Time to grab a cup of something hot, sit down with a notepad and pen, and jot down some of the pearls of wisedom we have acquired on our many forays to this wonderful Adriatic country. We’ll show you all the things to do in Montenegro, where to go, where to stay, how to get there, and how long to give each location to get the best out of your trip.

So let’s get straight down to it. Montenegro’s biggest tourist areas include; Budva, Kotor Bay (Kotor + Perast + Dobrota), Tivat, Lovcen, Herceg Novi, Bar, and Podgorica. The best of these is undoubtedly Kotor Bay. The country has incredible national parks in the north, but we decided, as beach lovers, to focus our attention on the shore. So if you are looking for things to do in Montenegro, but mostly hope they take place somewhere near the beach, then you are in for a treat.

Why Montenegro

Here are a couple of great reasons to see Montenegro:

– The sea, architecture, nature and cuisine – all are are wonderful.

– It feels European but it is cheaper than most European beach destinations.

– Montenegro, along with Croatia and Romania, is one of the most beautiful destinations on the Balkan Peninsula.

– The country has really opened up to tourism in the last few years, and it quickly became a popular stop-off for cruise-liners, leading it to be gaining a reputation as the new Dubrovnik.

– It’s a must for anyone who enjoys scenic views and there are plenty of things to do in Montenegro if you are a nature-lover who enjoys the great outdoors.

But…

Expectations count for a lot – so here are some other things to keep in mind…

– Montenegro is not a luxury destination. It has lovely, beautiful scenery – and you’ll love its simple charm, but don’t expect extravagance. So if you are looking for things to do in Montenegro that provide a good excuse to get out the stilettoes, you are limited to Porto Montenegro, in Tivat, probably the classiest place in the country. But even this only has 3-5 posh restaurants and 1-2 haute-couture stores.

– As a fairly new destination on the tourist trail, service might not always be up to standard.

– For those of you looking for a big city get away, Montenegro can feel rather limited. There aren’t many galleries, museums, activities or nightlife venues – and the country’s population is only 622,5 K, less than many cities.. 🙂

Things to Do in Montenegro

Click here to view this on GoogleMaps.
[column size=one_half position=first ]1. Durmitor National Park and Black Lake
2. Ostrog Monastery
3. Podgorica
4. Herceg Novi
5. Rose
6. Our Lady of the Rocks
7. Perast
8. Dobrota
9. Tivat[/column][column size=one_half position=last ]10. Kotor
11. Lovćen
12. Budva
13. Pržno
14. Sveti Stefan
15. Petrovac
16. Bar
17. Stari Bar
18. Skadar Lake
19. Ulcinj[/column]
Before composing your Montenegro itinerary, it is a good idea to take a look at all the places to see in Montenegro.

1. Budva

Budva is by far the biggest draw for visitors heading to Montenegro – but make no mistake, that doesn’t mean it’s the prettiest of places. There was once a time when this area was part of a collection of humble fishing villages with their own age-old charm, but unfortunately, this has been bulldozed to make way for a number of modern obscenities

Then again, Budva is still a must for any Montenegro itinerary. Sveti Stefan and Budva’s Old Town have certainly managed to retain their charm with impressive integrity. Plus, Budva still boasts the best beaches in the country, located as it is, right on the Adriatic, after all. A steady flow of tourists, mostly Russians, make their way here every year just for the beaches – and the casinos, of course.

2. Sveti Stefan

Sveti Stefan, after Perast, is probably the most picture “postcard-esque” place in Montenegro. The place was founded as a simple fishing village in the 15th century, but in 1442, under immense pressure from the ever-encroaching Ottomans, villagers decided to surround their town with the fortifications still visible today.

The island is currently run by one of the chicest boutique hotel chains in the world, Aman, and is probably the flashiest hotel in the country, with a star-studded list of previous guests that includes Hollywood stars, politicians, and world-famous sportspeople. The island is unfortunately exclusive to hotel guests, but you can have a nose around by at least dining at one of the hotel restaurants. Click here to find out more and see if you’d like to book yourself in.

Sveti Stefan can be reached easily, just a fifteen-minute drive through lush forests from Budva city center. Before you get to the island, though, you’ll come to the Villa Milocer, a little hotel along the coast. This was constructed in 1934 for Queen Marija Karadordevic, but was later converted into a holiday home for Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito. The villa is also owned by Aman, but the surrounding wooded area and bay are all open to the public. The island is a brisk stroll from Milocer.

One bridge that extends out to the island is for guest-use only, while the other gets you to the public beach – which gets pretty packed during the summer.

3. Exploring Kotor Bay

Montenegro is one of the best place beach vacation destination in the Balkans with its coast on the Adriatic Sea. However even that is blend in comparison to  Kotor Bay’s fine scenery. Kotor Boy is one of the finest settlements in the Adriatic, with Venetian architecture, Italian cuisine, awesome views, and hospitable residents.
Kotor Bay should be a top priority on Montenegro itinerary. To learn more on things to do, what to see, where to stay, how, and for how long, we recommend you check out our Top Things To Do In Kotor Bay & Useful Tips list. Below, you’ll find a run-down of the best small villages and inlets along the bay, which we highly recommend exploring better by renting a bike, car, or motorcycle. Ferries frequently cross between Tivat and the Adriatica restaurant on the other side of the bay.

4. Kotor

Kotor Old Town, also known as Kotor Stari Grad, is the cultural center of the whole region. It’s no exaggeration to say that this place might have some of the most beautiful medieval architecture in the world. You’ll never have taken enough photos. You can tour the whole city, and check out the postcard view available from the castle on the hilltop above.

If you want to know the best place to enjoy a bite and have some fun in Kotor Bay, click to find out more in Kotor Old Town – Places To See & How To Plan

5. Dobrota

With so many tourists packing out the streets in Kotor, you may find yourself wonder what happened to all the locals. Well, they smartly head to the less touristy Dobrota to hang out. This is a wise place to visit while you’re in the area, as:

– Its Italian architecture makes it a classy environment.
– It is ideally located right in the middle of the bay.
– As Kotor Bay already lies within the larger Boka Bay, the water doesn’t circulate so well, so Dobrota is a cleaner place to swim.
– It has the country’s top restaurant, the Konoba Portun.

For more information on Dobrota, and some tips on the best place to rent a home, check out Top Things To Do In Kotor Bay & Useful Tips
This article really does hold some excellent tips for you to get your trip off to a flying start.

6. Perast and Our Lady Of The Rocks

Perast, and its two islands – Our Lady of the Rocks and Sveti Djordje – are perhaps the most photographed places in Montenegro. They are absolutely indispesible for your Montenegro itinerary.

Perast is a simply incredible Medieval village just a fifteen minute drive from Kotor. In terms of both the architecture and landscape, this is most probably the best loved place in the entire country.

Click here to find out what we discovered to see and do in Perast.

7. Tivat

Quality of life is generally the same all over Montenegro. The cafes, shops, and hotels are clean, well kept, and come together to create a pleasant, modest vibe. Porto Montenegro is Montenegro’s most luxurious and sumptuous marina complex. So if you want something  a little more fancy, you should add Tivat to your Montenegro itinerary.

Located a short walk to the beach, the Canadian-designed structure houses 3-5 restaurants serving everything from sushi to Italian cuisine.

The marina is architecturally impressive, but quite small in size, and is definitely worth heading to for an evening meal. So if you are done with exploring more active things to do in Montenegro, treat yourself to a classier night out here. Some of the eateries turn into bars when night falls, providing a cool place to hang out. Our best recommends for food here include:

– The central Al Posto Giusto. The food is not amazing, but it’s certainly the most popular place in the port.
– Porto Montenegro Yacht Club Pool is highly frequented in the daytime, and located ideally for those of you who enjoy posing in front of yachts (this seems to be surprisingly many people).
– The Clubhouse a slick, cool bar that has DJs playing smooth tunes into the evening.
– Platinum a decent night club.
– If you prefer a more inviting bar atmosphere for the evening, Propella is located right outside the marina, and is a good choice in terms of atmosphere.
– This has one of the poshest hotels in the country, La Roche. The restaurant is certainly worth a try.
– For swimming, the place to be is undoubtedly Waikiki Beach.

8. Herceg Novi

Herceg Novi is a historical seaside town on the way north from Kotor heading toward Croatia. It’s not quite Perast or Kotor but the views and architecture are very competitive. There is also something similar to a Porto Montenegro. Although overshadowed by Kotor, Tivat, and Budva for years, it’s guaranteed to become the hippest place in the country in no time – and is also a great place for yachting lessons given its position closer out to sea.

Kotor Bay is undoubtedly best in terms of scenery, but Herceg Novi is better suited for getting out on a boat and exploring the sea, including some of the country’s biggest tourist sites, the island fortress of Mamula and the Blue Cave. If you grab a private boat rental, Forte Rose, Ribarsko Selo, and Mirista Restaurant are also good to grab a bite.

9. Rose

Forte Rose takes its name from a small, nearby, fishing village. It really is a tiny, very sweet place. It’s nothing but Montenegrin summer houses and 2-3 restaurants. If your ideal holiday involves swimming, fancy, historic buildings, and lounging around whilst dipping into your summer read, then Rose is for you. If this doesn’t sound like you at all, though, you might find yourself bored after half an hour.

10. Ulcinj

Montenegro has hosted a number of great civilizations; the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venecians, and the Ottomans, to name but a few. The Italians were long dominant to the West, while the Ottomans were the supreme power in the East, as can be seen from the change in architectural styles as you travel the breadth of the country. So if you’re looking for things to do in Montenegro that will awaken your sense of wonder in history, Ulcinj,  is most impressive. One or two hours should be more than enough to see everything.

11. Bar & Stari Bar

Although the Ottomans tried and failed to take Kotor many a time, they controlled the nearby area of Bar for around 500 years. It is possible to still see traces of their rule today in a town inhabited by a rich mixture of Orthodox and Protestant Christians. Historic Bar, or Stari Bar is pleasant, but not an absolute must-visit. If you’re not into kite surfing, you may not need to add it to your Montenegro itinerary. But if you do add, you had better try the Kula restaurant while you’re at it. It’s also possible to get to the Italian city of Bari by boat from here.

12. Lovcen

Lovcen is an incredible national park where you can cast down on the Kotor Bay from its peaks. From high-up, behind the Njegoš Mausoleum, you can not only see a fantastic panorama of Kotor, but the entire Boka Bay, and on the other side, Lake Skadar Gölü and the Southern Montenegrin peaks of Durmitor, Komovi, and Prokletije. So, if you are looking for things to do in Montenegro that will give you an inspiring and breathtaking experience, this is the place.

There is a village which is known for gastronomy called Njeguši. It is famous for its:
prosciutto & sausages
cheese
kastradina (smoked mutton)
Medovina (mead which is a spirit made from honey)

13. Podgorica

Wondering if you should make space for Podgorica on your Montenegro itinerary?

If you are in Montenegro over the summer, don’t lose any time at the nation’s capital. There truly is nothing much to see about the place, and locals would nod in agreement from their beach beds on the coast. 🙂 It’s not the prettiest of cities – but in the winter, however, it has the most events and activity in the country. Sure, there are plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants, but aside from having an insanely yummy meat restaurant right next to the airport, there’s not much in the way of excitement.

Grab a Legendary Meal on the Way to the Airport

Although there aren’t so many direct flights from Tivat, the good thing is that taking the flight out of the capital, Podgorica, takes you by an incredible butcher’s and charcuterie. Whether to stop for a bite way back, or to sample some of the country’s delightful cuisine directly upon landing, the Pecenjara restaurant will serve you up a treat. The restaurant is both cheap and tasty to the point it will drive you wild. The jury is still out on whether Montenegrins are just good at cooking or there is something in the water that makes their livestock taste so delicious. We recommend the tandoori, or “meat under a baking lid” as it is known on the menu. Lamb is the most popular dish, but their beef game is just as strong. Click here for the location.

Vranjina Island is also on the way to the airport. The island, that has an accessible link to the land, has the country’s biggest wine producers, Plantaze. Just don’t forget you can’t take it as hand luggage! The wine here is also available at duty free (but at twice the price, so plan ahead if you want a bargain). The Jezero restaurant the lies just opposite also serves exquisite fish dishes. The krap is the most famous fish around. Click here for location

14. Skadar Lake

Between Podgorica Airport and Budva you’ll find a huge lake, İşkodra Lake, forming the natural border between Montenegro and Albania. Hiking, canoeing, and boat tours are all available here. You can also stop off to sample the local wine produce. It is a delightful place, but you can afford to miss it for the country’s other wonderful locations if you are staying for less than ten days.

15. And the rest…

Rafting in the Tara River Canyon: , If you are looking for something exciting among things to do in Montenegro, Tara River rafting is probably the most adrenaline-pumping activity in the country. The river runs through Europe, and probably the world’s deepest canyon and is a draw for rafting junkies from across the world.

Hiking in Durmitor National Park: This UNESCO-protected national park is one of Montenegro’s, if not one of the world’s best hiking, trekking, mountain climbing and rafting locations. The park contains 18 glacial lakes, incredible fauna, and peaks that reach 1523 meters in height.

Black Lake (Crno Jezero): Black Lake is located in the Durmitor National Park and is one of 18 glacial lakes, but is the most visited due to the stunning scenery it is nestled between.

Ostrog Monastery: This 17^th century monastery is a site of pilgrimage that draws faithful from around the country. Carved into the rocks of the surrounding hills, this is a remarkable site and well worth viewing.

Plan Your Montenegro Itinerary

Where Is Montenegro and How To Get There

– Montenegro is a fledgling country, founded only in 2006, and is located on the Adriatic coast between Albania and Croatia.

– The country has two airports. Tivat is closer to touristy areas, but direct flights aren’t available here from everywhere.

– The main airport is in the capital, Podgorica. From here, you can get to Kotor via private transfer, bus, or by renting a car.

Alternative Routes

–With more flights, Dubrovnik, in nearby Croatia, may offer better deals. It’s just a case of getting a bus or car from here over the border.
– Tirana in Albania is 3.5 hours away to the south, and this is also checking out in terms of deals.
– There is a burgeoning trend in hiring a vehicle from Turkey and setting off on a tour of the entire Balkans from Istanbul.

Budget

Prices

Things to do in Montenegro are generally cheaper than elsewhere in Europe, but pricier than the rest of the Balkans.
– 1.5 liters of water 0.6€ (at the shop)
– Main meal 10-15€ for two people, and the portions are great
– Accommodation varies. If it’s not so important, then rent a home for around 50 euro a day. If you want a nice view, this starts at 100€. Hotels are pricier, of course.

Language

– “Montenegrin” is the dialect of Serbian spoken in the country, but Italian has influenced not only the cooking but the language too. The easiest example of this is how everyone says “Ciao” to each other.

– Everyone speaks English – especially younger folk.

As the roads around Kotor are only single lane, getting around can prove quite the task. It’s more practical to rent a motorbike than a car in July and August. Or if you are in Dobrota, you can always get to Perast or Kotor by bike.

Local Phone Line

You can get a contract phone from Telenor. They sell them at the airport from a corner store, but don’t buy from here as you’ll have activation issues. Definitely figure out your GSM at the store you buy from. We registered in the Telenor shop at a shopping mall called Kamelija near Kotor, but there is also one in the center of Budva.

Car Rental

Renting a car is not a must for this Montenegro itinerary but it sure helps!

Traffic Warning

As the roads around Kotor are only single lane, getting around can prove quite the task. It’s more practical to rent a motorbike than a car in July and August. Or if you are in Dobrota, you can always get to Perast or Kotor by bike.

Vehicle Hire

One of the first things to do in Montenegro is book a car hire service. We thought it would be a case of simply arriving at a car rental office, but there weren’t enough cars left for us! We had to wait two days, in fact. So it’s a question of luck if you leave it till you arrive. Then again, the cheapest hires begin at around five Euros, so it’s swings and roundabouts! Travelzoo Travel was the agency we used. You can try writing ahead of your visit or ask at the hotel you are going to stay at if they can help sort you out ahead of your arrival. A valid driving license is a must.

Airport Transfer

One of the first things to do in Montenegro is get to your hotel from the airport. We always work with Miraslav on our visits. Aside from air transfer, they can also offer to drive you around all day. Definitely say hi from us if you contact them! +382 68 508 873

The post MONTENEGRO ITINERARY – TOP THINGS TO DO & HOW TO PLAN appeared first on Biz Evde Yokuz.

It has just the right mix for our ideal kind of destination: Venetian-style architecture, the warmth of the Balkan people, the charm of the Adriatic Sea and Italian cuisine. Both the historical town and the bay it is in are dazzlingly beautiful. It is one of those rare places where human touch has enhanced nature’s beauty instead of stealing away from it. Even though the city was destroyed in two major earthquakes, they were able to rebuild and maintain the area’s dazzling sites.

Important Warning

Before moving on with Kotor Old Town, we should clear up a common confusion on where and what “Kotor” is. Kotor can refer to 3 things: Kotor old town (Kotor Stari Grad), the name of the region the old town is located, and the name of the bay.

Don’t be misled! Some people think once they have seen Kotor Old Town, they have seen it all. Indeed, anyone planning only a visit to Kotor old town will be missing out on A LOT. There are other magnificent places in Kotor Bay that you just must see during your trip.

If you haven’t yet read our post on all the must-see places in Kotor Bay, then we recommend first reading our Top Things To Do In Kotor Bay article. It will give you the essential information about the broader region you will need to have to plan your trip. In this article, we will only focus on Kotor Old Town (Kotor Stari Grad), or the historical city center.

When to Go & How Long to Stay

Most cruisers just stop here for a day trip. But we just don’t think that’s the best way to experience the village, simply because you would miss out on so much. The ideal trip would be 4-5 days in Montenegro, with 2-3 set aside for the Kotor region. You would need half a day for the Kotor Old Town itself.

The best time to do this is in June or September. It is better to avoid the months of July and August because these are in the peak season. If you are some kind of insanely patient and loaded traveler who is OK with bigger crowds and higher prices, July and August are fine too.

Places to See in Kotor

Click here to see the map on Google Map

[column size=one_half position=first ]1. St. Nicholas Church
2. Hotel Hippocampus
3. Army Square
4. Clock Tower
5. Evergreen Jazz Bar
6. Pizzeria Pronto
7. Grad City Restaurant[/column][column size=one_half position=last ]8. Boutique Hotel Astoria
9. Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
10. Hostel Old Town Kotor
11. Authentic pub “Bandiera”
12. Castle Of San Giovanni
13. Tanjga Family Restaurant
14. Galion[/column]

1. Walk The Medieval Streets

Some types of architecture have the power to make people fall in love with a place – and Kotor Old Town has just that. The buildings here, which were built during the Middle Ages, have been wonderfully protected and will make you feel like you’re walking back in time.

We have the Venetians to thank for this. They controlled the city for nearly 400 years and built the houses and churches in Kotor. To this day, you can still feel the strong Italian presence here. Narrow cobblestoned streets lead to tiny squares with fountains in the middle – like in Venice – where you can sit at a cafe and sip on some Italian-style coffee. The feeling is not quite European, and not quite Balkan either.

2. Trek up San Giovanni Fortress on Kotor Hill

Why yes, the photo that decided you on traveling to Kotor was taken from Kotor Castle. It offers the most beautiful view of the village and bay below. The castle is located at the highest point of the walls that surround the city. In order to get to the castle, you’ll have to walk up 1,300 steps. It’s not as bad as it sounds, because the steps themselves aren’t that steep.

Besides, you can easily use taking photos as a reason to stop and catch your breath – you’re going to want to take lots of photos to remember this day. Hiking up and back down will take about two hours. If you don’t want to go up all 1,300 steps, then there’s a church about halfway up (see photo above). Don’t fret if you give up on reaching the top, the church has the most photogenic spot.

While the steps may not be that hard to climb up, the sun will suck all the energy out of you. Kotor Old Town can be very hot. So, we suggest that you begin going up to the castle by 8am. And that doesn’t mean setting your alarm for 8, ya lazybones. Plan to be at the entrance by then.

Going out during the evening is another option, but the stairs fall under the shadow of the mountain in the morning hours, so they are exposed to the sun in the evening. And you don’t want to be stuck at the top of the unlit steps after sundown.

Some people sell water along the way, but it’s more expensive than what you’ll find at the market. The entrance fee is €8 per person, but here’s another reason to drag yourself out of bed when we suggested: There might not be anyone at the door that early. Click here for the location.

2. Travel through Kotor with a Guide

You can join in on a 1-hour tour of Kotor Old Town run by Kotour. They organize three tours in the morning at 8 am, 10 am and 12 pm. Click here for the location. The one at 8 am often gets canceled, so it’s good to check with them the night before.

They meet in front of the tourist info desk at the front door of the castle. The price in 2018 was €10 per person or €40 for a private group. You don’t have to make a reservation or anything special to join the tour. Just show up at the meeting point on time!

If you want to communicate directly with a guide for a private tour give our rec, Sofija, a ring: +382 67 373 246.

3. Most Important Places to Visit (for those who won’t take the tour)

Tito’s Words

You’ll probably come through the main gate on the on coastal road. When you look up, you’ll see Tito’s words inscribed into the gate: “Don’t ask for what is not yours, and don’t give up on what is yours.” Tito was the founder of Yugoslavia and continues to be remembered with love and admiration in Montenegro.

Piazza of the Arms (Army Square)

It’s the square you’ll find yourself in as soon as you enter the city walls. Click here for the location.

The Clock Tower

You’ll also see the clock tower as soon as you enter Kotor Old Town through the city gate. The same Austrian family has been looking after the clock  for 300 years! Click here for the location.

The Pillar of Shame

You’ll see a pillar with a triangle on top under the clock tower. In old Kotor, dignity was very important. And since there was no prison in the city, when someone was charged with crime they would be brought before this pillar and embarrassed in front of everyone. Click here for the location.

Northern Gate

The Ottomans tried very hard to take Kotor, with Ottoman admiral Hayreddin Barbarossa making 17 stops in the bay yet never able to conquer the city. He took it twice in 1538 and 1657, but couldn’t keep a hold. The people built this gate to celebrate their resistance against the Ottoman Empire.

St. Tryphon Cathedral

Kotor is one place in the country that has a higher density of Croatians than Montenegrins. This church is a Croatian Catholic church. The bones of St. Tryphon are displayed here, since having objects or bones that belonged to saints was a great honor for any city.

That’s why the Venetians went to buy the bones of St. Tryphon from the Byzantine Empire. When they were coming back from what is today modern Turkey, they were caught in a big storm, and they had to take shelter in Kotor. When the storm passed and they were ready to set sail for Venice, another storm broke out. They interpreted this as a sign that the bones should stay in Kotor. So they did. Click here for the location the church.

St. Nicholas Church

Montenegro has a multicultural identity. The Montenegrins, Serbs, Bosnians, Croats and Albanians all live together. St. Nicholas is the church of the Orthodox people living in Kotor Old Town. The majority of people here are Orthodox. Click here for the location.

Maritime Museum

This is referred to as the Kotor Maritime Museum, but there are also artifacts on display that show the culture of the region, such as local costumes, crafted decorative weapons and furnishings, among other things. The entrance of the museum has four metal reliefs that describe the history of Kotor made by a local artist. One of the most important memories in their collective history is being able to defeat the Ottoman army from advancing and taking the city. Click here for the location.

4. Drink a Beer in Bandiera to Cool Down

You won’t wonder for long why the Bandiera pub is No. 4 on our list of things to see in Kotor when the afternoon heat starts boiling under your skin. It’s best that you don’t make too many plans to roam the city between 1 pm to 4 or 5. But if you’re out and about in the afternoon, take shelter at Bandiera. You’ll thank us. It’s the coolest corner in all of Kotor. There’s also a coffee shop next door for an afternoon pick-me-up. Click here for the location.

5. Walk on the City Walls

Many tourists mistakenly opt out of this activity. If you think of Kotor Old Town as a triangle, then you can walk on the walls that form two of its sides. There are two places where you can get on. The most obvious is the one by Maximus disco. There’s even a cafe there.

As you’re walking, you’ll see signs, and you might think that the road is closed and it’s private property. However, the signs are only meant for the properties’ terraces, so keep going! Click here for the location of Maximus Disco.

6. Sign Up for Boat Tours

We wrote extensively about how and where to go in Kotor Bay by boat, as well as how much it costs (this is the article that we said you needed to read before reading this one!). So, I won’t go into detail here. Briefly: You will find some boats in front of the parking lot across from Kotor Old Town. They go on various types of tour, including to Perast.

7. Kotor’s Traditional Charcoal Coffee

Here’s a new recipe for you: Set a piece of charcoal alight, then dump it into a cup of coffee. Wait for 3-5 minutes for the charcoal to dissolve. Sip. Share to Instagram and let comments about the health benefits of activated charcoal roll in! (A few healthcare workers commented that they use activated charcoal to cleanse the body of toxins but we weren’t convinced so do your own research)

We tasted a bit of it at Letrika Cafe, and if you decide this “treat” is not for you, we can assure you that you’re not missing out on much. It just tastes like very strong coffee.

8. Concerts, Shows and Other Activities

Kotor Old Town is small, but it is the cultural capital of the region, which extends up to Budva. There’s always something like a concert or a show going on, and the events are typically free to get into.

In the summer, the shows are outside. We recommend seeing a symphony in the square if your trip happens to coincide with a performance, like ours did. You can ask Tourist Info at the entrance of Stari Grad if anything is happening during your trip.

9. Something Else the Venetians Left Behind: Carnaval

Not to keep going on about (but we will), the Venetians left quite a bit here in terms of language and architecture – but they also left a place for the wonderful celebration of Carnaval. The tradition began in the 1960s and is held twice throughout the year. The first in February and the second in July.

There’s another festival that can be connect with the Venetians: “Boka Night.” This festival is 200 years old, and is sort of a costume party –  for boats! Boat owners dress their rigs up in pegasus-like costumes. At the end of the festival, the best-dressed ship is chosen.

10. Namfleg Watch Workshop & Jewelry Shop

If you’re in the market for a €3,000 watch instead of your typical€3 magnet souvenir, then we have a recommendation for you. Even if you’re not looking to drop 3Gs, it is worth it to check this shop out just for the craftsmanship. The motifs you see in the watches are made from natural stones. They also have some more reasonably priced jewelry made of glass. The chain has a few shops around the world. Website.   Address: Stari Grad 368. Click here for the location.

Though this is where our recommendations for Kotor Old Town end, we’re not done yet!

Other Stunning Places in Kotor Bay

Yes, we realize that we are being a bit insistent, but we think it’s important that you enjoy all the places to see in Kotor Bay, much of which we talked about in our Kotor Bay post. If you have not yet read it, then check it out
⇨   KOTOR BAY   ⇦

Where to Stay in Kotor Old Town

We recommend staying in Dobrota (which again, we talk about in our Kotor Bay article), especially for those of you who can set aside two days for the region. But here are some lovely hotels in Kotor’s old town, nonetheless:

Hippocampus

Hippocampus is the best hotel if you decide to stay in the Kotor Old Town. It’s a small, quality boutique hotel with an excellent restaurant. Details & Reservation

Hostel Old Town Kotor

This is the most budget-friendly option and a nice place to stay in historical Kotor. There are rooms for 2-3 people as well as dormitory-type accommodation options. The atmosphere itself is very entertaining. They organize various tours that anyone can join, and you can also arrange airport transportation with them. Details & Reservation.

Nightlife in Kotor

• Ever Green Jazz Bar is the place to hang out at night. Click here for the location.
• Maximus is one of the biggest disco clubs in the country. Local youth flock here. We were just surprised to hear that discos still existed. Click here for the location.

What to Eat in Kotor

• The Italians made their mark on Kotor through cuisine. Here, you’ll be able to find carpaccio, pizza, risotto, spaghetti and other Italian classics that are just as good if you were going to dine in Italy. We liked the black seafood risotto – but you can eat anything at any of the places we recommend below knowing that you’ll get a good meal.
• This area is famous for seafood. People usually order risotto with seafood.
• For those of you who have heard of a Palatschinke – we tried it and aren’t sure what’s the difference between it and any other crepe…

Where to Eat

• If you want to eat amongst the beautiful ambiance of the the old city, we have a few suggestions for you. But frankly, all restaurants in the old town are quite touristy and mediocre in taste. You will see no locals eating in the old town. That’s always an important tell when it comes to finding good food.
• The portions are huge. The meal sizes are fit for a bear. We often shared one plate of food.

• If you’re on a budget, then we can recommend the Grad City Restaurant (but not for its taste). There are selections on their menu like soup + seafood + wine for €12-14. It’s very close to the square with the cathedral. Click here for the location.

Restaurants We Recommend in Kotor Old Town

Astoria

This is one of the best places to eat inside the castle. Their menu is made up mostly of Italian dishes. You can check the menu out here. Click here for the location.

Pronto Pizza

This is the only eatery locals frequent in the old town, mostly to take a breather after drinking. You can buy a ready slice or a made-to-order pizza. A standard slice will have ham, cheese and mushrooms, but you’ll have more options if you buy a whole pizza. This is the most budget-friendly option in Kotor. A huge slice of pizza is €2. Click here for the location.

Two other great options that are not within the castle walls but perhaps 5 minutes from the old town on foot:

Galion

This is a great place to spoil yourself while on holiday. Galion has a great view of the city of Kotor as well as the Kotor Bay. The main thing you’ll be able to find here is seafood. It’s one of the nicest restaurants in the bay. The prices are quite high, but they’re not ridiculous. Click here for the location.

Tanjga

This is a place favored by locals, and the food here is delicious. The ambiance might not be what you’re expecting, but the prices are great. We bet that you’ll go back again. It mainly serves meat and has a secret garden out back. Click here for the location.

Last but not absolutely not least, if you walk half an hour more, or take a taxi, you will arrive at the most beautiful restaurant of the whole bay area…

Konoba Portun

This excellent venue hits the trifecta: ambiance, taste and price. It is by far our favorite. The location is also great, as it’s located right on the sea. We recommend that you grab a spot before the sun goes down. Try the truffle tuna carpaccio, as it’s the perfect dish. The only problem is that this place is in Dobrota, so you’ll either have to catch a cab or walk 40 minutes. Because we loved it so much, we wanted to make sure to include it here. Click here for the location.

Other Places To See In Montenegro

Check out our Montenegro Itinerary – Top Things To Do & How To Plan article.

Useful Notes

Shopping

If you need one, next to Kotor Stari Grad there is a small shopping center called Kamelija. If you want to purchase a telephone line, you’ll be able to find Telenor (local GSM), a supermarket and a bank. It’s open until 11 pm.

Parking

If you have a car, you’ll want to know where the parking lots are. There’s a parking lot that we’ve been talking about right in front of Kotor Stari Grad on the seaside. It’s the most expensive parking lot in the city, and it’s full most of the time. There’s another car park behind Kamelija.

Understanding  the “old” in Kotor Old Town: A Quick History

2 BC – 1185 AD – Roman & Byzantine Period – First records show that the area was under Roman control. Later, the Byzantines became rulers here. The name of the area is thought to come from Dekatera/Dekaderon, from the Byzantine time. Although the Bulgarians ruled Kotor for 140 years during this time, it came back under Byzantine rule until 1185.

1185 – 1371 – Serbian Empire – Kotor is taken by the Serbs, but remained somewhat autonomous. Kotor became the most important port city for the Serbs for 200 years.

1371 – 1384 – Venetian and Croatian Wars – With the collapse of the Serbian Empire in 1371, Venetians and Croatians began to fight for the city. The city changed hands for 10 years.

1384 – 1391 – Bosniak period – The Bosniaks ruled here for 7 years.

1391 – Independence – The city became independent with the death of the Bosniak king.

1420 – 1797 – Venetian Period – The people of Kotor feared the Ottomans and sought protection from the Venetians, who ruled Kotor. During this period, the Ottomans took Kotor twice, from 1538-1571 and 1657-1699.

1797 – 1805 –  Austro-Hungarian Empire – The city changed hands to the Habsburg monarchy in 1791.

1805 – 1814 – Napoleonic Period – In 1805, the city was given to Napoleon through an agreement, and it fell under French rule.

Into the 20th Century

1814 – 1918 – Austro-Hungarian Empire (again)- In 1814, a British fleet succeeded in taking Kotor, and the French fled. Kotor fell back under the Austro-Hungarian Empire until 1918.

1918 – World War I – The Austro-Hungarian Empire dissolved after the war, and Kotor became part of the newly formed Yugoslavia.

1941 – 1943 – Italian Period – During World War II, the Italians took Kotor.

1945 – 1992 – Kotor rejoined Yugoslavia.

1992 – 2006 – Serbian Montenegro – After the dissolution of Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montenegro continued down the road to becoming a state.

2006 – Independence – In 2006, Montenegro became an independent state.

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Chances are, if you’ve seen a postcard of Montenegro, it’s been of Perast. The village is known for its iconic silhouette of towering Venetian Gothic buildings. Photos of its historic stone buildings, seaside promenade and the 600-year-old Lady of the Rocks island are very frequently used in promoting Montenegro worldwide and is, of course, under UNESCO’s protection.

Perast was established by the army to protect anyone trying to invade coming through the narrow strait across Kotor Bay. There were also two castles on each side of the strait. In this way, anyone trying to enter would be met with resistance from three points.

Perast’s Islands

Across from the town and just a few minutes away, there are two lovely islands – one natural and the other man-made. A monastery sits on St. George (Sveti Djordje) Island, which is closed to visitors. But you can see the facade of the stunning monastery and its bell tower without stepping on the island! The other island, Gospa od Škrpjela or “Our Lady of the Rocks,” has only a church, is open to tourists. We’ll go into its interesting story later on in the article.

How long does it take to see everything?

Perast is a small place where you can see everything in two hours. In 2 hours time, you’ll be able to go to Our Lady of the Rocks, walk around the historical center, and even sit down to eat something. But if you want to do more such as go into museums, check out the towers, or swim, then it’s better to set aside half a day.

THINGS TO DO IN PERAST

Click here to see the map on GoogleMaps

[column size=one_half position=first ]1. Our Lady of The Rocks Island
2. St. George Island
3. Pirate Bar
4. City Museum
5. Conte Hotel & Restaurant[/column][column size=one_half position=last ]6. St. Nikola Church
7. Monte Bay Retreat8. Konoba Skolji
9. Hotel Per Astra
10. Konoba Otok Bronze[/column]

1. Streets of Perast, Montenegro

If you wander the streets of Perast without going into any museums or churches, then you’ll be able to see everything in 10 minutes. It is that small of a town. But, in fact, there are a total of 16 churches and 17 Venetian mansions tucked away in Perast’s alleys. Of course, some of them are dilapidated, but others have been restored and renovated.

For this reason, we suggest you don’t limit yourself to the main road and square. Make sure to meander down the tiny streets and alleys!

2. Saint Nicholas (Sveti Nikola) Church

Sveti Nikola Church, or St. Nicholas Church, is a Catholic church that dates back to 1691 and is located in the main square of Perast. Its bell tower is 55 meters long. These bells, which were added to the church in 1713, were the biggest bells in Europe at its time.

You can go up to the bell tower for €1. Going to the top is one of the best things to do in Perast, because you’ll have a wonderful overlook of the bay and two islands. Click here for the location.

3. Our Lady of the Rocks, Perast (Gospa od Skrpjela)

The church on the manmade island of Our Lady of the Rocks has been turned into a museum, and we think that it’s worth checking out. In 1452, a sailor returning from a trip discovered a picture of the Virgin Mary. The people of Perast turned this event into a totem. When a sailor came back from a successful voyage, he would throw a rock in the sea to get the Virgin’s blessing.

As time went on, these stones piled up and became a small island. This tradition is somewhat alive even today. During the Festival of the Fasinada, which is held on July 22, boats pass by the spot and throw rocks into the sea.

Old documents indicate that there was a church on the island as early as 1484, even if the building was hastily put up. In 1535, the church was blessed on behalf of the Virgin Mary. In 1579, it was named Our Lady of the Rocks. At one point, there were many sacred relics in the church, but pirates looted it in 1624.

What we can see of the church and island today is from 1630, or almost 200 years after the icon was found. The church was severely damaged in 1667 by an earthquake, but it was then rebuilt.

The Church at Our Lady of the Rocks

When you walk into the church, the first thing you’ll notice is the ornately decorated altar, done by Genoan Antonio Capellano and brought to the church in 1796. The icon that called for the creation of the island and the church is in the middle of the altar.

There are also about 2,000 silver coins that adorn the walls of the church. Sailors and their families would leave silver coins at the church, in addition to throwing stones into the waters, when they made it back from a journey on the high seas.

Inside the church, there’s a small museum that resembles a naval museum, with nearly 70 paintings of sea views, old marine instruments and 18th-century weapons. The church also displays a famous tapestry that was made by local artist Jacinta Kunić-Mijović.

It took her 25 years to complete the masterpiece, all while waiting for her love to come home from a journey at sea. She wove gold and silver thread as well as her own hair into the tapestry, which measures 700 square cm and is one of the most detailed in the world.

Getting to Our Lady of the Rocks, Transport and Other Info

You can get to the island on a €5-boat ride. If you come here off-season, then you can ask a fisherman to take you across.

IMPORTANT: Don’t think about coming to the island with nothing but a bathing suit – you will be told off. Bring a shawl to cover your legs and shoulders.

Entrance to the museum is €1. Inside the museum, you’ll be able to get a guided tour for about €1 donation. The museum has archaeological finds from the city of Perast as well as sacred relics from the prehistoric age. There’s a small souvenir shop at the entrance of the museum-church. Click here for the location.

4. St. George (Sveti Djordje) Island

As we mentioned above, you’ll only be able to see this island at a distance. It’s closed to visitors as there is an active monastery on the island. You’ll be able to see cypress trees in its garden and, underneath, there’s a small cemetery where notable people are buried.

5. City Museum

The city museum is housed in a mansion that belonged to Captain Visko Bujovic and dates back to the 17th century. In this museum, you’ll be able to see artifacts from not only Perast but also from Kotor Bay. Pro tip: There’s a lovely view of the city from the balcony on the second floor of the museum. Entry to the museum is around €2.5. Website. Click here for the location.

SWIMMING IN PERAST

Pirates Beach Bar

Pirates Beach Bar is a small pier located at the end of Perast. It’s a good option if you want to go swimming, as there’s no current or boat traffic. But we must warn you that it does get quite crowded. Click here for the location.

Bajova Kula

If you have a car, then going to Bajova Kula – a five-minute drive – is a better option. We can easily say it is the nicest beach in the area. It also has its own restaurant and bar. Click here for the location.

 

FESTIVALS IN PERAST

Gadjanje KoKota Festival

May 15: This is an annual festival to celebrate a victory over the Turks in 1654. They also have an interesting ritual where they chain a rooster to a float and set it out to sea. Then, they see who in the city can shoot the rooster. Of course, there are other traditions such as music and dance performances that you would see at any other festival.

International Klapa Festival

June 30-July 1: The Klap festival showcases traditional, chorus-like folk music from the Adriatic Sea coast. If you have not listened to this type of music before and happen to be here during the festival, then definitely check it out.

Fasinada

July 22: The festival celebrates a tradition that is entirely unique to Perast. Every year, locals honor the Virgin Mary painting that was found and which led to the construction of Our Lady of the Rocks Island and its church. Locals will set out on the open sea and throw rocks into the waters around the base of the island. This ritual is both spiritual and logical, as throwing rocks helps to solidify the foundation of the island.

Perast is an excellent place for those of you who are looking for some peace and quiet. Old mansions and villas left over from Perast’s long-established wealthy Venetian families are now being run as hotels or rental apartments. We think that staying at one of these featured places is a great way to experience the area. The city is tiny and closed to cars, so no matter where you stay, you’ll be able to unwind.

Conte Hotel & Restaurant

Conte Hotel is the old culture house of the city. It’s made up of a few historical palaces, but they are all very close together. The hotel has a restaurant that services both local and Mediterranean cuisine and has a view overlooking the two islands. If you’re with a lot of people, then you can rent out a villa with its own pool. Detailed information & reservation.

Hotel Per Astra

This is a delightful stone villa that has mountain and sea views alongside its own pool and spa facilities. Detailed information & reservation.

Monte Bay Retreat

Monte Bay Retreat is one of Perast’s finest accommodation options with its outdoor pool and great quality of service. Detailed information & reservation.

Apartments Jovanović

This is a fabulous option for a place in the center that is not far from the seaside. It boasts a spectacular view. Because it’s a house, you’ll be able to find everything you normally find in a house, such as a refrigerator, water heater and air conditioning. Detailed information & reservation.

QUICK HISTORY OF PERAST

• The city was controlled by the Venetians between 1420 and 1797.
• Perast was called Perasto in its Venetian dialect, which remained the official language until the 19th century. 140 of the people living in Perast speak Perasto amongst themselves or at home.
• The Baroque palaces and churches belonged to the wealthy families during Venetian rule – like Bujovic, Zmajević, Tripković, Smekja. This period is known as the golden age of Perast.
• Instead of city walls, 9 defense towers were built during the Venetian period.
• At the time, Perast had a fleet of 100 ships, a population of 1,643 and four ports. The people of Perast were quite skilled at shipbuilding and fishing. While the Venetians and Ottomans were fighting, the locals took their place in defending Kotor.
• Perast was a significant part of the naval power of the Adriatic Sea and its surroundings for about 500 years. Sailors – first from the Venetians, then the Russians – came to Perast to learn about cartography, engineering and maritime education.
• The population of the city fell to 430 in 1910. The latest count shows that there are 146 Montenegrins, 101 Serbs, 29 Croats, 10 Yugoslavs, 3 Bosnians, 1 Macedonian and 59 people from other countries: 349 people in total.
• On 12 May 1797, the Republic of Venice collapsed, but Perast stayed faithful to Venice for a few more months. In the end, it was the last city of the Republic of Venice to surrender. On August 22, 1797, Count Giuseppe Viscovich, the captain of the Perast fleet, lowered the Venetian flag from the city.
• Between 1941 and 1943 – that is, during World War II – Mussolini reintroduced the area back into Italian territory. In 1945, Perast was part of Yugoslavia. After the disintegration of Yugoslavia, the territory belonged to Serbia-Montenegro, and then Montenegro. Montenegro declared its independence in 2006.

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We’ve got a lot to say, but first let’s cut to the chase: Montenegro and Hungary are the 2 most beautiful places in the Balkans by far, and the crown jewel of Montenegro is Kotor Bay. Nestled in one of the most gorgeous bays in the Adriatic Sea, Kotor Bay charms people with its Venetian-style architecture, Italian cuisine and fan-tas-tic scenery.

In Kotor Bay, there are several small settlements, most notably Perast, Dobrota and Kotor town. We strongly recommend that you see all three of these villages on your trip.

But wait, what about Budva?

If you’ve been researching travel in Montenegro, it’s likely you’ve read more about Budva than Kotor. But don’t be misled by Budva’s popularity, Kotor is much, much prettier. Budva is the most popular destination in the country due to its spectacular location on the coast and, though it is still wonderful, all of the ongoing construction really takes away from its idyllic potential.

People still flock to Budva, especially Russian tourists. So, don’t get us wrong – we would definitely recommend that you see Budva too, particularly Sveti Stefan and Budva Old Town. What we’re trying to say is you shouldn’t pass over the many things to do in Kotor Bay for a stop in Budva just because it’s more famous!

How Many Days Should I Stay In Kotor Bay?

We recommend that you spend two days in Kotor Bay (we stayed for a week, but we found it to be a bit too much). Some tourists who are touring the Balkans pass through here without spending the night – that is just bad planning!

Orienting Yourself Around the 3 Kotors

Boka Bay is within the blue square, Kotor Bay is circled in red and Kotor old town is marked by the dropped pin.

• Inside the blue square above, there’s a prominent bay. That whole bay is called Boka Bay.
• You can see there are other bays within Boka. Each of these gulfs have their own names.
• The inner bay circled in red is Kotor Bay.
• Kotor is also the name of the old city (pin-dropped above) within the bay of the same name.
• In Kotor Bay are 3 villages that we will discuss in this article: Kotor town, Perast and Dobrota. They are all in the administrative region of Kotor.
• In short, Kotor is the name of the 1) administrative region, 2) bay and 3) old city.

The Boka Bay is known as the “southern fjord.” For those who may not know, a fjord is a long, narrow, deep inlet among steep cliffs. Although the Boka Bay is not technically a fjord, it does look like one. The surrounding mountains loom large amongst the clouds, lending the sea a blueish silver color, which is what gives Kotor, Perast and Dobrota their exquisite beauty.

What not to miss out on in the Kotor region:

Our Top Picks Of Things To Do In Kotor Bay

Click to open in GoogleMaps.

[column size=one_half position=first ]1. Ćatovića Mlini
2. Our Lady of the Rocks
3. Pirate Bar
4. Perast
5. Bajova Kula
6. Stari Mlini
7. Kotor Bay Tours
8. Apartments Marilu
9. Hotel Forza Mare
10. Apartments Miramar
11. Palazzo Radomiri
12. Apartments Ponta
13. Bella di Mare[/column][column size=one_half position=last ]14. Villa Zvicer
15. Hotel Forza Terra
16. Apartments Marinovic
17. Apartment Dijana
18. Konoba Portun
19. Kotor Stari Grad
20. Apartments Popovic
21. Ribica Apartments
22. Apartments Ave R
(The last three items did not fit the above map, but you can view them online )
23. Restaurant Jezero
24. Pećina Vina Plantaže
25. Pecenjara Restaurant[/column]

1. Roaming Historic Kotor (Kotor Old Town, or Kotor Stari Grad)

As soon as you step foot in Kotor, you’ll understand why we like it so much. It is an incredibly cool town straight from the Middle Ages. Various civilizations have ruled Kotor throughout history, but the Venetians were the most influential. They were able to rule for 400 years from 1420 to 1797, and their influence is evident today.

The Venetian architecture has remained, and we have to say that the Italians know their aesthetics. Add to this Kotor’s natural beauty, and you have a destination within reach that promises to take your breath away. Roaming the streets of any city is a delight, but out of all the things to do in Kotor Bay, taking in Kotor Old Town is at the top of out list for its legacy and charm.

Tiny towns with enormous history

The villages of Kotor Bay still retain all the magic of their long histories. Life continues somehow uninterrupted. Of the 3, Kotor has the largest historical center. Unlike the other towns, Kotor is surrounded by fortified walls, which you can trek along. The walls go all the way up to the top of the mountain behind the village, and intersect with the castle there.

Inside the walls is the charming medieval old town where the rich used to live. The narrow streets, built to protect from the sun, are typically lined with Venetian constructions. Some squares have running fountains, and there are adorable cafes, restaurants and itty bitty souvenir shops that will steal your heart.

To find out more details about the history of Kotor town, places to visit and guided tours to join, head on over to our Kotor Old Town post. Click here for the location.

2. A Stop in Perast

A picturesque medieval village from the fairytales of old, Perast is one of the most charming places in the region along with Kotor Old Town. Perast was founded by soldiers to protect Kotor from invaders. When you look at the map, you see that Perast is set up across from the narrowest point of the strait. There used to be 2 castles set up on either side of the strait.

There’s much to say about this little town, so you can read our article on Perast to learn more about its history and what to do there.

Should I stay in Perast?

Why not? Perast is an excellent place for those who want to get away for a bit. It is the kind of isolated spot where you would be inspired to get started on that novel. It is small, which means you have limited options for accommodation or hanging out, but these options still manage to be some of the most charming in Montenegro. And don’t worry, while here you’re still not too far from the action to be able to experience all the things to do in Kotor Bay!

We have picked out the best ones for you in our article on Perast.

How much time should I set aside for Perast?

Two hours is enough to drink a coffee by the sea, go up to the top of a hill, walk the entire coast and go to the island. But go at your own pace: You can do all this more quickly or more slowly. Click here for the location.

3. A Boat to Our Lady of the Rocks

Across from the tiny town of Perast are two even tinier islands, one natural and one with an unusual, man-made history. The natural island is closed to visitors as it has an active monastery on it. The other, called Our Lady of the Rocks (on the right in the photo above), has a church cum museum on it.

You can take a tiny boat to get to the island, which costs €5. For more details, check out our Perast guide. Click here for the location.

4. Stay in Dobrota

For a 2-3 day trip to Kotor Bay in the summer, Dobrota is our favorite place to rent a house. It is not as as picturesque as Perast, but it is still old and pretty. Its location midway between Kotor Old Town and Perast makes it quite convenient for planning your itinerary of all the things to do in Kotor Bay.

The best thing of all? It doesn’t feel touristy. Of course, tourists have spotted Dobrata too, but it remains a local hang out. Click here to see Dobrota’s location.

Renting an apartment in Dobrota

The seaside apartments are the best to rent, and there are piers and sunbeds in front of these houses for swimming and lounging. We insist on renting one directly on the seaside, as it’s just not the same staying somewhere else – even if it’s back by one row of houses. Just taking in the view from the comfort of our room was one of the most calming of things to do in Kotor Bay for us. Try for a place with a large balcony or terrace where you can enjoy the view.

Apartments can usually fit 2-5 people. If you are more than 2, then sharing a flat will be cheaper than staying at a hotel. You can find these rentals on Booking.com and Airbnb.

Something noteworthy about a country as stunning as Montenegro is that many places don’t pay particular attention to furnishings. A concern for style isn’t high on the priority list and, even in nice hotels, you might find a leopard print chair in your room.

If ambiance and location are as important to you when choosing accommodation (to each their own, of course!), we’ve suggested a few down below.

What do you like about Dobrota?

1. Forget even finding a place to stay. Heck, just set up a chair on the pier and stay there. This is a seaside town that is full of magnificent historical houses. Locals love to come here for a summer retreat. Old folks gossip and tan on the piers, children skate along the seaside and the fishermen come out in the afternoon, ready to cast their long lines…
2. If it’s a beach holiday that you’re looking for, then this is the best swimming spot in the Bay of Kotor. That said, it could never compete with Budva beaches. For one thing, there aren’t even many beaches. People usually use the piers to jump into the sea.
3. The sea in front of Kotor town is not as clean since the bay is quite narrow there and there’s not much water circulation. That’s not a problem in Perast; however, there is a lot of boat traffic and a strong current, making it harder to swim. Concerning any water-related things to do in Kotor Bay, Dobrota is where it’s at.
4. Lovely restaurants line the beach.
5. Dobrota is practical, as it’s located right in the middle of Kotor town and Perast.
6. Since it stands in the shadow of Kotor mountain, Dobrota gets darker earlier. But the sunset is epic here.

Here are the houses and hotels you can reserve:

HOUSES

Apartments Miramar

We were pleased with our stay here. The rooms are clean and spacious, and we had a balcony with a sea view! Included in the reservation are free bicycle and kayaking services. There is also a private swimming area with sunbeds. Details & Reservation

Apartments Villa Zvicer

Located 2 km away from the center of Dobrota, the Apartments Villa Zvicer are studio apartments that have sea views or balconies with sea views. There is also a private beach with sunbeds. Details & Reservation

Apartments Ribica

The property of Ribica Apartments is by the sea. You can cross off multiple items on your list of things to do in Kotor Bay here! In front of your room, you’ll have a view of the sea, the mountains and the Old City of Kotor, and you can rent a bike to easily get to nearby beaches. Details & Reservation

Apartments Popovic

These apartments in the old town area of Kotor offer you easy access to its central location. The prices don’t include breakfast, but there’s an area where you can make your own. The prices are quite affordable, but don’t expect luxury. Details & Reservation

Apartments Ave R

This is right on the seaside. Directly in front of the apartment building is a small private beach. Each room has its own balcony. Details & Reservation

Apartments Dijana

Though the decor hurt our eyes a bit, the location and whatnot are excellent. The balconies also had a view of the sea. Details & Reservation

Apartments Marinovic

A solid option in the Dobrota area, Marinovic consists of apartments housed in stone buildings right on the sea. The apartment on top has a terrace that overlooks the sea. Still, don’t expect much on the higher-end. Details & Reservation

Apartments Ponta

They have many options when it comes to rooms, such as a one-bedroom apartment, a two-bedroom apartment, a standard apartment, studio, as well as a studio with a sea view. The lower floors have more of a garden view, so go for the upper floor. Details & Reservation

Apartments Marilu

This is an apartment building with many rooms surrounded by a garden or sea view. There is a kitchen area where you can prepare your own food and the location is nice, as it’s also quite close to the city center. Details & Reservation

Apartments Bella di Mare

This apartment building has its own beach. The rooms and studio apartments are clean and no-frills.  Details & Reservation

HOTELS

Hotel Palazzo Radomiri

This hotel is an authentic 4-star boutique hotel. The building was once a captain’s mansion dating back to the 18th century, and it was restored and repurposed into a hotel. It has its own private swimming pool, spa and fitness center. Details & Reservation

Hotel Forza Terra

This is a 5-star spa and fitness hotel. It has an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, fitness room, sauna and spa center. There are two suites and 10 normal rooms. The view from the rooms with a terrace is magnificent. Detailed information & reservation.

Hotel Forza Mare

This is another 5-star hotel, and it’s a luxurious one located about 3 km away from the city center. It has its own spa center and beach. Details & Reservation.

5. Tour the Gulf of Kotor by Car or Scooter

Because the mountains rise up from the coast, the road that passes through them offers unique landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns that have not yet been written about. Driving or scooting down these roads is one of the best things to do in Kotor Bay.

You’ll find plenty of photo opportunities here as well. Because of the geological formation of the region, the scenery will always change as you drive down the road.

6. Bike Tours Along the Coast

If you’re curious about bike tours (me), but you can’t spend any time riding during your vacation due to that one lazy person in your family (Bilgehan), then here’s some good news. Pedaling around the bay by bike is a smooth and beautiful ride – something even the laziest adventurer will love.

A few ways to convince that slow poke to spoke up:

• The road is nearly flat, mostly because it is along the coast.
• Perast is only 12 km from Kotor.
• There are some lovely towns along the way. They all have restaurants, grocery stores and rooms for rent. So you don’t need to camp or bring food along the way.
• You can stop wherever you are and swim.

You can do Kotor-Perast-Kotor in one day by bike, but my dream is to ride the whole of Boka Bay, not just Kotor Bay. The route is so easy that you won’t need a special type of bike to ride from one place to the other. There are plenty of shops where you can rent a bike, and the quality of the bike won’t be that important. Biking here is an unforgettable experience, and you’d be smart not to exclude it from your list of things to do in Kotor Bay

Where to Rent a Bike

– In Kotor
Travelzoo Travel Agency – They don’t have a website, but it’s not far from the Old Town Youth Hostel. It’s €20 for the day for one bike, and €30 for two bikes. The place had the best price. Click here for the location.

– In Dobrota
Kotor Bay Tours – You can get prices from their website. They also rent out canoes, road bikes and mountain bikes. This is where we were able to find the best-kept bikes. Click here for the location.

* Though easy, the roads are narrow in places, so be careful.

7. Boating in the Bay

A lot of people like going out on boat tours. Since it’s one of the many common things to do in Kotor Bay, you’ll be able to find boats to rent in Dobrota, Perast and Kotor – but you’ll have the most choices in Kotor.

Boat tour options

• There’s a car park right in front of Kotor Old Town. Outside the car park is where the boats leave on the boat tours. A one-hour tour goes directly from Kotor to Perast and takes a break for half an hour on Our Lady of the Rock. It costs €10 per person.
• If you want to get a private boat, then you can probably get a trip for as low as €70-80 (for 3-4 people).
• Because the boats in front of the parking lot are so visible, they might not be able to lower their price. In this case, if you walk in the direction of Dobrota for about 1-2 minutes, you’ll see another port where there are boats. They are more competitive in terms of price as there are fewer tourists there. You can also ask to have a swim break as part of your boat tour.
• There are longer tours as well. They leave from Boka and go out to the open sea, which is better for swimming. You can arrange for them from the same ports.

8. Canoe & Paddle Board

As we mentioned, Kotor Bay is one bay in the Boka Gulf, and it’s set back a little, so the water is flat and still. This is great for anyone who wants to go canoeing or paddleboarding. Of course, the view is going to be great. In Kotor and Dobrota, you can rent equipment for canoeing and paddling boarding from Kotor Bay Tours. You’ll have to ask around in Perast to find the right rental shop. Click here for the location.

9. Swimming & Sunbathing

You shouldn’t go to Kotor just to swim. You can do it of course, and there are great spots, but you’ll also want to take in some of its historical importance and ambiance. If you’re looking for a beach holiday, the beaches of Budva are a better choice instead of trying to shovel sand time into your plan for things to do in Kotor Bay.

No one will charge you anything to swim along the coast. But if you’re wondering where the beach clubs are for a quick dip, keep reading!

Bajova Cula – (pictured above) is on the way from Kotor to Perast and is the best beach club in the whole bay. Other people are aware of this, so if you want to go, you should book early. You’re likely to miss the entrance from the road, so look up the location in advance. They also have a restaurant and bar, with fabulous swimming and facilities. Click here for the location.

Pirates Beach Bar is a small pier located at the end of Perast. It’s an ideal option if you want to go swimming, as there’s no current or boat traffic. As you can see from the photo, it gets quite crowded. Click here for the location.

Dobrota – We wrote at-length about the town and its swimming options above, so scroll back up for a refresher.

10. Konoba Portun

“Konoba” is Montenegrin for a traditional restaurant. You absolutely must eat at a konoba. The absolute best konoba of our trip was in Kotor. Get to Konoba Portun before dusk for dinner and a beautiful “show” – the sunset.

It’s a tiny place, so make a reservation, and be sure to ask for a spot on the pier. They will give your place to someone else if you’re late, so call if you know you will be.

The truffle tuna fish carpaccio was divine. It was so good that we canceled our main entrees and ordered another! Don’t worry if you skip out on the main meal like we did – you’ll still be telling everyone that you had the seafood dish to beat all seafood dishes in Kotor. Click here for the location.

11. Catovici Mlini & Stari Mlini

There are two traditional restaurants in Kotor Bay that everyone knows about: Stari Mlini and Catovica Mlini. They’re both inside what used to be mills and are both wonderful places. Their specialty is seafood. Though the ambiance at Catovica Mlini is better, the food at Stari Mlini is nicer. There are two things we highly recommend there: white wine paired with the clams and mussels. Add a chocolate soufflé to it. We suggest making reservations for both.

Click here for the location of Catovica Mlini.
Click here for the location of Stari Mlini.

Itinerary For A Single Day In Kotor Bay

Just to repeat it for those in the back: If you’ve come this far, it would be a shame not to spend two days in the Bay. But, if you have a limited amount of time and can only spend one day, we recommend the following things to do in Kotor Bay:

• Start out at Kotor Fortress at 7:30 am. Seeing everything and climbing around will take around 2 hours.
• Try to catch the Kotor guided tour at 10 am.
• Swim at Dobrota (the salt will stay on you, but don’t worry)
• Eat lunch at Konoba Portun in Dobrota (the ideal is to eat here at sunset but since you only have a day…).
  • Another option is have lunch at Portun and then go swimming at Bajova Kula. But you’ll have to skip the last two items on the list.
• Go to Perast and roam about the bay. Walk the streets.
• Climb up the clock tower in Perast.
• Go to Our Lady of the Rocks Island. (You’ll need two hours to see Perast and the island.)
• Eat at Conte in the evening in Perast.

Other Places To See In Montenegro

Check out our Montenegro Itinerary – Top Things To Do & How To Plan article.

Useful Information For Kotor Bay

Prices

In general, things to do in Kotor Bay are cheaper than Europe, but more expensive than other parts of the Balkans.

• At the time of writing, 1.5 liters of water cost €0.6 (at the market).
• Main courses are around €10-15 with massive portions that can feed two people.
• Prices for accommodation vary. If you just want something cheap, then you can get a house for around €50. Scenic lodging starts at €100. Hotels are more expensive.
• Renting a car is €18-20 per day with limited insurance. For a more comprehensive insurance plan, add about €10 per day.

Language

• In Montenegro, people speak Montenegrin, a dialect of Serbian. But the Italian influence has affected both its cuisine and language. Which means that they say “ciao” to greet someone.
• The Ottomans controlled part of Montenegro for a long time. As a result, they use a lot of Turkish words, particularly for fruits and vegetables and other food products.
• Everyone speaks English, though older folk only know a little and younger ones know more.

Where & How to Go to Kotor

• There are two airports in the country. Tivat is the closest one.
• If you fly directly to the capital, Podgorica, then you can either take a shuttle, bus or car to get to Kotor.

Other things to consider:

• Those with a multi-entry Schengen visa can fly to Dubrovnik in Croatia and cross the border. It takes about 1-1.5 hours.
• Tirana, Albania is 3.5 hours away, and tickets there are often cheaper.
• You can enter the country by car if you’re traveling the Balkans.

Want to Eat Epic Meat?

Ok, so this doesn’t fall into our list of things to do in Kotor Bay, but it’s too good not to mention. If you’re flying to or from Podgorica, you’ll find a fantastic butcher right across from the airport. You absolutely need to eat meat at this place. It’ll be the best, most tender you’ve ever had. This is because the people of Montenegro are experts when it comes to animal husbandry.

We recommend the tandoori lamb, which is the most popular. For those of you who don’t eat lamb, there’s beef as well. The menu not so helpfully calls it “meat under the baking lid.” Click here for the location.

Other fantastic pit stops

The oddly named Vranjina Island is not quite an island, since it connects to the mainland. You can get to it via the road going to the airport. On the island, you’ll find the largest winery in the area, Plantaze. We recommend buying some wine to take home. The same wine is sold at the Duty Free, but it’s twice the price.

The restaurant opposite the winery, Jezero, serves excellent fish. Try krap, a local fish (yes, we know the name doesn’t speak well for it, but we do). Click here for the location.

Telephone Line

You can get a line from Telenor. Next to Kotor Stari Grad is a shopping mall called Kamelija, where you’ll find a Telenor branch.

Traffic Warning

In the high season, traffic can be backed up as there is only one lane that goes around Kotor. It’s much more practical to rent a motorbike instead of a car. Or you can stay in Dobrota and go to Perast and Kotor by bike, though this might be a little difficult in warmer weather.

Motor Rental

If I were going to open a business in Montenegro, then it would be a motorbike rental company. You can get a motorbike, but unfortunately, there’s not enough to meet demand since motorbiking is one of the popular things to do in Kotor Bay. We waited for two days.

In other words, whether or not you’ll be able to get one is down to luck. But the prices are great – they are €5 cheaper than the cheapest rental car. The Travelzoo Travel Agency, which I mentioned above, rents motorbikes. You can also ask the house or hotel where you’re staying to help you out. *You must have a motorbike license.

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