8 Best Things To Do In Kotor (Complete Travel Guide)
This city is one of the jewels of the Bay of Kotor, captivating visitors with its labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets, historic architecture, church spires, and unique trails that lead to mountain peaks with breathtaking views.
Things to Do in Kotor
I invite you to join me on a journey through Kotor’s history, which stretches back to Venetian times, the unforgettable mountain views, and the city streets steeped in authenticity. Here are all the best things to do in Kotor, Montenegro.
Kotor Old Town
The UNESCO-protected Old Town of Kotor is one of the city’s most popular attractions. As you wander its narrow, cobblestone streets, you might find yourself wondering if you’ve stepped into Venice. This impression isn’t surprising, as many of Kotor’s buildings date back to the Venetian era. The city enchants from the very first moments, with an entrance that resembles a castle gate, opening into a vibrant, colorful area filled with delightful scents and sounds. Since no vehicles are allowed here, you’re free to roam the charming, winding streets at your own pace.
In the Old Town, be sure to explore the lively squares, admire the iconic Clock Tower, and take in the elegant architecture of St. Tryphon’s Cathedral. Don’t miss the small but cozy Church of St. Luke and the many other historic sites tucked throughout the area. Cozy cafes invite you to stop by and sample traditional dishes or other delights. Various souvenir shops also catch the eye, offering not only mass-produced trinkets but also unique handmade items.
Kotor City Walls
Built to protect the city, the ancient walls of Kotor encircle the Old Town and stretch up the hillsides. They feature various structures, including towers, fortresses, and gates. Stretching an impressive length, these walls span about 4.5 kilometers and rise to approximately 280 meters in height. In some areas, they reach up to 20 meters high, with widths ranging from 2 to as much as 16 meters.
In certain sections of the walls, it’s possible to climb up and walk along them, as long as you follow safety guidelines. I’d recommend wearing comfortable shoes, and, if possible, consider joining a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the walls and the city’s rich history.
Accommodation: Here are all your hotel options in Kotor.
Kotor Fortress
After a climb of 1,350 steps along Kotor’s walls, you’ll arrive at the summit, where the ruins of St. John’s Fortress stand. Originally built in the Middle Ages as a defensive structure and observation post, the fortress is now a significant historical landmark. Although the hike requires endurance, the view from the top is mesmerizing – a sweeping panorama of the Old Town, the bay, and the surrounding mountains. This spot is definitely one of the top things to do in Kotor!
Tips: Though it may seem obvious, many travelers overlook the need for comfortable footwear for climbing the steps, assuming sandals or flip-flops will suffice. I highly recommend wearing comfortable, hiking-friendly shoes or sturdy sneakers. Don’t forget to bring water! If you’re visiting in the summer, avoid climbing at midday – early morning or late afternoon is ideal, as the sun can be intense and shade is scarce. The stone steps are narrow and steep, and some sections lack railings, so be cautious as you climb.
Maritime Museum
This museum is a window into Kotor’s maritime history and seafaring heritage. It opened its doors in 1951 and is located in the Kotor City Palace. While the museum primarily focuses on Kotor’s own seafaring legacy, the exhibits also provide a broader look at the history of navigation in the Adriatic Sea region. Visitors can explore a variety of artifacts showcasing sea voyages, trade, and shipbuilding technology. Among the highlights are antique navigation instruments, detailed ship models, historical sea maps, and parts from old ships.
Opening Hours: The museum is open daily from 8 a.m. (from 9 a.m. on weekends) to 6 p.m. Before visiting, check the working hours, as they may vary by season. Ticket prices are 4 euros for adults and 1 euro for children (prices are subject to change).
Blue Cave
One of the top things to do in Kotor is to visit the stunning Blue Cave, easily accessible by boat tour from the city. The name says it all – here, you’ll find a large cave within the rock, filled with water of an incredible shade of blue. With a height of around 9 meters, the cave allows boats to enter its spacious interior. Swimming is also possible here, and the spot is perfect for snorkeling. The best time to visit is midday, when the sun is high, creating the most breathtaking play of light and blue hues.
Discover: Blue Cave and Bay of Kotor Day Trip by Boat.
Kotor Cats Museum
You’ll quickly notice that cats “rule” in Kotor – they are everywhere in the city, cat-themed souvenirs fill the shops, and there’s even a Cats Museum.
Though small, this museum is sure to delight cat lovers. Visitors are welcomed by a variety of humorous and whimsical pictures and posters featuring cats, along with displays of magnets, stamps, postcards, and many other items with feline imagery. Some exhibits even highlight cats in literature and the press. Cats hold a special place in Kotor, being closely tied to the city’s history and loved and respected by locals.
Opening Hours: The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with tickets costing only 1 euro.
Horizont Restaurant & Bar
Perched high above Kotor on a mountaintop, this bar invites you to pause and take in the remarkable scenery. From here, you can enjoy an expansive panorama of Kotor’s Old Town and the entire bay, framed by mountains layered like a natural painting. This location captivates not only with its vistas – the sunsets here are truly magical, casting warm hues across the horizon.
Even the road to this bar is an experience, winding through mountains and revealing new views at every turn. For those with a fear of heights, the journey can be challenging, with minimal guardrails demanding both courage and confidence.
Visitors who come solely for the views can access the restaurant’s terrace by purchasing at least one drink from the bar, whether it’s water, a soft drink, or something stronger. For those wanting to enjoy the view and a great meal, a wonderful menu featuring Mediterranean cuisine awaits.
Saint Tryphon Cathedral
This Roman Catholic cathedral is one of the most ornate buildings in the city. Built in 1166 to replace an earlier cathedral dating back to 809, it has withstood multiple earthquakes over the centuries. Each time, the building has been meticulously restored, preserving the interiors to maintain its original style.
The structure captivates with its distinct Romanesque style, though due to numerous reconstructions, the most observant visitors will also notice Gothic and Baroque elements. Art lovers are drawn here for its renowned frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries, and the cathedral is also home to the treasured relics of St. Tryphon – a true gem of this sacred place.
Discover: Kotor Old Town Walking Tour.
Kotor Tours & Activities
Kotor offers diverse tours and activities, letting visitors explore the city and its breathtaking surroundings in new ways. From guided walks through the historic Old Town to adventurous hikes along ancient city walls, there’s something for every traveler. Boat tours explore the stunning Bay of Kotor, stopping at sites like Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave. For an unforgettable experience, take a sunset cruise across the bay to see the mountains glow in the evening light. This is one of the best things to do when visiting Kotor!
How To Get To Kotor
You can reach Kotor by various modes of transport, with the nearest airport located just 8 kilometers away in Tivat. Frequent buses to Kotor run from Tivat and Podgorica, with the bus station just a five-minute walk from the Old Town.
Kotor is also easily accessible by car from other Montenegrin cities. For example, it takes about 35 minutes to drive from Budva and around 1 hour from Herceg Novi. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning natural scenery, making the journey pass quickly.
Tip: If traveling by car, note that the roads around Kotor are narrow and winding, so drive carefully.
Kotor Climate
Kotor enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making it a popular destination nearly year-round. I visited Kotor in June, and the weather was perfectly comfortable for both hiking and strolling through the city. Summer temperatures typically range from 25–30°C, while winters remain mild, usually around 7–12°C. May and June are ideal months for outdoor activities, offering plenty of sunshine without the intense summer crowds of July and August.
Average Temperature
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Where To Stay In Kotor
In Kotor, you’ll find a range of accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to luxurious hotels and villas. If you’d like to stay as close as possible to the main attractions, consider a hotel in Kotor’s Old Town, where most of the historic architecture and cultural sites are located. However, if you prefer a quieter area or are traveling by car, you may want to explore other options.
Just outside the Old Town is Dobrota, often considered a suburb of Kotor. Dobrota’s promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, and from here, you can reach Kotor’s Old Town on foot in about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on where you’re staying.
Below, I’ve listed a few hotel options for different budgets, and I hope this helps you find the best place to stay in the city.
Budget Hotels
- Themis Apart Hotel provides air-conditioned rooms with amenities like flat-screen TVs and minibars for a comfortable stay. Just a short walk from Kotor’s beaches, hotel has Wi-Fi and 24-hour front desk service for added convenience.
- Located on the Dobrota coast, Pana-Eustahije 253 combines historic charm with modern comforts, offering rooms with sea views. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean dishes at the restaurant or unwind on the peaceful seaside terrace.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Boutique Hotel Cattaro has air-conditioned rooms equipped with flat-screen TVs and minibars. Set within Kotor’s ancient fortress walls in the heart of Old Town, the hotel provides convenient access to the city’s landmarks. It’s an ideal base for exploring Kotor’s rich heritage.
- Hotel Monte Cristo – A boutique hotel set within the historic walls of Kotor’s Old Town. It offers elegantly appointed rooms, attentive service, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The hotel features a cozy on-site restaurant with a selection of local and international dishes, a charming terrace, and a bar.
Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Forza Terra offers luxurious, air-conditioned rooms with high-end amenities, including flat-screen TVs and minibars, for a refined stay. Set by the Bay of Kotor, it offers pools, a spa, and a private beach for a relaxing stay.
- Boutique Hotel Astoria offers uniquely designed rooms within the historic 13th-century Buca Palace, blending medieval charm with modern comforts. Located in Kotor’s Old Town, the hotel has free Wi-Fi and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
Also read: Ultimate Things to Do in Montenegro
FAQs About Kotor
Is Kotor worth visiting?
Yes, Kotor is worth visiting for its medieval Old Town, stunning bay views, and historic architecture. Climbing the fortress and exploring narrow streets are must-do activities.
Is Kotor safe at night?
Yes, Kotor is generally safe at night, especially in the well-lit and lively Old Town area. You’ll often see locals and tourists enjoying evening strolls. As with any destination, it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure.
How many days should I spend in Kotor?
Spending 2–3 days in Kotor is ideal. This allows time to explore the Old Town, hike to the fortress, take a boat trip on the bay, and enjoy nearby attractions. It’s enough time to experience Kotor’s highlights without feeling rushed.
Why are there so many cats in Kotor?
Kotor is known for its many cats, which have become an unofficial symbol of the town. Historically, cats were valued because they helped control rodent populations on ships and in the port, and over time, they became part of Kotor’s charm. Today, locals and visitors alike take care of them, and they’re beloved residents of the Old Town.
Can you swim in Blue Cave, Montenegro?
Yes, you can swim in the Blue Cave in Montenegro. The cave’s clear, vibrant blue waters make it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. Many boat tours take visitors there specifically to enjoy a swim inside the cave.
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Here’s a list of the best things to do in Kotor. Which one is your favorite in this charming city?
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
