Kotor Travel Guide: Top Things to See, Eat, and Do in Montenegro's Medieval Gem

Discover the best of Kotor, Montenegro! From exploring the historic Old Town and hiking to St. John's Fortress, to savoring local seafood and Njeguški pršut, this guide covers must-see attractions, delicious eats, and travel tips for an unforgettable experience in this stunning coastal town.

Liv Coning

Marketing Lead

Kotor Travel Guide: Top Things to See, Eat, and Do in Montenegro's Medieval Gem

Sep 13 2024

Dobro došli (Welcome)

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro, known for its stunning Bay of Kotor, well-preserved medieval architecture, and rich history. Nestled between towering mountains and the Adriatic Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both adventure and historical exploration.

This charming destination appeals to history buffs, nature enthusiasts, photography lovers, hikers, foodies, and those seeking a less crowded Mediterranean experience. With its picturesque Old Town, dramatic landscapes, delicious cuisine, and outdoor activities, Kotor caters to a wide range of interests.

The lay of the land

A quick overview of the most important things to know.

Language

The official language of Montenegro is Montenegrin, which is very similar to Serbian, Croatian, and Bosnian. In Kotor, due to its tourist popularity, English is widely spoken in the hospitality industry and among younger generations.

Currency

Euro (EUR) is the official currency of Montenegro, despite not being a member of the European Union. It's used for all transactions in Kotor. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and restaurants, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets.

Main Airport

The nearest airport to Kotor is Tivat Airport (TIV), located about 8 kilometers away. For more international connections, Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) in Croatia is about 70 kilometers away. Both airports offer easy access to Kotor via taxi or shuttle services.

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Kotor are from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant for exploring the Old Town and hiking, and there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season. July and August can be hot and crowded, while winters are mild but can be rainy.

Recommended Stay

For a comprehensive experience of Kotor and its surroundings, a stay of 3 to 5 days is recommended. This allows time to explore the Old Town, take a boat trip in the bay, hike to the fortress, and perhaps take a day trip to nearby attractions like Perast or Budva.

Average Daily Cost

On average, travelers can expect to spend $110 (€100) per day in Kotor. This budget covers basic expenses such as meals, accommodation, and local transportation. Kotor can be more affordable than many Western European destinations, but prices can increase during the peak summer season.

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Montenegro, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is considered generous. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common practice.

Transportation

Kotor's Old Town is pedestrian-only and easily explored on foot. For trips around the bay, local buses are available. Taxis are readily available for longer distances. Renting a car can be convenient for exploring more of Montenegro, but be prepared for narrow, winding roads.

Safety

Kotor is generally considered safe for tourists. As with any popular tourist destination, be aware of pickpocketing in crowded areas. Exercise caution when hiking, especially to St. John's Fortress, as the path can be steep and slippery.

LGBTQ+ Equality Index

Montenegro scores 54 out of 100 on the LGBTQ+ Equality Index. While same-sex partnerships are recognized and employment discrimination is prohibited, same-sex marriage and adoption rights are not yet established. Social attitudes are improving, but full equality and inclusivity for the LGBTQ+ community in Montenegro still requires further advancement.

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Kotor scores 1.97 out of 5 on the digital nomad ranking according to Nomads.com. Despite this relatively low score, Montenegro is gaining popularity among remote workers. Kotor's appeal lies in its stunning setting, affordable cost of living, and improving internet infrastructure. These factors make it an attractive destination for digital nomads looking to balance work with exploration of the area's rich history and natural beauty.

Must-Dos in Kotor:

Explore the Old Town

Wander through the maze-like streets of Kotor's Old Town, a well-preserved medieval city with Venetian architecture. Don't miss St. Tryphon's Cathedral and the Maritime Museum.

Hike to St. John's Fortress

Climb the 1,350 steps to St. John's Fortress for breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor. The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Take a Boat Tour

Explore the Bay of Kotor by boat. Visit the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks and the picturesque town of Perast. Many tours also include swimming stops in the crystal-clear waters.