The Bay of Kotor
The majesty of Montenegro’s coastal inlet is what shapes its northern stretch of Adriatic seashore, blessing visitors with one of Europe’s most dramatic scenery and a sense of seclusion. Wedged between the peaks of Mount Orjen and Mount Lovcen and the crystal-clear Adriatic, are some of Montenegro’s most precious towns and villages, each with their unique history and flavor.
The ‘famous four‘ of Herceg Novi, Perast, Kotor, and Tivat are the most notable settlements along the bay’s coastline. Picturesque Perast sits in the central part of Boka (a local name for the bay), overlooking the Verige Strait, Saint George Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks. Kotor is situated in a bowl surrounded by towering mountains and ancient city walls.
Kotor
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor is popular with visitors from all around the world due to its well-preserved medieval town center, surrounded by ancient walls.
History and Culture of the Bay of Kotor
The natural and cultural-historical region of the inner Bay of Kotor was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979 in an attempt to protect its unique coastal landscape – in reaction to the devastating earthquake of the same year. After all, for a region so rich in culture and history, there was a lot at stake for the heritage of mankind.
It is incredible how times have changed, in an area that has been inhabited since antiquity and was, for the most part, almost cut off from the rest of Montenegro by the gigantic mountain ranges. Instead of relying on Montenegro’s sparsely populated interior for trade – transport by horse and donkey cart was long and burdensome along the narrow and steep trails – Boka’s residents took to the sea, trading wine and olives.
Notwithstanding the Bay of Kotor’s small size, the coastal towns that started to develop along its shore were rarely unified and had to succumb to repeated pressure from the competing Empires of the time. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, Boka Kotorska was divided in equal parts between Venice and the Ottoman Empire.
Following the siege of 1482, Risan and Herceg Novi fell under Ottoman control until almost 200 years later, while Tivat, Perast, and Kotor were effectively part of the Venetian Empire from 1420 until 1797. During this time, the fine craft of shipbuilding and maritime commerce was perfected in the towns that were governed by the Venetian Republic.
Herceg Novi
Herceg Novi is a lovely little coastal town straddling the border with Croatia. It offers life, history, and culture throughout the whole year.
At the height of its power, the tiny town of Perast boasted four shipyards and a fleet of several hundred ships. Other neighboring towns such as Prcanj and Dobrota, competed for influence and amassed large fleets on their own. Boka Bay residents grew increasingly wealthy and invested some of their proceeds into beautiful stone houses and churches, that now line the promenades of these towns.
The decline in the importance of the Mediterranean as a center of commerce and the development of new trade routes at the end of the 18th century set about the disintegration of the Venetian Empire in 1797. The Austrian House of Habsburg was ready to follow in its footsteps and ruled over the entire Bay of Kotor for more than a century – until the end of World War I when Montenegro became part of Yugoslavia.
Nowadays, the Bay Area has gone upmarket due to the arrival of several luxurious four and five-star hotels, giving the entire region a huge facelift. But the bay’s naval heritage remains strong and the rewards of centuries-long hard work as merchants and seafarers are still noticeable today in the surviving Baroque architecture.
Being four centuries under the rule of the Venetian Republic played a significant role in shaping the region’s culture and language. Boka residents use a language that is heavily influenced by its history as part of a Dalmatian province, and many families still speak a local dialect which is rich in Croatian and Italian vocabulary.
Perast
Perast is definitely worth a visit. Its waterfront promenade is lined with Baroque palazzi, churches, and good local restaurants, overlooking the beautiful bay.
Prcanj
For a serene local vibe, Prcanj is one of the best coastal towns in Montenegro. It sits in the Bay of Kotor between Kotor and Tivat and has a rich maritime tradition.
Produce of the Region
The oysters harvested in Ljuta, Perast, Orahovac, and Risan come fresh from traditional mussel farms, which take advantage of the bay’s calm waters to produce some of Europe’s most delicious shellfish. You can visit one of the mussel restaurants that are sitting right at the waterfront, offering fresh oysters by the piece, directly from the producer.
And of course, you can also test one of coastal Montenegro’s most emblematic dishes – Black Mussels a la Buzzara -right on the spot there as well. Fried mussels are also popular and are commonly served as a side dish. A trip to Perast is a splendid way to discover the practice of underwater wine aging, a process that produces Vranac wine of the highest quality.
Produced under the protection of geographical indication, real Njegusi Prosciutto can only be found in the highlands above Kotor. Several local taverns and small-scale producers in Njegusi welcome visitors to taste this local specialty that is often served alongside fresh olives, homemade bread, and Njegusi Cheese.
Njegusi Prosciutto
Njegusi Prosciutto is best served with olives, homemade bread, Njegusi cheese, and a glass of Vranac wine. It is produced in the mountain plateau above Kotor.
Things to do in the Bay of Kotor
Without a doubt, Kotor, Perast, Tivat, and Herceg Novi are among Montenegro’s best-known destinations. There is truly appeal to suit all tastes, budgets, and ages in the beautiful Bay of Kotor; from amazing hikes and dreamy beach clubs to world-class gastronomy and an abundance of genuine Mediterranean character.
Try some Watersports
With more than 105 kilometers of pristine Adriatic coastline, the Bay of Kotor is heaven for water sports enthusiasts. The calm and sheltered bay is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or stand-up paddling. Risan, Perast, and the Lustica Peninsula are ideal for diving, offering a range of sites, including shipwrecks, underwater caves, and submarine tunnels.
You can easily hire equipment and take lessons and PADI advanced open water certification courses – from beginner to expert level. The People’s Diving Club is situated in Herceg Novi, just off the seafront close to Skver Harbor, and is led by an energetic, multilingual team of qualified expert divers.
Watersports in Montenegro
Discover the best watersports in Montenegro, from kayaking and stand-up paddling to windsurfing, sailing, and open-water diving.
A Bike Tour around the Bay
It’s no understatement to describe the Boka Bay area as a paradise for cyclists, offering an abundance of scenic vistas and breathtaking scenery. The 100-kilometer-long coastal road around the bay runs from Igalo in the north to the Lustica Peninsula in the south and is arguably one of the most photogenic routes in Montenegro.
Along the way, you will encounter some of Montenegro’s most beautiful coastal towns and villages, including famously picturesque Perast and the coastal towns of Kotor and Tivat which are both highly recommended for a refreshing break. Kotor’s Old Town sits at the foot of the 8,5 kilometer windy Kotor Serpentine road that offers keen cyclists some of the most spectacular bay views, finishing at a mountain plateau, with an elevation gain of more than 1,000 meters.
Kotor Serpentine Road
The Kotor Serpentine Road is one of the most picturesque drives in Montenegro. This route climbs more than a kilometer, taking you to the plateau above Kotor.
Bike Rental Kotor
If you don’t have your bike, you can still explore the beautiful bay by renting a bike in Kotor. Bike-sharing stations are located in Prcanj, Kotor, and Dobrota.
The Lustica Peninsula
Discover the Lustica Peninsula south of Tivat. Rural beauty, centuries-old churches, Adriatic charm, and a pristine coastline are what make Lustica so special.
Visit Perast & Our Lady of the Rocks
Pleasure boat trips start from the marina in Perast and take you to the artificial island of Our Lady of the Rocks, a picturesque island church off the coast of Perast. The church was built during the town’s heyday in the 17th century and boasts a vibrant interior with many paintings and vibrant frescoes dedicated by Tripo Kokolja, a renowned local artist.
There’s no denying that Perast is a great destination to sample the local Boka cuisine in a refined restaurant with a scenic waterfront terrace. Perast offers not only some of Montenegro’s best seafood but is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an impressive Baroque legacy.
Our Lady of the Rocks
Undoubtedly one of the most picturesque spots in Montenegro, Our Lady of the Rocks lies opposite Perast and can be reached by boat from Perast.
Take a Boat Trip
Speed boat tours are offered to the secluded beaches and sea caves of Lustica. Boats set off from coastal towns, bringing visitors in touch with striking wild coastal cliff scenery. The half-day or full-day excursions pass by the former Yugoslav submarine tunnels and the exclusive hillside villas of Rose.
Bask in the sun on the top deck or enjoy a swim in the picturesque coves of Zanjice Beach and Miriste Beach. No trip to this part of the coast is complete without a visit to the Blue Cave, where there’s time for a refreshing swim in the blue glow of this beautiful grotto. If you want to sample fresh seafood, Ribarsko Selo is only accessible by boat and is well-known for its delicious fish.
Relaxing Boat Tours
The crystal-clear waters of Boka Bay and the surrounding stunning coastal landscapes are the perfect enchanting mix. Enjoy it with one of Kotor’s Boat Tours.
The Blue Grotto
The Blue Cave is Montenegro’s most famous sea grotto. It is accessible via small boats and kayaks and is one of the top activities for anyone vacationing in the Bay of Kotor.
Rose
Rose is awash with heavenly charm – everything from the old sea captain’s homes to the rugged coastal landscape is alluring. Rose is well worth a visit!
Charter a Boat
Explore the Bay of Kotor with absolute impunity on a sailboat or motor yacht. A range of charter companies offer boats for hire by the hour or whole day. Anchor in a mesmerizing bay and enjoy the ocean, jumping off the boat, swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. A boat charter will certainly add a captivating aspect to your holiday.
You’ll find CharterMNE and S Nautica located right in the super yacht marina of Porto Montenegro. The aspiring boater will likely marvel at some tempting buys at IYC Luxury Yachts, Rockstar Yachts, and MennYacht dealerships in the port, with some imposing models on show.
Yachting in Montenegro
Yachting in Montenegro has a long tradition and there is an increasing number of yachts to charter or buy in one of Montenegro’s up-and-coming marinas.
Admire the Bay from Above
Riding the Kotor Cable Car is an amazing way to capture breathtaking bird’s eye views of the bay from the comfort of your cabin. Hop on at the lower Dub station close to Kotor; tickets cost 23,00 € for the round trip and 13,00 € one way. The cable car is brand new and has only started operations in 2023. It is closed for the winter season from mid-October until April.
Kotor Cable Car
Fly onboard the Kotor Cable Car and enjoy breathtaking aerial views from up to 1,300 meters above sea level. The 11-minute-long journey is full of excitement.
Enjoy Stunning Vistas
The best views of Kotor can be enjoyed from many unique angles, whether it be from old hilltop fortresses, windy serpentine roads, or many other stunning spots.
Do some Hiking
Kotor Fortress is a seriously picture-postcard-worthy spot that takes 1,350 stairs to get to but is unquestionably worth the hike. At an altitude of 260 meters above the orange roofs of Kotor’s Old Town, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of large parts of the bay. You can continue via a historic caravan route – the Ladder of Kotor – up to the Krstac Pass, gaining more than a kilometer in elevation while doing so.
A difficult hike that requires good fitness levels, it takes around five to six hours round-turn to complete. The Franz Joseph stairs are a less strenuous hiking trail, offering almost equally rewarding vistas. The forested zig-zag path starts at the beach in Muo, a neighborhood close to the old town of Kotor, and leads all the way up to Fort Vrmac, a former Austro-Hungarian defensive structure.
The Ladder of Kotor
Before the Kotor Serpentine road was built, the Ladder of Kotor used to be the only connection with Montenegro’s interior. Today, it is a picturesque hiking trail.
Kotor Fortress
Climbing up the ancient city walls to Kotor Fortress is a must-do for every reasonably fit person visiting Kotor. Efforts will be rewarded with stunning views.
Spend an Evening at a Luxury Marina
Take a trip to Portonovi, some 7 km to the east of Herceg Novi, and you’ll be sunbathing alongside imposing motor yachts and sailboats. Crystalline waters and breathtaking vistas out to the Bay of Kotor make it an upscale holiday resort for in-the-know tourists. Some of Montenegro’s best hotels such as the One and Only Montenegro, restaurants, and beach clubs have settled here.
Weave your way along the elegant shopping streets of Porto Montenegro and admire even larger yachts. Some of the world’s largest luxury vessels are regularly docked here and are fun to watch from one of the waterfront restaurants close to the marina. Porto Montenegro is the right address for some luxury shopping, boasting the country’s best designer boutiques and shops full of luxury watches and jewelry.
The Finest in Luxury
Iconic Watch retailers, opulent designer boutiques, and luxury jewelers line the streets to make shopping in Porto Montenegro a glossy experience.
Porto Montenegro
Tivat has been gaining popularity in recent years thanks to the development of Porto Montenegro, a super yacht marina lined with a good range of shops and restaurants.
Portonovi
Portonovi is a luxury marina and resort that is located close to Herceg Novi and offers a wealth of lifestyle opportunities in its beach clubs and fancy restaurants.
Explore Kotor’s Old Town
Situated on a triangle-shaped piece of land, at the foot of the mighty Mount Lovcen, Kotor’s Old Town is a perfect example of Venetian elegance preserved. This pretty maze of cobblestone streets boasts a wealth of medieval town squares, fountains, and ancient churches dating back to the 12th century. Other important landmarks are the Kampana Tower and the Kotor Fortress up on the San Giovanni hill.
Kotor Old Town
Kotor’s Old Town is a must-visit during your trip to Montenegro. The Square of Arms with its iconic cock tower is ideal for people watching and soaking up the atmosphere.
Things to do in Kotor
The charming coastal town of Kotor is one of the best destinations in Montenegro for a family-friendly vacation. Here is our list of the best things to do in Kotor.
Essential Events in the Bay of Kotor
During the winter, life slows down in the Bay of Kotor, and it is when most events and festivities are of the religious and provincial kind, except for the New Year’s Celebrations, the Christmas Markets, and the Winter Carnival which add unforgettable memories to your stay even during the colder months.
Naturally, the Adriatic Sea plays an influential role in each town’s calendar of events. Prestigious boat shows and international regattas – among them the Fasinada and Porto Montenegro Yacht Club’s annual regatta – never cease to appeal to the international audience. There is also the Boka Night and the increasingly popular Klapa a capella festival in Perast and lots more.
Events in Kotor
Don’t miss out on the memorable experience of attending one of the events in Kotor and its surroundings during your trip to the Boka Kotorska.
Events in Tivat
Read our guide to find out more about the best events in Tivat, celebrated year-round, from the Christmas Market in the winter to sailing regattas and music festivals.
Living in the Bay of Kotor
Kotor, with its charming harbor and ancient city walls, offers variety year-round, explaining why plenty of artists and nature enthusiasts have chosen to settle here. The properties for sale range from studio apartments in Kotor’s Old Town or nearby neighborhoods starting from 75,000 €, up to luxurious sea-view penthouses and front-line stone villas worth millions.
Unsurprisingly, the coastal stretch from Kotor to Perast and the western shore from Tivat to Prcanj are widely considered the most sought-after and one of the most expensive areas in Montenegro. But more than just the beautiful environment and the gentle Mediterranean climate makes this region so attractive.
Perfect for couples, retirees, and families with children, the Bay of Kotor is safe, serene, and peaceful. Thanks to UNESCO protection and its steep mountain slopes, the seacoast has not been overbuilt, like parts of the Budva Riviera, and has remained true to its core, offering a taste of authentic Montenegro.
On the other side of the Vrmac Ridge, the coastal town of Tivat is equally stunning, largely due to its super yacht marina – Porto Montenegro – that transformed this formerly sleepy settlement into a vibrant lifestyle destination. Some of Montenegro’s best restaurants, luxurious hotels, and the annual International Fashion Festival attract a hedonistic international crowd.
Tivat
Tivat is a popular and upscale resort town in the Bay of Kotor. Its picturesque boardwalk is lined with a good range of restaurants, boutiques, and shops.
Across the bay from Tivat, and connected via a ferry boat line, lies the relaxed and alluring town of Herceg Novi, which has long been a favorite recluse for writers, musicians, and painters. Ivo Andric, a Yugoslav Nobel laureate used to spend entire summers here, and his vacation home has been turned into a museum and cultural center.
Distinguished by its Baroque town center and the famous Our Lady of the Rocks island off its coast, Perast is buzzing with tourists throughout the day in summer but returns to its solemnity by night. Accordingly, residents who choose to live here, enjoy the town’s relaxed vibe and tranquility. Foreigners buying real estate here are on the lookout for privacy and even celebrities can spend time here without being bothered.
Undoubtedly, the Bay of Kotor has plenty to offer. While you will have to look for pristine sand beaches elsewhere, this region stands out with an abundance of pleasant nature, flawless coastal towns and villages, superb restaurants, and easy access to airports and international private schools.
Best Places to Stay
The most sophisticated and probably the best location in the heart of Perast is the Heritage Grand Perast, a lovingly renovated historic Baroque palazzo sitting right at the scenic coastal promenade. The 5-star hotel is full of character and boasts both an outdoor sundeck with a pool and a full-service Spa Center, including a heated indoor pool, a Turkish hammam, and a Finnish sauna.
The splendid ten-bedroom boutique hotel Palazzo Radomiri at the Dobrota waterfront is a real gem, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor, which is just a few steps away from this lovely 18th-century heritage building. A genuine work of love that took years to restore made this sanctuary one of Boka’s hotel success stories.
Heritage Grand Perast
The Heritage Grand Perast is a historic five-star seaside hotel with incredible sea views. The traditional white stone building of the hotel dates back to the 18th century.
When the ultra-luxury One & Only Montenegro opened its doors in May 2021, it was all the talk of the town and in a way it still is. Considering the brand’s international reputation for delivering exclusive and extravagant hospitality experiences, this should be no surprise. The hotel sits in one of the Bay of Kotor’s most pristine locations – Portonovi – and offers a splendid beach with various pools, terraces, and chic beach bars.
The 5-star Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay is a modern resort hotel with a lovely private pebble beach and top-notch Spa Center, sitting halfway between Kotor and Tivat in a quiet part of the bay. Most well-appointed and generously sized residences come with striking sea views and all the luxurious amenities expected from a five-star resort.
Nikki Beach Montenegro
The stylish Nikki Beach Montenegro Resort & Spa overlooks the Bay of Kotor and attracts a younger, jet-setting, and pleasure-seeking clientele.
Regent Porto Montenegro
The 5-star Regent Porto Montenegro is excellent value for money. It has been around for a couple of years now and has an excellent reputation.
Accommodation in Kotor
Read this guide to find out more about the best hotels in Kotor, from adoring boutique hotels housed in heritage buildings in the old town to luxurious seaside resorts.
Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay
The 5-star Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay is one of the most lavish resorts in the area, boasting two outdoor swimming pools and a state-of-the-art Spa Center – a real private oasis!
Best Hotels in Tivat
Tivat attracts families, couples, and yachties who enjoy a more serene atmosphere. Read this guide to find out more about the best hotels in Tivat.
Best Places to Eat in the Bay of Kotor
Encompassing spectacular panoramas, dramatic summits, and a rugged UNESCO-protected coastline, this region invites you to feast on refined Montenegrin, Mediterranean, and Asian cuisine. On the terraces of one of the romantic waterfront restaurants, it is hard not to fall in love with fresh Adriatic seafood and other local specialties.
Best Restaurants in Kotor
The best restaurants in Kotor can be found along its picturesque coastal promenade and in the heart of the walled city. Have a look at our guide!
Where to Eat in Tivat?
Discover the best restaurants in Tivat, from authentic local taverns to fancy waterfront eateries and international dining, you’ll find it all in Tivat.
Restaurants in Perast
Indulge in menus of local delights, including fresh oysters, contemporary shellfish creations, and Italian classics in one of Perast’s Restaurants we chose for you.