Top 11 Best Things To Do in Kotor: Epic Adventures

Explore the top things to do in Kotor, from strolling through its medieval Old Town to visiting the impressive Blue Cave and well-preserved churches. Gain tips on how to dodge the cruise crowds for a more laid-back adventure.

Kotor is a historic walled city surrounded by stunning mountains and the beautiful Bay of Kotor. Despite its small size, you won’t run out of options among the top activities and experiences in Kotor.

The charm of Kotor lies in its mix of 200 years of history, the beauty of its mountains and sea, and its UNESCO-listed Old Town. Wander through its narrow streets, and you'll discover well-preserved Venetian architecture, stone churches, and iconic orange-roofed houses.

There are plenty of top things to do in Kotor other than just exploring its medieval streets. You can rent a car in Kotor and drive along the scenic coast, explore the ancient city walls, try exciting water activities across Boka Bay, and enjoy fun outdoor activities in Mount Lovcen.

Since the city is a popular spot for day-trippers and cruise travelers, it’s best to plan ahead to avoid the crowds. Take a look at the wide variety of accommodations in Kotor to find the best place for your stay in the city.

In this guide, you’ll discover the top things to do in Kotor, plus essential tips for making the most of your visit. Read on to discover the must-dos in this captivating town and find out the best time to visit for each activity.

11. Learn History at the Submarine Tunnels

Photo by Sergey Omelchenko, from Unsplash. No edits made.

Hidden along Montenegro’s coastline near the village of Rose, you’ll find the hidden submarine tunnels from World War II. These massive, hand-carved passageways used to shelter submarines during Yugoslavia’s military days. Now, they offer a rare look into the region’s Cold War history.

Today, many boat rentals from Kotor include a stop at these tunnels, adding a layer of mystery to your coastal adventure. Explore Kotor’s history as you step into the dark, narrow passages cut into the cliffs. For the best experience, pair a boat trip to the Blue Cave with a visit to the submarine tunnels. It's a great way to add an unexpected adventure to your Kotor itinerary!

Tip: It gets quite dark inside the tunnels, so bring a flashlight to help you navigate and fully experience the eerie atmosphere! If swimming is part of your plan, pack a towel and wear swimwear under your clothes for easy access!

10. Relax on the Beaches of Budva

Less than an hour’s drive from Kotor, the beaches of Budva are a great option for anyone looking to relax by the sea. Jaz Beach, Mogren Beach, Old Town Beach, and Galija Beach are all popular spots for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Visiting the Budva Riviera is one of the top things to do in Kotor if you enjoy spending time at the beach. You can easily reach Budva from Kotor on a private tour, letting you combine its beautiful beaches and the charming Old Town.

A private day trip from Kotor to Budva also gives you the chance to visit Sveti Stefan. This luxury resort is known for its stunning setting and stone-walled architecture. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the best of Montenegro’s coastline in just a day.

Tip: If you're planning a beach vacation in Kotor, consider adding a day trip to Budva. It offers a refreshing change of pace with a lively beach scene and a variety of coastal activities.

9. Explore Durmitor and Tara Canyon

Hidden in the mountains of Montenegro, Durmitor National Park is a natural paradise. Visiting Durmitor is one of the top things to do in Kotor if you want to experience the country's rugged, unspoiled beauty.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the park is known for its rugged landscapes and offers plenty of ways to explore its pristine environment. You can hike in Durmitor National Park and walk the trail leading to the peaceful Black Lake. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning views and may spot wildlife like golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and gray wolves.

Another must-see in Durmitor is Tara Canyon. You can walk out onto the bridge to take in the view of the river below or experience the thrill of rafting on the Tara River, Europe's deepest canyon.

Tip: The best time to visit Durmitor National Park and Tara Canyon is in late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for exploring. You can easily spend half a day here hiking the trails or relaxing by the lakes.

8. Experience Kotor Bay by Kayak

Photo by Pavol Svantner, from Unsplash. No edits made.

Kayaking is one of the top things to do in Kotor if you want to get close to the area’s natural beauty. Paddling through the calm waters offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, charming coastal villages, and the historic Old Town of Kotor.

While kayaking along Kotor Bay, you’ll have the chance to explore hidden coves, glide past dramatic cliffs, and even stop for a swim in secluded spots. For those seeking a greater challenge, you can kayak to the Blue Cave from Kotor.

Tip: To make the most of your time on the water, consider renting a kayak or joining a guided tour for a safe, fun experience. Morning or late afternoon trips offer the calmest waters and the best conditions for both paddling and photos.

7. Hike in Lovcen National Park

Looking to get away from the crowds? Visiting Lovcen National Park is one of the top things to do in Kotor. The park offers amazing views and is home to the Njegos Mausoleum, the resting place of Petar II Petrovic-Njegos, a key figure in Montenegro's history and culture. Several hiking trails take you through forests and up to scenic viewpoints.

If hiking isn't your thing, you can choose the scenic cable car ride from Kotor or drive the winding mountain roads. For something a bit more active, you can also join a bike tour from the Njegos Mausoleum to the Bay of Kotor. This exhilarating downhill ride offers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding landscapes.

Tip: Wear comfortable hiking gear and bring a camera to capture the incredible scenery. If you want to mix things up, take the cable car up and bike back down for an unforgettable experience.

6. Taste Local Delicacies in Njegusi

If you want to experience the charm of the old world of Montenegro, visiting Njegusi is one of the top things to do in Kotor. Known for its traditional cuisine, it’s a popular stop for tours heading to Lovcen National Park.

Among the many food experiences in Kotor, a private Lovcen excursion with food and wine tastings lets you taste the authentic flavors of Montenegrin cuisine. You’ll get to enjoy local specialties like smoked ham (prosciutto) and dried goat cheese, all paired with regional wines or rakija (brandy).

For a true taste of the region, some tours offer the chance to visit a local family home in Njegusi for food tasting. You can try homemade smoked ham and experience Montenegro’s rich culinary heritage up close.

Tip: If you plan to visit Njegusi, try to go in the morning or early afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. This will also give you more time to explore Lovcen National Park afterward.

5. Marvel at the Blue Cave

One of the top activities in Kotor that you won’t want to miss is a visit to the Blue Cave. As one of Montenegro’s most famous natural attractions, the cave is known for its stunning blue glow. The water reflects off the cave walls, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Located on the Lustica Peninsula, the Blue Cave can only be reached by boat. Many sailing tours in Kotor will take you to the Blue Cave and other well-known locations inside Kotor Bay. If you’re up for a thrill, join a speedboat tour from Kotor to the Blue Cave. Some tours even add stops like Our Lady of the Rocks on a boat trip to the Blue Cave.

For a more relaxed experience, check out the Blue Cave tour, which includes a beach stop that allows time for swimming. If you want a more intimate adventure, consider going on a private boat tour to the Blue Cave. It’s one of the top things to do in Kotor for a more personalized experience.

Tip: The best time to experience the cave’s famous blue glow is between 11:00 and 14:00. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting Kotor during late spring (May) or early autumn (September).

4. Soak in the Charm of Perast

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, visiting Perast is one of the top things to do in Kotor. Perast, a small coastal town near Kotor, charms visitors with its baroque architecture and peaceful vibe. You can easily reach Perast by car, by bus, or by joining sightseeing cruises from Kotor.

Though the town is small, its waterfront views, cozy restaurants, and historic sites might make you want to stay longer. As you wander through its quiet streets, you’ll find grand palaces and historic churches that add to its old-world feel. You can visit St. Nicholas Church, swim at Pirate Beach, or try Montenegrin wines and cheeses at a local waterfront restaurant.

Many travelers combine a trip to Perast with a boat tour to Our Lady of the Rocks. If you want to explore the town in more detail, a private tour from Kotor to Perast is a good option.

Tip: Although most visitors combine Perast with other nearby attractions like Budva and Our Lady of the Rocks, think about staying a bit longer. Spend a few more hours walking around the town and enjoying the beautiful waterfront views—it's one of the best things to do in Kotor for a relaxing day.

3. Sail to Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the top things to do in Kotor is to explore its stunning blue waters. A short boat ride from the coast of Perast takes you to Our Lady of the Rocks, one of the two islands in the Bay of Kotor. On the island, you’ll find a blue-domed Roman Catholic church and a small museum.

Legend has it that sailors from Perast found an image of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea. They took it as a good omen and began placing rocks on the spot after each successful voyage, eventually creating the island.

You can visit Our Lady of the Rocks as part of many adventure tours in Kotor Bay. Since exploring the island only takes about an hour, you can combine a visit to Our Lady of the Rocks and the Blue Cave on a boat tour to pack more into your day.

If you're looking for something special, a guided sunset boat tour of Our Lady of the Rocks and Perast is one of the top things to do in Kotor. It offers a unique and peaceful experience as the sun sets over the bay.

Tip: For a deeper cultural experience, visit Our Lady of the Rocks on July 22 for Fasinada. In this unique tradition, locals throw rocks into the sea to help expand the island. It’s a meaningful and fun way to connect with Kotor’s history and customs.

2. Climb the Fortress of San Giovanni

If you’re in Kotor, you definitely don’t want to miss out on the breathtaking views of the bay, the orange rooftops, and the surrounding mountains. For that picture-perfect view, climbing to the top of San Giovanni Fortress is one of the best things to do in Kotor.

This historic fortress goes by a few names—St. John’s Fortress, Castle of San Giovanni, or simply Kotor Fortress—but whatever you call it, the climb is absolutely worth it. You can start from the River Gate (North Gate) or the South Gate (Gurdic Gate) near Paca Skalarska.

As you make your way up the stone steps, you’ll pass the 15th-century Church of Our Lady of Remedy. Once at the top, explore the ruins of Kotor Fortress and take in the breathtaking views of the Old Town and the Bay of Kotor.

The hike usually takes around 45 minutes each way, but with all the scenic stops—which you’ll definitely want to take—plan for about two hours total.

Tip: The Kotor Fortress Path is open from 8:00 to 22:00, but to avoid the midday heat, aim to start your climb early in the morning or late in the afternoon. For convenience, consider staying in guesthouses in Kotor near the Old Town to easily access the starting points.

1. Stroll Through Kotor's Old Town

Behind the historic city walls of Kotor is a maze of narrow alleys filled with medieval architecture, small squares, stone houses, and cozy restaurants. If you only have time for one activity, exploring this UNESCO-listed Old Town is one of the top things to do in Kotor.

Fun fact: The Old Town was intentionally designed as a labyrinth to confuse invaders. So if you get a little lost, you're just living the full experience! While you're wandering, be sure to greet the town’s unofficial mascots—the friendly cats of Kotor.

For those who want to dive into the town’s rich history, joining in-depth walking tours in Kotor is a great way to explore the Old Town's highlights. Be sure to check out Kotor’s unique churches, like the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, St. Nicholas Church, and Saint Luke's Church.

But there’s more to the Old Town than churches. You can also visit the Clock Tower and the main squares of Kotor on a private guided tour. If you’re a history lover, one of the best things to do in Kotor is to explore the Maritime Museum on a private sightseeing tour.

Tip: Kotor’s Old Town can get busy during the day, especially when cruise ships arrive. For a more relaxed experience, consider staying a few nights. Once the day-trippers leave, the evenings are the perfect time to soak up Kotor’s charm, enjoy a quiet meal, and embrace the laid-back Montenegrin vibe.

Are there unusual things to do in Kotor?

Yes, there are unique things to do in Kotor. You can visit the Kotor Cat Museum, which celebrates the town’s love for cats. The museum features cat-themed art, postcards, and other items, making it a fun stop for anyone who loves these animals.

For something a bit different, take a trip outside the city to the abandoned village of Gornji Stoliv. This small, 14th-century stone village offers a peaceful escape, with stunning views of the Bay of Kotor. It’s a great spot to experience Montenegro’s history and natural beauty in a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path way.

What are the top things to do in Kotor for families with kids?

There are plenty of top activities in Kotor that families with kids will enjoy. Walking through Kotor’s Old Town is a fun way to spark curiosity as children navigate its maze-like narrow streets, marvel at old city walls, and enjoy open squares.

The Maritime Museum is perfect for sparking curiosity, with its educational exhibits showcasing the area’s rich seafaring history. For a bit of fun, stop by the Kotor Cat Museum, which is sure to entertain the little ones with its quirky displays.

You should also include a half-day boat tour through the Bay of Kotor. The scenic boat ride is a hit with kids, offering stunning views of the Blue Cave’s crystal-clear waters and the picturesque island of Our Lady of the Rocks. It’s a relaxed and enjoyable way for the whole family to take in the beauty of the area together.

What are the best activities in Kotor from cruise ships?

Cruise passengers can enjoy several easy-to-reach activities in Kotor. The Old Town is close to the port, so you can spend time walking around the historic streets, visiting St. Tryphon’s Cathedral, or exploring the Maritime Museum.

For something more active, one of the top things to do in Kotor is hike the Castle of San Giovanni, which gives you incredible views of Kotor Bay. If you prefer a relaxing activity, a speedboat tour to the Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks provides a scenic way to see the bay. These activities are perfect for those with only a few hours to spend in Kotor.