Kotor, an irresistible destination
There are plenty of reasons why to visit Montenegro, but the best and most attractive one is Kotor. A small city located on the coastline of Montenegro – Bay of Kotor.
While the nearby Budva is a bit more famous, mostly for its unsuccessful attempt to become the Montenegrin Monte Carlo, Kotor stands proud, 20km away, purer, prettier and fully romantic. Medieval feeling, Venetian castles, cobblestone streets, protected centuries-old buildings, scenic balconies, impressive Catholic and Orthodox churches and a vivid night scene, synthesize the Old Town’s uniqueness and secure a space on the list of my most favorite places.
What to see:
Stroll around the Old Town and you don’t really need a to-do list. You’ll definitely bump into St Tryphon’s Cathedral, as well as St Luke’s and St Nicholas’ Churches.
Make sure you’ll climb the 1300+ steps – that feel way more btw- and reach San Giovanni’s castle. Every step of the way, you’ll find an even better spot for pictures so make sure your camera’s memory has plenty of space.
Quirky cat people, Kotor is the place for you. It has a whole museum dedicated to cats only!!
It goes without saying that the walls, the squares and the gates of the Old Town are all a must see. Just walk. Wander around.
Sleep
A unique and classy boutique hotel situated in a 600-year-old building, which incorporates its history into the themed rooms. Right in the heart of the city, a great win for those who appreciate vintage décor combined with modern amenities. The most welcoming and helpful staff, a real palace for your inner prince(ss).
Luxurious, central and spacious, those well-equipped suites can satisfy even the most demanding guests. Contemporary interiors, state of the art appliances and sound systems, soft pillows and comfy beds. What else can you ask for?
An example of what hostels should be like. Clean, cozy, cost-effective and in the best possible location. A place where you’re guaranteed to make friends and memories that will last forever. Different themed events every night, board games, relaxing communal area and homemade food, which is available for the small price of 4euro.
Eat
They have a beautiful restaurant where you can have scrumptious steaks, delicious desserts and a wonderful wine card. I went there on different occasions – breakfast, coffee and dinner – and I can confidently say that they accommodate to all of your needs, any time of the day.
– Restaurant Galion ($$$)
A short walk from the Old Town but well worth it. 360 view glass windows and sea/marina view meet quality food and stunning table set-ups. A great fine dining restaurant with very attentive staff.
My recommendations: Veal-pumpkin or shrimp-saffron risotto, chicken salad and spinach-goat cheese tagliatelle.
– Tanjga ($)
More like a quality fast food that looks like a butcher’s shop; showing a display with all the available meats and salads to choose for your sandwich or your platter. Great deals, low prices.
Try: Gurmanska pljeskavica (burger) or the marinated batak (chicken thigh).
Right in the heart of the city, a lovely place to sit – in or out, with a satisfying menu. Live music on the weekends from upcoming local artists.
I loved the “pivska” sausages (ask the waitress) and the chicken club sandwich, as well as the savory crepes.
The best option for seafood and fish in the Old Town with polite service, reasonable prices and a beautiful exterior, ideal for a warm summer night.
Activities
- Blend in with the locals and visit the market. Prosciutto and local cheese is what you need to buy for a nice picnic or a “battery boost” on your way to St Giovanni’s Castle.
- Visit 360 Monte Travel Agency and book one of their amazing tours. The one’s I did are:
- KOTOR SHORE EXCURSION (Perast and the artificial island “Our Lady of the Rock”)
- GREAT MONTENEGRO TOUR
- Go on the one tour I didn’t have time for– TARA RAFTING. I might hate you momentarily, but please, send me an e-mail and tell me how it was.
- Go on a day trip to Budva and visit it’s pretty Old Town. You can get pretty amazing photos whilst admiring the dreamy yachts that are docked in the marina.
- Adrenaline junkies, I got you covered. A zipline is what you’re looking for and there are a couple of agencies that can take you there. Zipline Njegusi is the closest one to Kotor.
- Hop in a helicopter and fly around the whole gulf. There are private companies and agencies that offer this luxurious treat at a starting price of a 100euro per person.
- Go to the beach. If you rent a small boat you can find several hidden spots to swim around the bay. If a boat is not your thing, a short drive to the famous Jaz beach will do the trick.
NIKOZA’s Fav Bar:
LETRIKA. Every. Single. Night. Whether. I. Wanted. It. Or. Not.
I genuinely loved this place. After spending an hour there, the bartender knows your name, you’re already drunk and behind the bar playing DJ and putting on your favorite YouTube songs.
As you can see, Kotor has plenty to offer. Follow my advice and put Kotor on your bucket list– I’m glad I did.
Post by: Nikoza
