Is Kotor Worth Visiting? Montenegro's Must-See Town

Is Kotor worth visiting in 2024? Nestled in a secluded part of the Bay of Kotor, Kotor is a treasure trove for those looking for history and scenery. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kotor is famed for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding streets, and dramatic natural backdrop.

Whether you’re scaling the city walls for breathtaking views or exploring the historical depths of the Maritime Museum, Kotor offers a blend of adventure and cultural immersion. We’ll cover in this blog whether you can do day trip or a longer, leisurely exploration, and why Kotor promises an experience unlike any other. With its Venetian influences and rich tapestry of history, Kotor stands out as a must-visit destination in the Mediterranean. Is Kotor worth visiting? Let’s dig into why Kotor is so famous and interesting.

Why is the Bay of Kotor So Famous?

View of the bay of Kotor - Is Kotor Worth Visiting?

Kotor is famous due to the mix of its preserved medieval old town, stunning natural surroundings, and rich history.

The old town is encircled by formidable walls, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. Climbing the city walls provides panoramic views of Kotor Bay, which are an event in itself. Kotor’s history is also super diverse, with Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian influences.

In particular, the Maritime Museum offers insights into this history, especially it’s seafaring traditions. The Bay of Kotor, which resembles a fjord, sets a dramatic backdrop for the city. The bay is so enclosed you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s a lake. The whole vibe of the scenery gave me Queenstown (New Zealand) vibes. Venetian architecture dominates, highlighting Kotor’s past under Venetian rule.

Beyond history, Kotor serves as a base for exploring Montenegro’s natural beauty. From here, visitors can take boat trips to Perast and its islands or hike in Lovćen National Park. This blend of historical, cultural, and natural elements makes Kotor an extremely unique destination.

How Touristy is Kotor?

Cruise ship arriving in the bay of Kotor

Is Kotor worth visiting even with its summer crowds? Kotor is definitely touristy and draws many visitors, with cruise ships packing the old town during summer. This makes popular spots a lot more crowded. Shops and restaurants so tend to target tourists, often charging more (as most places do).

Below are some tips to dodge the crowds and get a more authentic vibe while in Kotor:

Head out early or late. Fewer tourists are around then, making it ideal for peaceful walks and city wall climbs.
Venture beyond crowded squares like Trg Odoruzi. The quieter streets showcase Kotor’s real charm with hidden cafes and unique buildings.
Visit Kotor Cathedral. Set apart from the busy center, it offers calm and historical insights.
Consider Dobrota for a day out. It promises a relaxed atmosphere with good food and less bustle.
The Ladder of Cattaro hike is tough but rewarding, especially done early for spectacular Bay of Kotor views.

These tips will let you experience Kotor beyond its touristy facade, proving it’s definitely worth visiting.

How Many Days Do I Need in Kotor?

Is Kotor worth visiting for a day, two days, or even longer? The ideal duration of your stay in Kotor really depends on your interests, what you’d like to see and how you like to travel.

For just one day, you can get a feel for Kotor’s old town. Wander the towns side streets, climb the city walls for breathtaking views, and explore the Maritime Museum to learn more about Kotor’s rich maritime history.

Phil sitting on the city walls

Spending two days allows you to delve deeper into what makes Kotor special. Take your time in the old town, visit the majestic Kotor Cathedral, and book onto a boat trip to Perast or the blue cave.

Shore side on the bay of Kotor

With 3-5 days at your disposal, Kotor serves as a perfect base for broader explorations. You could venture into Lovćen National Park for hiking, enjoy the beaches around Budva, or visit Cetinje, Montenegro’s historical royal capital.

Your pace of travel and activities will mainly influence how long you should stay. Those who prefer a leisurely pace or are keen on outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or kayaking might opt for a longer visit. Moreover, the time of year plays a role; the peak season of July and August sees Kotor at its busiest, possibly necessitating extra time for sightseeing and accommodation hunting.

Ultimately, answering “Is Kotor worth visiting?” boils down to aligning the city’s offerings with your personal travel preferences and goals.

Is Kotor Worth Visiting As a Day Trip?

The view of Kotor from above - kotor is worth visiting for the historical old town

If history, medieval charm, and stunning scenery are up your alley, then Kotor is worth visiting as a day trip. For beach lovers, though, it might feel a bit rushed. So it really depends on what you are wanting out of your trip.

From where you’re planning your day trip consider the journey time to Kotor. A long commute could make a day trip tiring. If you’re also travelling from outside of Montenegro you will have to cross the busy land borders. These can become crowded and cause queues that last hours. When we travelled to Kotor from Dubrovnik, we left extremely early and still experienced queues at the border. Your travel style also matters here. Love to linger and soak up the ambiance? One day in Kotor probably won’t work.

Mural in old town Kotor

Cruise ships frequently dock in Kotor, particularly in the summer, bringing large numbers of visitors. This influx can make the town and its attractions quite crowded. To enjoy Kotor with fewer crowds, consider timing your visit outside these peak hours.

If you do find yourself in Kotor as a day trip I’d recommend the following itinerary to really get a feel for the town.

1 day itinerary for Kotor

Starting with breakfast at Mon Bistro Cafeterija, a small cafe near Kotor Cathedral, offering great coffee and a variety of breakfast options. By 10:00 AM, dive into the Old Town’s beauty. Marvel at the Kotor Cathedral’s Romanesque elegance. Around 11:30 AM, tackle the city walls. Prepare for a climb, but the views are worth every step.
Post-climb, lunch awaits at Konoba Scala, located in Kotor Old Town, where you can try tasty local dishes ike Crni Rižot (Black Risotto). It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic Montenegrin dining experience.
Later, a boat to Perast offers an excursion to enjoy the nature of Kotor. Most boat trips will take you to Sveti Đorđe Island. The island features a 12th-century monastery and noble graveyard.
Evening brings you back to Kotor. Wander, shop, and unwind. Dinner at Restaurant Bokun in the Old Town will wrap up your day.

Tips for a smooth trip:

Comfortable shoes are a must as there are a lot of uneven paths and stairs in the old town.
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle. Especially if you are planning on going on a boat trip around the bay.
Carry euros for places not accepting cards.

Is Dubrovnik or Kotor Better?

Kayaking in Dubrovnik

Choosing between Dubrovnik and Kotor can hinge on several factors:

For budget travellers, Kotor often comes out slightly ahead, offering more affordable options for accommodation, food, and activities compared to Dubrovnik. Though Dubrovnik is pricier, budget-friendly choices exist, like hostels and some cheaper restaurants outside of the old town. Plus, Dubrovnik’s free walking tours offer great value.

If your time is limited, Kotor’s compact size allows you to quickly see its highlights, including the old town and city walls, in just a day. Dubrovnik, with its larger old town and numerous attractions, demands a bit more time to explore fully, making a single day feel a bit rushed.

Dubrovnik City Walls

Each city offers unique experiences based on the type of holiday you’re after:

Relaxation: Both cities promise a laid-back vibe, especially off-peak. Kotor may be quieter, with fewer crowds compared to Dubrovnik.
History & Culture: Rich histories and preserved old towns are the attractors of both. Dubrovnik’s famous City Walls and Fortresses stand out, while Kotor’s Venetian charm is a pulling factor.
Food: Dubrovnik caters to a broader palate with various international restaurants. Kotor specializes in fresh seafood and traditional Montenegrin dishes for a more local feel.
Nightlife: Dubrovnik buzzes with a lively nightlife scene during peak season, contrasting Kotor’s more subdued evening offerings. However, if this is your vibe Kotor has some great laid-back bars and restaurants that are open till late.
Families: Dubrovnik is more family-friendly, thanks to beaches and attractions like cable cars. Kotor’s cobbled on town might be a challenge for anyone with prams (or clumsy kids like me).
Game of Thrones Fans: Dubrovnik’s role as a major filming location for the series offers unique tours and experiences that Kotor just doesn’t offer.

Is Kotor worth vistiting over Dubrovnik? In essence, Kotor suits budget-conscious travellers, those seeking shorter stays, or anyone wanting a trip with a dose of history and a local vibe. Dubrovnik appeals to those looking for more time to uncover historical sites, enjoy a variety of dining options, entertain families with more activities, and of course the Game of Thrones enthusiasts. If you’re like me, you won’t be able to decide and will probably end up doing both!

Pros and Cons: Dubrovnik vs Kotor

Let’s list out some of the main pros and cons of Dubrovnik vs Kotor. As mentioned, I visited both of these on a two-week trip down the Adriatic coast. If I had to choose to go back to just one, I’d have to think really hard on which to consider as they both have their charms.

Kotor

Kotor is a top pick for budget-conscious travellers, offering more economical choices for accommodations, meals, and activities than Dubrovnik. We did notice straight away that the prices for food were significantly cheaper than in Dubrovnik. You can also thoroughly explore the old town on foot in just an afternoon, perfect for those with limited time. The town’s atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed. Kotor’s distinctive Venetian architecture adds a unique charm and depth to its historical pulls.

The city is framed by beautiful, dramatic mountains and the picturesque Bay of Kotor, making it a stunning setting for those who love the outdoors. It serves as an excellent base for day trips, whether you’re visiting the quaint town of Perast or hiking in Lovćen National Park.

However, those seeking an active nightlife might find Kotor’s options a bit more limited compared to Dubrovnik. Also, while Kotor is steeped in history, it features fewer historical landmarks Dubrovnik. Food lovers may search for a broader selection beyond the traditional Montenegrin dishes available – even though personally I found them delicious.

Dubrovnik

Enjoying an ice cream in Dubrovnik city walls

Dubrovnik appeals to a wide range of interests with its array of museums, beaches, and activities like cable car rides and Game of Thrones tours. Its nightlife is bustling, appealing to visitors looking for entertainment after sunset. The city is also a historical treasure, home to iconic landmarks like its well-preserved city walls and fortresses.

Diverse culinary options await food enthusiasts in Dubrovnik, offering options from around the globe – but there are still some places where you can sample authentic Croatian food. Dubrovnik also caters to families, providing attractions suitable for all ages, from beaches and kayaking (one of the best activities we did on our trip was Kayaking around Dubrovnik’s city walls) to adventurous cable car rides.

The drawbacks include Dubrovnik’s higher cost of living, impacting everything from where to stay to where to eat. Some places we looked at for food were similar to London prices, so I would not class Dubrovnik as a budget destination. Its fame means it can become very crowded, especially in the old town during peak times. Those preferring the outdoors might find Kotor’s landscapes more of a draw. Although Dubrovnik’s architecture is impressive, it lacks the distinctive Venetian influence that characterises Kotor.

Your choice between Kotor or Dubrovnik will depend on your travel preferences – whether affordability and a peaceful setting or a dynamic urban experience with a rich historical backdrop is what you’re after.

Does Kotor Have a Beach?

Kotor Beach is the city’s main beach, is easily accessible from the old town and equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. This makes it a convenient spot for a quick dip (needed in the Montenegrin heat!) or sunbathing session.

There are nearby areas like Pržno, Dobrota, and Igalo where there are beaches that mix sand and pebbles. These spots are more spacious and come with additional amenities like restaurants and options for water sports, enhancing your beach day experience. For your classic sandy beach, Budva is the standout choice. Just a 30-minute drive from Kotor, Budva’s beaches offer the golden sands you might be craving in Kotor. This popular resort town not only delivers on beautiful beaches but also provides a lively atmosphere with its range of dining and entertainment options.

If you’re thinking of whether Kotor is worth visiting as a beach lover then there are some things to consider:

Visiting during peak season, July and August, means all beaches near Kotor will be busy. For quieter times, consider May, June, September, or October. These months are less crowded.
At Kotor Beach, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas. While nearby beaches might offer similar amenities, bringing your beach towel and umbrella ensures you have shade.
For those interested in water activities, many beaches provide rentals for kayaks, jet skis, and paddleboards.
Regarding beach umbrellas, there’s usually no need to book ahead, especially off-peak. Kotor Beach and others typically have umbrellas for rent on arrival. However, sun loungers may be scarce in busy times. To secure one, you might check with your accommodation or beach vendors ahead of time.

Make sure you pack sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and shoes suitable for pebbly shores (my go-to are Tevas). Also, carry enough water and snacks, though some beaches are near cafes or restaurants. Lastly, the areas around these beaches are worth exploring, offering beautiful views and a chance to discover nearby villages or historical sites.