The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Kotor: Best Things to Do and See

TLDRDiscover the medieval town of Kotor and its stunning surroundings in Montenegro. Get lost in the charming old town, hike the city walls, visit fascinating museums, explore nearby villages, enjoy the local cuisine and wine, take a boat tour, hike the Ladder of Kotor, and visit Mount Lovćen National Park.

Key insights

🏰Explore the well-preserved medieval old town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets and beautiful architecture.

🏞️Witness the breathtaking natural scenery surrounding Kotor, including limestone cliffs and crystal clear water.

🏛️Visit the fascinating museums in Kotor, such as the Cats Museum and the Maritime Museum, to learn about the town's history and naval heritage.

⛰️Embark on the challenging hike of the Ladder of Kotor, a switchback trail offering stunning views of the Bay of Kotor.

🚢Take a boat tour to explore the Bay of Kotor, visit the man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, pass through hidden caves, and swim in the magical Blue Cave.

Q&A

What is the best time to visit Kotor?

The best time to visit Kotor is in the early morning or a couple of hours before sunset to enjoy cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photos.

Are there beaches in Kotor?

Kotor doesn't have long beaches, but there are small beaches scattered around the bay. The closest one is Kotor Beach, located outside the old town.

Where can I try local cuisine and wine in Kotor?

You can sample the local cuisine and wine at charming restaurants and bars in Kotor's old town. We recommend visiting the Old Winery Wine Bar for wine tastings.

What are some nearby places to visit from Kotor?

Perast, a charming village with Venetian-era palaces and churches, is just a 20-minute drive from Kotor. You can also take a boat tour to the nearby islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George.

Is there a national park near Kotor?

Yes, Mount Lovćen National Park is a short drive from Kotor, offering stunning viewpoints of the Bay of Kotor and the Adriatic Sea. Don't miss the mausoleum of Montenegro's greatest ruler.

Timestamped Summary

00:22Kotor is a medieval town located in the secluded Bay of Kotor, known for its well-preserved old town and stunning natural scenery.

01:06Start your visit in the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its narrow streets and beautiful architecture.

02:13Climb the city walls of Kotor to enjoy panoramic views of the town and the bay. Visit the South Gate and the Kampana Tower.

03:07Discover the fascinating history of Kotor at museums like the Cats Museum and the Maritime Museum.

03:39Hike to the top of Saint John's fortress for incredible views of the Bay of Kotor. Best visited in the early morning or before sunset.

04:35Cool down at the beach near Kotor, like Kotor Beach, and enjoy the crystal clear waters of the bay.

05:16Experience the local cuisine and wine at the charming restaurants and bars in Kotor's old town.

06:01Visit the picturesque village of Perast, just a short drive from Kotor, and explore its Venetian-era palaces and churches.