If we’ve ever imagined walking through narrow stone alleys, surrounded by ancient walls, with the sea on one side and mountains on the other—Kotor is exactly that dream come true.
Tucked deep inside Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, this stunning town offers more than just pretty views. It’s full of stories, surprises, and peaceful vibes. Let’s take a slow, detailed walk through Kotor together.
How to Get to Kotor
Getting to Kotor is easier than it sounds. Here are our main options:
By Plane:
- Tivat Airport is only 15 minutes away by car or taxi.
- Podgorica Airport is about 1.5–2 hours’ drive.
- From Dubrovnik (Croatia), it’s a scenic 2.5-hour drive or bus ride.
By Bus:
Buses run regularly from Budva, Herceg Novi, Podgorica, and even from Dubrovnik. A one-way ticket usually costs between $5–$15, depending on the starting point.
By Car:
Renting a car gives us more flexibility. The roads along the coast are beautiful, especially the winding route around the Bay of Kotor.
First Stop: Kotor Old Town
Let’s start at the heart of the city—the Old Town. This medieval walled city is unbelievably well-preserved, and it’s free to enter.
Once inside, we can explore:
- Saint Tryphon Cathedral – Built in 1166, with stunning architecture and a small museum. Entry: $4.30
- Clock Tower – A classic meeting point in the town square
- Maritime Museum – Great for learning about Kotor’s seafaring past. Entry: $5.40
Shops, cafés, and bakeries fill the stone-paved streets. We’ll definitely want to slow down and enjoy the atmosphere.
Hiking to the Fortress: A View We’ll Never Forget
One of the best experiences in Kotor is hiking to the San Giovanni Fortress. It takes us up over 1,300 steps, but the view is worth every step.
- Trail duration: About 1.5 to 2 hours round trip
- Entry fee: $8.70
- Opening hours: Usually from 8 AM to 8 PM
- Best time: Early morning or just before sunset, when the light is perfect and the air is cooler
Tip: Wear sneakers or hiking shoes, and bring a bottle of water!
Explore the Bay on a Boat
The Bay of Kotor looks incredible from the land—but from the water, it’s even better. We can take a half-day boat tour, which includes:
- Our Lady of the Rocks (a man-made island with a beautiful sanctuary)
- Perast, a quiet and pretty town nearby
- Sometimes even the Blue Cave (if the tour is longer)
- Price: Around $27–$38
- Booking: Available at the marina or online
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Best Time to Visit Kotor
Let’s plan our visit smartly:
- April to June: Green, breezy, and less crowded
- September to October: Still warm, but fewer tourists
- July & August: Peak season, beautiful but busy and hot
- Winter: Calm and quiet, but some tours and restaurants may be closed
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Local language: Montenegrin, but English is common in tourist spots
- Shoes: Choose comfy, flat shoes—those cobbled streets are tricky
- Cash vs. Card: Cards are accepted in most places, but small cafés or souvenir stands may prefer cash
- Water & sunscreen: A must if we’re hiking or walking during the day
- Opening hours: Most museums and historical sites are open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Where to Stay and Eat
- Stay in the Old Town for history and walkability. Hotels range from $50–$150 per night.
- Stay outside the walls for quieter nights and lower prices—starting from $30 per night.
Food-wise, we’ll find plenty of cozy places offering fresh seafood, pasta, local cheeses, and grilled veggies.
- Casual lunch: Around $10–$15
- Dinner with a view: $20–$30
Try local dishes like black risotto or cheese-stuffed peppers!
Souvenirs to Bring Home
Kotor has some beautiful handmade items we’ll want to take home:
- Olive oil & fig jam
- Lavender pouches
- Handmade lace or jewelry
- Local art (especially sketches of the bay or old town)
Markets and gift shops near the main square are great places to browse.
Kotor Is More Than Just a Pretty Place
What makes Kotor truly unforgettable is the sense of calm that fills every corner. The town doesn’t need to impress loudly—it speaks softly through its cobbled streets and sea breeze. We might find ourselves sipping coffee in a peaceful square, or later standing high above the bay with golden light spilling across the mountains. Each moment here invites us to pause, breathe deeply, and simply take it all in.
When Are We Going?
Kotor is a place we don’t just see—we feel. It’s quiet yet magical, simple yet unforgettable. Let’s wander its streets, climb its walls, and sail its bay together. Trust us, once we visit, we’ll want to come back again and again.
See you there—bags packed, hearts open, and eyes ready for beauty!
