No need to sugarcoat it—Kotor is, in my opinion, the most incredible place in Montenegro! Nestled between towering mountains and the glittering waters of the Adriatic, Kotor offers a magical mix of stunning natural beauty, medieval charm, and rich history.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your time in this unforgettable destination.
Table of Contents
- Why You Should Visit Kotor
- Best Time to Visit
- Money Currency & Payments
- How to Get to and Move Around Kotor
- Top Things to Do in Kotor
- Is Kotor Safe?
- Where to Stay in Kotor
1
Why You Should Visit Kotor
Kotor is a place that seems straight out of a fairy tale. Here’s why you absolutely need to visit:
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Bay of Kotor is a stunning UNESCO site, often called the “southernmost fjord in Europe.” The scenery here is breathtaking, with dramatic mountains plunging into turquoise waters.
- Medieval Charm: Walking through Kotor’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time. Its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and quaint squares are packed with stories from centuries past.
- St. John Fortress: For the best views of Kotor, hike up to this historic fortress. The climb may be steep, but the panoramic view from the top is worth every step. At night, the illuminated city walls create a magical sight.
- Perfect for Short Stays: If you’re short on time, Kotor is ideal. It offers a complete experience with history, adventure, and stunning scenery all in one compact destination.
2
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kotor is from May to September, when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for exploring. Here’s what to expect during each season:
- Spring (April to June): A fantastic time to visit, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. It’s less crowded than summer, making it ideal for hiking and exploring.
- Summer (July to August): Peak tourist season with the warmest weather. While the crowds are larger, the lively atmosphere and extended daylight hours make it a great time to experience Kotor.
- Autumn (September to October): Another excellent choice, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. The bay remains stunning, and the Old Town feels more relaxed.
- Winter (November to March): Quieter and cooler, this season is perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful getaway. However, some activities may be limited.
Pro Tip: Visit in early morning or late afternoon during peak months to enjoy the sights without the crowds.
My Experience: I visited Kotor in June, and I absolutely loved it. The weather was perfect for all the activities—not too hot, just right for exploring. Even though it was the start of summer, there weren’t too many tourists, which made strolling through the streets so much more enjoyable.
Honestly, I think any season is a great time to visit Kotor because the city has so much to offer. That said, I do have a soft spot for sunshine and warm weather, so I really recommend visiting in June. It was an absolute favorite for me!
3
Money Currency & Payments
The currency in Montenegro is the Euro (€), even though the country isn’t part of the EU. Here’s what you need to know about handling money in Kotor:
Currency & Credit Cards
- Always carry small denominations of cash, as many smaller vendors, market stalls, and public transportation services in Kotor operate on a cash-only basis.
- Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Kotor, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and larger shops.
ATMs
- ATMs are widely available in Kotor, particularly in Old Town.
- Withdrawal limits range between €250 and €1000 per transaction.
- Be mindful of ATM fees, which include charges from your home bank and the Montenegrin bank operating the machine.
- To reduce costs, withdraw larger amounts less frequently and use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers for added security.
Currency Exchange
- It’s often more cost-effective to exchange money at your local bank before traveling to Montenegro.
- If exchanging currency locally, use official exchange counters or banks for better rates.
Tipping Etiquette
- Restaurants: Tipping 5–10% is appreciated for good service. Some restaurants may include a service charge, so check your bill.
- Cafés: Tipping is less common but rounding up or leaving a few coins for table service is a kind gesture.
- Taxis: Rounding up to the nearest euro is standard practice.
- Hotels: Tip €1–2 per bag for bellboys and €1–2 per night for housekeeping.
- Guided Tours: A tip of €5–10 per person is generous for private or small group tours.
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4
How to Get to and Move Around Kotor
Getting to Kotor is easy, thanks to its well-connected location.
How to Get to Kotor
- By Bus: Regular buses connect Kotor to major cities in Montenegro like Podgorica and Budva, as well as Dubrovnik in Croatia. Tickets can be purchased online via platforms like GetByBus. For best availability, book your tickets in advance during peak seasons.
- By Car: Driving offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic roads around the Bay of Kotor. However, parking in Kotor can be challenging, especially during peak season, so plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
- By Boat: For a scenic entrance into Kotor, ferries and private boats are excellent options. If traveling from Dubrovnik or other coastal cities, check services from companies like Montenegro Lines or book private transfers through tour agencies. Tickets for public ferries can often be purchased online or at the port of departure, while private boat trips can be arranged through local operators or platforms like GetYourGuide.
How to Move Around Kotor
- On Foot: The Old Town is pedestrian-only, making walking the best way to explore. Its compact size means you can easily cover the main sights in a day.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available outside the Old Town and can take you to nearby attractions like Perast or Tivat.
- By Boat: For a unique perspective, hop on a boat tour to visit the nearby islands or explore the bay.
Pro Tip: If you’re staying outside Kotor, regular buses and taxis make it easy to get to the Old Town.
5
Top Things to Do in Kotor
- Explore the Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets, visit St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, and soak in the medieval charm of this well-preserved area.
- Hike to St. John Fortress: The 1,350 steps may sound daunting, but the view of the Bay of Kotor from the top is absolutely worth it.
- Visit Our Lady of the Rocks: Take a boat trip to this man-made island with a picturesque church and museum.
- Walk the City Walls: For incredible views of the town and bay, stroll along Kotor’s fortified city walls.
- Explore Perast: This nearby town is perfect for a day trip, with charming streets and stunning waterfront views.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Don’t miss traditional Montenegrin dishes like cevapi, buzara-style seafood, and fresh local cheeses.
For more activities and information, check out my article 6 Of the Best Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro.
6
Is Kotor Safe to Visit?
Kotor is an incredibly safe destination for travelers, including solo adventurers. The crime rate is low, and the locals are genuinely friendly and welcoming.
During my time in Montenegro, especially in Kotor, I felt completely at ease from the moment I arrived. As a solo female traveler, stepping into a new city alone can sometimes feel daunting, but Kotor quickly put me at ease.
Whether I was exploring bustling streets, wandering through quieter areas, or even walking at night, I never felt unsafe or encountered anything remotely sketchy. Not once did my heart race out of fear.
However, as with any tourist destination:
- Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the Old Town.
- Be cautious when hiking steep trails, such as the path to St. John Fortress, and wear proper footwear.
For more information about the safety in Kotor and Montenegro in general, check out my article Top Safety Tips for Solo Travelers: How to Stay Safe & Confident.
7
Kotor Where to Stay
Kotor offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and travel preference. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay, the three main types of accommodations, along with a recommendation from my personal experience and some essential apps to simplify your booking process.
Staying in the Old Town
Choosing to stay within Kotor’s Old Town puts you right in the heart of the action. You’ll be just steps away from historic landmarks, charming restaurants, and the iconic city walls. While accommodations here tend to be pricier, the convenience and atmosphere make it worth considering.
That said, Montenegro is part of the Balkan region, so even in a prime location like the Old Town, accommodation prices are often more affordable than in popular European destinations like Italy or France.
If you’re on a budget, don’t worry—there are several affordable hostels within the Old Town (I know because I stayed in one myself!). To get the best deals, make sure to book in advance, especially during the high season, to avoid missing out on your ideal stay.
Staying Outside the Old Town
For even more affordable options, consider staying outside the Old Town. Nearby areas like Dobrota or Muo offer quieter settings with stunning views of the bay. Regular buses and taxis make it easy to access the Old Town.
Types of Accommodations
- Villas: Renting a villa is by far the most visually stunning option, offering unique and original stays that can be truly memorable. Villas are usually equipped like apartments, complete with a kitchen and fridge, allowing you to prepare your own meals. While villas tend to be pricier, you can save money by cooking rather than dining out every day. This option is especially ideal for families or large groups, as splitting the cost can make it more affordable and enjoyable than staying in separate hotel rooms.
- Hotels: Hotels are a classic choice with a wide range of options to suit different budgets. Staying in a hotel offers you the comfort of daily housekeeping, room service, and access to various amenities that you won’t find in a villa, such as spas, yoga classes, and more. If you value security and convenience, hotels are a great option, especially for those who prefer having staff available around the clock to assist with any needs.
- Hostels: For backpackers and budget travelers, hostels are the most economical choice. While they may lack the luxury and comfort of villas or hotels, hostels offer a unique and social experience, perfect for young travelers. You’ll typically have a bed in a shared dormitory, making it an excellent way to meet new people, especially if you’re traveling solo. Many hostels also organize group activities to help guests connect. If you’re young and willing to trade a bit of comfort for a memorable and social experience, hostels are the way to go.
Recommendation
Montenegro Backpackers Home Kotor Hostel is perfectly located in the heart of the Old Town, making it an ideal base for exploring Kotor’s charming streets and historic sites. The hostel offers competitive prices, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers.
With a stellar 9.3-star rating on HostelWorld, it’s clear why it’s so popular among backpackers. I highly recommend staying here for its combination of affordability, convenience, and vibrant social vibe!
Essential Apps
- Booking.com: This app offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and villas, all in one place.
- Airbnb: Perfect for finding unique and original villas or apartments that offer a home-like experience.
- Hostelworld: Specializing in hostels, this app features an excellent rating system to help you choose the best option. It also includes group chats where you can connect with others who will be staying at the same hostel.
Extra Recommendation: Once you’ve found a place you like, especially with hotels and hostels, be sure to visit their official website. Often, you can find exclusive discounts when booking directly through them.
Final Thoughts
Kotor is a destination that has it all: history, stunning scenery, and a unique atmosphere that will leave you enchanted. Whether you’re exploring the medieval Old Town, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, or savoring local delicacies, every moment in Kotor is one to remember.
So pack your walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to fall in love with this Montenegrin gem now that you know everything about Kotor travel tips. Trust me—Kotor is worth every step!
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