Bay of Kotor Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Bay of Kotor with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Bay of Kotor

The Bay of Kotor is a breathtakingly beautiful destination located in Montenegro, a small Balkan country in Europe. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is often referred to as Europe’s southernmost fjord. The bay is surrounded by majestic mountains and dotted with charming towns and villages.

List of Places to Visit in Bay of Kotor

There are numerous places to explore in the Bay of Kotor, each more interesting than the last. Here’s a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kotor Old Town: Explore the charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its medieval architecture, stunning churches, and narrow streets.
  • Maritime Museum: Learn about the rich maritime history of the region at this fascinating museum.
  • Church of Our Lady of the Rocks: This unique church was built on an artificial island and is home to an impressive collection of artwork.

Natural Attractions of Bay of Kotor: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lovcen National Park: Take a hike in this picturesque park, which offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
  • Perast: This beautiful village is perched on the edge of the bay and is surrounded by olive groves and cypress trees.
  • Blue Cave: Explore this natural wonder, filled with crystal clear water and glowing blue light.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bay of Kotor

The Bay of Kotor is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • Vrmac Ridge: This challenging hike offers panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding mountains.
  • Lustica Peninsula: Bike along the scenic coastline of the peninsula, passing through charming fishing villages and hidden beaches.
  • Mount Orjen: This peak offers some of the best views of the bay and the surrounding mountain range.

Best Things to Do in Bay of Kotor: Activities and Tours

There are many exciting activities and tours to enjoy in the Bay of Kotor. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Boat Tour of the Bay: Take a leisurely boat tour of the bay and soak in the stunning views.
  • Wine Tasting Tour: Sample delicious local wines and learn about the winemaking traditions of the region.
  • Sea Kayaking Trip: Paddle along the rugged coastline and explore hidden coves and beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bay of Kotor

To make the most of your trip to the Bay of Kotor, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Kotor Old Town
2 Hike to the Fortress of San Giovanni
3 Visit Perast and the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks
4 Bike along the Lustica Peninsula
5 Take a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor
6 Spend a day in Lovcen National Park
7 Relax on a secluded beach

Food and Drink Scene of Bay of Kotor

Montenegro has a rich culinary tradition influenced by its Mediterranean location. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cevapi: Grilled meat sausages served with pita bread and onions.
  • Burek: A savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Riblja Corba: A hearty fish stew made with fresh local fish.

Local Beverages

  • Vranac: A rich, full-bodied red wine made from the Vranac grape.
  • Rakija: A fruit brandy made from plums, grapes, or other local fruits.
  • Boza: A sweet, thick drink made from fermented grains.

Where to Stay in Bay of Kotor: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are accommodations for all types of travelers in the Bay of Kotor, from luxury hotels to backpacker hostels. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Hotel Cattaro: A beautiful, historic hotel located in the heart of Kotor Old Town.
  • Montenegro Hostel 4u: A cozy and affordable hostel with a stunning view of the bay.
  • Apartments Bokeljski Dvori: Spacious and comfortable apartments located in the charming village of Prčanj.

What to Buy in Bay of Kotor: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some unique souvenirs and local products to bring back home:

  • Olive oil: Montenegro has a long history of olive oil production, and the region’s high-quality olive oil is a popular souvenir.
  • Local wine and rakija: You can’t go wrong with a bottle of locally-produced wine or rakija.
  • Handcrafted souvenirs: Check out the many shops and markets selling handcrafted ceramics, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Bay of Kotor

The people of the Bay of Kotor are proud of their cultural heritage and traditions. Some things to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting churches and other religious sites.
  • Montenegrins are friendly and hospitable. It’s customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile.
  • Smoking is allowed in many public places, but it’s best to ask before lighting up.

Best Time to Visit Bay of Kotor

The best time to visit the Bay of Kotor is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. July and August can be very hot and busy, but it’s also a great time for swimming and water activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bay of Kotor

Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip to the Bay of Kotor:

Do:

  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Explore the charming towns and villages.
  • Visit the natural and cultural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water. Stick to bottled water.
  • Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions.
  • Park illegally. The police are strict about parking violations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bay of Kotor

Montenegro is generally a safe country, and the Bay of Kotor is no exception. However, it’s always best to use common sense and take precautions to stay safe:

  • Don’t leave valuables unattended.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  • Watch out for uneven terrain when hiking or biking.

Health in Bay of Kotor

Montenegro has a good healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and clinics in the Bay of Kotor. However, it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance and to bring any necessary medications with you.

Getting to Bay of Kotor: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Bay of Kotor

The closest airport to the Bay of Kotor is Tivat Airport, which is about a 15-minute drive away. Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia is another option, and it’s about a two-hour drive from Kotor.

Bus Stations Near Bay of Kotor

Kotor has a bus station, and there are regular bus services to other cities in Montenegro and neighboring countries.

Other Options

Another option for getting to the Bay of Kotor is to take a ferry from Italy or Greece to the port of Bar, which is about 50 kilometers away.

How to Get Around in Bay of Kotor

The best way to explore the Bay of Kotor is by car, but there are also buses and taxis available. Biking and hiking are also great options for exploring the region.

Where to Go Next from Bay of Kotor: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many exciting destinations to visit near the Bay of Kotor. Here are some top recommendations:

  • Dubrovnik: This historic city in Croatia is just a short drive away and is famous for its ancient walls and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
  • Budva: This popular resort town is known for its sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and historic old town.
  • Durmitor National Park: This stunning mountainous park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities.

Conclusion

The Bay of Kotor is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Montenegro and the Balkans. From stunning natural attractions to charming towns and villages, there’s something for everyone in the beautiful Bay of Kotor.

View of the bay, above the town of Kotor View of the bay, above the town of Kotor Tivat, airport and marina Tivat, airport and marina Herceg Novi during winter Herceg Novi during winter


    Herceg Novi
    Kotor
    Perast
    Prčanj
    Tivat