Looking for a complete Kotor Montenegro travel guide? You’re in luck!
If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful Mediterranean city, or just daydreaming about it, you’re in the right place. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Kotor, recommend where to stay, give you advice on when to visit, and provide tips on how to get around. We’ll also cover visa requirements and any other practical information you need to know before you go.
So sit back, relax, and let’s explore everything you need to know about Kotor, Montenegro.
Travel to Kotor, Montenegro
Primary Airport:
Kotor does not have its own international airport. The closest airports in Montenegro will be Tivat Airport (TIV) which is 5 miles away from Kotor and Podgorica/Golubovci Airport (TGD) at 54 miles away. There are international airlines that fly into these airports, but the selection of flights is limited. Because of this, many people decide to fly into the larger Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) in Croatia. Dubrovnik Airport is only 44 miles away, but you will need to go across the border line for Montenegro.
Before your trip, you will want to book a taxi to pick you up from the airport. Another option would be to rent a car if you plan to explore more of the surrounding area of Kotor.
Other Transport Options:
Many people travel to Kotor Montenegro by cruise ship or boat, as it is located in a large bay. This makes it easily accessible by water, and is probably the most convenient way to visit. Kotor is also a fortified medieval city, and making it harder to get to was a great asset to the city during its inception.
Another way to get to Kotor from other major cities in Montenegro or in nearby countries is by bus. There is a bus station located only a few miles from the city center.
Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro
Top Tours and Multi-Day Excursions from Kotor
For being a smaller city, Kotor has so many activities and places to explore. Check out these Kotor tours to make the most of your time in this beautifully secluded city on the bay.
Top Spots to Visit in Kotor, Montenegro
Our Lady of the Rocks
Visiting the Roman Catholic Church Our Lady of the Rocks is a popular activity when staying in Kotor. Located in the Bay of Kotor, it is one of two islets. It is a man made islet built around 1450, and the reason why is a legend worth hearing about on your boat ride out.
I stopped by on the part of a larger boat tour of Kotor, and spent 20-30 minutes on the little island. Which was more than enough time to explore the church and climb to the top to enjoy the great views.
Blue Cave
Exploring this large sea cave is an experience not to be missed. The Blue Cave is a short speedboat ride from Kotor, and often added-on to a tour of Our Lady of the Rocks. The way that the light shines into the cave and illuminates the sand and water to create a vibrant blue is unforgettable. The cave can often get crowded with many boats and people though, so visiting on the off-season or on the first boat ride out of the day would be ideal.
I was told that the Blue Cave can often get crowded. Thankfully, our tour was able to get one of the Blue Cave inlets to ourselves to enjoy. But you may want to check with your guide to find a day or time to book that may be less crowded. This way you can get the most out of this beautiful cave system.
St John’s Fortress/ San Giovanni Castle
Located 1400 steps up the hillside and 280 meters above sea level, the views from St. John’s Fortress are unparalleled. Don’t let those numbers scare you though. You will be distracted wandering up the Kotor Walls with the gorgeous bay views and enticing rest stops along the way. Once you reach San Giovanni’s Castle at the top you will not only marvel at the impressive fortification efforts that went into protecting the city, but also at the city of Kotor itself down below.
Church of Our Lady of Remedy
Located along the steps to St John’s Fortress, the Church of Our Lady Remedy in Kotor is a welcome stop on your journey. The view of Kotor from the quaint church is always a favorite stop. And don’t forget to get a great picture of Kotor framed within the cut-outs along the Kotor Wall here.
Square of Arms
The Square of Arms in Kotor is a great place to kick-off a walking tour of Kotor. In this square you can see the Town Gate, Town Clock Tower, Venetian Arsenal, Old Town Hall, The Prince’s Palace, Bizanti Palace, and Beskuca Palace.
This is the best place to stay near when you’re booking your hotel. You’ll be in the heart of the city with so much to explore. Keep reading for some of the most popular hotels to stay at in Kotor.
Best Place to Stay in Kotor Montenegro
When to Visit Kotor Montenegro
Kotor is stunning year-round with pleasant seaside conditions. However, if you are looking to take in all that this city on the water has to offer, Spring and Summer will be the best months to visit.
Spring and Summer is when you will see Kotor’s water become the brighter blue its known for and also warm enough to jump in. May through August will be peak tourist season with a good chance of sharing the city with cruise passengers.
Getting Around Kotor Montenegro
Kotor does not allow any cars within the Old Town. So you should plan to bring a good pair of shoes for all of your walking within the city. However, for any exploring outside of Kotor’s Old Town, renting a car will be the best option. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time, as options are limited.
Visa Requirements for Kotor Montenegro
Montenegro does not require a visa for citizens of many countries who plan to stay less than 90 days. American, Canadian, Australian and UK citizens are among the countries that will not need a visa when traveling to Kotor. To check if you need a Visa to travel to Montenegro, checkout iVisa.
