20+ Wonderful Things to Do in Kotor for an Idyllic Stay

As one of the most beautiful towns in Montenegro, visiting Kotor is a must on any Balkans itinerary. Plan your trip with these epic things to do in Kotor that promise an idyllic stay.

The picturesque town of Kotor, nestled on the mesmerizing Adriatic coastline of Montenegro is a must-visit on any trip in the Balkans region. Kotor is seeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, providing a perfect balance of culture, medieval charm as well as outdoor activities. 

There are some pretty spectacular things to do in Kotor, Montenegro. Make sure to explore the charming Stari Grad or Old Town of Kotor as well as spend some time ogling at the jaw-dropping views of the Bay of Kotor. You’ll also want to allow some extra time for hikes and day trips to some other hidden gems in the area. 

In this blog post, I’ll outline all the best things to do in Kotor as well as the best hotels in Kotor and where to eat. Keep reading to plan that perfect slow trip around one of the most mesmerizing towns in the Balkans. 

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Best Time to Visit Kotor

The ideal period to visit Kotor is during the spring and autumn months. From April/May to June and September to October, the weather is comfortably mild, there are few crowds and temperatures range from the low 60s to the mid-70s Fahrenheit (15-25 degrees Celsius).

During the summer months crowds can be a real problem in Kotor and the town isn’t the hidden gem it once was. Cruise ships now dock daily in the summer months unleashing hordes of people into the rather small historic center of town. Sometimes it can really feel immensely overcrowded. 

During the shoulder season, you’ll also have the advantage of scoring better deals on accommodation and activities that’ll leave you with more money to spend on Kotor’s thriving dining scene. I always make the effort to visit during the shoulder season and the last time I was in Kotor, in early- October it was just perfect. 

Visiting in winter is also possible and I’m sure the town would look magical under a blanket of snow. Note however that the range of activities available in winter is limited. Hiking trails might be closed due to weather and it might be too cold for watersports. 

20+ Amazing Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro

Explore Stari Grad (Kotor Old Town)

Go back in time with a wander around the charming streets of Kotor’s Old Town. The Stari Grad or Old Town is composed of charming, cobblestone lanes, Medieval stone churches and palaces, and a wide range of pretty cafes and restaurants. 

The best way to explore the old town is on foot just by getting lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets. 

As you walk around you’ll notice many of the best things to do in Kotor. You can marvel at the grandeur of St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 12th century, climb the city walls as well as check out the many churches and palaces. 

Make sure not to miss all the beautiful and atmospheric squares located throughout town. 

The best time to go for a wander is early in the morning before it gets too busy. 

Hike the Ladder of Kotor

For those that want to combine some of Kotor’s best views with an exhilarating hike make sure to allocate a morning for the Ladder of Kotor hike. This switchback trail will lead you up to a mountain viewpoint with some of the best views of the Bay of Kotor. 

It’s the most famous hike in Kotor so if you’re planning just one hike, make sure it’s this one. If you don’t quite want to hike the entire ladder you can join onto another trail that goes to Kotor Fortress halfway into the hike. This way you can combine the two experiences together. 

The path is very rocky so make sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for a challenging hike. If hiking in the summer, make sure to start out early in the day. 

Drive the Serpentine Road

If hiking the whole Ladder of Kotor sounds like too much for you then why not drive the Serpentine Road instead? The Serpentine Road will take you to Lovcen National Park but it’s also a destination in itself. 

Not only does the road offer some pretty adventurous driving, but the views are also absolutely stunning along the way. I think it took us 90 minutes the drive the 20-minute road just because we were stopping all the time for pictures. 

With 25 bends, this 8 km road is one of the best things to do in Kotor. The road gets pretty narrow and nail-biting in some sections but it is super fun to drive. 

You won’t find too many views of Kotor town itself from here but the views over the Bay of Kotor are just unparalleled. 

If you’re not doing a road trip and don’t already have a rental car you can rent one locally for just a day. There are many deals and local outfitters available on Discover Cars, one of my favorite car rental platforms for the Balkans. Find the perfect rental car with Discover Cars here. 

Dine on Seafood

Montenegrin cuisine isn’t world-famous but I really can’t understand why. On our whole Balkans Road trip we ate some of the best food in Kotor. 

When it comes to culinary delights, Kotor is a seafood lover’s paradise. From fresh catch-of-the-day to succulent grilled octopus and delectable Adriatic shrimp, the local restaurants offer an array of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. You’ll want to pair your meal with a glass of local wine or rakija for a truly local slow, dining experience. 

For the more veggie inclined, there are plenty of pasta, grilled vegetables, and salads available. I’ve outlined the best restaurants in the ‘Where to Eat’ section below. 

Those that want to learn more about the food culture in Montenegro, you can take a guided tour. This Kotor Food Walking Tour with Tastings will teach you more about the food culture of the town and its most popular dishes. 

Take in the Churches and Palaces

Kotor’s Old Town is littered with charming, Medieval churches and palaces which you’ll no doubt come across when exploring the Stari Grad. Kotor is brimming with historical and architectural treasures that will transport you to another era.

What’s particularly interesting to note is the sheer mix of both Catholic and Orthodox Churches in the tiny town. You can start by visiting the magnificent St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, a symbol of Kotor’s rich heritage, adorned with intricate stonework and frescoes. Make sure to also visit the two main Orthodox Churches in Kotor; St. Nicholas’ Church and Saint Luke’s Church. 

In terms of palaces, you’ll find them located all around the Old Town. One of the most spectacular is the Palace of the Drago family, where you can marvel at the grandeur and imagine the lives of the nobles who once inhabited these opulent residences.

Hike to St. John’s Fortress

Another hike that runs parallel to the Ladder of Kotor is the hike that takes you up to St. John’s Fortress. Hiking to St. John’s Fortress is one of the best things to do in Kotor, not just for the Fortress but also for the picturesque church of Our Lady of Remedy and the stunning views that accompany you all the way up. 

Start the San Giovanni Fortress hike here. It’ll lead you up to the back of the old town and then up toward the fortress along a winding hiking path. You’ll also need to pay the entrance fee of €8 on the way up. 

Along the way, you’ll pass the Church of Our Lady of Remedy, a beautiful little chapel in the middle of the path with beautiful views of the Bay of Kotor. You’ll also pass the old Fortress Walls, ramparts, towers, and bastions before reaching the top.

San Giovanni Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and this short hike really is a must during your visit to Kotor. 

Visit the Cats Museum of Kotor

Cat fans rejoice, and no joke, there is a cat museum in Kotor. Once you arrive in Kotor you’ll understand why. The city really does belong to all its feline residents and you’ll see them everywhere once you start wandering around. 

At the Cat Museum, you’ll learn a little more about the history of cats in Kotor as well as see their collection of cat-themed memorabilia and vintage artwork. For the cat lovers out there, it’s a great spot to pass an hour. 

Take it Easy on Kotor Beach

If visiting in the summer, why not make the most of the great weather in Kotor and head to the town’s beach? After a day of exploring the town’s wonders, unwinding on this pebbly beach is pure bliss.

You’ll be able to lounge under an umbrella and of course, go for a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Kotor.

Play with the Local Cats

Cats are everywhere in Kotor. The locals really care for them here too so they are fairly friendly, healthy, and well-fed. 

If, like me, when there’s a cat around nothing else matters, you’ll want to head to the small square right by the Church of St. Mary Collegiate. There you’ll find many cats that live in the square that you can pet and play with for a while. When we visited there were plenty of playful kittens too. 

Visit the Maritime Museum

One of Kotor’s best museums, the Maritime Museum takes you on a journey of history and culture. The collection was founded by the ‘Boka Marine Fraternity in 1880 and it gradually opened to the public.

On display, you’ll find a variety of different maritime artifacts from the 19th Century and you’ll be able to learn more about the history of the area through its strong maritime heritage. 

Take a Sunset Walk along the Bay

There isn’t much of a sunset in Kotor (the sun dips behind the mountains way too soon before sunset), but that doesn’t mean that dusk isn’t a lovely time for a walk. 

As the day ends, it’s the perfect time for a leisurely walk along the bay to admire the tranquil waters, and the locals going about their day. 

The best place to walk is on the road that hugs the bay, going north of Kotor towards Dobrota. You’ll pass Kotor Beach and many atmospheric bayside restaurants and cafes. It’s a great place to be as the sun goes down.

Go on a Day Trip

There are many unique day trips to head out on from Kotor. A day trip is a perfect way to explore the surrounding areas and discover more of Montenegro’s beauty beyond Kotor.

From visiting the gorgeous Lovcen National Park, located in the mountains right behind Kotor, to setting sail on the Bay of Kotor there are many different day trips to choose from, either to do by yourself or by tour. 

Here are some of the best day tours I’d suggest looking into to get the best out of the area. 

• A Full Day in Lovcen National Park
• Coastal Montenegro: Discover Budva, Tivat or Herceg Novi on a Day Cruise
• Durmitor Mountain, Tara Canyon and Ostrog Monastery:  Discover Northern Montenegro

If you’ve got a rental car you can head out to any one of these on your own accord. I’d highly recommend visiting Lovcen National Park and staying for sunset, Herveg Novi and Sveti Stefan. 

Take in the City Walls

For some of the best views of the actual town of Kotor, head up onto the old City Walls. You’ll come across many of the well-preserved ramparts where you can admire the locals go about their day. Take your time to explore the hidden nooks and crannies, admire the Medieval architecture, and soak in the remarkable history that surrounds you.

To admire the city walls, the Gurdić Gate or Sea Gate are the best places to start.

Go Kayaking on the Bay of Kotor

For a thrilling and unique adventure in Kotor, grab a paddle and hop into a kayak to explore the stunning Bay of Kotor. Glide through the crystal-clear waters, marvel at the majestic mountains that rise dramatically from the bay, and soak in the serenity of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a novice or an experienced kayaker, there are options for everyone, from guided tours to renting your own kayak.

Check out this 2.5 Hour Kayak Tour of the Bay of Kotor for one of the best guided kayak tours in Kotor. If you prefer to just rent your own kayak and go for it, you’ll find many kayak rental companies by the water just by Kotor. 

If you prefer paddle boarding over kayaking then check out this brilliant 2-hour Stand Up Paddle Board Tour. 

Shop at the Kotor Farmer’s Market

If you’re a foodie or simply love exploring local culture, a visit to Kotor’s Farmer’s Market is an absolute must. You’ll find the market just outside of the city walls, opposite the bay by the Sea Gate. 

Here you can take a wander through the bustling stalls, filled to the brim with colorful fruits, fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and an array of local delicacies. Some of the best things to buy are homemade cheeses, local honey, and fresh pastries. 

If you’re staying in an apartment or self-catering make sure not to miss coming down to the market to pick up the best local ingredients. 

Take a Boat Trip to the Montenegro Blue Cave

One of the best things to do in Kotor is to take a boat trip and the best place to see? The Montenegro Blue Cave. 

You’ll have the chance to cruise along the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea and arrive at the captivating Blue Cave, known for its mesmerizing turquoise hues. Step into a world of sparkling reflections as sunlight filters through the underwater entrances, illuminating the cave walls in a breathtaking display of color.

You’ll also have the opportunity to dive in and take a swim or just relax on the boat. 

You’ll need to book a tour to access the Blue Cave unless you have your own boat. Tours generally go to a few other hotspots on the Bay of Kotor so you’ll be able to spend a few hours on the water. This Blue Cave Tour also heads to Mamula and Our Lady of the Rocks. 

This boat tour takes in Montenegro Blue Cave as well as a Submarine Base. 

Top Things to Do Near Kotor

Visit Perast…

Perast might be the Bay of Kotor’s best-kept secret. The fact that we arrived here right in time for golden hour definitely added to its charm but the tiny town right on the bay is like something out of a fairytale. 

You’ll be able to stroll by the water, have a seafood lunch here as well as admire the old stone town, its main church, and all the little cottages right on the water. There isn’t much to do here but just slow down, open a bottle of wine, and have a game of cards on a small boat pier at sunset and just let everything go by. 

Perast (in my opinion) is even more scenic than Kotor so make sure not to miss visiting for at least half a day. 

…and take a Boat to Our Lady of the Rocks

Opposite Perast you’ll notice two small islands sitting on the Bay of Kotor. One of the islands has a beautiful church on it, Our Lady of the Rocks. This unique and picturesque island holds a special place in Montenegro’s history and culture.

Legend has it that the island was created by local fishermen who, over centuries, placed rocks in the water upon returning from their successful voyages. Today, a beautiful church stands proudly on the island, adorned with magnificent frescoes and a mesmerizing collection of votive silver plates. it’s well worth the boat trip to see it well. 

You’ll also be treated to a different vantage point and stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor. 

You can hop on a boat to Our Lady of the Rocks from Perast or arrange a tour from Kotor that’ll take you to a few other famous sights too. This Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks tour by boat from Kotor is a winner. 

Visit Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan was one of my favorite places in Montenegro and I highly recommend visiting from Kotor if you have an extra day. 

Located along the Adriatic Coast, just under an hour’s drive from Kotor, Sveti Stefan is a small resort town famous for Aman Sveti Stefan Resort, an island-like peninsula that juts out into the sea. There isn’t that much to see here if you’re not staying at the hotel but it is incredibly picturesque and the beaches here are stunning. 

Start at Park Milocher and take in the views before taking the coast path to the main beach where you can relax. Make sure to cross the long path to the peninsula and explore the town itself before you leave. 

For those looking for incredible beaches in the area, Sveti Stefan beach is pretty gorgeous but so are Milocer beach and the stunning Crvena Glavica beach a little further south. 

Take a Day Trip to Lovcen National Park

Lovcen National Park is one of Montenegro’s 5 National Parks. It’s within an easy drive from Kotor, via the Serpentine Road. You could honestly spend days in the National Park traversing its trails and summiting its manageable peaks. 

The most popular spot in the park is the Mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic-Njegos which is reachable via car. The mausoleum and small museum isn’t really massively impressive in itself but it’s the views that you’re here for. 

Head right to the end of the mausoleum where you’ll be greeted by 360-degree views of Lovcen National Park and the Bay of Kotor in the distance. I’m not sure there’s a better view of the entire area. For the best experience make sure to come for sunset or as close to sunset as the opening hours allow.

If you have a rental car, it’s pretty easy to head up here alone. You’ll need to pay a small admission fee to get into the park. Otherwise, this Full Day in Lovcen National Park Tour is one of the best ways to visit the park from Kotor. 

Where to Stay in Kotor

There are hotels and rentals for all budgets in Kotor. If you’re arriving in Kotor from another Western country you’ll notice that accommodation prices here are a little more budget-friendly.

Here are some of my top picks for where to stay in and around Kotor.

Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro – Historic, old town luxury with a Montenegrin flare is what you can expect at this gorgeous property. The terrace here is probbaly one of the most beautiful in town and the rooms are spacious, clean and comfortable. Staff and service is on point too. Check rates and availability here. 

Hotel Vardar – Another stunning hotel in the center of Kotor town. Contemporary furnishings, lovely balcony views, all the mod-cons as well as room service, parking, and a fitness center. The breakfast here is great too. Check rates and availability here. 

Hotel Monte Cristo – Take advantage of this hotel’s location right in the heart of Kotor. Uniquely designed rooms that capture the spirit of the town beautifully. Make sure to also dine or have a drink at their stunning terrace overlooking town. Check rates and availability here. 

Conte Hotel and Restaurant– For those that prefer to stay a little further out of Kotor, don’t overlook this stunning property in Perast. With amazing balcony views and bright and clean rooms with exposed beams or stonework, this is a spectacular place to stay. Check rates and availability here. 

Where to Eat in Kotor

There are many great restaurants, cafes, and bars in Kotor to take advantage of during your stay. Make sure not to miss these amazing restaurants we found during our travels. 

Konoba Roma – A lovely local tavern on a beautifully atmospheric square. They serve a lot of amazing local food, don’t miss the grilled octopus here. 

Konoba Scala Santa – A very atmospheric, traditional restaurant, listed as one of the oldest in Kotor. The food here was lovely with a wide range of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes. A great selection of wine too. 

Konoba Trpeza– Another great local Montenegrin restaurant. 

Mon Bistro Cafétéria – Probably the best spot in town for coffee and breakfast items like yogurt, pastries and juices. 

Old Winery Wine Bar– Discover Montenegro’s wine-making culture and traditions and of taste some of their best wines. 

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Are you ready to visit Kotor and explore the best things to do in Kotor, Montenegro? Let me know your questions and comments below, I’d love to hear from you.

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