Exploring Kotor, Montenegro | A complete travel guide

Nestled along the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, Montenegro’s charming town of Kotor is a destination brimming with history, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Whether you’re exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, or simply soaking in the picturesque surroundings, Kotor offers something for every traveller.

Here’s your complete guide to exploring Kotor, Montenegro, including how to get there, the best time to visit, top things to do, where to stay, and tips to make the most of your trip.

Getting to Kotor from the UK is relatively straightforward, with several travel options:

• Flights to Tivat Airport (TIV): The closest airport to Kotor, Tivat Airport, is just 10km away and serves as the main gateway for international visitors. Airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, and Jet2 offer direct flights from major UK cities such as London, Manchester, and Birmingham.

• Alternative airports: If Tivat isn’t an option, you can also fly into Podgorica Airport (around 90km from Kotor) or Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia (approximately 70km). 

• Transport options from the airport: From Tivat, you can take a taxi, private transfer, or hire a car to reach Kotor in about 15 minutes. From Podgorica or Dubrovnik, transfer times are approximately 1.5–2 hours.

The best time to visit largely depends on what you want to experience:

• Spring (April–June): Pleasant temperatures (15–25°C), fewer crowds, and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for sightseeing and hiking.
• Summer (July–August): With temperatures around 30°C, summer is perfect for enjoying the beach and boat tours, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time of year.
• Autumn (September–October): Warm weather (20–25°C) and fewer tourists make autumn a favourite among travellers. It’s great for exploring without the summer heat.
• Winter (November–March): While quieter, winter offers a peaceful charm. Expect cooler temperatures (5–15°C) and some rain.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares. Don’t miss landmarks like St. Tryphon’s Cathedral and the Maritime Museum of Montenegro.

The stunning fjord-like Bay of Kotor is best experienced from the water. Join a boat tour to visit highlights like Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast, a charming town with baroque architecture.

Just a short drive or boat ride from Kotor, Perast is a picturesque village with historic charm. Don’t miss the chance to explore the tiny island of Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a beautiful church and museum.

You'll find plenty of spots to enjoy Montenegrin cuisine. Try local dishes like buzara (seafood stew) and priganice (fried dough), paired with a glass of Montenegrin wine.

Kotor offers a range of excellent accommodation options, including boutique hotels with historic charm:

• Walking is best: Kotor’s Old Town is pedestrianised, so exploring on foot is the best way to soak in its charm. Comfortable shoes are essential, especially if you plan to hike to the fortress.
• Avoid the cruise ship crowds: Cruise ships often dock in Kotor, bringing a surge of visitors. To avoid crowds, explore early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
• Hidden gems: Venture slightly off the beaten path to discover Cat’s Museum, a quirky spot dedicated to the town's beloved cats, or head to the charming village of Njeguši to try the famous Montenegrin smoked ham.
• Bring cash: While many places accept card payments, smaller shops and cafés may prefer cash, so it’s a good idea to have some euros on hand.

After exploring Kotor’s stunning landscapes and historic charm, commemorate your trip with a personalised keepsake from Journeys Made. Our leather travel keyrings and engraved tokens are the perfect way to celebrate your adventure. Add tokens engraved with "Kotor 2025" or "Montenegro" to create a lasting memory of your time in Montenegro.

Whether you’re planning a return visit or dreaming of your next destination, Journeys Made offers keepsakes that grow with your journey.