Our last article (Kotor by Night) talked about the need to visit Kotor in the evening, but avoid the crowds by day. Here we’re going to give you a run down of what to do with your days… whoever you are:
Kotor for the… Culture Vulture
Our Lady of the Rocks
If history, tradition and architecture is your thing then Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks is a must see.
Our Lady of the Rocks is the most famous island in Montenegro, a man-made island in the middle of the bay that was built as a shrine to Kotor’s Sailors. The church is adorned with gifts and tributes from sailors who survived storms and shipwrecks and came home alive.
The small museum is also filled with ceramics, paintings and tapestries dating back generations and even some old ship memorabilia. Our Lady of the Rocks is a cultural highlight of the area. It can get busy or be closed for weddings so make sure you plan your trip with a good guide and check the church and museum will be open before planning the rest of your trip.
Tip: go early in the day to avoid the crowds.
Perast
Then head to the shore to visit the picturesque village of Perast facing the entrance to the second bay of the Boka Bay. Hugging the waterfront there are lots of scenic places to stop for a cool drink or bite to eat such as Cafe Armonia to admire the incredible views to the tune of the gently lapping water and small of jasmine floating in the air.
Take time to wander through the town and if you like wisteria make sure you visit in mid-late spring as Perast is home to some beautiful displays. Unfortunately we just missed their blooms, but did catch the jasmine.
Cetinje
Another great option for the Culture Vulture is to visit Cetinje: the Old capital of Montenegro. A slightly sleepy old town, surrounded by mountains and is affectionately called The Cradle of Montenegrin Life, is home to the official residence of the President of Montenegro.
The town boasts plenty of old ruins and an Orthodox monastery with religious relics including the right hand of John the Baptist and particles of the True Cross.
Our favourite place to visit was the Biljarda, the original palace of the king of Montenegro, where a huge map of the country has been built in order for the Montenegrin kings of previous generations to plan military campaigns and protect the country.
Kotor for the… Sightseer
Day trippers to the city of Kotor might want to climb the steps up to the top of the city walls and fortress for a view out over the city. However, if your staying for a longer period you’ll have time to get up the mountain to see one of the most stunning views in Europe.
Budva
You’ll need a car to get yourself up there but there are plenty of guides in and around Kotor who can weave this into a day trip to Budva – Montenegro’s answer to Miami. Here you can walk around the old town and frequent the many bars and luxury shops. However Budva can get very busy with tourists too so pick your times to visit wisely.
Kotor for the… Adrenaline Junky
The Serpentine Pass
If you like the idea of going up to the top of the mountain and then cycling down the steep and twisting mountain highway above Kotor then there seems to be a growing number of companies offering this. We unfortunately did not do this ourselves as we only learnt about it as we overtook the riders in our car. Make sure you go with a company that is safety conscious and supply you with top quality gear, as the road is both treacherous and used by cars but a looks like a thrilling ride.
Kotor for the… Relaxing Vacationer
Porto Montenegro Yacht Club
The tranquillity and relaxed atmosphere of Kotor gets a flash flooded with tourists during the day so if you need to relax 24/7 then head down to the Port of Montenegro… or Porto Montengro Yacht Club to be specific.
Porto Montenegro Yacht Club is a high-end pool club that wouldn’t look out of place with the top clubs of Vegas, Monaco or Dubai. The long infinity pool leading right up to the bay, the luxurious day beds, the constant but unobtrusive music all in a secluded corner of the bay.
Porto Montenegro Yacht Club is also a great place to watch the sun set before heading back to enjoy the city’s nightlife.
Situated in Tivat (near the airport) Porto Montenegro is just a short taxi ride from Kotor.
Kotor for the… Foodie
The Regent Hotel
If you’re a foodie and want to taste something that’s both authentically Montenegrin but also creative and playful then head down The Regent Hotel in Porto Montenegro. The 5-star hotel boasts beautiful décor, an extensive wine range and a dessert menu that will test your decision making skills as you’ll just want to have everything.
If you want to read more about the Regent Hotel Restaurant or where to eat in Kotor, check out our article here.
The Regent Hotel is situated on the waterfront of the Marina, which is definitely worth. It is home to plenty of high end shopping boutique, restaurants serving food from around the world and wine bars so is a fun day trip for those with cash to burn.
What type of traveller are you?
Thank you to the Tourism Board of Kotor for hosting us on our trip, however our opinions are always honest and our own.
Last modified: 11th August 2018
These pictures are eye-popping Rachel. Really amazing, inspired stuff. Plus you have so many different trips for Montenegro covered. Well done.
Ryan