What Not To Miss When Exploring Kotor

K.C. Dermody

Written by Justin Mewse

April 2023

Exploring Kotor is to take an exciting and immersive journey through the charming coastal town of Kotor, located in Montenegro, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural scenery. As one of the best-preserved medieval towns on the Adriatic coast, Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers travellers a unique blend of Venetian, Austro-Hungarian, and Ottoman influences. From its ancient walls and fortresses to its winding cobblestone streets and picturesque waterfront, Kotor offers a plethora of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply taking in the beauty of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding mountains, Kotor is a destination that promises to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories. Check out the must-see experiences you won’t want to miss out on during your visit to the town…

Aerial view of Kotor - NTO Montenegro

Explore Kotor’s Historical Sites

Kotor is a treasure trove of historical sites that showcase its rich heritage. One of the must-visit landmarks is the Kotor Old Town, enclosed within impressive medieval walls dating back to the 9th century. The maze-like cobblestone streets of the Old Town are lined with well-preserved historic buildings, including churches, palaces, and museums. Highlights include the St. Tryphon Cathedral, a Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, and the Church of St. Nicholas, a Baroque-style church adorned with ornate frescoes and marble sculptures. The Maritime Museum, housed in a former palace, offers a fascinating insight into Kotor’s maritime history with exhibits showcasing ship models, navigation tools, and maritime artifacts.

Another historical site worth exploring in Kotor is the Fortress of St. John, perched high on the hill overlooking the town. This medieval fortress, also known as the Castle of San Giovanni, dates back to the 9th century and offers panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and the surrounding mountains. The fortress can be reached by climbing a series of stone steps, and the effort is well rewarded with breathtaking vistas that make for fantastic photo opportunities. Exploring the fortress allows visitors to delve into Kotor’s military past and provides a glimpse into the strategic importance of the town throughout history.

Exploring Kotor - NTO Montenegro

Hiking in Kotor

Kotor and its surrounding areas offer fantastic opportunities for hiking enthusiasts to explore the stunning natural beauty of Montenegro. One of the most popular hiking trails is the Vrmac Ridge, also known as Vrac, which stretches from Kotor to Tivat. This scenic trail winds through dense forests, rocky terrains, and picturesque meadows, offering delightful views of the Bay of Kotor, the surrounding mountains, and the Adriatic Sea. Hiking along the Vrmac Ridge allows adventurers to immerse themselves in the pristine nature of Montenegro while also encountering historical remains, including fortifications from the Austro-Hungarian era. The trail is well-marked and suitable for various fitness levels, making it accessible to both experienced hikers and beginners.

In addition to Vrmac Ridge, there are several other hiking trails near Kotor that offer unique experiences. For example, the trail to St. Ivan’s Fortress, located on a hill above the town, provides an opportunity to combine history and hiking. The hike includes climbing steep steps and navigating through ancient walls to reach the fortress, which offers panoramic views of Kotor and the surrounding areas as a reward. Additionally, the Lovćen National Park, located a short distance from Kotor, offers several hiking trails that lead to the peak of Mount Lovćen, the highest point of the park. The trails wind through dense forests and alpine meadows, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Bay of Kotor and the Adriatic Sea from the mountain summit.

Boka Bay, Kotor - NTO Montenegro

Take A Boat Tour To Perast And the Blue Cave

Taking a boat tour from Kotor to the charming town of Perast is a delightful way to explore the picturesque beauty of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor. Boarding a boat in Kotor, you’ll set sail on the calm waters of the bay, surrounded by towering mountains and historic towns. As you cruise along, you’ll be captivated by the stunning scenery that unfolds before you.

Perast is a small town nestled on the shores of the bay, known for its well-preserved baroque architecture and romantic atmosphere. The town is renowned for its elegant palaces, churches, and charming waterfront, which is lined with stone buildings and historic mansions. One of the highlights of Perast is its iconic islands, including Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a stunning church that is a must-visit. During your boat tour, you’ll have the opportunity to disembark in Perast and explore its narrow streets, visit its museums and churches, or simply relax and take in the serene beauty of the town.

The Blue Cave, located on the island of Lustica, is known for its striking turquoise waters that glow with an otherworldly blue hue. Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to enter the cave and marvel at its beauty up close. The cave’s unique lighting effects, created by the sunlight filtering through an underwater opening, create a surreal and breathtaking spectacle. Weather permitting, you may even have the chance to swim or snorkel in the cave’s pristine waters, offering a truly immersive experience.

As you explore the Blue Cave, you’ll also have the opportunity to take in the surrounding natural beauty. Lustica Island is renowned for its rugged cliffs, secluded coves, and pristine beaches, providing a stunning backdrop for your boat tour. You may also encounter other fascinating landmarks and attractions, such as Mamula Island with its historic fortress, or the nearby beaches and caves that dot the coastline.

 

Perast Old Town, Kotor - NTO Montenegro

Enjoy Kotor’s Dining Scene

Kotor’s dining scene is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavours, offering a diverse culinary experience for food lovers. The town is dotted with charming restaurants, cafes, and taverns that serve up an array of delicious dishes using fresh local ingredients. Seafood is a highlight of Kotor’s cuisine, with freshly caught fish, squid, and shellfish featuring prominently on many menus. Grilled or baked fish, calamari, and mussels are popular choices, often served with local olive oil, herbs, and lemon. Kotor is also known for its delicious lamb dishes, with slow-cooked lamb stews and roasted lamb often taking centre stage.

Kotor’s cuisine also features Balkan influences, with hearty meat dishes and flavourful stews being staples of the local menu. Traditional Montenegrin dishes like Njeguški pršut (smoked prosciutto), Kačamak (cornmeal dish with cheese and potatoes), and Kuvana Šarenija (a meat and vegetable stew) are must-try dishes for those seeking an authentic taste of the region. In addition to meat and seafood, Kotor’s cuisine also incorporates an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products, making it a haven for vegetarians and vegans as well. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or rakija (a traditional fruit brandy), and you’ll have a complete dining experience that celebrates the flavours and traditions of Montenegro.

Local produce presentation - NTO Montenegro
Gardens of Generalife, part of Alhambra

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