The Bay of Kotor is often compared to Norwegian fjords, due to the combination of dramatic mountains and calm sea.  This bay on Montenegro’s Adriatic coast has grown in popularity over the last decade.  It’s now a firm favourite stop on many cruise ship itineraries.

Also known as Boka Bay, this geographic area takes in several Montenegrin villages and towns, from historic Kotor, to the healing waters of Herceg Novi.

On a visit to Montenegro’s Kotor Bay you can choose to indulge in a relaxed trip, exploring the cultural sites, or get stuck in to some more energetic activities. 

I spent two weeks exploring Montenegro without a car, and was based in the Bay of Kotor for half the time so I’ve got plenty of details to share with you.  In this travel guide I’ve included the best activities, places to visit and how to get around the Bay of Kotor, to help you plan your own trip to this wonderful destination.

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Places to visit in the Bay of Kotor

The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor

Any visit to the Bay of Kotor must, naturally, include a trip to see the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor’s Old Town.  Located behind the old city walls, I loved the labyrinthine streets and bustling atmosphere.

One of the must-do activities here is the climb up the steep steps to St John’s Fortress. It’s a challenging ascent, but the panoramic views from the top are worth the effort.  The best views of Kotor are to be found up high.

After your climb, take a leisurely walk back down at street level to explore the town’s grand entrance gates, cathedrals, and the clock tower (complete with a pillar of shame) that keeps watch over Kotor.

Kotor is packed with souvenir shops, offering everything from local food stuffs to fun t-shirts, printed whilst you wait.

If you’re love cats then Kotor was made for you, as they’re everywhere.  Skip the quirky but underwhelming Cat Museum and head to the Cat Park, just before the River Gate instead. This peaceful spot is loved by visitors, and I made sure to pass it regularly on my trip. 

The Bay of Kotor

When hunger strikes, the Old Town has no shortage of food options. I recommend La Catedral Pasta Bar or Pržun for an evening meal.  For lunch on the go, grab a slice of very cheesy pizza from Primo Pizza.  Be prepared to queue, this place is popular.

And no visit to Kotor would be complete without a wander through the streets with an ice cream in hand.  Head to one of the branches of Moritz Eis for original and delicious flavour combinations.

Dobrota

Cat in boat, Dobrota, Bay of Kotor

Dobrota, a short distance from the bustling Kotor Old Town, offers a much quieter, laid-back alternative if you’re seeking relaxation by the Bay of Kotor.

Its peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for unwinding. One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Dobrota is by taking a stroll along its modern promenade. As the sun sets, the shimmering waters of the bay create the perfect backdrop for an evening walk, and you’ll find small jetties where you can dip into the clear Adriatic for a refreshing swim.

Boat tour, Dobrota, Montenegro

Dobrota is also a starting point for exploring the Bay of Kotor by boat. Many of the boat tours depart from here, making it convenient for experiencing the bay’s stunning landscapes and islands up close.

If you’re staying in Dobrota, you’ll find plenty of restaurant options ranging from cheap but tasty takeaways to more upscale dining spots, ensuring there’s something for every budget.

For the active explorer, Dobrota offers bike hire at the brilliant Multisport Shop and Café, where you can rent a bike and cycle along the scenic coast.

Don’t miss the charming pink St. Matthias Church, which adds a pop of colour to the town’s waterfront.  There’s also the small Boka Aquarium, for fish fanatics.

With excellent transport links, including local buses, bikes, boats and even kayak rentals, Dobrota is a fantastic base for discovering the Bay of Kotor.

Perast

Perast

When you’re exploring the Bay of Kotor, the small town of Perast is a must-see stop on your itinerary.

With its car-free lanes, Venetian-style architecture and waterside restaurants, this quaint town is made for wandering.  On my visits I thought it seemed like it was something straight out of a painting, it’s so clean and well-preserved.

As you stroll the cobbled streets, you’ll notice hotel guests being ferried around in golf buggies, adding to Perast’s slightly bizarre toy town atmosphere.

Our Lady of the Rocks, Bay of Kotor

One of the highlights of Perast is the Our Lady of the Rocks church, located on a man-made island nearby. Legend has it that sailors built the church as a tribute to an icon found floating on a rock in the bay.  Its creation is still celebrated each year on 22nd July.

Visit this iconic site, directly by boat from Perast or take a speedboat tour from Kotor.

Kotor Bay, Our Lady of the Rocks Island

If you’re interested in naval history, head to Perast’s Maritime Museum. It’s a small place, located on the waterfront, where you’ll discover the town’s seafaring past, complete with artefacts.

Being located on the sea, of course Perast has plenty of seafood availble in its restaurants.  Take a seat, enjoy a leisurely meal and watch the world go by as you look out on postcard pretty Perast.

Herceg Novi

Much further north along the Bay of Kotor coastline, close to the border with Croatia, is another picturesque location, Herceg Novi.  Its botanical gardens are a highlight, showcasing a variety of Mediterranean and exotic plants, along with the fortifications.

Visit the Spanish Fortress, Kanli Kula, Forte Mare and the Old Town Clock Tower.

As well as the historic relics, neighbouring Igalo is renowned for its supposedly healing properties.  Thermal water and mud attract visitors and there’s a medical spa complex in town.  You can walk to Igalo from Herceg Novi, following the coastline.

Muo and Prčanj

View of Prčanj, from Dobrota

Located directly across the bay from Dobrota, Muo and Prčanj offer a quieter, more traditional alternative to the bustling towns of the Bay of Kotor.

Muo, sometimes spelled Myo, gradually blends into Prčanj, and together they provide a glimpse of traditional life, following the coastline of Kotor Bay.

Both villages boast incredible views over the Bay of Kotor. The little beaches and bay side rest spots scattered along the coast make this area even more appealing.

Though quieter than Kotor’s Old Town, Muo and Prčanj have everything you need for a day out, including restaurants, small supermarkets, and bakeries.

Vrmac

The mountain ridge that rises between Kotor and Tivat, is called Vrmac.  It offers some great hiking in the Bay of Kotor.

The trails here lead through lush forests, taking you past the abandoned Vrmac Fortress, a hidden gem that provides a hint of the area’s military history.

If you’re up for the challenge, the hike to the summit will reward you with panoramic views of the bay and surrounding villages. It’s a perfect escape from the crowds of the Old Town.

Things to do in the Bay of Kotor

Kotor Bay, Montenegro

As well as visiting the towns and villages around the Bay of Kotor, there are loads of fun activities to fill your trip with.  Here are my top highlights of things to do in the Bay of Kotor.

Boat tour

Jump on a speedboat tour to get a trip around the whole bay.  Visit the Blue Caves, pass islands like Mamula and St Georges and stop for a swim in Kotor Bay.  Plus there’s a stop at the famous sight of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Kayaking

Mr Flip Flops Included, kayaking in the Bay of Kotor

Taking to the Bay of Kotor in a kayak is a great way to experience the area via slow travel.  You won’t be able to kayak the whole bay but the slow pace enables you to really take in the idyllic scenery.  I rented a kayak from Montenegro Hostel 4U in Dobrota.

Beaches and swimming

Montenegro may not be the first place you think of for a beach destination but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a swim in the sea.  There’s plenty of little jetties and small beach areas around the bay where you can get into the sea from.

There’s even a small organised beach outside the Old Town at Dobrota.  Although I recommend heading along the coast of Muo and Prčanj to find more secluded spots. 

Bike tour

Me at the Bay of Kotor

Make time to pause and take in Montenegro’s beauty on a bike ride.  I hired a bike from Multisport Shop and Cafe in Dobrota and spent a fabulous few hours doing a loop of the Bay of Kotor. You can choose from a full day or half day hire.

During the ride I was able to discover lots of beautiful areas that I wouldn’t have got to see if I hadn’t ventured out from Kotor town.

Hiking

Hike up the Ladder of Kotor for amazing views of the bay (and some goats too)

If you enjoy heading out on a trek then the Bay of Kotor is an ideal destination.  There’s the  Ladder of Kotor hike, which takes you up past the old city walls and provides incredible views of the bay.   

You can also explore Vrmac and Lovćen National Park  from the Bay of Kotor.  Download the maps.me app to find details of the local trails.

Adventure activities

If hiking up over 1000 metres isn’t enough adventure for you, check out the zip line at Njeguši.  There’s also canyoning at Skadar canyon and paragliding available, either in Kotor or nearby Budva.

Cable car

Me at the Kotor Cable Car bar

For an easy way to get up to great views across the Bay of Kotor, take a ten minute ride in the Kotor Cable Car.  It’s a pretty steep journey but the views at the top are immense.

Where is the Bay of Kotor?

The Bay of Kotor is located on the coast of the country of Montenegro, close to the border with Croatia. 

How to get to the Bay of Kotor

Dubrovnik to Montenegro ferry

The closest airport to the Bay of Kotor is Tivat airport.  International flights arrive here from London and other locations in Europe. 

However, it may be cheaper to fly into nearby Dubrovnik airport in Croatia and take the bus to Kotor or ferry from Dubrovnik to Budva.

Alternatively, you can fly into the capital of Montenegro, Podgorica, and take a bus or taxi to Kotor.

How to get around the Bay of Kotor

Kotor bus station

There are plenty of ways to get around the Bay of Kotor if you’re travelling without a car, as I do.  Or you can hire your own car and have the convenience of driving yourself.

Bus

Local buses, called blue line buses, stop at locations around the bay, like Perast, Herceg Novi and Dobrota.

You can find out about longer distance buses from Kotor to other destinations in the region on the Busticket4me website.

Bike

Biking the Bay of Kotor

Hire a bike from Multisport Shop and Café or join an organised bike tour of the Bay of Kotor.

Taxi

Taking a taxi in Kotor is a convenient way to get around.  Taxis are not too expensive can be booked via phone or WhatsApp.  I used Red Taxi Kotor to get around and found them quick to respond and punctual.

Boat trips

For a fun way to explore Kotor Bay, join a boat tour and take to the sea.

Where to stay in the Bay of Kotor

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort

Treat yourself to a luxury break in Kotor at the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort. With a wellness spa, in-house piano lounge and two pools, this place was made for relaxation. Views over Kotor Bay are incredible.

Mid-range: S&T Apartmani

The wonderfully spacious S&T Apartmani is located right on the bay front. Views from the balcony are outstanding. The apartment is large, with two rooms and a large living room and kitchen. WiFi works well and the host is very kind and helpful.

Budget: Montenegro Hostel 4U

For cheap accommodation check out Montenegro Hostel 4U in Dobrota. It’s right next to Kotor beach, which you can make the most of by taking out one of the kayaks. This is a sociable hostel with an emphasis on fun. There are regular organised activities to help you make new friends on your trip.

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