Traveling is more accessible than ever, but discovering hidden gems like Kotor can feel impossible. The old town of Kotor in Montenegro is exactly that. Hidden in a bay in southern Montenegro, it is an absolute gem. Here’s how to visit Kotor Montenegro and make the most of it.
Arrival in Kotor
Montenegro’s south-west coast is said to be the next big thing in luxury travel, and for good reason. With dramatic mountain ranges, beautiful bays, and charming small villages, this is a quintessentially European destination. Kotor is the crown jewel of Montenegrin tourism, making it one of the most popular towns to visit.
You can reach Kotor by sea or by land. Many cruise ships arrive in Kotor every day, so be sure to stay a few nights if you want to have the old town almost to yourself after the cruise ships leave in the late evening.
Highlights of Kotor
Kotor is a small town, so there is a lot to see and do in two days. Or, you can easily stay a week and continue exploring the area with day trips by car. The main attractions of Kotor itself are:
Hiking to Castello San Giovanni – The hike to the castle overlooking Kotor is strenuous, so bring bottled water. If you’re hiking from the Old Town, the entrance fee is 8 euros, but you can also take a 5-minute detour and hike for free to the “Kotor Fortress Trail” just outside the city walls (we recommend choosing the latter; the distance is about the same).
Visit Kotor Cathedral – When you return to the Old Town, be sure to take note of the Kotor Cathedral. After several earthquakes and reconstructions, the church is in excellent condition and is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.
Walking through the streets of the old town – The most enjoyable way to experience Kotor is to wander its winding streets and see what you can discover on foot.
Hiking to Kotor Fortress
As mentioned earlier, you don’t have to pay the 8 euro entrance fee to see this view. Kotor. Alternatively, you can hike from the base of the Kotor Fortress Trail and head halfway up towards Castel San Giovanni. You can follow the same route or walk down the traditional trail and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you pass other walking companions who have never known your secrets.
Day trip to Lovcen
Kotor is located at the foot of the Lovcen Mountains. For an epic adventure, climb the winding roads to Lovcen. This drive is incredibly scenic and magical.
At the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the valley below. You’ll feel like you’re standing on a cloud! The entrance fee to the national park is 2 euros and the entrance fee to the mausoleum is 5 euros. You’ll have to climb 461 steps to get this view, so be sure to pack a water bottle.
Warning: The road to Lovcen is narrow and winding with hairpin switchbacks. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the view alone is well worth it. If you’re not confident driving, you also have the option of joining a group day tour.
Day trip to Perast
Let me tell you a little secret. The beauty of Kotor lies slightly outside the town itself, in neighboring Perast. can be reached. The small fishing village of Perast Only 20 minutes drive from Kotor. If you want to take a full day to travel, you can also go by bicycle. Although it is quite a long trek, it offers some very beautiful views.