Kotor, Montenegro Travel Guide: Top Things to Do & Insider Tips
- Big World Travel
- Jul 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 22
Tucked between dramatic cliffs and the sparkling Bay of Kotor, the fortified town of Kotor, Montenegro is a true Adriatic treasure. With its medieval Old Town, scenic hiking trails, delicious food, and laid-back coastal vibe, Kotor is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Balkans.
Whether you’re planning a short stop or a few leisurely days, this complete Kotor travel guide will help you explore the best of this UNESCO-listed gem. From top attractions and local food to travel tips and hidden corners, here's everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit.
Why Visit Kotor?
Kotor is one of the best-preserved medieval towns on the Adriatic coast and offers an experience that blends history, nature, and authentic Montenegrin culture. Unlike its more touristy neighbour Dubrovnik, Kotor remains charming and affordable, with fewer crowds and more character.
Still deciding how long to stay? Check out our 2 or 3-Day Kotor Itinerary to make the most of your time here.
Top 10 Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro
1. Wander Through the Old Town (Stari Grad)
Lose yourself in the winding cobbled streets of Kotor’s Old Town. You'll find hidden alleyways, stone archways, and lively piazzas at every turn.
Don’t miss:
St. Tryphon Cathedral (built in 1166)
The Clock Tower and Arms Square
The Maritime Museum for a peek into local seafaring history
Tip: Visit early morning or late evening to avoid cruise ship crowds.
2. Climb to the San Giovanni Fortress
This epic climb is one of Kotor’s top highlights. The hike involves over 1,300 stone steps but rewards you with stunning panoramic views over the Bay of Kotor. It’s best done at sunrise or sunset for cooler temperatures and golden light.
3. Take a Boat Tour Around the Bay
Explore the coastline by boat and visit:
Our Lady of the Rocks – a unique man-made island with a picturesque church
Perast – a charming baroque town nearby
Blue Cave and hidden beaches (on longer boat trips)
For a full breakdown of how to plan your days, see our 2 or 3-Day Itinerary for Kotor.
4. Swim and Sunbathe at Local Beaches
While Kotor Old Town doesn’t have sandy beaches, you can easily reach nearby spots with clear water and beautiful views:
Dobrota – close and convenient
Orahovac – peaceful with a local feel
Plavi Horizonti – one of Montenegro’s best beaches (30 mins away)
5. Taste Local Montenegrin Food
The food in Kotor is a mix of Adriatic seafood and hearty Balkan flavours. Popular dishes include:
Njeguški pršut (smoked ham)
Kacamak (cornmeal mash with cheese and potato)
Grilled octopus or black risotto
Want a full food guide? Head over to our What to Eat in Kotor post for must-try dishes and restaurant tips.
6. Visit the Cats Museum
Kotor is famous for its cats, and this quirky museum celebrates their place in local culture. It’s small, fun, and supports animal welfare.
7. Walk the City Walls
You don’t have to do the full fortress climb to get great views. There are smaller sections of the walls you can walk for a scenic perspective over the rooftops.
8. Go Paddleboarding or Kayaking
Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the bay’s peaceful waters. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the coastline and escape the midday heat.
9. Enjoy Kotor by Night
At night, Kotor becomes calm and romantic. Grab a drink at a wine bar, enjoy live music in a hidden courtyard, or dine by the bay.
10. Take a Day Trip
Use Kotor as your base to explore more of Montenegro. Popular day trips include:
Lovćen National Park (mountain views + Njegoš Mausoleum)
Budva (beaches and nightlife)
Herceg Novi (less touristy, relaxing coastal town)
Need help choosing where to stay? Our guide on Where to Stay in Kotor covers the best areas for every type of traveller.
Where to Stay in Kotor?
Kotor offers a mix of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments for every budget.
Best Areas to Stay:
Old Town: Ideal if you want to be in the centre of the action and don’t mind some noise.
Dobrota: Quieter, with beautiful bay views — perfect for couples or families.
Muo or Prčanj: More local, with good access by foot, bus, or car.
Hotel Picks:
🏨 Luxury: Hotel Forza Terra – 5-star with a spa and bay views
🛏️ Mid-Range: Hotel Marija – charming and central
💸 Budget: Old Town Hostel Kotor – friendly and social
Explore more options in our full Kotor Accommodation Guide.
Best Time to Visit Kotor
May to June and September to early October are ideal — great weather with fewer crowds.
July and August are hot and busy (peak cruise season).
Winter (November to March) is quiet but cold, with limited boat tours.
How to Get to Kotor?
✈️ By Air: Nearest airport is Tivat (TIV) – 15 mins away
🚌 By Bus: Regular buses from Podgorica, Budva, and Dubrovnik
🚘 By Car: Great if you’re doing a Montenegro road trip
Insider Travel Tips
Kotor uses the euro (€) even though Montenegro isn’t in the EU
Tap water is safe to drink
Bring sturdy shoes – cobbled streets and steep climbs are everywhere
Avoid cruise crowds: Explore early morning or late afternoon
Public transport is limited – rent a bike or car for regional trips
Related Kotor Travel Guides
Make sure to check out our full set of Kotor blogs for every part of your trip:
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re watching the sunset from a mountaintop fortress, sipping wine beside the bay, or wandering medieval alleyways, Kotor will steal your heart. It’s a small town with a big personality — rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Use this travel guide to plan your adventure, and don’t forget to explore our other Kotor blogs to get the full experience.
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