The beautiful Kotor is one of the best preserved medieval fortified towns in the Mediterranean. Its majestic mountains alongside the bay make for a wonderful escape into history and nature. Kotor old town is compact with a lot to see and do in a pedestrian area. I enjoyed my time here and love sharing tips. So, read on to discover Kotor Montenegro travel highlights and why you should visit.
About Kotor, Montenegro
The small country of Montenegro lies on the Balkan Peninsula along the Adriatic Sea. Its political capital is Podgorica and cultural center is Cetinje. From the 14th to 18th centuries the southern part of Montenegro was under Venetian Rule. Later, It became part of the Ottoman Empire and then a part of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, Montenegro became an independent nation in 2006. Montenegrin and Serbian are the most common languages spoken here.
Kotor is formerly known as Cattaro. It lies on the Bay of Kotor, a fjord-like ria or submerged river canyon of the Adriatic Sea. The town is surrounded by fortifications built during the Venetian rule. The natural and cultural regions of Kotor became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The Skurda River springs from Lovcen into the Bay of Kotor.
Many visitors make pilgrimages to the area’s monasteries and churches in the area. Other well-preserved medieval towns on the bay include Risan, Perast, Tivat and Herceg Novi.
Kotor Montenegro Travel Highlights
Walk the Old Town
The medieval town nestles up to the canyon wall with a fortified exterior. Three gates open into the old town: River or North Gate, Seat or West Gate and Gurdic or South Gate. You could spend a whole day exploring the old town and discover its rich history. It’s easy to walk and explore this compact pedestrian zone.
Historic streets are filled with churches, monasteries, palaces and shops. Many restaurants offer delicious menus with fresh seafood and Vranac, a reddish-purple, Montenegrin wine. The Clock Tower stands on the main square and is a symbol of Kotor. Built in 1602 during the Venetian Period, is made with large stone blocks. Every 30 minutes the tower rings its bells.
Walk the Old Town Walls
The Venetians built stone walls in the 16th and 17th century. Today, much of the walls remain walkable with crumbled areas. One of the nicest stretches is along the Skurda River between the Kampana Tower and Bembo Bastion. Additionally, the Valier Bastion and Gurdic Bastion (south gate) follow the perimeter along the bay.
Visit Cathedral of St. Tryphon and Other Churches
In the heart of old town is the largest and most famous cathedral in Kotor built in 1166. The Romanesque Cathedral of St. Tryphon became named after the patron and protector of the city. The saint’s remains along with a rich treasury stay at the cathedral. Artifacts housed inside include frescoes from the 14th century and reliefs carved from gold and silver. The cathedral is open daily from 9 am – 6 pm.
Other small churches in Kotor include the Serbian Orthodox Church, St. Nicholas Church, Sveti Luka Church and St. Ana Church.
Kotor Food Market
The market is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm. Saturdays are the best days because farmers from the area bring in their produce. It’s located near the southern gates and sea. Overall, the market sells local fruits, sweets, vegetables, cheese, wine and souvenirs.
Cat Museum and ‘Square of Cats’
Kotor Montenegro Travel Highlights
Cats are a symbol of Kotor and bring good luck. Many locals believe the folklore, that cats saved Kotor. During the revolt from the Austro-Hungarian navy in 1918, the Slav sailors brought their ships to the Bay of Kotor with their cats. This congregated a diversity of cats from all over the world. Also, the cats protect the town from mice, rats and snakes.
Besides cats being everywhere in town, the Cat Museum is in a former Orthodox Monastery. It displays exhibits teaching the historical significance of cats in Kotor. Also, Cat Museums exist in Budapest and Venice.
Even more, if you are a cat lover, don’t miss the “Square of Cats” where many cats gather for food and attention.
Kotor Beach
This beach lies on the Adriatic Sea just a 5 to 10-minute walk west from the Old Town. It offers a pebbled beach with restaurants, amenities and sun loungers. It’s a safe place to enjoy the water within a roped-off area. Trsteno Beach is a sandy beach that is bigger, however, it’s a 30-minute drive away.
Kotor Fortress Hike
This iconic hike is a favorite, although, you need to be in good shape to reach the fantastic views. From old town, 1,300 stone steps along the wall take you to the old fortification or St. John Fortress. The panoramic view overlooks the old town and Bay of Kotor. About half-way up the stairs stands the Roman Catholic Church or Our Lady Remedy. The rocks are slippery, so wear good shoes.
Another route is the Ladder of Kotor, a goat trail taking you to the fortress. It’s quieter and more scenic with charming churches along the way.
Take a Boat Trip or Enjoy Water Sports
The Bay of Kotor is a magical and important waterway for numerous destinations and activities. Many boat tour companies offer packages including the Blue Cave, Perast and/or Our Lady of the Rocks. Also, water sports galore here offered, such as, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing and snorkeling.
Enjoy Kotor!
This magical town takes you back to medieval times, surrounded by mountains and sea. Kotor is compact and easy to explore afoot and by sea! Steeped in history and natural beauty, it offers something for everyone. If your travelling adventures bring you to Kotor, please leave suggestions or tips below.
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