Kotor – the Best Part of Montenegro. That’s my verdict after several trips to this small country. If you’re short on time, choose Kotor for your vacation. But if you have at least a week or ten days, you can explore the whole country and see the best of it.
Here’s a guide to one of the most stunning places in Montenegro – Kotor and its surroundings.
Where is Kotor?
Kotor is located deep in the picturesque Bay of Kotor, often called the southernmost fjord in Europe. It’s one of Montenegro’s top attractions.
Many travelers visit Kotor as part of a cruise from Dubrovnik. In just a few hours, they manage to hike up the fortress walls to San Giovanni Fortress, stroll through the Old Town, and grab a meal.
If you want to see more and experience the best of Kotor, stay for at least 2-3 days. Even better—make Kotor your base for exploring Montenegro and spend at least a week here.
I have a feeling you’ll love it so much that you’ll want to stay for a month or two in this amazing place.
Things to Do in Kotor
Here are the top sights and activities in Kotor. What to see if you’re visiting for the first time, where to go, and which attractions are worth your time. The surrounding areas also have plenty to offer, so I’ll cover those too.
1. Explore Kotor Fortress
A must-do in Kotor is climbing the fortress walls to visit the impressive Kotor Fortress, also known as San Giovanni Fortress.
This medieval citadel once protected the city and is now a major tourist attraction.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the entrance fee is €8. The price is justified since the money helps with preservation. You can enter the fortress through the North Gate of the Old Town.
2. Hike the Kotor Ladder
Right behind Kotor’s Old Town and San Giovanni Fortress is a famous hiking trail known as the Kotor Ladder.
It’s a winding switchback path leading up to a breathtaking viewpoint at 940 meters above sea level. From the top, you get the best panoramic view of the bay, cruise ships, seagulls, and a tiny island in the middle. You can also see the Vrmac Mountain Ridge and the Adriatic Sea in the distance.
3. Sunshine Beach – Kotor’s Best Beach
Kotor isn’t known for beaches since it’s deep inside the bay, not on the open sea. But there’s one beach worth checking out—Sunshine Beach.
It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town. There are sunbeds and umbrellas available for €15 per day. The water is clean, and the depth makes it perfect for swimming.
4. Hike to Vrmac Fortress
This is an off-the-beaten-path experience that not many people know about. Most tourists hike up the Kotor Ladder on the eastern side of the bay.
However, there’s another great trail on the opposite side—the Vrmac Ridge trail.
The trail starts near the Old Town and leads to an abandoned Austro-Hungarian fortress. If you love scenic and slightly eerie abandoned places, this one’s for you! Plus, the views of the Bay of Kotor from here are incredible.
5. Kotor’s Sea Gate
This is the main entrance to Kotor’s Old Town, built in 1555 during the Venetian Republic era. It was the city’s main gate and faces the Kotor harbor.
6. Stroll Through Kotor Old Town (Stari Grad)
The Old Town is surrounded by medieval walls and is home to most of Kotor’s landmarks. Here are a few must-see spots:
- St. Tryphon’s Cathedral – Kotor’s most impressive building and one of only two Roman Catholic cathedrals in Montenegro. Entrance: €3.
- Church of Our Lady of Health – a famous 16th-century church located on the hillside above the fortress walls.
- Kotor Clock Tower – built in 1602 from gray stone, near the main entrance.
- St. Nicholas Church – a Serbian Orthodox church on St. Luke’s Square.
7. Kotor Bazaar
A small market inside a former Dominican monastery in the Old Town. It mostly sells souvenirs, but the setting is unique and worth a visit if you enjoy photography.
8. Kotor Farmers’ Market
Located near the cruise terminal, just outside the old fortress walls. It’s open every morning and sells fresh fruits, vegetables, homemade pickles, and local delicacies.
9. Visit Kotor’s Museums
If you’re interested in history and culture, check out at least a couple of Kotor’s museums:
- Cat Museum – dedicated to Kotor’s beloved feline residents.
- Maritime Museum – showcases Montenegro’s seafaring history.
10. Go Paddleboarding or Kayaking in Kotor Bay
Renting a paddleboard or kayak is one of the best ways to explore the Bay of Kotor. You’ll find rental shops near the Old Town harbor—just follow the signs.
This activity is a great way to combine adventure with incredible panoramic views of the mountains and the Old Town from the water.
Where to Stay in Kotor
The best areas to stay in Kotor:
- Old Town – perfect for history lovers.
- Muo – the western side of the bay.
- Dobrota – the eastern side of the bay.
Recommended places to stay for any budget:
- Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort – a luxury hotel with stunning bay views.
- Apartmani Art Karampana – cozy apartments in the heart of Kotor.
- Centrum Hostel – a budget-friendly option in the Old Town.
How to Get to Kotor
- By plane: The nearest airport is Tivat, just a 15-minute drive from the Old Town. It has several flights to Balkan and European cities.
- By car: Renting a car is a great way to explore Montenegro. I’ve traveled here by car from different parts of Europe, and it’s the best way to see the country.
- By bus: If you’re in Croatia, you can reach Kotor from Dubrovnik in just two hours by bus or car.
Rent a Car
Especially useful if you plan to explore beyond Kotor or visit from Croatia. The best rental service in the Balkans (and also in Georgia, Spain, and other countries) is LocalRent — great service, reasonable prices, and the option to rent a car without a deposit.
Be sure to check out my guide on things to see around Kotor—there’s just as much to explore outside the city as in it!
