We spent a day in Kotor during our road trip to Montenegro and we fell in love with it. This hidden gem offers a mix of experiences such as climbing the ancient fortress walls or wandering through hidden alleys filled with local cafés.
Kotor is a coastal town located between towering mountains and the sparkling Adriatic. There are many things to do in Kotor, from exploring medieval streets, hiking to epic viewpoints, or just soaking up the coastal charm.
Kotor is accessible by car, bus, or plane, but train options are limited. The nearest airport is Tivat Airport (TIV), just a 15-minute drive away. Alternatively, you can fly into Podgorica Airport (TGD) or Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) and drive to Kotor.
If you’re traveling by bus, frequent routes connect Kotor to major cities in Montenegro, such as Podgorica, Budva, and Bar, as well as international destinations like Dubrovnik, Split, and Belgrade. The main Kotor Bus Station is just outside the Old Town and is a hub for regional and long-distance routes.
There are no direct train services to Kotor. The closest railway station is in Bar, about 65 km away, and it connects to Podgorica and Belgrade. From Bar, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Kotor.
If you’re driving, parking in Kotor can be challenging, especially during peak season. Paid parking is available near the Old Town, with parking lots like:
Street parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended.
Kotor’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and lively squares. Get lost in its maze-like streets, admire the historic buildings, and soak in the unique atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll discover charming cafés, hidden courtyards, and little boutiques selling local crafts. Visit the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, one of Kotor’s most famous landmarks, or step inside one of the many old churches scattered around town. Don’t forget to look up—many buildings have intricate balconies, carved stone details, and colorful shutters that add to the town’s charm. The Old Town is a place meant to be explored at a slow pace so take your time and enjoy it.
Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and experience the town’s quiet charm.
Kotor is home to several beautiful churches, each with its own unique history and charm.
A stunning Romanesque cathedral dating back to 1166, dedicated to Kotor’s patron saint. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it features impressive stone carvings, medieval frescoes, and a small museum with religious artifacts. You can climb to the upper terrace for a great view of the square below. The entrance costs around 4 EUR.
A small but charming church built in 1195, known for its mix of Catholic and Orthodox influences. It has two altars—one Catholic and one Orthodox—reflecting Kotor’s diverse history. Located near the bustling Pjaca od Drva square, it’s free to enter and offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets.
The largest Orthodox church in Kotor, recognizable by its twin bell towers and grand façade. Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes, chandeliers, and a collection of religious icons. It’s located on St. Luke’s Square and is free to enter, making it an easy stop while exploring the Old Town.
Secret: Look for the small chapel inside St. Luke’s Church, where you can see both Catholic and Orthodox altars—a rare sight in one building.
For the best panoramic views of Kotor Bay, climb the 1,350 steps to the Fortress of San Giovanni. It’s a steep but rewarding hike, offering breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding mountains. As you start your climb, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry a bottle of water, since the path can be tiring. The trail is well-marked and starts just outside the Old Town at the Clock Tower Square, right by the main city gate. The climb usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace. Once you reach the top, you’ll be greeted by a sweeping view of the bay, the winding streets below, and the rugged peaks in the distance. There is no entrance fee, so it’s a great option if you’re traveling on a budget.
Tip: For a more comfortable experience, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Kotor’s city walls date back to Venetian times and provide an excellent way to explore the town from above. Walk along the walls to enjoy unique perspectives of the Old Town and the bay. Starting at the north gate, you’ll notice a small, unobtrusive side path that leads to a quieter stretch of the wall. The trail is easy to follow with simple markers. Along the way, stop at one of the many small lookout points to snap a few photos of the bay and the winding streets below. It’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the sun is softer and the area is less busy.
For something quirky, visit Kotor’s Cat Museum. Kotor’s Cat Museum is a small but charming place that celebrates the town’s affection for felines. Inside, you’ll find a variety of items like old postcards, prints, and coins, all featuring cats. The collection spans from the 16th century to 1970, offering a glimpse into how cats have been viewed over the years.
The museum is located at Trg Gospa od Anđela in the Old Town. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and entry costs 1 Euro.
Before you go, consider visiting Danijela’s Cat Shop nearby. The owner, Danijela, has been caring for Kotor’s street cats for many years. Her shop offers a range of cat-themed souvenirs, and proceeds help support the local cat population.
Kotor is a great base for exploring Montenegro’s coastal and mountainous beauty. Here are some top day trips:
Exploring the Bay of Kotor by boat offers a unique view of Montenegro’s coastline.
A boat tour is the best way to experience the bay’s stunning scenery. Popular stops include:
Prices for these tours start at around 15 euros.
Perast is a small town about 14 kilometers from Kotor. It’s known for its old stone buildings, narrow streets, and beautiful views of the bay. The town has a rich history, with many buildings dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. You can explore the St. Nikola Church, climb its bell tower for panoramic views, and visit the Perast Museum to learn about the town’s past.
While you are there, you can visit the the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. The island is home to a 17th-century church and a small museum. The church is known for its unique architecture and the story behind its creation. The boat ride offers scenic views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. After visiting the island, you can also explore the nearby town of Perast, known for its historic buildings and waterfront promenade.
Sveti Đorđe Island is a small, natural island in the Bay of Kotor, near the town of Perast. It is home to a Benedictine monastery built in the 12th century and a cemetery for the local nobility. The island is often called the “Island of the Dead” because of its cemetery.
To visit Sveti Đorđe Island from Kotor, you can take a boat ride. Boats depart regularly from Kotor to the island, with a typical round-trip journey lasting about 1 to 1.5 hours. The boat ride offers scenic views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
The Blue Cave, or Plava Spilja, is a natural sea cave located on the Luštica Peninsula, just outside the Bay of Kotor. It’s known for its striking blue light, created when sunlight reflects off the white sandy bottom and through the clear water. The cave is accessible only by boat, making it a popular spot for tourists.
To visit the Blue Cave from Kotor, you can join a boat tour. These tours typically last around 4 to 5 hours and include stops at other attractions like the island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the town of Perast. The boat ride offers scenic views of the bay and the surrounding coastline.
Mamula Fortress is a historic structure located on Mamula Island, situated at the entrance of the Bay of Kotor. Built in the 19th century by the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the fortress was designed to protect the bay from naval threats. During World War II, it was used as a prison camp. Today, the fortress stands as a testament to the region’s complex history.
To visit Mamula Fortress from Kotor, you can join a boat tour. These tours typically last around 4 to 5 hours and include stops at other attractions like the Blue Cave and the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. The boat ride offers scenic views of the bay and the surrounding coastline. Some tours also provide opportunities to swim in the Blue Cave and explore the fortress from the water.
The Bay of Kotor in Montenegro is home to several submarine hideouts, also known as submarine tunnels. Constructed during the Cold War by the former Yugoslav Navy, these tunnels were designed to protect submarines from potential air attacks. The largest tunnel, near the village of Rose, is approximately 100 meters long. The entrances were cleverly camouflaged with fake stones and vegetation to remain hidden from aerial surveillance.
Today, these submarine tunnels are abandoned and serve as intriguing sites for exploration. Visitors can access them by boat, with several tour operators in Kotor offering excursions that include stops at these tunnels. These tours typically last around 4 to 5 hours and may also include visits to other attractions such as the Blue Cave, Mamula Island, and the island of Our Lady of the Rocks.
Just a 30-minute drive from Kotor, Budva offers beautiful beaches, a lively Old Town, and vibrant nightlife.
Budva is a coastal town with a beautiful medieval old town and sandy beaches. The Old Town is a walled area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and small squares. Mogren Beach, located near the Old Town, is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The town also has a seaside promenade with various restaurants and shops.
Buses run regularly between the two towns, making it convenient for a day trip. If you prefer driving, the route offers scenic views of the Adriatic coast.
Sveti Stefan is a small island connected to the Montenegrin coast by a narrow isthmus. The island features historic stone buildings and is known for its distinctive appearance. The surrounding area includes beaches and views of the Adriatic Sea.
The distance from Kotor is about 50 kilometers (31 miles), and the journey by car or bus takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Buses run regularly between Kotor and Sveti Stefan, with tickets priced around $5.
Lovćen National Park, located near Kotor is known for its tall mountains, deep forests, and clear views of the Bay of Kotor. A highlight is the Njegoš Mausoleum, a monument honoring Petar II Petrović Njegoš, a famous Montenegrin ruler and poet.
To visit Lovćen from Kotor, you can drive or take a bus. The journey takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles). The route offers scenic views of the Adriatic coast and the mountains. Some tours include stops at the village of Njeguši, known for its traditional smoked ham and cheese.
Kotor has a great selection of restaurants offering local and Mediterranean cuisine. Some top recommendations include:
Kotor offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels to budget hostels.
The best time to visit Kotor is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is pleasant, and crowds are smaller. Summer (July–August) is the busiest season, with warm temperatures but lots of tourists. Winter (November–March) is quieter, but some attractions may have limited hours.
Now that we have all the necessary information, it’s time to start planning your trip! To help you get started, we’ve compiled some helpful resources. By using our links to make purchases, you’ll be supporting us at no extra cost to you.
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