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 will be dividing it into morning, afternoon, and evening locations. But, these places are just as beautiful throughout any other part of the day, so don’t let the division hold you back.
Starting your one day trip to Kotor- Morning
Early in the morning, you find yourself disembarking from your cruise boat and setting foot on the shores of a charming little town that you’ve never visited before. Eager to start your adventure, you wonder where to begin your exploration. And, of course, it’s essential to have your camera in hand to capture the breathtaking sights that await you in this captivating destination.
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.
For an optimal experience, it’s advisable to arrive early. Why, you may ask? Simply put, the streets are far less congested in the morning than they are by midday or later. This affords you the chance to meander through the town without dodging throngs of tourists at every turn. Granted, setting out at around 8-9 A.M. may seem early, but trust me when I say that the effort will pay off handsomely.
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.
Suppose you’ve wrapped up your exploration of the Old Town by around 11 A.M. Given that temperatures can soar to sweltering levels by 2 P.M., it’s best to venture out while it’s still relatively cool. Do note that the climb can be strenuous, and you’re likely to work up a sweat, so it’s wise to come prepared. Plan on spending approximately 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.
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 have eaten and have taken a lot of pics of the Bay of Kotor. It’s somewhere around 7 P.M. and the temperature is falling. You may want to grab a jacket if you happen to have brought one in your backpack. The summer nights (assuming you are visiting in the summer period) are gentle but can get cold. This is how your day trip to Kotor should end.
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.
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’re in need of some respite after a day of exploring, the Evergreen Jazz Club may be just the ticket. Imagine basking in the gentle Mediterranean breeze as you take a seat outdoors, while being serenaded by the melodious strains 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!
