23 Best Things To Do In Bay Of Kotor, Montenegro

Heading over to the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, or Boka Kotorska as the locals call it, was pretty much like visiting family—because, in a way, it was. It’s where my mother-in-law was born and raised, and the vibe there? It’s like the Mediterranean took a detour and decided to add a dash of magic.

Seeing Kotor for the first time, you can’t help but be floored. It’s one of those “Wow, is this even real?” moments. Trust me, my jaw was practically on the floor.

We just got back from this awesome trip there. It’s a hop, skip, and jump from Croatia (where we live) —super easy to get to. I tagged along with my mother-in-law and the kids to catch up with relatives and walk the streets that she did as a kid.

In this guide, I spill all the details about this hidden gem and our family adventures, as well as things we did not get time to do, but her family suggested. 

Few places in the world are quite as impressive as this Montenegrin area – no doubt you’ll also be as dazed at the sheer beauty of Kotor Bay – as I was.

Virtually unknown to North American and Western European—with some exceptions, of course—cruise tourists, the Bay of Kotor area in Montenegro has the potential to exceed everyone’s expectations.

Located within an easy driving distance from Dubrovnik, Croatia’s star attraction, it is sometimes described as the only fjord in the Mediterranean. While that is technically not true, it effectively explains what the landscape looks like. A visit to this unique bay is one of the best things to do in Montenegro and the Balkans in general.

The Bay of Kotor Montenegro, also known as Boka Kotorska Montenegro, begins seemingly like any other Mediterranean bay. It’s simple and rocky, not really invoking any awe or causing any jaws to drop.

But the landscape becomes increasingly spectacular as you continue into Boka Kotorska Bay, swinging around bends and meandering along its many folds. The coastal mountains get steeper, and the scenery more rugged.

Main Bay Of Kotor Towns

There are several villages and towns in the Bay of Kotor to explore, yet there are two head and shoulders above the rest. Especially if you have limited time, these are the ones you should focus on.

We spent one rainy day exploring both of them, and even in the rain, they were ah-may-zing

1. Perast

Here in the small town of Perast, we met our knowledgeable and down-to-earth guide, Tomislav, to start our perfect Kotor day trip.

Perast lies almost directly across the water from the Verige Strait and is the first thing you’ll see when entering the inner bay. Because of its location adjacent to the internal bay’s entrance, this small town was an essential part of the bay’s fortifications.

Formerly under Venetian control, Perast was granted tax-free status by Venice just because of its essential role in the bay.

This eventually made it an extremely wealthy town. Prestigious mansions dotted the townscape in the 1600s and 1700s. When you stand back and look at the old buildings, it’s hard not to think about the wealthy naval offers and the families who lived there.

And, even now, you can still see the traces of that prosperous time—there are sixteen churches and no fewer than seventeen grand palaces. One of those former palaces and houses is the Perast Museum, which is worth visiting. It displays Perast’s maritime history.

Tomislav guided us through the museum instead of taking the boat across the artificial Island of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. Due to bad weather (rain and wind), we had to reschedule the week’s plans several times, and we were leaving Montenegro the following day – so we sorrowfully never made it to the islands. 

The perfect excuse to have to go back!

Because it used to be part of Venice, Perast is often called “the Pearl of Venetian Baroque.” Many baroque-style Venetian buildings make up the heart of the town.

Even the main church, St. Nicholas Church, reminds people of Venice. You can climb the tall bell tower for amazing views of the town and the Bay of Kotor.

Just offshore from Perast lie the two small islands we could not access that day – but you can for 5 Euro per person. Both are fascinating places – well, the stories I heard were – and so too were the photos I saw.

The Island of St. George is the smallest one. Its larger neighbor, Our Lady of the Rocks, is the larger one.

2. Kotor Town

Set at the foot of a sheer cliff, surrounded by rugged coastal mountains, and with the bay’s water lapping gently against its shores, Kotor is the star attraction and namesake of the Bay of Kotor.

Set in the far southeastern corner of the inner bay, this marvelous historic town is one of the real gems of the Balkans and one of the most beautiful places to visit in spring in Eastern Europe.

Boasting a network of solid fortifications, cobbled streets, alleyways, hidden piazzas, and stunning architecture on every narrow lane, the Old Town of Kotor is of such cultural and historical significance it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Unique in its history, setting, and picturesqueness, Kotor is a must-visit destination if you’re in the Adriatic. It’s to Montenegro what Dubrovnik is to Croatia, Venice is to Italy, Mostar is to Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Lake Bled is to Slovenia.

Kotor is filled with historical attractions. While it’s possible to “do” the entire Bay of Kotor in just one day, you’re strongly encouraged to take your time and spend at least one night in Kotor Town if you can.

Main Kotor tourist attractions include the Town Walls, the Sea Gate, the St. Tryphon Cathedral, St. Luke’s Square, and the Maritime Museum of Montenegro. The real beauty of Kotor, though, is its overwhelming historic charm. Oh yeah, and the views of the mountains behind it are nothing short of world-class.

After your sightseeing, it’s time to grab some lunch. You have many choices to make here as there are plenty of delicious spots to eat in Kotor. A few places we liked:

• Astoria Restaurant – Located in the Old Town itself, check out this restaurant for delicious local cuisine and great prices. The staff here were very friendly with our son – and offered lots of suggestions on what to eat and what wines we should try. Easy breezy. We can recommend the steak – Mr. Chasing the Donkey loved it. 
• Cesarica is a rustic choice with some incredibly delicious local cuisine. Be sure to try the seafood here; it’s divine! They also offer a great-priced lunch menu, so you can splurge without worrying about the cost.
• Luna Rossa – Another traditional restaurant, set in a stone building with an open kitchen so you can see what is being cooked. The traditional food here is delicious but has several international choices, ideal for fussy palates.

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Top Beaches In Kotor

There are so many things to keep you busy in Kotor – here are some more ideas for your Montenegro vacation!

3. Bathe Like Royalty At Kings Beach

King’s Beach, also known as Milocer Beach, holds the title of Montenegro’s most wealthy and private stretch of sand. Fringed by a rocky embrace, this pink-hued crescent bay offers pristine waters and a front-row view of Villa Milocer, the historical royal retreat now housed within the plush realms of Aman Resorts.

It stands as one of Montenegro’s three private beaches that are part of this luxurious complex.

Access to this slice of seaside luxury doesn’t require a regal budget. For those not lodging in the lavish hotel rooms, which can fetch upwards of 1,500 euros a night, the beach can be enjoyed by renting a sun lounger for the day. At 120 euros, the rental includes the essentials: an umbrella, a towel, and a bottle of water. It’s a splurge, certainly, but it’s a small price for a taste of the royal lifestyle.

The villa’s walls whisper tales of its past as the summer haven for Queen Maria of Serbia in the 1930s and later as a favored escape for Yugoslavia’s Tito. Now an all-season destination, Villa Milocer offers an enchanting and tranquil retreat, especially in winter, when the summer crowds have retreated, leaving behind the serenity of an empty beach and the whispers of history.

4. Explore The Secluded Crvena Glavica Beach

As Montenegro’s popularity soars among European vacationers, secluded spots like Crvena Glavica become precious havens. Situated a mere 20 miles from Kotor, it offers a serene escape with refreshing air and striking views of Sveti Stefan island, embodying the tranquility one seeks in a Montenegrin getaway.

Top Boat Tours & Waterfront Activities In Kotor

5. Take A Boat Trip To Our Lady Of The Rocks, Perast

Perast is home to not one but two island churches. The island of St. George, home to the St. George Benedictine Monastery, is not accessible to tourists, but the other one is.

Our Lady of the Rocks is an artificial island created by sinking old ships filled with rocks. The main attraction here is the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, which houses a museum. There’s also a small gift shop on the island and a tiny lighthouse.

You can quickly get to the island with boat tours that depart from Kotor Town, one of the absolute top Bay of Kotor activities to do.

6. Stroll The Promenade, Perast

When spending time in Perast, a wander along the waterfront promenade is the ultimate icing on the cake. It’s not an incredibly long promenade, though, but it’s gorgeous.

You’ll have a great view of Our Lady of the Rocks and the rest of Kotor Bay, while several welcoming cafes are fantastic spots to watch the world go by for a while. There may be many things to see in Kotor Bay, but remember to slow down, too. Take a seat and take it all in. You’re in a gorgeous place, after all!

7. Enter The Blue Cave

The Blue Cave is a hidden wonder located out on the Bay of Kotor. It’s a bit of a boat ride from Kotor, but the town is one of the best places to start your journey here, as to reach the cave, you will have to travel through the entirety of the breathtaking bay itself.

When you enter the concealed entrance to the cave, you will find that it is semi-submerged, part underwater, and part open. You can only reach it by private boat, swimming, or kayaking through the entrance.

The atmosphere inside is vibrant, as the cave gets its name from the reflective, bright blue-looking water inside.

8. Port Of Oligarch’s

Stroll through the lap of luxury at Tivat Porto Montenegro, a mere stone’s throw from Kotor. Here, the world transforms into a display of opulence that might remind you of the French Riviera or another enclave of the elite. Tivat, steeped in history, whispers tales of its past as the alleged summer retreat for the ancient Illyrian Queen Teuta.

The recent transformation of Tivat’s promenade has ushered in an air of contemporary extravagance, creating a playground for the wealthy—meander among majestic yachts, towering condos, and high-end boutiques without spending a dime. For the cost of a sumptuous brunch, indulge in a slice of this lavish life. The eateries here offer a menu with a Californian twist—think grilled avocados and truffle-infused eggs—served in a setting that’s as laid-back as the views are splendid. It’s a spot where the allure of grandeur meets the charm of the seaside.

9. Paddle Across Kotor Bay In A Kayak

For those drawn to the sea, kayaking across Kotor Bay provides an invigorating fix of maritime pleasure. During the balmy months of summer, numerous guides offer their services for a price, ready to lead adventurers on a memorable journey across the water.

Top Cultural Activities In Kotor

10. Climb The Tower Of St. Nicholas Church, Perast

There are no fewer than 19 churches in Perast, but perhaps the most recognizable is the St. Nicholas Church. The construction of this church started in the 17th century but was never completed.

You can visit the treasury to see the graves of various saints and wonderfully embroidered clothes. However, the main highlight is the climb of the 55-meter bell tower, which offers impressive views of the town below and the bay beyond.

11. Visit The Perast Museum, Perast

If you’d like more information on the history of Perast and the Bay of Kotor, visiting the Perast Museum is highly recommended. Established in 1937, this museum features exhibits and collections gathered mainly from Perast residents. Inside, you’ll find everything from weaponry and portraits of famous seafarers to historic archival materials.

12. Explore The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Kotor Town

Surrounded by the Venetians’ fortifications, the Kotor Old Town dates from between the 12th and 14th centuries. This is a just gorgeous historic town characterized by numerous stone buildings and houses, several churches, winding alleys and stairways, and a backdrop of steep hillsides.

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in Kotor for a day, exploring the Old Town is it. You can spend several hours wandering this incredible history-oozing maze. And if you’re up for it, you can follow that up with one of the two thigh-burning hikes below. Or maybe save that for the next day if you have more time.

13. Visit The Maritime Museum, Kotor Town

Seafaring has always been an important industry in Kotor. Some might even say that it’s the Kotor way of life. Backed by massive cliffs and situated at the end of a narrow bay, Kotor’s only easy connection with the outside world used to be the sea.

Therefore, a thriving trade and boating industry brought wealth and prosperity to Kotor Bay’s shores, some of which are still visible in the opulent palaces along its shores, especially in Perast.

The best place to learn about this fascinating history is the Kotor Maritime Museum. It houses terrific exhibits about the Bay of Kotor and its general history.

Although many maritime-related collections and artifacts exist, you can also see traditional furniture, weaponry, coins, and clothing. A visit to the Maritime Museum is one of the best things to do in Kotor, Montenegro.

14. See The St. Tryphon Cathedral, Kotor Town

There are only two Roman Catholic cathedrals in Montenegro, and Kotor’s St. Tryphon Cathedral is one of them. It’s the seat of the Bishop of Kotor, whose bishopric spans the whole Gulf of Kotor.

Dedicated to Saint Tryphon (Sveti Tripun in Montenegrin), the town’s patron saint, the cathedral is older than many other, more famous churches and cathedrals in Europe and houses a precious treasury. 

Step inside and see 14th-century frescoes, priceless art collections, weapons, traditional dresses, and other historical artifacts. Make sure to step outside onto the upper balcony for a fine view of Kotor Town. If you’re making a list of what to see in Kotor, the St. Tryphon Cathedral should be in your top 3.

15. Burn A Candle In St. Nicholas Church, Kotor Town

Located in the northern part of the Old Town of Kotor, the St. Nicholas Church is Kotor’s most important Serbian Orthodox Church. The current building dates from the early 1900s when it was built to replace the previous 19th-century church, which burned down in 1896.

You can easily distinguish this church by its two symmetrical domes, especially the Serbian flag hanging above the main entrance door.

The church is open to the public, and it’s customary for visitors to burn a candle upon entering, both honoring living family members and commemorating loved ones who’ve passed away.

16. Learn About Kotor’s Cats At The Cats Museum, Kotor Town

One of the “weirdest” Kotor attractions is not a building, historic site, or landscape. It’s cats. There are so many cats in Kotor! This resulted from centuries of marine trading: cats that sneaked onto ships were left behind in Kotor. You’ll see these furry felines all over the Old Town, adding even more charm to an already-picture-perfect town.

If you’d like to learn more about Kotor’s cats’ history, you should visit the Cats Museum. This tiny museum has a quirky collection of everything related to the local cats, including coins, art, literature, and other historical artifacts. Also, the gift shop sells small bags of cat food.

Get one and spend some time feeding and getting to know the Kotor cat population a little bit better.

Top Hikes In Kotor

17. Hike The Ladder Of Kotor, Kotor Town

If you’re feeling like a workout, there are a few things to do in Kotor that are better than a hike up the Ladder of Kotor. This former transportation route was used to connect Kotor Town and Bay with Cetinje and the rest of Montenegro.

It consists of countless switchbacks and, as such, snakes its way up the cliffs right behind the Old Town. It’s an exhilarating hike, especially when you reach a certain elevation and can admire a truly beautiful view.

18. Enjoy Panoramic Views From The San Giovanni Fortress, Kotor Town

A slightly shorter hike just outside the Old Town leads to the San Giovanni Fortress, once part of the extensive Venetian fortifications surrounding Kotor.

Also known as St. John Fortress and Sveti Ivan, the fortress lies 1,355 steps up from the Old Town below. Here, too, await sensational views of the Bay of Kotor. On the way, you’ll pass the remains of other military buildings and a 15th-century church.

The San Giovanni Fortress trail also connects to the Ladder of Kotor, allowing you to combine both trails and create a fantastic loop hike. If you only have one day in Kotor and want some exercise, this is where you should go.

19. Hike To Prehistoric Rock Paintings

Venture off the beaten path following a solitary red trail marker to uncover a slice of prehistory etched into a mountainside. These rock paintings, once dismissed as contemporary forgeries, have been authenticated through scholarly research to originate from the Iron Age, adding a layer of mystery to their already intriguing allure.

To reach this secluded historical treasure, you’ll find parking near the trailhead, discreetly tucked away in the forest. The trail itself is not well signposted, making a prior stop at the Roman Mosaic Museum in Risan a practical step for detailed directions. Prepare to step back in time as you embark on a journey to connect with the ancient artisans of the land.

Top Drives In Kotor

20. Venture Around Quaint, Unknown Fishing Villages

Rose may be the quintessential fishing village that seems to leap from a storybook scene. Nestled at the base of looming mountains on a peninsula’s tip, it boasts spellbinding vistas where the Boka Bay meets the Adriatic. Here, quaint homes and moored fishing boats paint a serene coastal tapestry.

This village is perched at the end of a heart-racing drive, marked by hairpin bends, snaking turns, and shadowy tunnels. It’s a journey for the confident driver with a taste for adventure. Once in Rose, leave your vehicle behind and meander on foot; the historic core is a labyrinth of lanes so slender that they bow exclusively to the footsteps of travelers. Don’t miss the Holy Trinity Church, its graveyard bearing the memory of esteemed maritime captains of the Balkans.

To catch the village at its most tranquil, arrive in the cool of the morning and linger through to the evening. Cap off the day at the Forte Rose Hotel’s restaurant, settled within an ancient fortress. Here, you can unwind with the calming sea as your backdrop, savoring the rich flavors of fresh seafood specialties.

One more fishing village to enjoy is Przno. It stands as one of Montenegro’s most enchanting fishing villages, its beauty only slightly marred by the intrusive Maestral hotel and casino. Despite this, the village retains the soulful atmosphere of its maritime heritage, a picturesque snapshot of Montenegrin culture.

21. Embark On A Thrilling Journey Along The Historic Austro-Hungarian Road

Venture onto the challenging Austro-Hungarian road in Montenegro, a narrow and winding path that tests even the bravest of drivers. Locals often jest about unseasoned tourists tackling this route, but despite its daunting turns, it remains a vital passage for transporting goods. To avoid the heavy traffic of trucks and cars, an early morning start is advisable. While the road is well-maintained, its slim width promises an adrenaline-filled experience. Along the way, the breathtaking vistas of mountainous landscapes unfold, offering panoramic views of Kotor Bay, the city, and the serene turquoise waters, all framed by the dramatic rocky mountains.

Top Dining Experiences In Kotor

22. Eat Like A Local

The Tanjga family restaurant might sit unassumingly beyond the city’s historic ramparts, but it’s a hidden gem eclipsing the standard fare found within the tourist-trodden Old Town. Esteemed for its barbecue offerings, this eatery is a local favorite, where queues of eager patrons are a testament to its culinary prowess.

Their barbecue, a showcase of locally sourced steaks and sausages, is grilled to succulent perfection. To savor the full spectrum of their grill’s capabilities, opt for a Kevapi – an assorted platter of grilled meats that promises a delightful exploration of flavors. It’s a simple establishment that delivers an authentic, flavor-packed experience, making it well worth the detour from the more frequented paths.

23. Dine At An Eco-Conscious Oyster Farm

The Bay of Kotor is renowned for its oysters, but Skoljske Boke stands out, about five miles from Kotor, for its commitment to sustainable practices in seafood farming. Dine al fresco, overlooking the very waters where your meal is sourced, enjoying a truly authentic and ethical culinary experience. Note that the restaurant welcomes guests only during the season, closing from October to March.

Best Day Trips From Kotor

Day Trip From Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is less than two hours away by road, so why not hire a car and get exploring on your own steam?

Podgorica

The capital city is 1.5 hours away, and you can easily drive or jump on the public bus network.

Tivat

Tivat is less than half an hour from Kotor, so there is no excuse not to go! Again, the public bus is ultra-easy to use.

Where Is Kotor Montenegro?

The perfectly sheltered Bay of Kotor lies on the northern coast of Montenegro, near the border with Croatia. Assuming you’re coming from Dubrovnik, the nearest major tourist town, you will pass villages such as Igalo and Bay of Herceg Novi. There’s no need to stop anywhere near the mouth of the bay. It’s what lies more inland that people come for.

After a pleasant ride along the first part of the bay, you’ll arrive at the Verige Strait. This is the entrance to what gives the Bay of Kotor its fame. Incidentally, this very entrance was pivotal in the bay’s history, a narrow bottleneck allowing access to the port towns deeper inside the bay.

Because of this strategic strait, which was heavily controlled, the people living in the bay could thrive and live peacefully. No one was able to reach them there. Moreover, the sheer mountains offered another form of natural protection on the inland side.

Although not more than a quarter-mile wide, the strait is deep enough to allow passage to even the largest modern cruise ships. This, of course, is very convenient nowadays, bringing loads of tourism money into the bay.

Now, you’ll have entered the innermost part of the bay. It is nearly entirely secluded, except for the Verige Strait; this part is of such exceptional beauty that it’s almost hard to grasp. A scenic, winding road runs along the bay’s edge, allowing you to explore virtually every part of it.

How To Get To Kotor Bay Montenegro – Boka Kotorska?

There are three ways to get to the Bay of Kotor. You can choose to drive yourself, visit on a cruise, or take a bus from nearby cities.

Car

Driving to Kotor gives you much more freedom than the other transportation options. No matter where you’re coming from, you can choose your own itinerary, stop wherever you like, and stay as long as you want.

Most people travel to Kotor from Dubrovnik, a drive of about 95 kilometers. Remember that you’ll cross a border, so ensure you have the necessary travel documents and verify that you can take your Dubrovnik rental car across the border. Driving from Dubrovnik to Kotor takes 2 hours or more, depending on how often you stop on the way.

From Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, it’s about 85 kilometers or 1.5 hours to Kotor Town. Another common starting point for Kotor day trips is Bar. This coastal town has ferry connections to Bari, Italy, and has the nearest train station to Kotor.

Cruise Ship

Although no ferries connect Kotor with the rest of the Adriatic, you can, as mentioned above, get to Bar by ferry from Bari, Italy. From there, you can continue by car or bus (see below). If you like to visit Kotor on a boat, your only option is to go on a cruise. The Bay of Kotor is one of the most popular cruise destinations in this part of the Mediterranean, the bay deep enough to allow passage to even the largest cruise ships. You’ll undoubtedly see a huge cruise ship on the bay during your visit.

Bus

Your third option is taking the bus. There are numerous guided bus tours to the Bay of Kotor; when staying in Dubrovnik, day trips offer you a taste of the bay’s beauty. Alternatively, even more public buses commute between Kotor and other towns in the region. You can get there by bus from places like Dubrovnik, Split, Mostar, Sarajevo, Skopje, Podgorica, and Bar. Note that the towns in Montenegro have the best and most frequent connections.

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Where To Stay In Kotor Bay

Hotel Monte Cristo – 4 Stars

The 4-star luxury Hotel Monte Cristo lies right next to the Maritime Museum and only a few streets from major Kotor attractions, such as the St. Tryphon Cathedral, the Cats Museum, and the start of the trail up to San Giovanni Fortress. You can stay in well-appointed rooms with a mini-bar, kitchenette, work desk, private bathroom, and sofa. A daily breakfast is served in the morning, and there is also free parking, free WiFi, sports facilities, and a restaurant and bar.

Boutique Hotel Astoria – 4 Stars

Located in the heart of the Kotor Old Town, the 4-star Boutique Hotel Astoria is one of the best hotels in Kotor. It’s housed in a renovated stone building. It offers all modern amenities, including free WiFi, a swimming pool, a fitness center, a tennis court, a convenience store, private parking, and a daily breakfast. It has everything you need to make your time in Kotor enjoyable and comfortable.

Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro Montenegro – 4 Stars

Previous guests rave about the location of the Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro, hidden within the centuries-old streets of the Old Town of Kotor. This elegant and beautifully furnished hotel stands out because of its incredible interior decorations, including portraits, carpeted floors, tiled bathrooms, and inviting colors. Accommodation is available in standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and deluxe suites, while amenities range from free WiFi to an on-site restaurant, bar, airport shuttle, and event spaces.

Hotel Vardar – 4 Stars

Located mere steps from the Cats Museum and other things to do in Kotor, Hotel Vardar is a 4-star accommodation in a superb location. Guests can enjoy the terrace’s views, relax in the on-site sauna or Turkish bath, and indulge in local food at the restaurant. There’s also a bar, fitness center, and free WiFi. The rooms feature beautiful decorations, ambient lighting, and plush couches.

Guest House Forza Lux – 3 Stars

Another great hotel in Kotor is Guest House, Forza Lux. This particular accommodation has three stars and rooms with private bathrooms and a flat-screen satellite TV. Some rooms come with a seating area. This hotel’s interior is simply beautiful and tasteful, with tiled walls and floors, wooden cupboards and furniture, atmospheric lighting, and a relaxing color palette. Additionally, there is also a shared kitchen on the property, while bicycle and car rentals can be arranged. WiFi is complimentary to guests.

If you ever visit Montenegro, you must put the Bay of Kotor on your itinerary. You’ll regret it if you don’t!