How to spend the best day in Kotor

Hello and welcome! In this itinerary, we will be diving into a step-by-step plan on how you can get the fullest experience from your day trip to Kotor. I also hope you will not be staying for just one day, but in case you are, let us go over a quick introduction first.

Kotor is a small town located on the coast of Montenegro, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. The town is situated on the coast of the Bay of Kotor, which is often referred to as the “fjord of the Mediterranean”. One fact that you surely didn’t know is that the Old Town of Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by medieval walls that have protected the town from invaders for centuries.

During a day trip to Kotor, visitors can explore the narrow and paved streets of the old town, hike up to the Kotor Fortress for stunning views of the bay, and take a boat tour of the surrounding area. The town is also known for its delicious seafood and local specialties, such as black risotto and homemade olive oil.

This itinerary will guide you through some of the top attractions and activities to do during a one-day trip to Kotor. However, if you have more time, there are many other sights and experiences to discover in this beautiful region of Montenegro.

We’ll divide it into morning, afternoon, and evening locations. However, these locations are also gorgeous at other times of the day, so don’t let how I have structured it deter you.

Starting your one day trip to Kotor- Morning

Early in the morning, you disembark from your cruise ship and land on the shores of a quaint little town you’ve never seen before. You’re eager to begin your adventure yet are unsure where to start. And, of course, you must have your camera on hand to record the stunning sights that greet you in this enthralling location.

Old Town of Kotor

Wherever you are, head straight to the Old Town. This is where your one-day trip is going to be starting. You will be astounded by the medieval vibe it carries to this day. These buildings are centuries old.

It is recommended that you arrive early for the best possible experience. Why, you could wonder. Simply said, the streets are significantly less busy in the morning than at midday or later. This allows you to stroll through town without having to dodge crowds of tourists at every turn. Setting out at 8-9 a.m. may sound early, but believe me when I say that the effort will be well worth it.

If you prefer a guided tour of the old town, we recommend the following tour which shows you the best of the city in a reasonable amount of time

Be sure to amble leisurely and savor every moment, taking in the sights and sounds around you, as this will transform your experience into a memory to cherish for a lifetime. The tranquil morning streets will appear almost ethereal, with the occasional murmur of locals providing a gentle background hum. Against this peaceful soundscape, you’ll hear birdsong drifting in from afar, lending a magical touch to the ambiance.

It does become crowded at around 12 P.M. and is a place loved by many, so make sure to pick your time.

P.S. If you are wondering about what season it would be best to pay Kotor a visit, it’s probably May, late September and early October. The temperature is not ”summer hot” and you will find there are not as many people. Enjoy!

Kotor Fortress

Prepare yourself, as ascending the Kotor Fortress is essential to fully appreciate its magnificence. Dress comfortably in lightweight attire. Rest assured, as the hike is easily manageable for individuals of almost any fitness level.

Assume you’ve completed your exploration of the Old Town by 11 a.m. Given that temperatures can reach blistering levels by 2 p.m., it’s preferable to go outside while it’s still relatively cold. Keep in mind that the climb can be tough, and you’ll most certainly break a sweat, so dress accordingly. Plan to spend about two hours on the round trip.

So, bring a lot of water, but also bring your enthusiasm because every drop of sweat will pay off once you are at the top.

Continuing your one day trip to Kotor – Afternoon

Two hours have gone by viewing Kotor from different heights. You are now impressed with the town’s beauty and were not expecting this at all. You want to see more amazing sights but have no idea where to go. Well, keep on reading!

Casa del Mare restaurant

After an exhausting trip up to Kotor Fortress, you will surely want to fill up your stomach. If you are looking for a place where you can get a grasp of the crystal clear water while sipping on some Montenegrin wine, look no further.

Casa del Mare restaurant has a wide menu for anyone and everyone. Montenegrin cuisine varies from Italian foods such as pasta, pizza, or calzone to delicious seafood, octopus salad, grilled squid, and some local specialties such as priganice (PRIH-GAH-NITZ-EH) or black risotto.

Of course, any restaurant you stumble upon will do its purpose. We just recommended this one because of the beautiful scenery it provides. Some honorable mentions are Grota – Beach bar and restaurant, Restaurant Veranda, Konoba Barba etc.

The Bay of Kotor

There is no way around it. If you ever come to Kotor and don’t take a boat tour to experience the wonders of the Bay of Kotor, you really can’t say you’ve been to Kotor.

Following a satisfying lunch, you simply must discover what all the fuss is about regarding the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, which draws visitors from far and wide. While you could opt to stroll along its coastline, bear in mind that you won’t be able to appreciate the full scope of its grandeur on foot alone. Instead, we suggest embarking on a budget-friendly boat tour, typically priced around 7 euros (or approximately 10 USD), which will take you on a scenic journey around the bay. However, the guided tours are also fantastic.

These boat tours typically span a couple of hours, and are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories to cherish for years to come!

If you have more time, there are guided tours to the Blue Cave – a stunning natural highlight for people who visit or the Lady of the Rocks – another must-see on any trip to Montenegro.

Ending your one day trip to Kotor – Evening

You ate and took many pictures of the Bay of Kotor. It’s around 7 p.m., and the temperature is dropping. You might want to grab a jacket if you have one in your backpack. The summer nights (if you arrive during the summer) are pleasant but can be cool. This is how your day trip to Kotor should conclude.

If you are feeling adventurous, you may decide to go for another light walk along the coast of Kotor. You may absorb the beauties of the sun lightly dying away and saying its last goodbyes for the day. There can be a lot of people, but it’s usually quite a serene and calming experience. Nobody is too loud, and you will feel isolated and feel the intimate atmosphere, even though you will be able to hear people talking.

Read Also: The best views to enjoy in Kotor

But, our recommendation is to spend another few hours in one of Kotor’s enchanting bars and clubs. Kotor has a rich nightlife and is ready to host any preferences you may have. We also have an extensive list of the best bars in Kotor if you wish to partake of some beverages.

Jazz Club Evergreen

This is just one of the many recommendations we have as far as Kotor’s nightlife goes. Make sure to read our article on Kotor’s nightlife to see more of these, based on your preference.

However, if you need a break after a day of touring, the Evergreen Jazz Club could be just the thing. Imagine sitting outside, enjoying in the calm Mediterranean air, and being serenaded by the melodious melodies of expertly played jazz just a few feet away.

However, if you wanna experience something more uplifting, you should pay a visit to Maximus Club, Bay Watch beach Bar, or Moja Kafanica.

Conclusion

This itinerary should give you a good idea of what to do in Kotor during a day trip. However, if you have more time, there are many other attractions and activities to explore in the area, such as visiting the nearby town of Perast, taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the bay, visiting Skurda Canyon or exploring the nearby mountains.

The only thing we need you to bring when coming to Kotor is a smile and readiness to be impressed. See you!