The picturesque town of Kotor sits tucked into the Gulf of Kotor in Montenegro. With the bay on one side and the mountains on the other, this town makes for an impressive image. It is part of the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is increasingly becoming popular as a stopover for cruise ships. Tivat Airport links the town to various European destinations such as London, Paris, and Moscow while the Adriatic Motorway connects it to other parts of the country. One unique thing about this town is its large population of cats and you are likely to come across cardboard boxes placed in various spots for the felines to sleep in! Here are some of the interesting things to do in Kotor, Montenegro.
1. Soak in the stunning views from San Giovanni Fortress
Figuring on the UNESCO World Heritage list, this fortress, which is an architectural marvel set atop a hill, dates back to 532 AD. Having survived two major wars and three earthquakes, this fortress provides stunning views of the bay and the old town from its ramparts. About 1,350 steps lead to the castle which can be scaled easily if you are fortified with sufficient water and good walking shoes. There are also plenty of points where you can stop to rest a while before proceeding with your ascent. Be sure to take along your camera for some excellent photographs from this point.
San Giovanni Fortress
Address: St John Fortress, Rd to the Fort of St. Ivan, Špiljari, Montenegro
Website: San Giovanni Fortress
Opening hours: 8am – 8pm (daily)
Price: 3 - 9 USD
2. Marvel at the Romanesque architecture of Saint Tryphon Cathedral
One of two Roman Catholic cathedrals in town, it is dedicated to the patron and protector of the region. Also known as Kotor Cathedral, it is an excellent example of Romanesque architecture and suffered damage in the earthquake of 1979. Since then, it has been renovated painstakingly and restored to its former glory. Considered one of the oldest churches in Europe, this shrine was built in 1166 on a site which had remains of an earlier temple. Tryphon’s Day is celebrated in February each year and the celebration with the participation of the navy of Boka and traditional dancers is a vibrant one.
Saint Tryphon Cathedral
Address: Kotor, Montenegro
Website: Saint Tryphon Cathedral
Opening hours: 8am – 7pm (daily)
Price: 3 - 4 USD
3. Browse through the nautical history exhibits at Maritime Museum
Browse through the nautical history exhibits, including model ships, paintings, and furniture at the Maritime Museum. The three-storey museum housed in a beautiful 18th-century palace showcases a vast collection of paintings, models of ships, photographs, and weapons. Adjacent to the museum is a small well enclosed by an intricate wrought iron fence. First opened to the public in 1900, this museum was restored following the damages it suffered in the earthquake of 1979. The bronze panels at the entrance hall of the museum chronicle important events in the history of the town and feature prominent local personalities. As you head to the first floor, do not miss out on the collection of maps and plans on display along the way.
Maritime Museum
Address: Trg Bokeljske mornarice 391, Kotor 85330, Montenegro
Website: Maritime Museum
Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 8am – 6pm; Sun: 9am – 1pm
Price: 1- 5 USD
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4. Discover the best of Montenegro at Lovcen National Park
Ideal for a day trip from the town, this national park is tucked away into the Dinara Alps. A popular summer getaway for locals, this park is home to the mausoleum of poet Petar Petrovic Njegos which was built over a period of 23 years! Try the prosciutto ham and smoked cheeses at Njegusi village en route to the park or on your way back. Hiking, zip lining, and biking are just some of the activities that the region is suitable for. In winter, the area turns into a ski destination attracting people from far and wide to its slopes for Nordic skiing.
Lovcen National Park
Address: Montenegro
Website: Lovcen National Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 2 USD
5. Tour Old Town of Kotor (from USD 24.0)
The Old Town is the most famous attraction in Kotor. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this picturesque area has narrow streets, squares, and markets that exude an old world charm to this day. Palaces, museums, music halls, and galleries can all be found in this part of town, not to forget the souvenir shops. You can spend an entire day touring the old town, taking your time to explore the various attractions, and stopping for refreshments at the many cafes that dot the area. The area is also a shopper’s delight with stores selling everything from clothes to books to antiques that are definitely worth stopping by.
Kotor Old Town Walking Tour
Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
6. Sunbathe at the beautiful beaches in Kotor
While there are no long stretches of sandy beaches in Kotor, there are plenty of small, cozy beaches scattered around town. From the pebbly Morinj beach with its quirky restaurants to the crystal clear waters of Trsteno and the healing sand of Bigova beach, there is plenty for you to choose from. Set off with a picnic lunch and plenty of sunscreen for a relaxing day at the beach. Most of the beaches are quite safe and thus, a good option for families with children. Sun loungers may be available for rent at some of these beaches.
Trsteno Beach
Address: Trsteno Beach, Montenegro
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Create memories at Clock Tower
The clock tower built in the 17th century stands at the heart of town and is three stories tall. With both Baroque and Gothic architectural features, this clock tower is made of gray stone. It is within walking distance from everywhere in the city and you can also drop by the watchmaker’s shop on the ground floor of the tower, which is believed to be just as old as the tower. At the foot of the clock tower is a stone pyramid which once served as a pillory to punish citizens accused of crimes or unethical behavior.
Clock Tower
Address: Kotor, Montenegro
Website: Clock Tower
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
8. Set sail on a scenic cruise
Enjoy scenic views of Kotor from the water as you sail into the picturesque bay on a cruise boat. Some cruises take you to excellent swimming locations on Boka Bay. You can also opt for a sunset cruise to make the experience a truly memorable one. Kotor is a popular stop on the big cruise boat scene, but the experience of a cruise on a small boat is definitely memorable. Feel the breeze as you explore the wonders that lie concealed in this beautiful bay.
Bay of Kotor Cruise
Address: Bay of Kotor
9. Be awed by the beauty of Our Lady of the Rocks (from USD 41.11)
This scenic islet is set in the middle of the Bay of Kotor and is a manmade island believed to have been created by seamen who laid a bulwark of rocks and also by loading with stone and sinking ships that were too old for the sea or seized. A Roman Catholic church of the same name sits on the islet and has a museum attached to it. The church is home to exquisite paintings by the 17th century artist Trip Kokolja and there is also a gift shop near the island. The collection of votive tablets made of silver and an exquisite votive tapestry are some other items worth a look while at the church.
Kotor: Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rocks and Mamula Boat Tour
Duration: 3.0 hour
10. Go back in time at the City Walls
These fortifications were first constructed in the 9th century and additions kept happening till the 19th century! The network of walls now provides you with a path to go up to St John’s Fortress at the 853 feet (260 m) to enjoy stunning views. Entry points are situated near River Gate and Trg Od Salate.
Kotor Old Town City Walls
Address: Old Town, Kotor, Montenegro
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Price: Free
11. Gorge on some delicious fare at BBQ Tanjga
It's All about food.....
Posted by Toth Daniel on Saturday, 29 July 2017
This casual eatery specializes in grilled meats and fish with authentic local flavor. You can pick the meat of your choice and it is cooked in front of you and served with fillings or sides. The choices vary each day and fresh catch of the day is available. There are also different types of sandwiches on offer. Savor the generous portions and enjoy outdoor dining at this restaurant which also offers an excellent takeaway menu.
BBQ Tanjga
Address: E65, Kotor, Montenegro
Website: BBQ Tanjga
Opening hours: 8:30am - 10pm (daily)
12. Visit the beautiful Saint Nicholas Church
This is a Serbian Orthodox church built in the early 20th century after its predecessor burnt down in 1896. Located in the old part of town on St. Luke’s Square, this church is built in the Byzantine style of architecture. The simplicity of the bare gray walls is accentuated by the silver bas-relief panels and the simple stained glass windows.There are two belfries at this church.
Saint Nicholas Church
Address: St. Luke’s Square, Kotor, Montenegro
Website: Saint Nicholas Church
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
13. Unwind and enjoy the scenes of Bay of Kotor
Feel the gentle breeze caress your hair as you relax on a hot Adriatic day near this bay also known as Boka bay. The UNESCO World Heritage site paints a soothing picture with its azure water and the cliffs in the background. Don’t miss the serene islets that sit pretty in the midst of the tranquil bay.
Bay of Kotor
Address: Bay of Kotor, Montenegro
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Tip from Content Creator
To truly unwind with such a beautiful view, I recommend sipping local wine from a balcony with a gorgeous outlook across Kotor Bay or watching the iconic cruise ships sail in and out. You can also grab drinks at Buddha-Bar Beach Porto Montenegro, the most beautiful beach bar with views across the water or relish an insane barbecue platter from BBQ Tanjga. if you’re a meat lover, you have to go here - the portions are HUGE!
14. Visit Cat Museum
Posted by CATS Museum - Cattaro on Sunday, 10 February 2019
This is a unique museum and showcases a variety of photographs, stamps, posters, and antique books with some connection to cats in one way or another. The museum is largely made up of a collection of images donated by an Italian countess. The museum is a small one comprising of just two rooms and a hallway, but every inch of space has been made use of to showcase the collection.
Cat Museum
Address: Trg Gospa od Anđela, Stari Grad 371, 85330 Kotor
Website: Cat Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)
Price: 1 USD
15. Head to Harbour Pub for taste of Kotor nightlife
Posted by The Harbour Pub on Thursday, 15 December 2016
Set in the picturesque surroundings of the old city, this trendy pub offers a range of cuisines ranging from Mediterranean to European to local flavors. At night, this becomes a hotspot for locals to gather for a drink and a bite before heading home or for friends meeting up after quite some time. Free WiFi and table service are an added charm!
Harbour Pub
Address: Trg Pastrovnice, Kotor, Montenegro
Website: Harbour Pub
Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 8am – 1am; Sun: 8am – 12am
16. Taste a burek at a local pekara
While in Kotor, eat like a local! This is why it is essential that you taste some delicious burek, a type of stuffed bread at a local pekara or bakery. While quite popular in most European nations, the burek in Montenegro tends to be usually round in shape with plenty of filling options available. Cheese- or meat-stuffed ones are absolutely mouthwatering and there are quite a few good places to try this in the old town area. Pekara Sandrela is one such place.
Pekara Sandrela
Address: 2, Dobrota, Montenegro
Website: Pekara Sandrela
Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)
17. Learn some history at Fort Gorazda
Un groupe de jeunes venus voir le coucher de soleil et faire un barbecue, et qui nous a mis de la bonne musique, les Doors, Bowie, etc.
Posted by Les vadrouilles d'ANéNIKO on Thursday, 27 June 2019
This fortress was part of the Austro - Hungarian Empire and has a unique rotating turret on its roof. It was in use up to the 1990s when the Yugoslav army used it as a depot. Now, the fort has been thrown up to the public for a variety of uses. You can enjoy excellent views of the bay and the whole town from the viewpoint at this historic fortress. This is a popular venue for weddings and also an excellent picnic spot. Besides, the gun turret, the barrack rooms, observation turrets, and the retractable bridge are in pretty good shape till date.
Fort Gorazda
Address: Kotor, Montenegro
Website: Fort Gorazda
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
18. Enjoy panoramic views from atop the Kampana Tower
Part of the fortified section of town, this tower and citadel date back to the 13th century. Situated at the spot where the river meets the bay, it is a vantage viewpoint for excellent views of the mountains and the bay. There is a staircase near the north gate that leads to the top of the tower.
Kampana Tower
Address: 420, Stari grad, Kotor 85330, Montenegro
Opening hours: 8am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Free
19. Trek the Ladder of Kotor (from USD 91.0)
This hiking trail takes you along the ancient route connecting Kotor with Cetinje and Njegusi village. There are numerous legends associated with this route, which at one time was the only one linking Kotor to Cetinje. Forgotten with the advent of modernity, the route has now been revived and is used for recreational purposes than anything else with tourists flocking to it by the dozens. On the way, enjoy panoramic views of the bay and the old town. The last leg of the hike takes you down a stairway into the heart of the old town.
Hiking: The Ladder of Kotor
The big little town
While not as famous as a lot of its European counterparts, this beautiful town has plenty to keep you busy. Try to check off everything on this list of interesting things to do in Kotor, Montenegro.
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