Visiting Kotor
The crown jewel of Montenegro, Kotor and its bay look like a Norwegian fjord. Yet, no glacier ever carved this section of the Adriatic coast. The dramatic landscape of the Bay of Kotor is actually a submerged river canyon, a geological feature known as a ria. The entire region is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
A city of many influences
Kotor has a turbulent history, having shifted between Roman and Serbian control before falling under the authority of the Republic of Venice, much like many other coastal Adriatic towns. By the 19th century, it was a point of contention between the Austro-Hungarian and French empires, followed by annexation into Yugoslavia in 1918, and finally becoming part of the Socialist Republic of Montenegro in 1945. Massive stone ramparts, originally built by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian during the Middle Ages, still wrap around the city as a testament to centuries of regional conflict.
Hiking the city walls is a highlight of any trip to the bay. The fortifications stretch for three miles and climb all the way to San Giovanni fortress, which looms over the bay at an elevation of 918 feet. You will need to climb over 1,000 steps to reach it, but the 30-minute trek is worth the effort. From the top, you get a view of mountains that drop directly into the calm waters of the Adriatic. Access to the fortress costs 8 EUR (about $9).
After the climb, head back down into the old town, or Stari Grad, to grab lunch in the maze of narrow streets or on the central square, Square of Arms. This area is home to several notable buildings, including the Clock Tower. While you are in the old town, make time for the baroque-style Maritime Museum, the Saint Tryphon Cathedral, and the many churches that reflect the city's mix of Catholic and Orthodox traditions.
A Balkan treasure
Beyond the walls of Kotor, explore the bay and its four smaller gulfs. Numerous local agencies offer excursions by catamaran, motorboat, or kayak. Book a tour to visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a church built on an artificial islet in the middle of the water, sitting right across from the picturesque village of Perast.
While Kotor was historically separate from its interior, the hinterland is now well-connected to the coast. You can find plenty of hiking trails leading into Lovćen National Park or the Orjen massif. Be aware that most of these are strenuous and meant for experienced hikers. If you prefer a less grueling route, try the descent from Cetinje to Kotor along the beautiful and winding Ladder of Kotor road.
When to go
The best time to visit Kotor is between April and October to take advantage of the warm weather. The rest of the year can be quite rainy in this part of Montenegro.
Getting there
Vehicle traffic is prohibited inside the old town from June 1 to September 30. If you are flying in, you will be close to the airport in Dubrovnik, Croatia, and about an hour and a half away from the airport in Podgorica. Frequent bus connections to Kotor are available from both cities.
Kotor, a bay full of surprises. You discover the sea, the mountains, the plains. Kotor is also an important part of Balkan history, a gateway to history, its conquests, its religions, and its cultures.
Kotor will offer you the gentle touch of a swim in the sea, miles of hiking, sunsets, and delicious seafood dishes.
I invite you to discover its fortress, its cathedrals, its medieval museum, its bay, and its islands.