Kotor is a charming coastal town nestled in the heart of Montenegro, offering stunning views of the bay and a rich cultural heritage. With so many accommodation options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to stay. Here are some of the best locations to stay in Kotor, based on the type of traveler:
Old Town (Best for singles, couples, history buffs)
Staying in the Old Town of Kotor is a must for those looking for a unique experience. The narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings offer a glimpse into the town’s rich history. There are plenty of boutique hotels and apartments to choose from in the Old Town, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. You’ll be within walking distance of Kotor’s main attractions, including the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the Kotor Fortress.
Distance from Old Town: N/A (since it’s within Old Town)
The downside to staying in the Old Town is the limited hotel space – and the ones which are available usually command a premium price. Also, the hustle and bustle especially in the summer season may not be to everyones taste.
Recommendations
Stay in the heart of Kotor’s Old Town at the charming Boutique Hotel Hippocampus. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi, a restaurant with a terrace, and modern rooms with air conditioning and satellite TV. Set in a 17th-century building, the hotel has a unique historic ambiance. You can easily explore the town’s landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the fortifications stretching for 4.5 km. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax, the Boutique Hotel Hippocampus is an excellent choice for your stay in Kotor.
Dobrota (Best for families, couples, sun seekers)
Located just outside of Kotor’s Old Town, approximately 3 kilometers away, Dobrota is a picturesque village with a rich history. The village gets its name from the Slavic word “dobrota,” which means kindness or goodness. In the past, Dobrota was a popular summer resort for the wealthy, with many elegant villas built along the coastline. Today, the village is a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of Kotor, with traditional stone houses and a scenic promenade for strolling along the coast. Today, Dobrota is known for its scenic promenade, historic churches, and traditional stone houses.
Estimated Travel Time: 10-15 minutes by taxi or bus, 30-40 minutes by foot.
The village is surrounded by olive groves and has a beautiful promenade along the bay, lined with restaurants and cafes. There are many accommodation options in Dobrota, ranging from apartments to luxury villas. This area would suit families, couples, and sun seekers. However, there is limited public transport, so it can make it more challenging to explore other parts of Montenegro.
Recommendations: I highly recommend Boutique Hotel R Palazzo in Kotor. This brand-new hotel offers a modern and luxurious design, combined with outstanding service and attention to detail. The seasonal outdoor swimming pool, restaurant, and terrace all contribute to the hotel’s elegant and inviting atmosphere. The rooms and facilities are immaculately clean, making for a truly comfortable and enjoyable stay. The staff is friendly, attentive, and always ready to assist with any request.
Muo (Best for couples and peace seekers)
Muo is a quiet village – but not as quiet as Dobrota – located just across the bay from Kotor’s Old Town, approximately 2 kilometers away. The origin of the name Muo is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated from the Latin word “mucium,” which means “small bridge.”
Estimated Travel Time: 10-15 minutes by taxi or water taxi, 30-40 minutes by foot.
It offers stunning views of the bay and is a popular spot for those looking for a peaceful getaway. There are several accommodation options in Muo, ranging from budget-friendly apartments to luxury villas. It’s within walking distance of the Old Town, but you can also take a short taxi ride or water taxi across the bay. This area would suit couples and peace seekers.
The town’s scenic promenade offers stunning views of the bay and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect place for a leisurely stroll. St. Nicholas Church is an important cultural and religious landmark, dating back to the 17th century. Finally, the Maritime Museum of Montenegro is located in a former palace and showcases the country’s rich maritime history. These highlights make Muo a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Read Also: 10 best free things to do in Kotor
Recommendations: If you’re planning a trip to Muo in Montenegro, I highly recommend staying at Apartments Biskupović. The accommodation offers free WiFi, air conditioning, a garden, and a terrace with stunning city and sea views. The location is excellent, with Kotor Clock Tower and Sea Gate – Main Entrance only 2.2 km away. The highlight of this accommodation is undoubtedly the magnificent view of Kotor Bay. It is truly breathtaking and worth the stay alone.
Perast (Best for couples, history buffs)
Perast is a charming village located about 20 minutes from Kotor, approximately 12 kilometers away.
Estimated Travel Time: 20-30 minutes by taxi or bus.
It’s known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and stunning views of the bay. Perast is a quieter and more peaceful option for those looking to escape the crowds of Kotor. There are several boutique hotels and apartments to choose from in Perast, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options. This area would suit couples and history buffs.
One of the town’s most prominent attractions is Our Lady of the Rocks, a small artificial island that is home to a beautiful church accessible by boat. Another highlight is St. Nicholas Church, a 17th-century Baroque church located in the heart of Perast. The Perast Maritime Museum, located in the former home of a prominent Perast family, showcases the town’s maritime history, including shipbuilding, navigation, and seafaring traditions. Perast also offers stunning views of the bay and surrounding mountains, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Recommendations: For a luxurious and unforgettable stay in Perast, I highly recommend Hotel Admiral. Housed in an 18th-century Baroque mansion, the hotel offers stunning panoramic views of Kotor Bay. The hotel’s waterfront terrace is a great place to enjoy breakfast or an á la carte dinner from the hotel’s first-class restaurant. The staff provides extraordinary hospitality, making guests feel truly welcome. With bicycle and car rental options and a convenient ferryboat to nearby islands, the Hotel Admiral is the perfect base for exploring the picturesque shores of Kotor Bay.
Tivat (Best for families, and luxury travelers)
Tivat is a larger town located about 10 minutes from Kotor, approximately 8 kilometers away.
Estimated Travel Time: 10-15 minutes by taxi or bus.
It’s known for its luxurious marina, Porto Montenegro, which offers plenty of upscale restaurants and shops. Tivat also has several beaches and parks to explore. There are many accommodation options in Tivat, ranging from budget-friendly apartments to luxury hotels. This area would suit families and luxury travelers.
One of the most popular attractions is Porto Montenegro, a luxury marina and shopping center with high-end boutiques, restaurants, and a yacht club. The town also has several beautiful beaches, including Plavi Horizonti and Almara Beach, both of which offer crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery. Other popular attractions include the Naval Heritage Collection, a museum showcasing the history of the Yugoslav Navy, and the Renaissance Summer House Buca, a 16th-century summer house with beautiful gardens and a stunning view of the bay.
Recommendations: If you’re planning a trip to Tivat, I highly recommend staying at Chedi Lustica Bay. This luxurious resort offers world-class amenities and unparalleled service, making it the perfect place to unwind and indulge. The rooms are spacious and elegantly designed, with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The resort also features several restaurants, including The Spot, which offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The spa is a standout feature, offering a range of treatments and therapies to help guests relax and rejuvenate.
In conclusion, Kotor and its surrounding areas offer a range of accommodation options for all types of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a unique experience in the Old Town, a tranquil setting in Dobrota or Muo, a peaceful escape in Perast, or a luxurious getaway in Tivat, there is something for everyone. Choose your accommodation wisely and enjoy your stay in this beautiful part of Montenegro.
