Franz Joseph Stairs

"A great hike to take-on in the afternoon! On the opposite side of the Old Town, there is an equally demanding, switch-back hike with beautiful views of the bay, but! this one is mostly shaded in the afternoon which is perfect if you didn't wake up in time to hike to the fort on the opposite side. Also, this hike is far less crowded which makes it even more appealing to take your dog. From the main road, the trailhead is tricky to find. Go up behind the police department, you'll find a set of stairs to your right. Keep climbing the stairs between apartment buildings until you'll find a small the trailhead (this one is marked on google maps). It's just to the left of the driveway. Still bring plenty of water and check your dog's paws during and the hike for little pokey burrs that might be stuck between the toes! Our poor guy has such hair feet, we usually need an extra 10 minutes when we get home to check his toes. "

"These stairs, which lead from the lower town to the fortress of San Giovanni (St. John’s Fortress), were constructed in the late 19th century during the Austro-Hungarian rule over the region. The staircase is made up of approximately 1,350 stone steps, winding their way up the steep slopes of the surrounding hills. The stairs are named after Emperor Franz Joseph I, a notable figure in Austro-Hungarian history.The stairs served both practical and symbolic purposes. They provided a direct route for the local populace to access the fortress, enhancing the town's defensive capabilities. The ascent offers breathtaking views of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for tourists and hikers today."