The stunning coastal town of Kotor in Montenegro is a hidden gem in the Balkans. Located near formidable limestone cliffs and rich with medieval maritime history, you can bask in the beauty of the Adriatic as the sun sets in this picturesque location. But if you’re planning to stay for a spell in Kotor, which spots should make it to your bucket list?
Check out these ten must-visit tourist spots in Kotor we’ve chosen for your adventure. From incredible fortifications to historic museums and natural sights, these seven sights showcase the best of Kotor’s heritage!
Kotor Old Town
Walk along the old city walls of Kotor and marvel at the well-preserved ancient palaces, explore the narrow streets, and climb up the numerous staircases to get unique vantage points of Kotor Old Town! This area is widely considered the best-preserved medieval area you can find in the Mediterranean.
Kotor Old Town is enclosed within ancient city walls, some of which date back to the 9th century, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the must-visit tourist spots in Kotor, Montenegro.
Kotor Fortress
A moderately challenging route for those who want to go for a hike, the effort of conquering Kotor Fortress will be worth the reward: an unrivaled view of Kotor Bay. It’s especially beautiful in the summer as luxurious yachts pull into the harbor. Bring your camera and snap photos – if you don’t feel like going for a hike, wait for nighttime and take photos from the ground of the walls illuminated by lights!
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
Consecrated in 1166, the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon has endured several earthquakes and reconstructions. Its charming Corinthian towers are made with pink stone – keep your eyes peeled for the remaining Byzantine frescoes here.
Kotor Farmer’s Market
Fresh fruit and vegetables, local sweets, and delicacies from nearby villages await those who visit the Kotor Farmer’s Market! Found near the walls of the Old Town, it’s best to visit this traditional venue at the weekends. We highly recommend getting smoked meat, fresh or smoked carp, cheese, and fresh berries!
Cats Museum
Founded in 2013, Kotor’s Cats Museum is a charming place that pays tribute to all things feline – apt, as Kotor’s Old Town is considered a cat haven! Check out the collections of portraits of owners over the centuries with their feline friends, as well as antique books and vintage illustrations. There are plenty of cats here too, so don’t forget to pet them and donate to their collection for wet and dry cat food for the city’s cats!
Kotor Bazaar
Found within an old, abandoned Dominican monastery, this curious bazaar is the place to go for souvenirs like shirts and keychains, as well as locally made trinkets to take home. Go to the back to get a better look at the monastery’s remains!
Bay of Kotor
Opening right into the Adriatic Sea, the Bay of Kotor has several protected, incredible swimming points. Some tourists suggest hiring a boat to bring you to the middle of the bay so you can swim for a few hours – definitely recommended for strong swimmers to best appreciate the water! There are also nearby beaches where you can chill with a blanket and umbrella and enjoy the roar of the waves!
Lady of the Rocks
The Lady of the Rocks, also known as Our Lady of the Rocks, is a man-made island located off the coast of Perast in the Bay of Kotor. The island was created by piling rocks and stones on top of a small reef and is said to have been formed over time as sailors tossed rocks into the sea to honor the Virgin Mary.
The main attraction on the island is a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, which was built in the 16th century and contains many valuable works of art, including paintings, frescoes, and silver reliquaries. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains from the island.
Wine Tour
Montenegro is becoming increasingly known for its growing wine industry, with many wineries producing high-quality wines made from indigenous grape varieties. A wine tour in Montenegro is a great way to sample some of these wines and learn more about the country’s wine-making traditions.
One of the popular wineries to visit in Montenegro is Plantaze. It is the largest winery in Montenegro and one of the oldest in the Balkans. It offers wine tastings and tours of its vineyards and cellars, and visitors can sample some of the winery’s best wines, including the popular Vranac and Krstac varieties.
Day trip to Budva
Budva is a popular tourist destination in Montenegro, known for its stunning beaches, historic Old Town, and lively vibe. It is located approximately 20 kilometers from Kotor, making it an easy day trip destination for travelers visiting the country.
One of the things to do in Budva is to visit the Old Town. It is a charming, walled city that dates back to the 5th century. Visitors can wander the narrow, cobbled streets and explore the city’s numerous churches, museums, and cafes.
So, what are you waiting for? Book that flight and visit Montenegro!