. Regardless of the definition, it's one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Europe.
Kotor is one of those places that is even more beautiful in person than in photos. If you're planning a trip to Montenegro, Kotor should absolutely be at the top of your itinerary!
If you are planning a trip to Montenegro, make sure to check out all the amazing places you can't miss out on, and things I wish I knew when traveling to Montenegro!
