Discovering Old Town Kotor, Montenegro: A Simple Guide

What Makes Old Town Kotor Special?

Old Town Kotor is surrounded by big, strong stone walls. These walls were built hundreds of years ago to protect the town from danger. When you go inside, you will find narrow streets, cute little shops, and peaceful squares. You can walk around slowly and explore the town at your own pace. Each corner has something new for you to discover. Check out this Instagram reel for more details!

Cobblestone Streets and Hidden Gems

Old Town Kotor is full of historic buildings. Each building has its own special story. Here are a few of the most famous ones you can visit:

1. St. Tryphon’s Cathedral

St. Tryphon’s Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Kotor. It was built in the year 1166. This church has beautiful Romanesque-style walls and a big, tall tower. Inside, you will find pretty paintings and old religious items. If you go up to the second floor, you can see a great view of the town and the mountains.

2. The Clock Tower

The Clock Tower is in the main square of Kotor. It was built in the 17th century and is a very important part of the town’s history. People have passed by this tower for hundreds of years. The tower has a unique design, and it is a popular place to visit for tourists and locals.

3. The Maritime Museum

The Maritime Museum is inside a beautiful old palace from the 18th century. It tells the story of Kotor’s history with the sea. You can see old maps, ship models, and sailor uniforms. If you like the sea and history, this museum is a great place to learn more.

4. San Giovanni Fortress

San Giovanni Fortress is on a hill above the town. To get there, you need to hike up the hill. The hike takes about 1.5 hours, but it is worth it. When you reach the top, you will see an amazing view of Kotor Bay and the Adriatic Sea. It is a beautiful spot to take photos.

5. The Church of Our Lady of Health

The Church of Our Lady of Health is a small church on a hill. It is very peaceful and a great place to relax. You can also see a great view of the town from here. People come to this church to light candles and pray for good health.

Delicious Food in Kotor

Kotor is not just about history. It’s also a place to enjoy yummy food. There are many small restaurants and cafés where you can try local dishes. Some popular foods include:

1. Fresh Seafood

Since Kotor is by the sea, it has fresh seafood. You can eat grilled squid, fish stew, and mussels cooked in white wine. Many restaurants get their seafood directly from the bay, so it tastes really fresh.

2. Njeguški Pršut

Njeguški Pršut is a type of smoked ham. It is thinly sliced and very tasty. You can eat it with cheese and olives as a snack or a starter. If you want to try something very local, this is a must-try dish.

3. Montenegrin Cheese and Olives

Montenegro has delicious cheese and olives. The cheese is creamy, and the olives are full of flavor. These simple foods are served in most restaurants, and they are perfect as a snack or a side dish.

4. Burek

Burek is a type of pastry. It can be filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. It is a very popular breakfast food in Montenegro and is a great snack while you walk around. You can find fresh burek at many bakeries in Kotor.

5. Kotor Cakes and Desserts

If you like sweets, you will love Kotor’s desserts. Priganice are small fried dough balls covered with honey. Another dessert is krempita, a custard-filled pastry. These desserts are a great way to end your meal in Kotor.

Climbing the Fortress Walls

One of the best things you can do in Kotor is climb the fortress walls. The climb might be a bit tough, but the view from the top is amazing. From the top of the walls, you can see the whole town and the beautiful bay. It is a great place for photos, especially at sunset when everything looks golden and peaceful.

Shopping for Unique Souvenirs

Old Town Kotor has many small shops. These shops sell handmade jewelry, clothes, and little gifts. You can buy souvenirs to remember your trip or give them as gifts to your friends and family. The shopkeepers are very friendly and love talking to visitors.

Enjoying Kotor Bay

Kotor is not just about the old town. The bay around Kotor is also very beautiful. The water is calm and blue, and you can take a boat ride to explore the bay. If you want to relax, you can sit by the shore and enjoy the peaceful view. The surrounding mountains make it even more beautiful.

Best Time to Visit Old Town Kotor

The best times to visit Kotor are during spring and fall. The weather is nice and not too hot, and there are fewer tourists. Summer can be very busy, but the lively atmosphere can also be fun. Winter is quiet, and you can enjoy the peaceful town without too many tourists.

Tips for Visiting Old Town Kotor

1. Wear comfortable shoes. The streets are cobblestone, so walking can be tricky.
2. Bring water. If you climb the fortress walls, you’ll need it.
3. Start early. Mornings are less crowded.
4. Carry some cash. Small shops may not accept cards.
5. Take your time. Enjoy the beauty and charm of the town.

Stay in Old Town if you want an authentic experience. There are many older style hotels in the area where you can’t park right outside—be prepared to roll your luggage across the cobblestones. Watch the amazing reel on Instagram here!