As I cast my mind back to the first time I visited the Bay of Kotor in the 1990s, a wave of nostalgia washes over me. Those were simpler times. When the world felt a little slower, and the beauty of this hidden gem was still largely untouched by the bustling throngs of tourists. Long days melted into hazy dreams, each sunset painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, reflecting off the tranquil waters.
I remember spending evenings at the stone pier, where the scent of freshly grilled fish mingled with the salty sea breeze. The laughter of friends echoed in the air, accompanied by the gentle lapping of waves against the rocks. Each meal was a celebration of local flavors, a reminder of the bounty that the Adriatic had to offer.
But the days have went fast so fast. Still the Bay of Kotor isn’t just another scenic destination; it’s an unfolding adventure of history, culture and nature. Not sure if you’re into ancient towns, seaside relaxation, or exhilarating hikes. This stunning bay has it all. Let’s dive a bit ddeper into the where and what.
Day 1: Kotor Old Town and Its Surroundings
Start your journey with the jewel of the bay — Kotor Old Town. This UNESCO-listed maze of cobblestone streets and medieval architecture will instantly transport you back in time.
Morning:
- Wander through Kotor’s ancient streets, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon and the Maritime Museum. If you feel like there are way too many cats in the streets…you are right. Cat has become sort of a symbol of Kotor in the last 20 years.
- Climb the fortress walls to San Giovanni Castle for panoramic views of the bay. It’s a steep ascent, but worth every step. And the views..ahhh
Afternoon:
- Cool off with a lunch of fresh seafood at a restaurant like Konoba Scala Santa.
- Stroll along the waterfront promenade to enjoy the serenity of the bay.
Evening:
- Watch the sunset from the Kotor marina, a peaceful way to end your first day.
Day 2: Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks
A short drive from Kotor brings you to the picturesque town of Perast, famous for its baroque architecture and offshore islets. My favorite part of this bay. And of all the Montenegro coast.
Morning:
- Explore Perast’s historic streets and visit the Church of St. Nicholas. Visit small but interesting Perast museum.
- Take a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks, an artificial islet with a charming church and museum.
Afternoon:
- Have a leisurely lunch at a waterfront restaurant, soaking up the views.
- Relax on the small pebble beaches nearby or take a swim in the bay.
Day 3: Lustica Peninsula Adventures
The Lustica Peninsula is where untouched nature meets the sparkling Adriatic. It’s perfect for a day of exploration.
Morning:
- Begin with a visit to Zanjice Beach, a pristine spot for swimming, diving and sunbathing.
Afternoon:
- Head to Forte Rose, an old Austro-Hungarian fortress turned unique accommodation and restaurant.
- Don’t miss the Blue Cave if you like jumping off of boat into the clear sea, in a cave. Join a boat tour to this natural wonder with glowing blue waters. These usually start at Herceg Novi port.
Day 4: Hiking and Hidden Gems
Discover the less-traveled paths around the Bay of Kotor by hiking and exploring smaller villages.
Morning:
- Take the Vrmac Ridge hike, offering stunning panoramic views of the bay and the Adriatic coastline.
Afternoon:
- Visit the quaint village of Prcanj and the imposing Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary.
- Wrap up with a visit to Muo (map here) for its peaceful waterfront ambiance.
Our Opinion
Exploring the Bay of Kotor feels like unraveling a treasure chest of experiences. Each corner reveals something new: a serene village, an ancient wall, or a beach where time slows down.
While four days gives you a taste of the bay, we recommend taking it slow if you can. Sip your coffee longer, linger at viewpoints, and let the bay’s magic sink in. Honestly, it’s the kind of place you’ll find hard to leave, so make sure to soak up every moment.