Kotor: Things to do in the unique City
Sandwiched between dramatic mountains and tranquil turquoise waters, Kotor is a treasure waiting to be explored in Montenegro. Its enchanting Old Town, rich maritime history, and breathtaking natural beauty make it one of the most captivating destinations in the Balkans. Whether you’re stepping off a cruise, visiting from neighbouring Croatia or Bosnia (which is a surprisingly popular way to visit), or planning a longer stay, Kotor offers the perfect blend of medieval charm and outdoor adventure. Trust me, once you visit, you’ll be dreaming of your next trip back.
Why is Kotor such a popular destination?
Although Kotor isn’t the capital of Montenegro (that title goes to Podgorica), it holds a special place in travellers’ hearts. Kotor will forever be one of my favourite cities and here are some reasons why myself and other travellers love it so much:
- The most beautiful surroundings: The city is perched on the stunning Bay of Kotor, often described as Europe’s southernmost fjord. Surrounded by towering mountains, every view is postcard-perfect.
- Cruise Hotspot: Kotor’s harbour is a favourite stop for Mediterranean cruises, making it easy to hop off the boat and soak up the sights—even if just for a day.
- Close to Croatia and Bosnia: Many visitors take advantage of Kotor’s proximity to popular destinations like Dubrovnik in Croatia and Mostar in Bosnia. With a short drive (and many tours available), you can immerse yourself in Montenegro’s unique beauty and history in a short timeframe.
- A Living Museum: Kotor’s Old Town is one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. With its maze-like streets, hidden squares, and historic buildings, it’s like stepping back in time!
Is Kotor safe to visit?
Absolutely! Kotor is considered very safe, with Montenegro boasting a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and even petty theft like pickpocketing isn’t much of a concern here. Of course, as with any popular tourist spot, it’s always wise to be mindful of your surroundings, especially during the busy season when cruise ships bring in crowds.
Even when the narrow streets of Old Town fill up with visitors, the atmosphere remains relaxed and welcoming. Solo travellers often rave about how safe and comfortable they feel, even when exploring at night. From my own experience, I would also state that Kotor and Montenegro in general is very safe for solo female travellers.
Top Things to See and Do in Kotor
There’s so much to experience in Kotor that you could easily spend days wandering through its historic streets and soaking in the natural wonders nearby. Here are the highlights:
Kotor Old Town
At the heart of Kotor lies its UNESCO-listed Old Town, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, charming squares, and medieval architecture. As you stroll, you’ll encounter landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, the Clock Tower, and the Church of St. Nicholas. But some of the real magic happens when you let yourself get lost in the alleyways and stumble upon hidden courtyards and local treasures. Don’t forget to stop for a coffee at a café, or browse the shops for unique souvenirs.
Kotor Fortress
For those who love a good view (and a bit of a workout), hiking up to the Kotor Fortress (San Giovanni Fortress) is a must. The 1,300-step climb might sound daunting, but trust me, the sweeping views of the Bay of Kotor from the top are beyond worth it. You’ll pass ancient walls and gates along the way, with photo-worthy spots at every turn.
Tip: Start your hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon to beat the heat, and bring plenty of water: you’ll definitely need it!
Maritime Museum of Montenegro
Kotor’s deep maritime roots come to life in the Maritime Museum of Montenegro, housed in a grand old palace in the Old Town. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about Montenegro’s seafaring past, the museum’s collection of ship models, navigational tools, and beautiful paintings will fascinate you.
It’s a perfect spot for history buffs and it’s also a great stop for families, with plenty to capture the imaginations of kids.
Our Lady of the Rocks
A short boat ride from Kotor, the small island of Our Lady of the Rocks is a must-visit. This charming island was created by sailors dropping rocks into the sea. It now hosts a stunning church that’s rich in history. Inside, you’ll find gorgeous paintings and a museum showcasing artefacts from the island’s past. The surrounding scenery is without a doubt the most stunning that I have ever witnessed and the views alone are worth making the visit.
Our lady of the rocks holds a particularly special place in my heart because this is where I got engaged! My fiancé, Chris, surprised me with the most beautiful proposal in the most stunning setting that I could have ever imagined in my wildest dreams.
The Church of St. Luke
Built in 1195, The Church of St. Luke is one of Kotor’s oldest churches. Its architecture beautifully blends Catholic and Orthodox influences, a reflection of Kotor’s diverse religious history. Though simple in design, the faded frescoes and peaceful ambiance make it a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town.
Kotor Recommended Tours
If you’re looking to dive a little deeper into the magic of Kotor, a guided tour can really enhance your experience. Here are a few tours I highly recommend:
🏰 Kotor Fortress Hike with a Local Guide: If you’re up for the hike to Kotor Fortress (and trust me, it’s worth it), doing it with a local guide makes it even more special. Ours shared so many interesting details about the history of the fortress, plus some tips for the best viewpoints along the way. It’s a challenging hike, but having a guide definitely made it more rewarding.
🌊 Blue Cave Adventure: The Blue Cave is one of those places that you just have to see to believe. Its vibrant blue waters are simply mesmerising. We took a boat tour here, and swimming in the shimmering, sunlit water was one of the highlights of our trip. If you love the idea of being surrounded by natural beauty, this one is a must.
🍷 Wine Tasting Tour: Montenegro might not be the first place that comes to mind for wine, but trust me, you’re in for a treat! We went on a lovely wine-tasting tour around Lake Skadar, where we tried locally grown wines in the most stunning setting. Sipping delicious Montenegrin wine while cruising on the lake was an experience I won’t forget any time soon.
⛵ Bay of Kotor Boat Tour: If you want a relaxing way to explore, hop on a boat tour around the Bay of Kotor. It’s a perfect way to see the bay’s hidden gems, like Our Lady of the Rocks, and enjoy some downtime on the water. Whether you’re with family or just looking to unwind, this is a lovely way to soak up Kotor’s beauty.
🚶♀️Walking Tour of Kotor’s Old Town: The Old Town is full of history, and a local guide can really bring it to life. We joined a guided walking tour, and it was fascinating to hear the stories behind the ancient walls, squares, and churches. It’s a great way to uncover some of Kotor’s hidden gems that you might miss wandering on your own.
Things to do in Kotor – Final Thoughts
Kotor is so much more than just a quick stop on a cruise itinerary or a day trip. It’s a destination worth lingering in, where history, adventure, and natural beauty combine to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re hiking to the fortress, sipping wine by the bay, or getting lost in the Old Town’s enchanting streets, Kotor is a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
So, if you’re planning a trip to the Balkans, make sure Kotor is at the top of your list—you won’t regret it.
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