Kotor is a must-visit as it offers everything you need for a perfect introduction to Montenegro. Although the city is small, you’ll find surprises at every turn.
Walking around Kotor, Montenegro, you will find these famous cobblestone streets beneath historic stone buildings.
There is also the Kotor fortress, which offers breathtaking views. Whether it’s your first or hundredth visit, you’ll always discover something new.
Read through this post to avoid missing out on the hidden gems at Kotor Montenegro any time you’re there.
Let’s start by explaining how you can get into Kotor, Montenegro.
Best Ways To Reach Kotor, Montenegro
You can reach Kotor by plane, car, bus, or ferry. Most tourists prefer landing at Tivat Airport, which is about 10 kilometers from Kotor’s Old Town.
You can take a local bus or car from Tivat Airport to the main city. That is about a 15-minute drive.
The best thing about Kotor’s transport system is that the airport connects well to several major European cities.
If you can’t use the Tivat Airport, another option is through the Podgorica Airport, which is roughly 90 kilometers away from Kotor.
If you’re driving to Kotor, Montenegro, most routes come from Dubrovnik, Croatia, just 3 hours away.
Unfortunately, you’ll need to ferry your car across the water. Is that something that worries you? Well, relax because the ferry is free for pedestrians and cheap for vehicles.
The trip time through the very usually takes an average of 10 minutes.
If you want an economical option to Kotor, Montenegro, book a bus from neighboring countries.
Buses going to Kotor are in major cities of Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Serbia. Remember that if you prefer this travel method, it’s wise to book in advance.
When to Visit Kotor
Many tourists prefer to visit Kotor during late spring or early autumn due to its warm weather.
Again, there are relatively few people compared to the peak season. This way, you can immerse yourself in the aesthetics and rich past of this charming coastal town.
May and June in Kotor are generally warm and comfortable, and daytime temperatures are between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This period is perfect for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities.
September and October are also favorable months since the weather remains warm enough for swimming, yet the summer heat has receded.
Moreover, this is the time that you will encounter fewer tourists. Because of the low traffic, you can enjoy sightseeing and hiking without interruptions.
The Autumn season in Kotor, Montenegro, usually adds vibrant colors to the landscape. That is why you will find Kotor very charming.
If you’re at Kotor in late spring, don’t miss out on festivals like the Kotor Carnival. Still, the long days tend to provide ample daylight for visiting the old town.
Another thing you can do is trekking in the surrounding mountains, or otherwise taking boat trips around the Bay of Kotor.
Where to Stay in Kotor, Montenegro
1. Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro
This hotel is within a UNESCO site, which means you will have magnificent rooms in an 18th-century building. All the rooms are well equipped with en-suite facilities, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi.
Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro has a restaurant that serves food from different cuisines. If you need a drink, you can easily get one at the bar. From the rooms, you will get a spectacular view of Kotor Bay.
2. Hotel Monte Cristo
Hotel Monte Cristo is located in a medieval building once owned by Kotor’s first bishop in the 13th century.
The hotel is well-restored, and the rooms are individually decorated with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a minibar.
Breakfast is possible each morning on the terrace with a view of a small, quiet yard. If you’re a foodie, the hotel’s restaurant offers international and local meals.
As a way of recreation, you also have an opportunity to go on boat tours to Perast, Blue Grotto, and Tivat.
3. Apartmani Art Karampana
Apartmani Art Karampana is the place to be if you’re looking for a Kotor Bay apartment rental near the sea. Kotor beach and the center of old town Kotor are within a 10-15 minute walk.
Guest rooms at Apartmani Art Karampana are fitted with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi for comfort superiority.
In addition, there is a beautiful terrace for evening relaxation.
Apartmani Art Karampana’s main strength is its proximity to major points of interest. For example, La Catedral Pasta Bar is just one minute away on foot and serves some of the best pizza and pasta in town.
4. Centrum Hostel
Centrum Hostel is very affordable for low-budget travelers. The building has a remarkable historical appearance, and the hostels have air conditioning, a shared space, and free Wi-Fi.
Frequent Centrum Hostel guests like the accommodation because they get to catch nice views of the city.
This means that you are free to move around the hotel and meet other tourists. If you love nature, you can visit the Kotor Cats Museum or walk through the beautiful streets of Kotor Old Town.
5. Palazzo Sbutega
Palazzo Sbutega has a modern design and breathtaking views. Additionally, the property has facilities like a mountain view, plus an outdoor swimming pool and garden.
The terrace is among the many things that make this property so much more attractive. Guests can relax by the pool or on the terrace, read, or explore what the town offers on bicycles.
For fun, the property can arrange for a bike rental on your behalf.
6. Hotel Forza Terra
This particular hotel is among the best hotels in the Bay of Kotor as it’s a 5-star hotel. It has an outdoor pool and an indoor pool and still, you’re provided with neat and clean, air-conditioned rooms.
If you wish to spend your day idly, you can swim in the pool, take a hot bath or simply lie on the sun deck sipping on a cocktail while watching the beautiful sea.
The hotel also arranges for cars for guests to tour the Lovcen National Park.
7. HUMA Kotor Bay Hotel and Villas
If being in an elegant 5-star resort on the beach is your thing, then HUMA Kotor Bay Hotel and Villas is the place to be.
This hotel has a private beach, rooms and villas that have direct sea views.
The HUMA Kotor Bay Hotel and Villas also has a swimming pool and a restaurant within the hotel compound.
Guests can spend time at the beach club, which is exclusively for them.
Also Read: Paros Greece: Travel Guide 2024 and The Complete Digital Nomads’ Guide to Greece
8 Best Things To Do At Kotor Montenegro
1. Take A Tour Of The Beautiful Old Town (Stari Grad)
The town of Kotor, in Montenegro, has much to offer for anyone interested in mesmerizing sights.
Start your journey with the Old Town (Stari Grad), where beautiful sites will enchant you. Here, you will get a chance to walk along the narrow streets paved with cobblestones and history.
2. Hike Up to the San Giovanni Fortress
The San Giovanni Fortress isn’t easy to climb, but the view at the top is worth the effort.
Once at the top, you can view Kotor Bay and the old town. The fortress itself is a fine example of a medieval castle and fortification system.
3. Learn About The Blue Cave’s Magic
The Blue Cave is illuminated with blue light. The boat ride around this sea cave also entails other highlights of the bay.
You can go to Our Lady of the Rocks Island, an artificial island with a stunning church and a museum.
4. Visit Lovcen National Park
Lovcen National Park will suit those who are interested in nature. This park has a good view and many types of plants.
When visiting Montenegro, make sure to go to the Lovcen Summit so that you will be able to see Montenegro well.
The Njegoš Mausoleum is also situated in this park and holds the memory of Njegoš, who was the poet–president of Montenegro, together with his wife. To get the best view of the two, visit on a clear day.
5. Climb the Ladder of Kotor
The Ladder of Kotor is one of the most popular hiking trails in Kotor.
This trail contains many switchbacks and leads to a viewpoint at the mountaintop with a view of Kotor Bay.
The hike is quite tough, but the experience and the view are well worth it. Adventurers will find it very suitable for use.
6. Go for a Boat Ride to the Island of Our Lady of the Rocks
Another must-do activity in Kotor, Montenegro, is to take a boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks. This island is close to the town of Perast.
7. Take a Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard tour in Kotor Bay.
For water lovers, a kayak or stand-up paddleboard can be hired.
Car rentals are nearby, and a guided tour can be ordered. Paddling to the neighboring fishing villages or secret coves is a quiet way of going around the bay.
8. Relax at Kotor Beach
Kotor has only one beach, and that is Sunshine Beach, which is known popularly by the same name. It’s located about 10 minutes of walking from the Old Town.
Here, you can swim in the fresh waters of the bay. You can also hire sun umbrellas and chairs to relax with your loved ones on the beach for some time.
Conclusion
Kotor, Montenegro, is one of the best tourist sites that you shouldn’t miss. Generally, it’s a perfect place to start your Montenegro discovery.
Just know that every corner of Kotor has a surprise. You can visit Kotor whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or just someone looking for a quiet and peaceful vacation.
Its old stone houses and narrow streets, a fortress and breathtaking views from the Kotor fortress are waiting for the visitors.
Finally, to ensure that you don’t miss out on anything that this beautiful city has to offer, follow this guide from the start to the end.
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